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Who Is Lou$tar? Diamonds are the world’s most precious and valuable stone. Formed from carbon under immense heat and pressure, the diamond takes years to form, but the end result is that of brilliance. A Diamond in The Dirt though is even more precious because it has to be discovered, like a treasure. Lou$tar, rap-vocalist, lyricist, composer, actor, model, and entrepreneur is much like that diamond in the dirt; destined to be a superstar. Lou$tar has had deep roots in Hip Hop since birth. Lou$tar was born in Brooklyn, New York, the son of Bowlegged Lou, one of the founding members of the legendary music group Full Force. Bowlegged Lou hoped that the musical legacy that he started would continue on, so he saw to it that music played a major part in his son’s life. At the very early age of 4, Lou$tar received his first tape player. Along with the tape player, he received a complete catalog of music from the Full Force family such as Lisa Lisa and U.T.F.O. These were his first musical influences. As Lou$tar grew up he was exposed to not only the acts within the Full Force family, but to legends throughout the industry. His family’s notoriety and fame gained him access to

exclusive performances of hip-hop heavyweights such as Kurtis Blow, LL

Cool J, The Fat Boys, to Joe Ski Love and even witnessing Jermaine Dupri performing as a background dancer for Whodini during the Fresh Fest. With music playing such a big role in his life, there was no doubt that one day he would be inspired to create his own. With a mother that worked tirelessly, and father that was always on tour, Lou$tar, was left with much unsupervised idle time. Like many teenage boys his age with too much time on their hands, Lou$tar took to the streets and was easily tempted by

the allure of girls and quick money amongst other things, which ended up with Lou$tar tangled in a brief stint with the Police and landing himself in Central booking. On his brush with the law: “Sometimes you have to find what your good at, acknowledge it and use it the right way. Granted the same drug dealer from your block is just as smart as Bill Gates he just doesn’t know it because he’s already buried to deep in the dirt (Street life) to realize. He can break down formulas in his head and tell you how much he’ll make off a quarter key of drugs without even making a sale yet. It’s crazy. Sometimes we have to do badly, to do well. Not everybody doing it wants to be doing it sometimes there is

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no choice, whether they just got home with a felony on their record and can’t get a job, or they just don’t make enough money to further achieve their goals. Sometimes drastic times call for drastic measures.”

After finding out the hard way, Lou$tar came to the conclusion that people, who glorify jail or the negative aspects street life, have probably never been to jail or been in the streets long enough to know there is nothing about it worth glorification. With his experience fresh in his mind, Lou$tar vowed to, from that point on, focus on his music and use the talent God has given him. His focus was to shine like the diamond that he knows he is, and to become the star that he knows he is destined to be. Lou$tar has had the opportunity to share the studio with mainstream artists ranging from rap artists such as Method Man and Lil Kim, to pop acts such as The Backstreet Boys and Britney Spears. Aside from collaborating with hit makers in the studio Lou$tar has performed across New York State at numerous venues including his 2002 performance with music group Full Force and their musical act, Lisa Lisa, on BET’s 106 & Park. Lou$tar was also featured on the 2001 Full Force single ‘Float On With Us’ which featured Master P’s No Limit Records recording artist, Silk The Shocker; also appearing in the video. Lou$tar’s musical talents range from Hip-Hop, Rap and R&B to Pop. Within his music, Lou$tar brings witty lyrics as well as crazy punch lines, all while providing flows so smooth and hypnotic. It’s as if you are being instantly drawn into his music. Lou$tar’s father has seen

the good and bad times within the music industry, this made it impossible for him to hand Lou anything on a silver platter. With that said Lou$tar had no way of coasting his father’s fame to get recognition. He would have to do it on his own. Just because his father was in the business, it did not guarantee that he would indefinitely receive a deal. With all of Lou’s negative experiences he took mental notes, which helped him to pen the soon to be classic “Life Sucks When You’re Broke”. This song chronicles the lives of a young lady forced to be a stripper just to make ends meet, a brother who has suffered because of

being in and out of jail and not being able to get a job or to be with his child and a struggling rapper trying to make it in the business despite the unfortunate need for money to pay radio to play your records amongst other things. The combination of these things will make for a definite hit. Lou$tar is also a member of the innovative hip hop-R&B group called “Diamondz In The Dirt”, So Lou$tar is hitting it from all angles as far as being versatile, and the best has yet to come.

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From the Editor-in-Chief

When I began Cityscenesmag.com, originally a blog under the name, SceneInTheCityOnline.com, my initiative was to capture different scenes in different cities. And that was obtained. After receiving over 100,000 hits on the blog with little promotion, I decided to merge over to CityScenesMag.com.

CityScenesMag.com is a general-interest online magazine offering analysis and commentary about entertainment, politics, fashion, finances, news, and culture. When I saw the success of Cityscenesmag.com I knew immediately without hesitation that I wanted to see Cityscenesmag.com in print. And here it is. I’ve been so blessed to have an amazing team, and

people who support me, my team and CityScenesmag.com I cannot express the excitement that I felt while I was doing the final edits and formatting this first issue. Sleepless nights, numerous phone calls, and the constant emailing were all worth it to see the birth of CityScenesMag.com.

I would like to personally welcome you, and present City Scenes Magazine. As we are still growing and progressing, I just want to thank all who has been with me since day one. As for the new comers, take a seat, and put on your seatbelt because this will be a long and exciting ride.

Welcome to City Scenes Magazine Bre Sylvia

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7 Rasheeda Speak on why she’s a Certified Boss Chick

Maino 11 Brooklyn Rapper Maino talks or our N.Y. Features Editor about his

time in jail, Africa, and being hand picked by Hip Hop Legend Rakim.

27 Olivia CSM gets up close and personal with songstress Olivia. She opens up about he departure for G-Unit and discuss’ her new up coming album due out in March 2010.

Mack Maine 35 An imprint and president of Young Money Entertainment

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Founder & Editoral Director Bre Sylvia

Managing Editor

Attica Lundy

Features Editor NY Shamara “the Hip Hop Socialite” McKoy

Features Editor ATL Memory Martin

Creative Director Heather Hodges-Traylor

Fashion Director Staci Pearson Photographer Ryle “Slinky” Watson Graphic Designer Terrance “PB” Mitch’el

Contributing Writers DavidA’ Peterson

For Advertising or if you have any questions, please email info@cityscenesmag.com Please be sure to check out the website at CITYSCENESMAG.COM

RaSheeda

This Georgia Peach has been giving us female anthems for years. With hits like “My Bubble Gum” and “Type of Gurl”, this diva’s telling the boys exactly how things are suppose to go. There’s no secret who’s running the show as RaSheeda continues to prove why she’s a “Certified Hot Chick.” As most people know you’ve been in the game for a minute. When did you know that you wanted to rap? I always had a love for music from when I was just a little kid. I really knew that I wanted to take it serious once I joined “Da Kaperz.” That is the three girl rap group I was in at the time. Once I started, even though we went our separate ways I knew I had to get serious. How did you feel the first time you hit the stage? Nervous of course but then that all goes away when the lights hit and you feel the

crowd. At that point I’m like “Okay. It’s time to do my thing. Do you feel that you are a voice for women? Yes. It has become more common within the last few years for women to come to me and tell me that what I am saying is exactly what they have wanted to say. It’s just a great thing to know that other women look at me as empowering. How do you feel being looked at as one of the “Baddest Chicks in the Game?” It’s feels great. A boss chick is anyone who’s doing their thing. If your doing what you are suppose to be doing and your doing it well and your holding it down you are a boss chick. If you are an independent woman, and I don’t mean just financially, but independent in your decisions they you are a boss chick. All of these things make you a boss chick to me. A lot of women these days are raising men and women, running a business, and in charge at their 9-5. These are what I call boss chicks. What has RaSheeda been up to lately? Are there any new projects that we can expect? I did drop an independent album in August called, “Certified Hot Chick.” I’ve been out promoting that album and I’ve got a mixtape on the surface. I am back in the studio working on new material. I have other things in the works that are not one hundred percent solid so I won’t speak on them just yet. Where did the idea for PeachCandy come from? I was working on my “That Type of Girl Album” when I got a call from Don Vittow, a producer that I had been working with, and he told me he had hot track he wanted me to hear. He and Kandi had been working collectively

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together on some projects already. Kandi had done the hook on the track and he wanted me to check it out to see if I liked it. I was cool with that so I went over there, I heard it, and I loved it. I was headed out of time so I told him to put it on disk so that I could write to it. When I came back I had written my verses. When I got to the studio Kandi came and she put a bridge on it and we were in there vibing and everyone thought that we should do some more songs together so we just kept in moving. We have actually known each other for a long time though before we were ever in groups. Are you guys in the studio now? We are putting our ideas together now but we do plan on getting back in the studio really soon. You will be revealing that project around mid 2010. There has been talk of you joining the Atlanta Housewives cast. Is there any truth to that? Nothing is one hundred percent solid with that. Being a mother, how would you say that affects your career as an artist? It can be hard but I am blessed to have the support that I have so it makes it a lot easier How would you say that the game has changed since you first came in?

It has definitely changed. For an independent artist like me it has gotten a lot better. There are a lot more ways for you to get out and make money. Music is constantly evolving so we go through different phases. We are at a point were we have a lot of the greats like Maxwell, Whitney Houston, and Janet Jackson coming back onto the music scene. I

look at these things as being a plus. For people that want to follow you and your career, let them know where to look for the latest in news music and tour dates. The best way to follow me is on twitter (twitter@rasheedagapeach); you can also find me on YouTube (youtube.com/dlo117), MySpace

(myspace.com/rasheedagapeach), or facebook (facebook.com/resheedagapeach). Is there anything that you would like to say to your fans? Thank you! I love you guys. I really appreciate all the fans that have been riding with me since day one and all the new ones that I have gained. I am just thankful to be able to wake up every day and do what I love and have you guys accept it. Thank you guys.

Words by Miss. Memory

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JOY STEALERS By Attica Lundy

Sometimes your better-half tries to steal your joy. I don’t know if it’s something that they are just going through, if they are unhappy with themselves, or they just want to be plain mean. But whatever the reason, if you just turn it around on them and make them understand how stupid they are being instead of being a victim and just taking it, you’ll come out on top.

I’ve dealt with several dysfunctional relationships. I dealt with this one guy for 11 years off and on, and if I learned nothing else from that experience I learned #1 not to back-track to relationships that are over and done with and #2 a person will only do to you what you allow them to do.

Sometimes you have to stand up for yourself and just be brave enough to suffer (or relish) in the consequences. Have standards-if you don’t stand for something, you’ll fall for anything.

Name calling, for instance, is a definite “no-no” in my book. I think it’s childish, it’s insensitive, it’s insulting, and it just

shows that the person calling you the names is an idiot-plain and simple. If you are called a “Dumb ass” for instance, and the one who is calling you that name is in fact not smarter than you, then you should just laugh in his/her face because I suppose that’s the best they could come up with.

And if they are insulting you on the amount of money you make, but they themselves actually depend on you (whether they want to admit it or not), then you should just take in consideration

that you are in a better position than they are and that they are just mad because they can’t match your strength, so they try to knock you off balance.

It’s called verbal and emotional abuse. Look it up. It’s a sickness that they have and unfortunately, so many of these people exist in the world. To stoop to name calling shows a lack of communication skills and/or vocabulary skills. Ask them to take an IQ test, and see who comes out on top. Typically, it’s the one who does not call names, does not bully, and can make it on their own if the other one leaves. They pick on you because they know that you are better than them and it makes them feel good to piss on you-when in fact, the world is pissing on them.

Stay strong and believe in yourself. Don’t believe the things they say to you because why would you believe an idiot?

Let go and let God.

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The Day After Tomorrow By Mara The Hip-Hop Socialite Maino doesn’t even want to think about what might have happened had he never gone to prison. “That’s a scary thought, that’s a very scary thought,” he said. I don’t even want to think about what I would be doing because the thought is so horrifying to me. It’s not like I’m very academically educated. I

don’t hold on to any real vocational skills,” he continued. “It’s not like I learned anything in prison or in life that taught me how to, or prepared me for the working world, so the thought of that is horrifying. I don’t even want to think of that. So this is why I know that music was meant for me because I could very well be doing something that I used to be doing.”

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The Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn born MC was living a life of crime until it caught up with him in 1994 when he was hit with a five to ten year sentence on a drug related kidnapping. “Me and some friends, we used to buy ‘stuff’ from a particular person, and one day, we decided to not buy it, but to take him and try to get more from his people,” Maino confessed. “That was the plan, this was the way we was thinking, you know. A lot of people come from the hood, but they don’t really participate in what goes on in the hood,” he explained. I was someone that really participated in what went down in the street, so I was really out there. So that plan led me to end up getting a five to fifteen sentence.”

While in prison, he continued to get into trouble, racking up multiple infractions and prolonging his stay behind bars. “I could’ve been home in five, but I was getting in trouble in prison,” said Maino. “I was bumping my head up against the wall, getting in altercations, and wound up doing ten.”

Overcome with boredom from spending 23 out of the 24 hours of a day within the confines of a cell, Maino began to use the time to build his lyrical skills. Finally in 2003,

he was released from prison equipped with a newfound determination to change the direction of his life. His label, Hustle Hard Entertainment, was launched later that year.

Currently riding high

on the success of his debut album If Tomorrow Comes, and the hit singles, “Hi Hater” and “All the Above,” Maino’s day to day existence no longer involves violence and drugs. Nevertheless, he’s often reminded of what could’ve been whenever he hears about the untimely loss of friends, including the shooting death of fellow MC Mike Beck during a botched robbery at the end of October. “Mike, I can honestly say, was a

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friend of mine,” Maino reflected. “When I think of him, I think of all the things that are wrong with a certain lifestyle, and when I think of him, I think of me. His story could have easily been mine, you understand,” he continued. “I know what it feels like to tread on both sides of the fence –one foot still in the streets while you trying to get the other foot out. You trying to get into this industry, but you a street ni**a. I don’t want to say by nature, but you been that way for so long, that that’s who you are.”

Now with both feet firmly planted in the industry, Maino’s present existence involves trips around the world for shows and promotional appearances, an experience that has broadened his

horizons in ways he could have never imagined. “It makes you appreciate life, it makes you appreciate things in the world more,” Maino said of his travels. “I remember feeling like I

don’t give a f**k if I lived or died, but now I want to live, I have to live.”

Maino most

recently took a jaunt to Nigeria to perform, where he received an overwhelmingly warm

reception from the locals. “Not only was it a great reaction at the show, but before I even did the show when I

was in the mall, to see the reaction of the people on me,” he explained. “To see me in Africa, and them go crazy in the mall and the crowd in the mall, the pictures, you understand. So to get that reaction all the way out there in Nigeria and I’m coming from Bed-Stuy, and for me to never have been a rapper

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before, it’s like wow…it’s just feels good.”

Aside from traveling, Maino is busy preparing for the early 2010 release of the DVD version of If Tomorrow Comes, which will include his latest video “Let’s Make A Movie.” The risqué video, featuring Maino and friends hanging out at a strip club with several scantily clad women, made its debut November 21 on Cinemax before the television premiere of the Notorious B.I.G. biopic. “Cinemax only did that for one other artist and that was Eminem,” he bragged. “That was the second time they did it; Eminem the first time and Maino the second time.”

Hip-hop aficionados unimpressed with that feat will without question be impressed by Maino’s appearance in “Walk These Streets,” the new single from the legendary Rakim. The hip-hop icon personally selected Maino to rhyme on the track and appear in the video alongside of him. “That is so much of an honor for me,” Maino said. To have stood next to him, for him to even spoke my name and thought of me in any light is an honor. That

shows that I’m out here doing something. I grew up on Rakim man; it’s the God, he is hip-hop,” he continued. What he’s done for New York, for the culture, for fashion. He had the velour suit with the cables. He was the essence of a rapper that had, before anybody mentioned the word street credibility; Rakim was the epitome of that.”

Fans growing tired of hearing their favorite MC on the music of others despite how legendary can rejoice: Maino is currently in the studio working on his sophomore release, aptly titled The Day After Tomorrow. “I’m working on my new album, trying to get the single out by the top of the year,” he said.

As for his plans beyond the realm of hip-hop, Maino chooses not to talk about it, but be about it. “I’m one of those guys that, I try to just do it and not really speak about it. I don’t like for them to see me coming,” he said. Haters, watch your back.

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Some of our newest “On The Rise” artists are hitting the center stage. As you all know, the foundation of City Scenes Mag is our “On The Rise” section. While on the “Smokin Mic” tour we stopped in Arkansas. It was our intention that we would stop there and put on a good show while raising food for a good cause. We did. However, we did much more. We found Arkansas to be a good place for talent. In this talented state we came across two groups of guys. One of these groups was I.O.C. This duo put on a great show. Creating a buzz with songs like “So Fresh” and “Wil’d Out” people have quickly began to see what they saw a long time ago [talent]. While promoting their new single “My Denzel”, I had a chance to interview these guys…. How old were you when you started rapping? Big E: I was 15. Studieo: (laughing) If he was 15 then I was 13. How old are you guys now?

Big E: I am 24. Studieo: I am 22. In what ways do you feel that your music has changed? Big E: Over the years, as I’ve been perfecting my craft, I’ve gotten better. Each song I do just gets better. I see a big development and I’m at the top of my game. Studieo: We’ve transitioned with the times but still remain original at the same time. How would you describe your music? Studieo: Our style is untouchable. It’s a diverse style. I can’t take one word and describe it. I will just say that we are lyrical and versatile. Where are you guys from? Big E: We’re reppin’ Arkansas [Southeast]. We were raised in a small town called Crossett but we were born in Chicago so we have to rep Chi-Town too. We give you a mix between city and country. You guys have a new single called “My Denzel.” What is the concept of this song? Studieo: I have always been a fan of Denzel Washington. We’ve always felt like he was full of swag and so confident in whatever it is that he’s doing. The Denzel is just a Grade-A Swag. What were some of your influences growing up? Big E: One of my main influences growing up was my older cousins. I

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was aware of the rap game but my cousins were the ones who made me want to be apart of it. They had it and it was interesting to me trying to figure out how to get it. Studieo: I feel that me and Young Big E have had some of the same celebrity influences. Starting with the big homie DJ Screw, that was a big influence for us. Swissha House and UGK were also influences. We were into the freestylers so Lil Flip, Paul Wall, and Chamillionaire. Of course Young Dro, Lil Wayne, and T.I. Shout out to T.I. and keep your head up. I know you guys produce music as well. Have you produced a lot of your own tracks? Do you use other producers? Big E: We will use other producers but mainly we do our own beats. It makes more since for us to use our own if we can. It cuts down on our cost. While following you guys, I’ve noticed that there are other members of I.O.C. Are all of you in the same group or is I.O.C. more of a movement or click than your individual name? Studieo: It’s more of a movement. We are not all just rappers. We have Da Menace, he’s a rapper and a dancer as well. We also have Zo who’s a dancer and Ace, he’s a singer and a rapper. For people who want to know more about I.O.C. and your music tell us where we can find more info on you guys. Big E: www.myspace.com/icedoutclick1

www.youtube.com/mydenzel By Memory Martin

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Spring / Summer 2010 for Him DavidA Peters The “year of the gentleman” is now a lifestyle. A suit is no longer the item that sits in the back of your closet for special occasions or church on Sundays. Also, the suit is not to be worn as just a suit. The blazer and the suit coat is the new outerwear jacket, and the pants can be paired with layered tees and simple sneakers. In this issue: The new outerwear Jacket

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Blazers and Sports Coats Guys invest in suits and sport coats. The year of the gentlemen is now the lifestyle and not just a year long trend. Buying a suit or a sports coat can be more versatile than a hoodie. For spring and summer, go for a 2 button sports coat, or no buttons at all. For gentlemen with a larger build stick to 3 buttons. Go for lighter materials and lighter colors. Lightweight sports coats feel less dressy and can easily be worn on a night with the guys.

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WHO IS JAMISON BY ATTICA LUNDY

“MUSIC HAS TAKEN A TURN. THERE’S MORE RHYTHM THAN THERE IS BLUES,” Many real music listeners have complained, but as the legendary Sam Cook would chant “a change is gonna come.” That change is JAMISON, often referred to as the whispers you may hear to identify his presence on a track “JAM IS ON.” Turh’an Jamison is destined to be a prominent name in the music industry being born into a very talented household; his father was a quartet gospel singer with the first gospel group to be signed to a major national and international label that we all know as CBS. Jamison began his musical interest with the drums at the age of 12 never taking formal lessons. Through careful observation of the musicians that would play for his parents at rehearsals and sound checks on the road, he picked up different styles and habits that he imitated enough to be offered his first opportunity as a working musician at age 14.

Fast-forward through a few years of the ups and downs of the world of a gospel musician and the all of the perks of the music business, Jamison began jotting down some of his life experiences that would later be identified as songs.

Following in his parents’ footsteps, by picking up the microphone, he assisted other groups with in-studio background vocals. Another opportunity arose to display his pen skills, which turned into his first hit single in 2002 titled “Searchin” from “The Jamison Experience Project.” However, due to poor management, the project did not have a promising chance to gain worldwide recognition resulting in a short-term major label affiliation. As Jamison headed back to the drawing board doing in studio work, writing for other artist, assisting other careers, recording brief ideas with left over time from other artists’ sessions, he came up with the foundation of his first R&B influenced mixtape.

With the encouragement from some of his most respected colleagues, he

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began to follow the words of Kanye West’s hit in 08’ and “GO HARD” with the release of his first R&B effort, “The R.E.A.L. Xperience vol.1,” with 13 tracks of all original lyrics over industry tracks. After the success of the 08’ grind with the mixtape, it’s album time! First out the gate is the single “RYDA” guaranteed to smash the summer with a dance remix to follow that is sure to turn dance club DJ’s on their heads. In addition, the EP entitled “…I FEEL” is on the way to get us all ready for the carefully put together and arrogantly titled “the R.E.A.L. album.”

I first met Jamison during the Pre-Soul Train Awards events in Atlanta November 2009. He was not the typical signed artist: very nice, generous with his time, and engaging in conversation. I felt an immediate connection with him, and I couldn’t get over how easy he was to talk to. I knew this was the beginning of a beautiful friendship…and I hadn’t even heard his music before.

Time went on, and I ran into him at the Jasmine Lynn benefit hosted by Leaf. Though there had been phone tag in the past it was as if time had never been a factor, as we just picked up where we left off.

When I once again mentioned to Jamison that City Scenes Mag would like to follow him in our OnTheRise segment, he graciously agreed. And when I asked if he would perform at “The Omega” event (which raises awareness for hunger and raises can goods) and City Scenes Mag’s NYE Pre-Launch Party, he didn’t hesitate. Seriously, he agreed right there on the spot, saying “Anything i can do to support you guys, I’ll do it”. No mention of speaking with his “people”…I have his direct phone number. And I love that about him.

I’d already been listening to his music by now and the voice inside my head wanted to know why there wasn’t more of Jamison for the world to share. I suppose it’s a matter of having the right team around you-which from what I

understand is being re-organized to meet the needs of what he has to offer.

“You’ll get the exclusive on some really big news”, he told me. And I’m glad to know that he’s a man of his word, because I know whatever it is will be worth the wait.

So here we are…our “Jamison

Unplugged” segment in On The Rise has been filled with updates on what’s going on with Jamison. In fact, it was one of our most commented on sections on the online magazine! And he’s really good about checking in with news on what’s going on with he and his group. Newly tagged the “face” for BS Brands as their spokes model, I’m finding tthat Jamison has as his core ‘friends’ are definitely positive and just as kind as he is.

I’ll be checking in with more news about Jamison in our On The Rise section. He’s working with a new artist, NOVA, who is someone you’ll definitely want to learn more about. And if you see him before I do, tell him that I said he is the “truth”. I know I’ve said it about others before…I have that eye-and believe what I say to be true.

So check out more of Jamison…you’ll be missing out if you don’t!

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I was introduced to Red Carpet Inc, when I placed an ad on Craigslist searching for new hair stylist in the Atlanta area that could accommodate my busy schedule and Red Carpet/Celebrity events. DKing of the company answered my ad and set up an appointment to prove his skills. Let’s just say from that point on, he’s been the only one I’ll let touch my hair. Red Carpet Inc was originated in Oakland, California. The brother/sister team was very successful in the Oakland area, primarily styling for some of the hottest celebrity types. Business was doing well, but the duo decided to try out the Atlanta market, so they sold their salon to a relative and made their way down to A-Town. The entire outfit that they have going is made up of a celebrity styling team. They have hair stylists, barbers, makeup artists, and even have custom-made one of a kind jewelry! The team typically travels to client’s homes or locations (photo-shoots, movie sets, etc). Their new website is setup where clients can book appointments online. And for those that prefer the salon atmosphere, their Atlanta

location is conveniently located on Cascade Avenue. The jewelry line is called Ear Candy. Ear Candy is Q-Styles brainchild. And the fabulous thing about it is that she makes the pieces by hand! They can be found in select stores in the area, their salon, and online the

website. Attica:it’s a pleasure to speak with you and thank-you so much for this interview! KingD: You don’t have to be so formal, Lady. I speak with you every week or so, at least. Attica: I know, but hey-I’m on the clock! Q-Styles: Yeah, and even when he’s not talking to you, he’s bragging about how great you keep your hair up. Attica:

Seriously, though, with my hair being naturally curly and me not having any chemicals, I’m so pleased with what D has been able to do with my hair. I mean, he straightens it better than anyone else has ever been able to do.

It’s the technique we use for Natural Hair. Most people use extreme measures to straighten natural hair, but if you do it the

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healthy way you don’t have to go so extreme. And yours normally lasts you about three weeks-which is sort of a record.

From what I’ve seen, I’m not the only satisfied client. Q-Stylez, I’ve spoken with some of you clients and have seen you in the act. You’re weave styles are the bomb! Q-StylezThose and lace wigs. We’re even in the process of designing our own wig line.

You are too creative! Is that what you were doing on your last trip to Cali? (she went back to Oakland for the month of December and just recently returned)

-Stylez: That among other things. We still have interests in the salon that’s still located there so I went to handle business. So yeah, I worked on some of the other things we have going on like the jewelry line, the upcoming wig line, and also a clothing line that will be out. All custom one-of-a-kind…that’s how we do it. Attica: Wow. KingD, I’ve also been noticing some big things going on with you. You’re always on location somewhere,

mostly at model photo shoots. How did you get plugged in so quickly? KingD: When we first got down here, as soon as we got settled in and got the salon open, we immediately started networking. That’s the key! It doesn’t have to be so competitive because your skills speak for themselves anyway. In networking, we were able to form new relationships that brought on more opportunities. It’s been a blessing. Q-Stylez: So True. God Is Good.

All the time! I’m so impressed with the fact that your salon location has also been the location for several photo shoots, including some of ours. Did you initially set out to also be a media location?

shows at our Oakland location for a local celebrity blogger, so it just made sense to open our location here to accommodate much of the same.

Well, thank-you both for this interview and we’ll be sure to look out for more from Red Carpet Inc!

and Stylez: Thanks, Attiica

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R&B Songstress, Olivia Longott, is back on the music scene with her new single, Take It Off. Her endearing fans stayed true after her break from G-Unit Records in 2007. They never doubted Olivia’s endless talent. The unapologetically, down-to-earth diva, Olivia signed with J Records in 2000. Her self-titled debut album Olivia was released in 2001 and featured the singles Bizounce, and R U Capable. While her album was certified Gold, Olivia was released from J Records and signed to Interscope/G-Unit Records in 2004.

Olivia became the First Lady of G-Unit during her record labels transition. Under the new label, Olivia and 50cent shared the same manager, Chris Lighty. Chris Lighty is responsible for the careers of Busta Rhymes, DeLa Soul, Foxy Brown, LL Cool J, A Tribe Called Quest, Q-Tip, Missy Elliott just to name a few. Olivia glowed as an artist, and made hit bangers with fellow G-Unit member 50 cent, such as Best Friend, So Amazing, and Candy Shop. Olivia’s R& B background eventually led to musical differences within the group.

Olivia’s departure from G-Unit and J Records did not end her career as a sultry singer. A new deal with Universal Records and management by Dollaz Unlimited, Olivia is back and ready to be heard. Rich Dollaz, her manager, is steadily working on promoting her first love. Her new album, ‘Show the World’, is an eye opener that she is unstoppable. The album drops March 2010.

City Scenes Magazine had the opportunity to speak with Olivia about

her music, life, and career.

Bre Sylvia: From J Records to Interscope, to Universal, Tell me, how was each label different, and how was the transition?

Olivia: J records was probably the most amazing to me because it was my first label I was signed to. Right out of college and I’m signed to Clive Davis, what can be better. The only thing was that they tried to change me a lot. It did what it needed to do for me at that time. Going into J records, I knew I was going to be the experimental artist because I was the first one signed. It came with its good and bad, but I moved on. I then got signed to Interscope, and was being managed by Chris Lighty who was also 50 cent’s manager. That’s how 50, and the whole G-Unit came into play. I signed with Jimmy Iovine, and a few weeks later, Chris was like he really wanted me to meet Fif and I should think about joining a group. I never thought about joining a group. At that time 50 was super super hot, so I went for it. That turned into me doing Best Friend, and Candy Shop. Again, miscommunication came into play, because I felt like I was just being a hood girl. So I spoke to Fif about it and told him that I was trying to do R&B, and being marketed as a rapper was not going to work. I loved being with them, but the direction that we was going wasn’t working out for me. I already knew that I was not going to stay with them for a long time anyway because them with me would become ludicrous after a while, and plus I always saw myself as a solo artist, but with them it was always 50cent and G-Unit. After I left the rumors hits the radios saying that that I was dropped from the label while I

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was the one who actually asked to be let go. BS: So you moved on and now you’re currently being managed by Rich Dollaz who also manages Ryan Leslie and Krys Ivory, how did you hook up with him? O: David Lawrence, who is one of my friends, that works at Jive Records hooked me up with Rich. I told DL that I wanted to switch managers because not being in G-Unit and still being managed by Chris Lighty would be a conflict of interest. So DL and I went though a number or managers and he told me he had the perfect person for me. He told me that he would call me within a week, which he did and told me about Rich Dollaz. DL set up a meeting with Rich and I, we met in the city, and ever since then, he’s been on it. BS: You have a new album coming out, which is it scheduled to drop? O: March 2010 BS: Is it still called Behind Closed Doors? O: No. After leaving G-Unit I decided to do the whole album over. I didn’t want to keep the name and have people think that it was being done under G-Unit. BS: What is it called now?

O: Show The World. And the direction is CRAZY!

BS: What’s the direction? O: It’s more R&B. I don’t even know how to describe it. Over the top R&B. Missy gave me a few groove records. I have a few ballads on there as well as the dance records. BS: What was the inspiration for this album? O: Love, Love of Love, Love of Music. One of the songs on the album, show the world, I’m talking about showing the world all the things I’ve gone through up until now. I think that’s the record

everyone is going to listen to. BS: You’re first single, Take It Off, is hot, how did you come up with this song? O: I’m always in the studio, whether I'm recording or just listening to beats. And when I’m in the studio, I need it to be hot for my voice. The producer of the song Sham, and Cortez Ellis of the Soul Diggaz was in the studio with me, and they were complaining that it was hot because had the heat up on 80 degrees, I just told them “well then take it off”. We just started to play around with it and Cortez and Sham both was like “that’s kind of hot” So we went from there and laid the hook, came up with some melodies for the verses and that was it.

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BS: So that was it. O: Yup, that was it. BS: Let’s get off the topic of music and talk about your acting career. You filed two movies, Peephole and Conspiracy X. Describe your role in Peephole. O: Peephole is a movie about those people who are afraid to go outside their house. This young man views the world through a peephole. He saw his mom get killed at the age of 7 and since then he haven’t left the house. Everything he sees he watches it through the peephole. Slim from 112 and Terrance J and a few other people are in the movie. The days that I was filming, I wasn’t on set with anyone else. I guess you can say that I was spoiled (laughs). BS: As if I couldn’t tell (laughs) O: You’re funny!!! (laughs) I played his aunt in the movie. It was a very emotional role for my first role. I’m so glad that they gave it to me and believed in me enough to play this role. BS: What’s Conspiracy X about? O: Conspiracy X was director by Sean Baker, who is a dope director. Kelitta Smith is also in the movie. She played the Judge. I play the lead guy’s girlfriend. He goes to jail, and he tries to start a clothing company to be legit, but it turns into a conspiracy because somebody tries to frame him for something. You definitely have to check out both movies. They both come out in 2010.

BS: I most definitely will. Are you looking to do more movies? O: Yes. I’m always getting calls for roles. Tracy Moore, who is my acting coach, always finds me scripts, which is wonderful. BS: Who is one actor or actress that you would like to work with in the future? O: See, that’s hard. I have a few that I’d love to work with, but since I have to choose it would be Keanu Reeves. Ever since I saw him in Sweet November, I always said to myself I have got to work with him. BS: Would you every played the role Halle Berry played in Monster’s Ball?

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Hair: GStar Makeup: Samantha Murdock Stylist: Staci Pearson Shoes: Eshni Customs Photographer: Ryle Watson

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O: I always said that I would play the crack head she played, but I wouldn’t play the Monster’s Ball role. My dad would have a heart attack. BS: Its good to see that you’re doing you’re thing, and more than just singing. A lot of Artist does not take risk, and if they do they’re not that successful with it. O: Thank you. Some people do not acknowledge that. Sometimes they thing because they haven’t seen me, that I’m not doing anything and they don’t know that I’ve been working , writing for other artist, and touring overseas. I’ve been blessed. BS: That’s a good look for you; are you currently seeing anybody? O: Yes I am. BS: Oh yea? For how long? O: For 2 months BS: Oh, so it’s still new. How did you guys meet? O: We actually met at a party and I approached him because somebody wanted me to meet him and it was also his birthday. We talked for a little bit and I went about my business. I left the party before everyone else. And the day after my Publicist told me that he was asking for me, and that she was calling my phone all night and couldn’t get to me. So he called me the next day, asked me out, and we’ve just been talking since then. BS: When you’re home alone, what can we find you doing?

O: I’m watching movies, chillin’ with my girlfriends, Playing with my dogs, and cooking. BS: You cook? O: Yes I get busy in the kitchen. And I bake. BS: You travel all the time. What city is your favorite? O: That’s a hard one. I fell in love with Monaco because it’s so beautiful and of all the stores along the water. But Australia is my all time favorite. BS: Tell me about this beautiful rosary you wore for the photo shoot. O: That’s my favorite rosary. I got it in Italy at the Vatican. When I saw id I immediately said to myself that I have to get it. I also got it bless in Italy. BS: How frequent are you on twitter? O: I just recently got on it, and I like it. I’ll get on in the mornings and say something inspirational to start off. I love twitter because I get to reach out to my supporters and talk to them. It’s a great communication tool. BS: Well, I hate to end this, but I have to. But before you go what would you like to say to your supporters and to those that want to start a music career? O: Thank you. Thank you for the support and riding with me since day one. And to the aspiring artist, NEVER GIVE UP, and you believe in yourself you can definitely make it. BS: Thank you. O: It’s been fun.

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Black Is Beautiful..??? There was once a time when a "black man" felt honored to have a black woman on his arm. In-fact, nothing made him more proud than to have a smart and beautiful yet strong black women by his side. In this modern world things have changed drastically. I am so proud of the distance that we have come as Americans. We have come together to form a much better world for the generations that will come. We as a people are nothing less than equal. Still celebrating the reign of our new President, we are now seeing what our fathers saw long before us. We are truly, "One Nation, Under GOD."

In the mist of all the things that we have to celebrate [one being the fact that I have lived to see the year 2010], I must say that I have found myself saddened. There is one trend that's not changing. Somewhere down the line our men have lost their way. I think that I speak for all women when I say that we all have those men that we see on TV and fantasize about. I think I speak for most of my sister's when I speak on the disappointment that I feel when I see that more and more "black man" of power and/or of a high status are not marrying "black women." I mean no disrespect by that last statement and in no way am I racist but I have to ask... Is black still beautiful in the eyes of our black men? Is it possible for a black woman to look just as good as a "white woman" or what men are calling an "exotic woman?"

I ask these questions because I am finding that many African American women are asking this same question. I was at a social event last night with my boyfriend and a close girl friend of mine when this guy approached her. The two of them began to spark up a conversation that actually seemed to be leading to a happy ending. I think that they were both on the same page until he looked over and told her "I usually don't even talk to dark-skinned girls but your cute." OMG! When she told me that I could have flipped out on him but instead I chose to use this ignorant a** comment to some good use and try and educate some of my brothers who may be feeling this way.

In a world that is so superficial and intrigued by beauty, you would think that women have so many other things to worry about rather than something that they can't change. Okay maybe we can. I have been seeing a lot of that lately but why should we? As for the guy that sent my friend home with the feelings of self-consciousness, I hope that you can only pray to find a woman half as good. I bet you didn't know that while you were concentrating on her outside attributes, you were missing out on those things inside that are suppose to matter the most.

In the mist of the storm we shall prevail. We have definitely overcome worse obstacles in time. I just hope that one of these days we will be looked at as beautiful women. Not pretty to be black but beautiful because of our minds, because of our spirits, and because of our strength to stand behind our men.

Words by Memory Martin

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Mack Maine By Memory Martin

Very confident in his on skin as well as his role in Young Mula, Mack Maine was able to explain to me why he was always a president at heart. Some of you may be new to him and may even think that I am interviewing a new artist but he’s no rookie to the game. Growing up in Hollygrove alongside a lot of the Cash Money members with this kind of talent let us know that this was nothing more than a reunion that was bond to happen.

You are now the president of Young Money Entertainment. How has that transition been for you?

I mean it really hasn’t been a transition to be honest. I have always handled a lot of business for Wayne and I always knew that I would be doing this one day. I prepared myself mentally for this a while ago so it wasn’t really a transition. It was a title that was already there and we just stamped it.

Did you grow up alongside the original members of Cash Money?

Yes. It was like history made at a young age when I met Slim and Baby around the age ten. I’ve known Wayne since the age of eight. I would say that I started going to the studio at the age of twelve.

With all of the backset earlier on in your career, would you say that BET’s “Rated Next” was the turning point in your career?

Yes. I would say BET’s Rated Next and the little cypher that I had with Cassidy that everyone saw on the Internet. BET’s Rated Next go me to the door [I wouldn’t say in the door]. The battle with Cassidy

was what got me in the door. That’s what officially stamped it.

How long have you been with Young Money?

About five or six years.

Are there any new projects in the works that we don’t know about?

I’m putting out a mixtape called “The Laxative.” The reason behind that is… I have a lot of songs that are old. Over the years I have kind of switched my style up. A laxative is what helps you to get the shit out (laughing). I have to get the old shit out to make room for the new shit.

What do you like to do when you’re not working or in the studio?

Ride around the beach with the top down and just enjoy the beach. I like bowling, watching movies and of course I like women.

Who would you like to do collaboration with in the future?

I would have to say Maroon 5, James Blunt, and Jason Mraz

Is there anything that you would like to say to your fans?

As for my fans, I would like for them to see with this album that I have a funny side. I am always depicted as the Young Money gangster (laughing), slash goon, and slash one that will knock your head off. I’m not saying that I’m not that but I’m not just walking around just mean and shit all the time. I do have a funny side and I wear a lot of different hats, also have a business side. Put it like this I adapt to my surroundings very well. I put on the hat that is necessary at the time.

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LETTER FROM THE MANAGING EDITOR

Since October, we've been working non-stop on our baby, City Scenes Magazine. My friends and family have been so patient with the time that I've had to dedicate to what I see as being a masterpiece. To be in a position of being a part of the magazine from the very beginning, from the ground up has been simply put; amazing! I truly can't imagine being anywhere else.

I was thrilled to actually get my first celebrity interview on our debut day, October 5th, having a chance to be in VIP at Mist Lounge and Bar and interviewing Kevin Hart. From that day on, we’ve been going full throttle!

I’m so pleased with the staff writers and editors that have joined our team. It was no surprise that when we merged over to City Scenes Mag in December 2009, we’d have continued success. Being located primarily in both New York and Atlanta, we seem to have the best of both worlds. And believe me, things are not always easy, but we get through it and most importantly, we continue to keep the readers intrigued. And that’s what it’s all about.

Now that we have gone into print, I feel especially grateful that the unsigned artists

in the On The Rise feature will get the much needed exposure they need. That is one of the things I’m most passionate about, knowing what it is to be On The Rise. I can remember when my first book got published, and how my PR Rep really helped my writing career take off with some of the same kind of exposure. And at City Scenes Mag, we do our best to do just that for the artists we write about.

City Scenes Mag is known for it’s personal approach towards relaying current events, celebrity news, fashion trends, entertainment reviews, and more. But what I seem to hear about us the most is that we are known for being fair, being good, being honest, and being a friend to all .

To the readers and the writers and especially to Bre' Sylvia (our editor in chief and mother to the magazine), I thank all of you for your support and can't wait to see you next quarter!

Attica Lundy

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DMG INTERSCOPE RECORDS

By Attica Lundy I first was introduced to DAO Music Group in October 2009 at a meeting in Buckhead (in Atlanta). We sat at a little café’ in a meeting with Leaf, an up and rising recording artist who won BET’s Welcome To Dreamland. Though our business there was strictly about Leaf and her plans on working with DAO Music Group in some upcoming events, our relationship would soon become much more.

We attended their “Dirty South Idol” competition …and I suppose that’s where it all truly began. After the Idol competition, we kept in touch. I was so happy to receive the news of their new deal with Interscope Records. After a long road travelled, DAO Music Group (formally DAO Records) secured a distribution through Interscope Records choosing them to be an imprint on the Interscope label. This is a major milestone in the evolution of DAO Music Group, and marks a turning point for the DAO Music Group artist roster.

Lee Walton has over 15 years of experience in Information Technology as an individual contributor and a Senior Executive. Experienced as an COO for Tech Startups. Audio Engineer with mix/mastering experience. His wife, Pricilla “Peaches” Walton is the current CEO of DAO Music Group, an Atlanta

area record label that is the parent company to DAO Records and Shoppa! Records. Starting first as the Managing Editor for Shoppa! Magazine, an online magazine dedicated to providing media exposure to unsigned producers and artists, she quickly made the transition to become the first female CEO of DAO Music Group. With a work ethic that has her working late into the night, she has a love for the industry that is unmatched. Peaches first entered the music industry in 1995, where she was the partner of an artist management company which was working closely with some very big

names in the Atlanta music scene. After “cutting her” teeth in the secular music scene, Peaches began managing a studio for a large church in the Morrow area. As one half of a very dynamic engineering team, she quickly showed her ability by intuitively began running the boards and engineering sessions on her own. She came into

her own when she was called in for an emergency mixing session for a gospel group that was to go to Nashville to have their final work product mastered. The mix session lasted 8 hours, and included the complete mix of an entire album. When it was all said and done, she had produced a mix which rivaled the Nashville mastering engineers, saving the group from having to make the expensive trip! Peaches is currently in

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the process of releasing “Sonic Boom!” the debut album by her lead artist on DAO Music Group. She is also responsible for the development of the most unique “intern” program the industry has ever seen.

I’ve become especially fond of two of their artists, D-Chase and Toni Starkz.

Toni Starkz is the first to be signed to this new deal. In addition to her lyrical artistry, she is a vocalist and phenomenal actress. She has appeared in several Broadway shows and independent films on the east coast. She has also appeared on pilot episodes of Tyler Perry!s House of Payne, and music videos of other artists in the New York/New Jersey area. Toni Starkz has been working on getting the hot single "Beautiful" out the door! Already creating a buzz in the industry, this single has established male rapper lining up for the remix. Be sure to get your copy of "Beautiful" on February 9! It will be available on iTunes, Amazon and at select retail stores!

Also signed with DAO Music Group/Interscope is DAO Artist D-Chase. Born in Montreal, Canada and raised in Palm Beach, Florida, D-Chase couldn't have had a more different background from most hip hop artists. The son of Jamaican immigrants, and one of four brothers, two of which have had varying degrees of success in the music business, D-Chase has seen the good side of the music game, and the ugliness that sometimes comes along with it.

His earliest musical influences were rock bands, primarily because his parents wouldn't allow hip hop to be played in the house. Learning and astounding 7 different instruments, D-Chase quickly learned that he could put together melodies of his own, and began developing his own style of production. But it was his move to Atlanta that changed his life forever!

Meeting house music legend Robin S. gave D-Chase access to a more sophisticated recording studio than he had in the past, and he began producing hits for Robin that got huge response in the UK. It was a posting on craigslist that finally got D-Chase noticed. With these two artists, as well as other artists on DAO Music Group’s roster, I am confident that great music will continue to be released.

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OnlineContributors

Davida Peterson

Arnold Scott

Eighty Jane

Memory Martin

Ashanti Griffin

Marcel Pope

Dean McCray

Thank You:

Thehiphopsocialite.com, Street Diciplez Radio, All Smiles Studios, PB Creationz, Sleep Productions, Darren Green, Entertain Corp, HHT Studios, Sean John Clothing, The Launch Pad, Resurrection Vintage Clothing, Dig Deep Jewlery