Entertainment Company: G.E.A.R.S.

Check out my interview below with Tony Bongiovi as he discusses the company "G.E.A.R.S." that he helped form!


Tell me your background. Where are you all from?

Tony- There are actually 5-6 of us in this company. A few of us are from St. Thomas (Tony TBL Bongiovi, Iambakisye Richardson, Kevin, Matthew). Celestino Arrindell is from St.Maarten and Marcus is from California. We all met in St. Thomas at UVI and individually been exploring our areas of expertise for a couple of years before the team was actually formed. We all obtained our bachelors degree from UVI and different universities and were stationed in St.Thomas. We recently relocated to Orlando where we will start our journey on entering the mainland market.

That's cool. So what is "G.E.A.R.S."? How did it formulate?


Tony - Iambakisye and Tony coming together and forming a sort of power team called G.E.AR.S. Which is an acronym for Graphics Entertainment Art Rhythm & Style. They had always wanted to create this power team but never full pursued it. Tony had worked with all of the members that are currently working in G.E.A.R.S. on an individual basis for the project he was working on called PROJECT VI. Which was a collaborative album of all the musical talents from the Virgin Islands at that time. He worked with Celestino a year before the team was officially formed. Celestino was at the time working on his website VI Out and About and Tony would do work with him on that. After awhile, the group started to work more consistently together because of their friendships and their skill level. People were acknowledging each individual as the "best in their field" so Tony took it a step further when he decided to move stateside. He brought them all together and took the concept that he and Iambakisye was working on and applied it to the team that was there working on each others projects. That's how GEARS was formed. The G.E.A.R.S. Production team is a group of talented individuals that independently dominated their respective specialties and decided to merge less than one roof, with one purpose. G.E.AR.S. sets out to deliver professional quality and utilize fresh creative ideas in an industry that is turbulent and constantly changing.

That's amazing! I'm glad that's working out for you all. What different services does "G.E.A.R.S." offer?


Tony - Collectively our G.E.A.R.S. team can provide clients with a complete solution to any media or productions services. From concept to completion, we deliver services for any form of media content with the highlighted standard: commercials, feature films, press kits, webisodes, short films, documentaries, music videos, weddings, photography, album covers, portfolios, logo design, business cards, website design, brand-development, vocal recording, audio engineering, producing, track mixing, mastering, and more.

Wow! That's a lot of services. G.E.A.R.S. seem like the "go to" place for any type of media assistance. What are your overall goals as you both continue to work in the entertainment industry?


Tony - Our goal is to be a household brand name. We want to become the industry standard for our services and  to stand out as the best. We ultimately want to get into work exclusively in feature films and the entertainment industry. We aim to work with the best in the industry in music and  film. Currently we're working on music videos for a number of artists and we're also doing commercials for different businesses. All around the Virgin Islands and stateside are websites, ads, commerials, promos, radio jingles, songs, and much more that as conceptualize created and produced by GEARS team.


G.E.A.R.S. is a phenomenal company! I've seen some of their work and it is beyond great. Be sure to check out their contact information below.


Website: www.gearsproduction.com
Twitter: @GEARS_Inc
Facebook: Graphics Art Entertainment Rhythm and Style
Youtube: powerdbygears
Contact: 340.998.7436 , 340.201.9698
Email: GEARS@Gearsproduction.com

Read More

TGC: "The Glorius Connect"

What are the benefits of networking? It is an important thing to do in the entertainment industry. A lot of job opportunities and great connections are made this way. "The Glorius Connect" is a global connection of elite hardworking talented individuals. Check out my interview with the creator of TGC!

First and foremost I'd like to thank you for this interview. What is the purpose of TGC?


TGC - TGC stands for "The Glorius Connect". It's kind of like the Columbian without the drugs; high quality service at a competitive rate. But here, we only deal with entertainment. The purpose of this company is to connect serious professionals with professions of their need at a competitive rate, as well as with other professionals in their field.

What is your role in TGC?


TGC - I'm Glorius, The CEO and Co-Founder, along with my partner Ricky Cross. We both are recent Full Sail University graduates. We oversee the basic operations of facilitating these connections between the recording artist or client and the services that we specifically work with to make sure the job is done efficiently. Our main role is consulting and connecting the recording artist or client with competitive rates at which they would then be able to pursue their dreams while saving tons of money throughout it.

That's informative and very helpful. Have you seen great success with TGC?


TGC - The company began in 2011. We are growing strong as we've reached our second year with new and talented artists, services, and projects coming in left and right. Currently, we are focusing on a full year ahead of us. The word success is taken very seriously here at TGC. So no, to be honest we have not reached a level to where we can be able to even use the word success, but progress is more like it! We believe that the more of the progress, the faster we reach our outlined level of success. So ask us this question in about 6-8 months and we should be closer to our main goal of proper success.

Well I definitely appreciate your honesty. We all have our different levels of success  and I'm sure that TGC will reach it soon! What are your overall goals as you both continue to work in the entertainment industry?


TGC - Well first, before anything we want to have fun! While at the same time making professional and personal connections with the individuals that we come in contact with. We also want to create a comfortable atmosphere that allows professionals to work together rather than working against each other to entertain the masses. The goal of becoming legends in the eyes of many through our various community activities, such as food and toy drives will be sponsored by major companies. Our goals change often when we notice a new issue to solve, but our most ultimate goal is to change the world.


I am also apart of TGC's group on Facebook. I encourage you to join to experience great networking opportunities! 




Official Website: www.thegloriusconnect.com
TGC Twitter Page: TGCNEO
Facebook Fan Page: The Glorius Connect

Read More

Simone The Fashion Stylist: "Simonipulation"

Check out my interview below with fashion stylist, Simone Webb!

I know you're from Buffalo, NY. Could you tell me more about your background and childhood?

Simone - I grew up semi-poor I guess you can say. My parents split up when I was 5 and I lived with my mother and 2 brothers. We struggled a lot but I was a happy kid. I was a nerd in school and always got good grades. I was always very social and often got into too much trouble for talking too much in class. I always had lots of friends and even when I was young, I had a strong fashion sense.

I love your work. When did you know that you wanted to become a fashion stylist/consultant? What inspired you?

Simone - I actually discovered what I wanted to do about a year ago. I started off going to college for communications, and then switched to early childhood thinking that I wanted to be a teacher. Then I finally sat down and thought about what I was really good at. Every time we went out my friends would all ask my for my opinion, or I would end up somehow picking out their outfits. So I decided that I was going to be a stylist. I asked 2 of my closest friends and they told me to go from there. The rest is history!

That's cool! Can you tell me more about "Simonipulation" and what it means?

Simone - Simonipulation is a mix of my name, Simone, and manipulation. What I do to a person's style, look, and wardrobe is manipulation. I put my own  little flavor, twist, and style on something and people always tell me that the looks I put together are nothing they would ever fathom.

That is so creative. I love it! Are there any other services that you offer besides styling?

Simone - I also make custom made earrings, and I act as a personal shopper!

Oh yes, I've seen your earrings and they are very unique! I will definitely hire you as my personal shopper one day too. What is your overall goal for "Simonipulation"?

Simone - I want to make Simonipulation a household name! I want the world to know what I can do, but I also want to inspire others to follow their dreams no matter what. I have no college degree, no big support system, and Lord knows I'm not rich, but what I do have is ambition, and a drive for success. I won't stop until I'm dead!












Simone's story is truly inspiring. Become a fan of "Simonipulation" on Facebook!

Read More

Fashion Designer Adisa: "AdianiC"

Adisa Christopher is the owner of her clothing line "AdianiC". After taking sewing classes as a young girl, she started to make her own school uniforms and her peers were impressed. Throughout the years she improved her skills by creating skirts, blouses, and shorts. Soon after, Adisa began to make gowns.  Check out our interview below as we discuss more about her success and life as a fashion designer.

Adisa, I hear you're a phenomenal designer. I'd like to know more about your background. Where are you from?

Adisa - You have definitely heard right. I was born in Arizona, but raised in St. Croix, US Virgin Islands since I was only months old.

That's cool. What inspired you to be a fashion designer? How long have you been designing clothes?

Adisa - I was inspired by just wanting to be different. Being from a small island, it is very common to go to a function and someone else is wearing the same thing as you. I started sewing and designing when I was 12, and I will be 22 in 2.5 months. I launched my clothing line "AdianiC" in 2010 and my Carnival/Festival Troupe "Radekal Ravaz" in 2011.

Nice! You've been designing for quite some time now. What services do you offer? Have you ever designed clothes for any fashion shows?

Adisa - I offer many services such as: evening and cocktail dresses, prom dresses, casual wear, swimwear, and some men's wear to name a few. I have participated in 2 shows last year. The 2nd "Annual Caribbean Fashion Extravagaza in Brooklyn" and "Virgin Islands Fashion Week (VIFW) hosted in St. Thomas, USVI. I also designed evening wear dresses for contestants participating in the "Ms Jamaica-US" pageant and the "Ms VI-PR Pageant". This year I will be particularizing in the "Plitz Swimwear Passion for Fashion" runway show, the "Bikini Under the Bridge" fashion show, and the 3rd "Annual Caribbean Fashion Extravaganza".

Wow, that's amazing. I must say that your clothing is very unique. Ladies I advise you to check out Adisa's swimwear collection 2012! What is your overall goal from a designers' perspective?

Adisa - My overall goal is to have my line in many stores worldwide, but to still be able to create unique one of a kind pieces for clients who enjoy them.

It excites me to see the designers creativity through clothing. I love everything about fashion and will surely support AdianiC. Check out the pictures that showcases some of her pieces.

Email: adianic.fashion@gmail.com

Website: www.adianic.com

Twitter: Adisa_SF2D

Facebook: Adisa ChristopherFacebook Fan Pages: AdianiC by Adisa Christopher  & Radekal Ravaz Festival Troupe

Read More

B'More: New Mixtape Release

Check out my interview below with B'More as he discusses the release of his new mixtape!

Congrats to the release of your new mixtape! Can you tell me more about it?


B'More - Thank you so much, it's been a lot of hard work and took a lot of patience on this project. It is a 14 track album with two Spoken words done by my long time friend and brother Robert Swain Jr. It's my second mixtape in the last year and already it has gained great reviews from New Jersey to Orlando to France, and of course the Virgin Islands.

It sounds intriguing. What collaborations have you done?


B'More - Collaborations on the album are "Xcel da don", Da Jedi, up and coming duo by the name of "Epik and Neekz". I also networked  with some producers from France by the name of "Engy". There is "Mtech" who goes to Full Sail University from LA, Chaurbin "Bition" Smith who is my big brother from the Virgin Islands attending Full Sail University as well. "Michael  "Cavy" Kavangh" who is from the VI and also attends Full Sail University. I tried to stretch my hands and open my options and my music creativity to make the mixtape stand out.

Wow, that's a lot of collabs. Congrats on that too! So B'More, what song would you recommend me to listen to off your mixtape and why?


B'More - This is a tough question cause I feel like every song relates to different situations in our lives. There's the club song, the relationship song, the song for the middle of the night "if you know what I mean". There's that song that will take you to that place where you get inspired. But my personal favorite will be the one  I will release pretty soon as my new single is "Last One". It speaks volume to a relationship and the stuff you go through. It convinces you not to leave and start a brand new relationship with someone else because you have problems with your significant other. It surrenders you to stay and work it out because you want to be the "Last One" ever go through something with because that's when "Forever" starts.

It sounds like you have a variety of topics on your mixtape. I'll just listen to the whole thing. Are you currently working on any new projects or events?


B'More - I am presently working on a 3-part documentary. Part 1 and 2 are out and will be released this  week. It's called "B'More's ForeverMusic Mixtape Series". It's just about my life and my journey through the Mixtape. I just felt that my fans never got to see that side of me because it's very genuine and I felt it they saw my hard work instead of seeing the gift and hearing they will appeal more to my music. It's a difference  when people see hard work. I am also in  the process of putting together a mini tour around the Virgin  Islands with fellow rap artist Da Jedi, since my mixtape is out and his album is releasing in June 2012 so we are bringing that into fruition by next month. I have a show on April 2nd and then on the 20th. So I am getting ready for those.

I'm so happy for you B'More. I think that your documentary is a great way to engage with your fans. What point do you think you are at in life? 


B'More - At this point of my life you can say that I'm still an inspiration for anyone who came up from nothing, becoming into someone great. I'm a RnB artist staying true to God, love, myself, and most of all the essence of music and what it truly does to the human race. I am at a good place in my life, a year away from graduating from college and I'm finding myself more and more each day through my passion, music.


I am so happy that things are wonderfully coming together for B'More. He's a wonderful person and artist. Please support his new mixtape!


Download Mixtape: reverbnation.com/Bmoresmusic
Twitter: @bmoresmusic
Fan Page: Facebook.com/mckenziebaltimore

Read More

Nawfwest Nyce

Check out my interview with an upcoming artist Darren "Nawfwest Nyce".


From what I understand you're an aspiring artist raised in San Antonio, Texas. Can you tell me more about your background?


Nyce - I was born in NY and my family moved down here when I was little. I lived the life just like everyone else. Good times, bad times. Did good, did bad. But I think it's different for me because I learned from my experiences and never let any of it hold me back. I'm 23 years old. My stage name is "Nawfest Nyce". I came up with the name because I live on the Northwest side of town and my friends have been calling me Nyce since forever so I just put the two together.

That's creative because honestly I was trying to figure out how that name came about. How long have you been doing music? 


Nyce - I've been doing music for years. It's always been a love of mine. I can think back to middle school banging on the table and freestyling with my people. As I got older, I started getting serious with it and exploring my talent and showcasing it. So from a serious aspect I'd say about 3 years now.

So Nyce what makes your music different from other artists in the industry? 


Nyce - My music is different because I stay away from the norm. I don't follow the trends. In the words of Big Krit, "I'm trying to make timeless music that lasts forever". I tell my life story in my music, and there's a meaning behind every line. I tell it all from my lowest to my highest moments.

That's abnormal these days. Stick to doing that and I'm sure you'll continue to be unique in the industry. Are you currently working on any  new projects or events?


Nyce - I just released my second solo project titled "Born To Win" so I've been pushing that pretty hard. I got a few vid shoots and shows lined up to end this month off. So I'm just making as much progress as I can.

I wish you the best with that. What are your future goals as  an artist Nyce? 


Nyce - I want to touch lives with my music. I never thought I would, but I already am. A few people have told some of my songs have made them see things differently or change the way they think for the better. That's crazy to me! I also want to learn every aspect of the game. I'm learning to dj and produce now. Once I get that down I want to learn some of the business side of it.

That's wonderful. It's such a great feeling when your creative works impact others. I wish Nawfwest Nyce the best in his career. Look out for this artist!



Official Site: www.yaboynyce.com
Twitter: @NYCE210
Facebook: /NYCE210

Read More

Working In The Film Industry: Ray Morales JR

Check out my interview below with Ray Morales Jr as he discusses his life and experience of working in the film industry!

I'd like to know more about you. Where are you from? Can you give me a snippet of your background?


Ray - I am from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I was the only child and my mother raised me. It wasn't easy growing up in North Philadelphia with all the bad influences around but I somehow found a way to stay out of trouble. I graduated from Northeast High School and moved to Florida when I was 22 years old to start my college career at Full Sail University.

Nice. When did you first decide to work in the film industry?


Ray - I first decided to work in the film industry when I watched my first film. It was the horror movie "Halloween", and I will never forget the effect and impact that movie had on my life. I t inspired me to become a filmmaker and learn all the tricks and trades on how to make a film. I also loved music videos, and watched them constantly as a teenager and also pictured myself making them one day. I loved director Hype Williams and wanted to be on his level of expertise. Hype Williams has influenced me to be in this industry and if you watch some of my videos you will see some of his signature effects.

That's very intriguing! Have you worked on any recent projects? Are you working on anything in the future?


Ray - I just finished working on two music videos, one for a local artist by the name of "Peter Pills", and one for an upcoming Philadelphia group "Top of Philly". Right now I'm working on a promotional video for SCMCMUSICCONFRENCE.COM, and in pre production for a new music video for a local Orlando artist "Peter Pills". I am also making a trip to Louisiana, and Texas this month for two more music videos and a couple of photo shoots.

That's wonderful Ray. I wish you the best in all of your projects and success in the industry! What are your goals as you continue to work in the entertainment industry?


Ray - My goal is to become a lead editor for a huge production company. I will also like to be a well-known music video director like "Mr. Hype Williams" himself, and would like to make a huge impact in the music video industry. I want people to know who I am and recognize me for my great projects and put my STAMP in this industry.

I definitely wish Ray the best as he continues to strive to reach his goals. I believe in him! Everyone look out for Ray Morales!


Vimeo: http://vimeo.com/user6174853


Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Ray.Morales.Jr


Twitter: @RayMoralesJR

Read More