Welcome to Hybrid

The Heritage Issue

Riz, Dels and Sofi Leaders of the Nu- Skool New music with Crazy Cousins, Giggs, De Tropix & the hottest new female talent Young Comedians Slanguage A.I.N.T Secret Style Histories The Art of Chirpsing 20 06

13

INTRODUCING – Sara Shamsavari, Charlie Crockett, Beniot Pioulard, FEATURES – The New Nu De Tropix, Damien O’Brien Wave: Sofi, Riz and Dels; Global Kingdom: What does it THIS IS REAL LIFE – The Young mean to be young and British? Gambler; The Art of Chirpsing; Bare Jokes: Fine Young Comedians Enterprise with Tim Campbell; Slanguage: The Meaning of Slang Career tips from Rodney Hinds

She said... This issue is all about Heritage and what it means to you. The Cut is put together by individuals from a mixture of different backgrounds and He said... cultures so it was a topic that What’s really good? I cannot got us thinking. We wanted believe it, here we present to to know what it really means you our third issue! The theme to be British today, which is this time round is heritage, excplored in the feature Global and we represent nations Kingdom. Read our Slanguage united together as one. With piece- are you up-to-date with interviews with talent from your street vocab? Check out across the board, UK rapper Secret Style Histories to find Giggs, Entrepreneur Tim out more about the heritage Campbell, Riz Ahmed, Sofi of some of this seasons top Donuts and Dels surely you will 44 trends. The jam packed music be jumping in your shoes to section features interviews find out what they have to say. with Crazy Cousins, Kyza and We also have a new Real Life we meet 5 new female artists section featuring my personal to add to your play list. Enjoy favourite the ‘Chirpsing’ 34 this issue and get involved! debate, so boys you can learn Ronnie Grebenyuk new skills on how to chat up girls. Join us while we learn to Ski for this Issues 50:50, and check out our star studded ‘Football XI’ it. Read it, spread MUSIC – New Female Singers, Chip the word it and enjoy Go on Music, Crazy Cousins, Kyza, Giggs www.thecutnewspaper.com to CULTURE – Sara Maple, Gavin check out all the latest news. Watson and Martin Cole Nicholas Asamoah FASHION – Back to the Old Skool; Trendspotter; Secret Style Histories

Sponsors

Published by Hardcore Is More Than The Cut Cover photography by Akwasi Tawia Music Ltd. This project is a partnership 258 Harrow Road Poku, Kiran Nijjar and Rasharna Hylton between Hardcore Is More Than Music London W2 5ES and Paddington Development Trust Funded by Westminster City Council Contact us at as part of the Youth Enterprise Hub. [email protected] Paper supplied with thanks to www.thecutnewspaper.com Stora and Southern Print Ltd. www.hardcoreismorethanmusic.com

THE CUT 03 Inbox CUT 03 Inbox CUT 03

Awaydays Awaydays tells the story of Paul Carty, a teenager growing up on the outskirts of Liverpool in the 70’s, who falls in with The Pack, a crowd of Tranmere Rover football hoolies. Look out for debuts from young actors The Cut Rates Nicky Bell and Liam Boyle and Kevin Ralph Hardy Akpobi some serious casual steez. One of the most talented and Pablo the drug mule dog vital individuals we’ve come Voiced by David Mitchell of Awadays is coming to a cinema near across in time! Kevin not only Peep Show, Pablo may be you this spring. co-edits Profresh Magazine employed by Talk to Frank www.awaydaysthemovie.com but is also writing a book The Hemingses of Monticello but he’s getting enough fans called The Pencilcase with With all the interest in to leave the drug trade for a unbelievable flair and steez. President Obama, check career in showbiz! out the surprising story of Check out his blog at President Jefferson. Back in Join pablo’s facebook group www.ralphhardy.wordpress.com the day, Jefferson fathered 7 www.facebook.com/pages/Pablo- mixed race children with slave The-Drug-Mule-Dog/ sally Hemings and his closest decendents are mixed race.

The Hemingses of Monticello: An American Family by Annette Gordon- Reed, is currently available at your local library or for sale through most major retailers. Get Connected! Get Connected is a new, free helpline service for young people. Whether you need Happy Birthday Grimepedia a listening ear, a referral, or The ‘Wiki’ Grime project help finding a safe place to celebrates it’s first birthday stay for the night, it offers a this month. The site is run by whole a range of support. Grime Digital, a non profit Get in touch: call their free organisation. Having received helpline on 08088084994, Future Mobility over 5.6 million hits in its first open from 1pm-11pm everyday Visit the Science Museum’s new year, the site has proved its or join in on the webchat Japanese Car Exhibition, to worth in bringing together a from 7pm-10pm everyday. see some of the quirkiest car large community of talented designs on the planet! This is artists, producers, DJ’s, www.getconnected.org.uk definitely not one to be missed! bloggers, designers and other hard working youngsters who Car: Designs for a crowded have used their skills in a Globe, is on at the Science Museum in positive way to document the London until April 19th 2009 entire history of a music scene.

The Business of Fashion www.sciencemuseum.org.uk Dont Cha Know! www.Grimepedia.co.uk Soulbrew Karaoke Are you a fashionista Image Nissan PIVO2 Bashy has had remarkable Say the word Karaoke and or fashionmista? success in 2008, now he’s thoughts of 50 year old Want to design your back with new mixtape Bashy pensioners singing Marvin own clothes? Dot Com and it’s definitely inboxGaye’s Lets get it on definitely And possibly sell them? the llamas spit. With tracks comes to mind. Although Then come to The Business like Man @ Home using Soul Brew Karaoke is here of Fashion woskshops at the Kanye’s Love Lockdown to bringing flavour to the table. Stowe Centre, 258 Harrow his intellectual flow on Sam Every last Friday of the month, Rd, W2 5ES. Where you can Sparro’s Black and Gold. The there’s a new thing to get do exactly that...for free! lyrical content and wordplay is stuck into. With song choices enough to excite any Scrabble ranging from Beyonces Workshops run every Monday contestant. Although Bashy Crazy in Love to some good and Thursday, 6.30 to 9pm at the tells us, People do not get it ol’ Thriller. It’s a night for fun Stowe Center; 252 Harrow Road . confused, this is not the album. and entertainment indeed. So For more info or to register either The album is set to be released grab a couple mates and get visit us, call us on 0207 266 8220 mid 09, so be ready. The Chupa down to Soul Brew Karaoke. or email [email protected] Chups King is about to take P.S. Don’t forget your I.D over!

www.soulbrew.com www.bashy.com

04 THE CUT THE CUT 05 intro- “If you can change the way someone feels you can ducing change the world. The arts can move people.” SARA SHAM-

Street Hospital. It comes as no SAVARI surprise to hear this has had an affect on her work, ‘I feel I have a very strong purpose in life, growing up here, being in the minority, I definitely grew up feeling that I was very different. It’s more mixed now, its better now but i used to get called Paki everyday’.

Looking at her photos, it’s obvious they’re taken by a Londoner who loves her city, but where does she call home? ‘I’ve always said I was Iranian, but when you get out there in the world, you’re British. I always tell people where I’m from, but also where I grew up and both of those places have had an influence on me.’

Shamsavari’s story is testimony to the belief that if you are brave enough to put your work out there the people who you seek respect from will give it. ‘My favourite photographer of all time is Jamel Shabbazz. I wrote him an email. I didn’t expect any response, but 2 hours later, he wrote me an public perceptions.’ email saying he was touched Its because of this that she by my words and that he loved chose Topshop’s Flagship my work.’ Shabazz has been Oxford street store for her a mentor to Shamsavari ever most recent exhibition ‘Beauty since, inviting her for her first Untold, ‘the reason I wanted to international show Danny have the show at Topshop was Simmons Gallery in New . because its a public place. A lot ‘If you can change the way of people are too intimidated to someone feels you can go into art galleries’. Although change the world. The arts she’s also shot fashion can move people’. Shamsavari for numerous magazines, asserts ‘It’s only been in this including Touch, i-D and age that people think art is Graphotism, her stand out all about the individual. If work is her raw but beautifully you go back in history art had composed documentary shots a purpose. What I’m talking of everyday Londoners. about is nothing new’. You can’t help but wonder what these people’s stories are? What’s going on beneath Everyone’s a ‘street’ the surface? As it turns out the photographer these days. ut in our image saturated her in good stead. This might photographer has a story of With the glut of style blogs and culture, how many be down the fact that she her own. Born in Iran during See her work as part of the party snappers, it’s easy to try of these images will sees photography as more the revolution, at just 16 months ‘I Feel Exposed’ Group Show, and stake yourself a place in B stand the test of time? than just a fashion accessory; old Shamsavari was diagnosed London College of Communication the photobook hall of fame. Young photographer Sara she is adamant that it ‘has a with cancer of the kidney, and 17th - 27th February 2009. Shamsavari’s has been major role to play in influencing flown to England for refuge building a portfolio to stand social change and changing and treatment at Great Ormond Text by Nina Manandhar

06 THE CUT THE CUT 07 that house. We had a hard enough time even getting permission to film inside!’ intro- “I get disheartened intro- Tom has been fascinated sometimes when with from a young ducing I see kids who ducing age and he learnt the French language early on. ‘I reckon couldn’t get more that plays a part. I’ve also got London, but they’re German, Finnish and Russian charlie Benoit blood, so that knowledge wearing a cap has always contributed to with NY on it.” “We didn’t actually an affinity for things on that burn down that side of the ocean.’ He admires crockett Pioulard ‘the sense of history co- house. We had existing with the present in Move over world– this hot written there and I’ll be like, Europe in a way that doesn’t young designer A.IN.T that’s a brilliant little phrase, a hard enough really happen in America,’ reppin’ nothin’ but London that is so English. So I do time even getting and cites Boards of , gather around me, but it might Broadcast, Autechre, Fennesz, not always be noticeable permission to Nick Drake and Kraftwerk as as a British reference.’ film inside!” some of his favourite artists.

British heritage also features The Benoit Pioulard sound is across collections. ‘For this incredibly organic. ‘In certain season I’ve done everything pieces I’ll accentuate the loosely based around crowns. tape hiss of some part, and in So I’ve got a picture of Slick other cases I won’t have any Rick, with loads of bling on, control over the background in a crown. And I’ll have an levels or certain incidental old Royal Mail thing I found in sounds. It seems right to a book and I’ll use that with The Cut meets the Michigan allow my environment its totally different lettering.’ Of boy who draws inspiration say in things.’ Tom describes course, these royal designs from both his European the way the songs follow have a unique A.IN.T twist to heritage and immediate on from each other as like them too. ‘The Edwardians environment to create entering different rooms of a and Victorians put stuff linked haunting music. house, producing an ethereal to the monarchy everywhere, quality. ‘I like to have songs everything was stamped with play into one another. That “as purchased by her Majesty continuity is something I value the Queen Victoria”... It was in the interest of creating a like a big marketing push and cohesive piece of work. I’m I like that, the idea of, “does his native Michigan, but it not really interested in studio this put me any closer to the didn’t hurt that he was already sheen, as I would rather not queen?” No, not at all! The a big fan of White Rainbow attempt to portray myself whole idea of linking yourself and Valet, both Portland- as being so flawless.’ to the establishment, to money, based musicians and now up everything we’re trying to Most of all though, the label and wealth - it’s quite tongue in labelmates on Kranky. That artistic form requires an convey’. Now, after two years of is inspired by London. ‘I never cheek putting that on a T-shirt.’ unconventional approach to hard graft and networking, the leave this city, it’s something I A graduate in film and performing live. ‘It’s a rare label’s been seen on Lily Allen, very much enjoy,’ says Charlie. A.IN.T is a brand to watch in comparative literature, occasion when I do, but each Seb Chew and Jaime Winstone ‘I get disheartened sometimes 2009 because the clothes are Tom draws inspiration from time I enjoy creating a set and one of London’s best kept when I see kids who couldn’t hot, plain and simple. More cinema, particularly the work unique to that performance. secrets is ready to leak out. get more London, but they’re than that, they’re clever. Most of directors Terrence Malick, It’s not usually like the wearing a cap with NY on it, of all though, A.IN.T represents Harmony Korine and Werner recorded material created Past collections have drawn or a T-shirt with Oklahoma London. To roll up in Tokyo, Herzog. This has fed into a from drone and ambience, fter dropping out of on everything from circuses, to Rangers and you think - you’ve New York, L.A or in series of impressive music tape loops and guitar motifs the London College of horror comics. ‘It was people never been to Oklahoma! You an A.IN.T shirt would be to take videos, the latest of which that is hard to reconstruct on Fashion and trying his with axes sticking out of their get all these other American or a little bit of London out there. is Ragged Tint from his most demand. He finds it almost A hand at retail and design heads. It was cult, and it was Hong Kong brands, and they To roll deep in A.IN.T shirts recent record Temper. He made awkward to perform. ‘Each Charlie Crockett, and design cool, no one else was doing massively promote their culture. would be like London staging that ‘on what turned out to be song I record is very strongly partner Max Fowler hit on the it. We just twisted it with some I thought it would be quite a mini global invasion. In fact, the last two really nice days attached to its context, at least idea of starting up a T-shirt nice bright colours. I guess refreshing to have a brand from Charlie’s plans for the label of summer. It was filmed on in my mind. It seems odd to try label for the summer. The I like twisting things…’. Don’t here and promote its culture.’ aren’t far off world domination. Sauvie Island, which is a little and recreate that inspiration morning after a messy night expect more of the same This love for the big smoke ‘Eventually I’d like to take it to bit north of Portland and has on a stage in front of a crowd out, Charlie and Max found the though ‘One of the reasons we comes through in subtle the level that Stussy took it to. It some amazing rural scenery.’ and with fewer tools to do so.’ label’s name in a book on 80’s loved Art In Transit was that references dotted throughout took them 15 years but they must The film shows Meluch writer Keith Haring ‘I’d transit means motion, it’s not the label’s designs. ‘It might turn over ten million a year.’ It here is minimal maker - is based in Portland, sprinting through long grass been a massive Keith Haring fixed. It doesn’t get stagnant be a certain coat of arms that looks like 2009 is the beginning pretence about Thomas Oregan, a city famous for at sundown before stumbling fan for years… we turned a and it’s not tied to anything. I’ve seen on an Army barracks of a long road for Art in Transit. Meluch even though all kinds of creativity. It was upon an abandoned house. www.pioulard.com page and there was a little So there’s a lot of freedom: I in Knightsbridge, that I just T he records under a initially ‘the feel of the area... www.myspace.com/pioulard illustration which said Art in might do fluoro pink shirts and thought looked sick. Or I’ll French pseudonym. 22 year the abundance of nature ‘I don’t want to give away Transit, and we were both like, the next day do a tweed shirt be looking through a kids’ Text by Jenni Barnes old Tom - musician, writer, integrated into the cityscape’ any of the movie magic, but Text by Hollie V Robson ‘yeah, that pretty much sums and it will always be A.IN.T.’ book and I’ll see something Photography by Jamal Joseph photographer and film- that seduced Tom away from we didn’t actually burn down Photography by Jim Duthie

08 THE CUT THE CUT 09 intro- intro-

ducing “How many more ducing versions of an MP4 or an UGG boot can emily we have? After all, de they all have the same function!” cummins Tropix

riginally from St Vincent and Grenadines, the singer songwriter moved O to London to pursue her music and performing “People in the developed arts career. It was here she world should help people hooked up with multi-talented in the developing world.” DJ, producer and beat maker Damon aka Instinct and De Tropix were born. With an eclectic sound that draws on everything from Soca to As one of the most influential Grime to House and even a young women in her field, slice of , the De Tropix Emily has a suitcase of hybrid has a little something awards and achievements for everyone, as long as you under her belt and has been know how to skank out that named as a Save the Planet is. We caught up with Cherry If you think you’ve seen Pioneer in Cosmopolitan’s B and Damon to find out how Cherry B’s face before Ultimate Women of the Year they keep it tropical in LDN. you’re not mistaken. She Awards. The future looks has been ‘moonlighting’ bright for Cummings and the Cherry B, I’ve read you moved as MIA’ s on stage hype world a better place for her to London to work on your girl and choreographer The Cambridge based the specific area to gain as designs and innovation! music career, is London extraordinaire for some time designer is motivated by much information as possible.’ the place for you now? now, but this time it’s Cherry’s the desire to help people in Emily’s research has allowed What tips does Emily have C: Yes man, it’s my second turn to take centre stage. less fortunate situations. ‘I her to spend time in Africa in for those who wish to be the home and half the people don’t believe in designing order to work directly with her next big thing in design? ‘The we work with are based here, luxury items such as a large target audience and learn lesson is, think outside of the so we are spreading De TVs or fridges with built in more about their lifestyle. box. Go through your day to Tropix vibes to the masses. iPod speakers but designing ‘I saw how resourceful day life without necessarily products with a real purpose. people were. We should trying to force opportunities. How does living in London How many more versions of be learning from them, not If you find something you influence your lyrics? an MP4 or an UGG boot can them learning from us.’ struggle with or you feel is C: I’ve only been here for four “Kew Gardens we have? After all they all Clearly headstrong and a niche in the market then months this time so its hard to have the same function!’ driven with a passion for most likely others will have a say but I do feel that my lyrics is my tropical As a young child Emily used helping people, Emily similar need. Once you have are about all the experiences now and I can get breadfruit haven away from As they say in Shameless, to emulate her grandfather’s first became interested in identified an opportunity then I’ve had from all over the globe on the corner. Kew Gardens ‘the most vital necessity in simple, powerful creative skills by making toys sustainable design through think of ways to solve it.’ and London is a big part of is my tropical haven away home, it shares a this life is they know how statement like that in his shed. Since then she the Sustainable Design that. And for real, cold, credit from home, it shares a huge huge History with to throw a PARTY!’ And De may not be what you has made a water carrier Award, a project that was crunch, and broke-ness, History with the Islands! the Islands!” Tropix sure do, so check A expect from your for use in Kenya and a active in her high school. brings out the creative side. them live before they blow. average designer but then sustainable refrigerator. Her Grateful that she was involved What’s your favourite Emily Cummins, a 21 year designs are groundbreaking with the project, Emily believes What’s your favourite tropical fruit drink? old Leeds University student and have received wide that the award should be If you have a creative idea or feel part of London? D: Ju-C, a soft drink found in patently does not fit that recognition and praise. more widely available. ‘I don’t that there is an issue that needs to D: Richmond Park in the the Caribbean. When I first How do you keep it tropical billing. While other designers When asked about what believe that there are enough be addressed you can contact Emily summer is amazing, there are went to St Vincent, I popped in the cold weather? might aspire to produce the underpins her creative talents sustainable projects out there. Cummins at www.emilycummins.co.uk deer walking around, horses, a bottle of this stuff and I was D: Keepin’ it tropical is the The A Dey Hey EP is out now latest handbag, Emily is she says, ‘Firstly, I identify a If the SDA was introduced in it’s a great escape from the hooked. It’s real bad for the easy bit, its in our blood, so www.myspace.com/detropix more interested in designing problem, but in an area that I more schools then there will be Text by Adrianne Mckenzie hustle an bustle of the city. teeth though, so so sweet! even if we were in the North sustainable products for use am passionate about. I then more young people thinking Photography courtesy C: West side baby!! Cause C: Soursop, it’s deliciously Pole, we’d still make some Text by Kerry Mayhew in developing countries. spend months researching about sustainability too!’ of Emily Cummins that’s where I live for right addictive (Gunabanara). ice cold tropical riddims. Photography by Tom [Ts74]

10 THE CUT THE CUT 11 Many of us have gambled intro- at least once in our lives - you might have had a go at online poker or placed a bet on the FA Cup final. But for ducing “I’m not a typical one young student, gambling was more than just a bit of magician. I don’t fun. It ended up taking over wear suits and I his life. Sagar Khanna, aged damien 20, tells The Cut how he got don’t pull rabbits caught up in gambling and the out of hats either.” mess he got into as a result. o’brien of my friends and £1000 from my brother for gambling. Altogether That’s £2900 I lost it all in one day. I was very scared and didn’t know what to do, so I just left my home without telling anyone, no one knew were I was. I stayed at my friends house for 15 days. Then I called my dad, told him the whole story, begging him and saying Big Brother reject. I can’t sorry. Luckily he came to pick remember her name, but she me up and took me home. was awful, rude and arrogant. How did you get yourself What’s your favourite trick? out of gambling? I started Move over David Blaine, young When I cough and a Rubiks working in my brothers shop magician Damien O’Brien has cube just appears, mixed up in East Ham, made money a few new tricks up his sleeve. on all sides. I throw the cube and payed back every single in the air and when I catch it, it person that I owned money is solved on every single side. to in about two months.

What were your highlights How has gambling changed of 2008? My TV show Magic the way you see things now? Party, performing in Jamaica After paying everyone back I and Dubai, going backstage realised it was bad what I did at events like 02 Wireless, the with the money, so I decied to Mobos and the Nickelodeon return to my country and help awards, meeting Nelly, getting my dad with his business. endorsments from Nike, New Era, Money Clothing What do you do now? Now I’m a and Storm, and knowing director of a limited firm called that a lot more people got DESIRED AIRWINGS LIMITED. to see what I can do. It’s a complete travel house, I enjoy it a lot. I work hard and So what plans do you have make money the right way. for 2009? I have bunch of gigs already lined up in What advice do you have for Barcalona and Paris, plus ow did you get yourself mad shopping spree with my I started borrowing money other young people who might hen did you realise me at gigs wearing a New Era for bunch of Big Brother stars I’m in talks to do a DVD and into gambling and cousin. I had some money left from my family and friends. get into a similar situation? magic was your thing? cap or a pair of Nike trainers. and footballers. It was a good film some more TV shows. why? There was no over and didn’t know what to I’m very happy with life now I learnt some magic night and to top it all, I met H reason why really. I do with it so I went to gamble How did gambling affect and would advise other W when I was 13, a few I’ve read that your career people who wanted me at Where do you hope the magic came to London in 2001 to live again, sometimes I’d lose, you personally? I lost out on people not to get yourself card tricks and some sleight sparked off by your blagging their own events and parties. to take you? If I’m honest with my brothers. One day sometimes I’d win money and my education. I used to be into gambling. It’s a big time of hand too. I found out which your way into an exclusive what I want out of magic is out for dinner with my cousin that’s how I got addicted. really successful at school waster and it can result in shops to buy equipment from club... I heard there was a You perform a lot of your to just show the world what I we decided to go the casino and get good grades but that you losing family and friends. and I just went from there. I party in the West End, so I magic to celebs, who have can do. If it makes me money after, it was just opposite In the evenings I used to go all changed. I lost the trust Focus on what really matters. love the look on peoples’ faces took a chance and headed been your best and worst? and gets me celeb status, the restuarnt. I had never buy phones and sell them, of my friends and family and when you perform magic - it’s down to the venue. When I The best person still to date wicked, but I just wanna gambled before. We went to and make like £50 every day I lost trust in myself too. the best thing you can ever do got there the bouncer asked is Nelly, he was just really share my gift with the world. a roulette table and started out of it. I would use that for my invite and I said I was respectful and appreciated playing. I placed £50 bets on money to go gambling with. What was the worst thing What would you say makes the magician booked for the what I did. He started to tell my lucky number 9 and I won that happened to you as a you stand out from other evening. He loved magic and me how he goes off to Vegas www.damienobrien.com £1800, I couldn’t believe I’d Where did you get the money result of gambling? Sometime magicians? I’m not a typical so I did a few tricks for him to watch the magic acts... www.myspace.com/damiensmagic won that amount of money from for gambling? I used to in January 2007, I thought magician. I don’t wear suits and he handed me a VIP pass Nelly is great guy and we Text by Ronnie Grebenyuk for my first time and was make money from my part time of gambling big. I had £400 and I don’t pull rabbits out of from his pocket. I was free to have become good friends. Photography courtesy very exctied. The next day I business. It wasn’t enough of my own, but lost it on, so I Text by Ronnie Grebenyuk hats either. You always see roam the party, doing magic The worst person was some of Damien O’Brien bunked school and went on a though because I lost it so borrowed £1500 from a couple Illustration by Liliam Liem

12 THE CUT THE CUT 13 ‘Yo B, you got Myspace?’ Why do you think girls As a girl, how would you I’ve heard stories about violence because of rejection. What do you think of girls What do you think of To all the men ‘Pssst!’ allow boys to talk to them like to be approached? boys being violent to girls Joel If you see a pretty approaching guys? chirpsing people online? A guide to chirpsing ‘Oi, sexy!’ in a demeaning way? because they won’t give girl who knows she’s by the girls themselves Any of these chants sound out their number? Have you wearing clothes that show familiar? Getting chatted up, Hayley I don’t like it when ever experienced this? her cleavage, she must Hayley If you like the guy then Nadine I met my boyfriend or ‘chirpsed’, is part of day- Joel It’s about girls not a guy approaches me, and expect attention. Plus if she why not? Then there are no of four years on MySpace!! 1. None of this ‘OI!’ business to-day life the whole world having respect for themselves, I’m not even looking at them, has a boyfriend she isn’t complications about it if the Drew I think that chirpsing 2. If you don’t know over. For females however, and some boys don’t have like, ‘Yo B, you got Myspace?’ Roxanne One time we had representing him by wearing guy really likes you or if she people online is cheating me, don’t touch me. being approached in certain respect for girls in the way Some boys just don’t have eggs thrown at us. We were those clothes. If you are is just stringing him along. and it takes away from 3. Talk to me normally, not like ways often feels more like a that they approach them respect for the girls. I was walking down the road, stopped you must expect that. Drew As a boy I think that it the approach. ‘Yeah, B, what’s goin’ on?’ hassle than a pleasure. So Lisa How do you know if walking down my road and dressed up nice going to Hayley It’s also about body is unattractive. I don’t think Joel You could be talking 4. Don’t put on a how has the chirpsing game it’s about having no self- some guy was whispering at a party. Some boys were types. If you have larger that it should be done by girls to anyone; people that front; be sincere. changed? What do guys think respect? A lot of girls have me out of a window – what standing by a shop and breasts why should you cover as it takes away my pride. approach people online 5. Don’t approach about getting chatted up low self esteem and they is that all about? I don’t like starting trying to chirpse up to the neck? You don’t Joel It depends on must be weirdoes. girls in groups. by girls? And why are some don’t think of it as demeaning. that. Or a boy coming straight us. We ignored them and want people coming up to how she does it. Hayley I wouldn’t trust it, 6. We’re not interested boys so aggressive when They just think someone is at me. I like a guy to meet they followed us. When we you. People wear clothes Lisa If you go to a guy it’s because people can act and in bad boys. their advances are rejected? paying them attention. me face-to-face or get eye continued to ignore them that suit them and are not like you’re begging. You pretend to be whatever they 7. Show us some respect. We asked a group of young Drew Why do you think contact. It is welcome attention they got angry and started looking for attention. might as well be naked. It’s want to be over the internet. 8. Show us you have a people to discuss the topic, some boys talk to girls and we can then talk and chucking eggs. I don’t know Lisa If you are a wearing always different for a man. Drew I think that it is sense of humour. and found that many of them in a demeaning way? go for coffee or ice cream or where they got the eggs things with everything Ali Where I come from we pointless. It is not really 9. Never become violent. held rather traditional views. Joel They think they something! If I look away that from but we had to get on a hanging out, then that’s never chirpse girls. It’s against going to go anywhere. 10. Don’t be too full on; if have the right to. means I am not interested. bus and get out of there! going too far, but I am not the traditional culture. she says no, back off. Hayley Because they Drew So are you saying Joel How were you dressed? a nun and will wear clothes The panel have been allowed to it’s all about looks? Lisa There seems to be a that I like and that suit me. Joel, Ali, Drew, Hayley, Lisa, in the first place. Lisa It’s not all about suggestion that if you are Joel But if I take you home to Photography by Edward Kagutuzi Wasan, Roxanne, Nadine. looks, and even if it was wearing certain clothes you meet Mum, you’re going to be you can’t blame someone are a ‘ho’ or inviting disrespect. judged by your first impression. for being attractive. Guys Regardless of what women Hayley Of course first approach girls that they like, wear there is no excuse for impressions count, but it so why can’t a girl accept works all ways. I wouldn’t them if that’s the reason want a guy who is thugged they’re approaching us? out around my house, never mind meeting my Mum. Lisa But that’s different. You dress differently with your peers.

14 THE CUT THE CUT 15 £1000 for your

How did the Bright ideas people are the powerful next cope with these situations, Trust come about? Working in generation and they should to help us deliver our Amstrad I used to get a lot of be allowed with advice, message of business. people asking me for advice guidance and money to follow about business, and I thought their aspirations through. Is the Bright Ideas trust only there must be a need out I’ll use the success of the going to be in Hackney? This there not being met. By being beneficiaries of the Bright is a London wide initiative. We taught by Sir Alan (Sugar) Ideas Trust to really highlight want to help anybody from how business works, I realised why young people should be a within London at the moment. Business how the power of mentors can part of our initiative. Hackney is just the first If you are aged between 16- really help people. I also saw borough that we’re partnering 30 and have a business idea, how he could do good and do What do you think young up with. Eventually over the but have no means of starting it through business. So I sought people have to offer that older next 2-5 years, we want to Would £300–£1000 to spend on your business give you the boost you need? it up, Tim Campbell the first out an accountant, got some people don’t? Young people spread this over the whole winner of The Apprentice, may advice and guidance from have a unique insight into their of the UK. We want to be like Do you need cash to help set up your business idea? just be the man to help you. experts, put the proposition own world. They know about Starbucks, every street corner Campbell is the brains behind together, built up a fantastic new technology, or what’s you see one of us, and we’ll do We are holding a Westminster Dragon’s Den Event to offer you this opportunity. the Bright Idea’s Trust, which team of people around me. going to be the new way of that via a franchise model, just aims is to create successful Now it’s all about us finding talking to each other. They are like the coffee shop. You have to be aged between 13–24 and live in Westminster but the idea can be young entrepreneurs across young people who are really going to come up with the new as creative as you want to make it. Anything from getting your own myspace the UK. The Cut caught up passionate about certain ideas of tomorrow. We want to get people who with the Apprentice winner at areas and certain things and understand what we want to designed professionally, to ordering stock or pressing up your first CD. the launch of the scheme in giving them the expertise and They say that it’s better to try and achieve, who have Hackney, East London. start up capital to get their start a business whilst young access to people in the local The Cut and the Youth Enterprise Team at Stowe Youth Centre are offering you the chance businesses off the ground. because it’s the time when community. I don’t want to to pitch your idea to a panel of Dragons, like in the BBC2 series. This panel will be you have the most energy own everything, this is not What characteristics do you you’ve got no fear and you’re about me. This is about young made up of successful business people from the creative and business industry. look for in a young person not afraid to take risks. These people who want to start their who wants to join the Bright are all of the qualities of an businesses. We have a number of big cash prizes to award to excellent pitches which show us a simple Ideas Trust? When we are entrepreneur. business plan and give an idea of what you would like to spend the cash on. If you do not looking for young people, the How can young people like first thing we look for is real With the issue of the credit me get involved in the Bright have a business plan it is still worth coming along and pitching to the Dragons. Your passion. We’re not looking for crisis a lot of youth schemes Ideas Trust? If you are a young pitch will be judged on the strength of your idea and the difference we can make. the cleverest or the richest, we are getting closed down person who has a good idea are saying to young people due to the lack of consistent that can make money and We are not looking for the finished product, although if you have one we would love to see if you have the passion and funding. Where do you think needs support and guidance it. We would like to hear from young people with a serious idea or dream to pursue. the drive and you have a the Bright Ideas Trust will be with, contact us at www. good idea that can make in the future? brightideastrust.com and fill some money we’ll help you out the online application form. get that off the ground. The Bright Idea’s Trust is Contact: [email protected] structured in the way that we How do you try to entice don’t rely on government- young people to join the backed bodies that could Bright Ideas Trust? I think potentially back out due to For the full version of Alpha’s interview that young people are sick of a credit crisis. What we’ve with Tim Campbell, check out Charge being preached to about how done is partner with well- on the Community Channel. they are a lost generation. established companies www.communitychannel.org/charge We don’t believe in any of such as Bank of America, that. We believe that young which are robust enough to Text by Alpha Gougsa

1216 THE CUT The voice of an angry parent If there is one man who Rodney Hinds’ 25 year career games is something I find hard Tips for getting into sports cuts through the air; “Look at continues to be on top of in journalism stretches back to to believe. I’m there for free journalism what you have done now... his game and a perfect his time working on West Indian looking at my heroes’. how many times have I told example of professionalism, World. He has been the sports you about this!”... suddenly knowledge, passion and love editor for The Voice since the A highlight for Hinds over the Amongst the tips I would you hear a thudding sound of sport it is the Voice of Sport, year 2000. past year has been Lewis give to young and aspiring impacting on the face, back, Rodney Hinds. Hamilton winning the Formula journalists would be: arms and leg of a child. Ten Amy, 19 Ricky, 20 Amy, 17 Despite the many advances One World Championship seconds later, the sound of the No I don’t think smacking should Recently in I don’t think it should be since those early days there a topic which he was very Be passionate and focussed child can be heard crying and be banned but certain levels of they passed a bill which said banned but should definitely are still too few black sports enthusiastic about, ‘I’ve been and always be prepared to go screaming in pain. punishment should be applied. you can’t smack your child have limits. journalists and Hinds along following Lewis’ career since the extra mile. It is important anymore but honestly I don’t with others have developed the day he started carting that you read as much as you Many people believe that think they will stop. an initiative to ensure that when he was seven... Now, can be it magazines or through smacking, the the path they blazed will be I’m not an emotional guy but I newspapers and listen and younger generation will taken up by more black talent really wanted to cry. I thought watch radio and television. respect their elders; they in the future. ‘What I’ve found this young black kid after just Make yourself an expert in believe that it teaches them from doing this job is that I two seasons has won the your area. the difference between what want to share it with anyone World Championship but what is right and what wrong. On because it’s so exciting. I the feeling was for me was I Be persistent and don’t let the other hand, there are go and talk in schools and know how hard he has worked, knock backs put you off. Keep critics who feel that this is colleges, I think I’m in that kind I felt very emotional I can tell on pitching. unacceptable. of position where I can pass on you that’. Raul, 18 Marlon, 19 TARA, 20 experience’. And finally get advice from Last year Parliament decided People who smack children My opinion on smacking I think its acceptable when Hinds was also supportive of those more experienced, to limit a parent’s right to obviously have problems children is that if they are bad children are small. Smack them His advice to aspiring another successful Briton from alawys ask questions and slap but not to put an outright themselves and were then you need to discipline on their bum where it’s not journalists is clear; ‘Using your the last year as he cautiously show willingness and ban on it. We hit the streets of probably smacked when them and by disciplining them going to hurt so they can learn initiative is key, show initiative, backed Olympic boxing enthusiasm! Good luck! London to find out how young they were younger. I think you need to smack them. and be disciplined. But up to show hunger, show some drive, medal winner James Degale’s people felt about a possible it should be banned. a limit because you don’t want be prepared to learn and be decision to turn professional ban and if smacking had them to grow up with that fear. prepared to make mistakes. rather than defending his gold played a prominent part in Always have a thirst for medal at London 2012. ‘I think Words by Drew Mark their own lives. knowledge’. it’s a common sense approach, Photography by Askwasi Tawia Poku I guess he has to put food on Hinds has great difficultly the table and I think if he can naming the highlights of his get it right he will be very, very Survey done in October 2008 by career telling us we would wealthy. But if you look at Amir Nicholas, Akwasi, Kiran and Ronnie. need at least two hours! Khan, he won silver at the Photography by Akwasi Tawia Poku. Olympics everything was going ‘One was definitely meeting well for him and then he got world record holder Usain Bolt knocked out against Prescott in Jamaica. I mean no-one and he’s almost had to go has ever done what he’s done back to basics. Sport is a lot before and I met him. Also like life, sometimes you’re up meeting Thierry Henry, going sometimes your down’. to the World cup in 1998 and 2006, the cricket World cup in 2007. The fact I used to go to Highbury as a kid and stand on the terraces and now I go to the Emirates for every home game to cover Arsenal

Evi, 18 I think it should be done because kids are well out of line, kids need disciple a good kick up the arse will do.’

1218 THE CUT Dels wears t-shirt by Second Son, jeans models own and trainers by Nike. Sophie wears t-shirt by A.I.N.T, plaid shirt by Gold Coin at Global Sports. Riz wears cardigan by Sam Greenberg, jeans by People’s Market and shoes by Vans.

Thanks to Fiaz, Ishmael and Nadia at Global Sports, Nash, Justin, Emily, Terry Burgess, Debbie at Spin and Charlie Crockett.

oung, imaginative creative artists with an un- Self-possessed, conventional vision of the world are feeling Sweet-toothed & a new kind of optimism. These individuals are Shaking things up drawing from the world around them like magpies and scrimping what little money and training they have to turn their aspirations into a self-made career. In the US, they call it living the American Dream; here Styling by Jenni Barnes. Make in the UK, our parallel to that dream is a new found self- up by Rosie Broad. Photography possession. Here, we present Riz, Dels and Sofi Donuts; by Akwasi Tawia Poku, Kiran three individuals who are muddling genres, throwing out Nijjar and Rasharna Hylton. the rulebook and soaking up inspirations like a sponge.

20 THE CUT THE CUT 21 Do you think that ethnic minor- ity actors are typecast? I think there’s a massive tendency towards that but its hard now because people are trying to eat and there’s work out there. Its unlucky in a way because I’ve got music as well so it means that every time I take an acting role it means I’m not gigging for a month or two. If I’m acting “Don’t listen to then its has to be something I really wanna do, so if someone anyone who says wants to typecast me, chances you are too young. are I don’t really wanna do it. Being young is In that sense I’ve been able to pick and choose the stuff that the way forward!” I’m excited about. I’m trying John Peel once to break down the barrier. I’m enjoyed listening to a baby- aware of the obstacles ahead faced Dels, performing in a but I also love a challenge. cafe. But Dels appreciation “I’m trying to I thoroughly enjoyed Sofi~Donuts, as she is affectionately called, has built for the indie scene don’t see Shifty, it felt fresh and vibrant up her own fashion store Donuts in Bristol which blasted her into the him hankering for obscurity or break down the and hopefully will be a big hit 2009 Courvoisior’s Top 100 business people in the UK at the tender any kind of underground elit- barriers. I’m on its release in April, can you age of 23. Dressed like a collision between new wave and b-girl; ism.Some people say UK rap- aware of the tell our readers what it’s all like the perfectly joyful iced donut she so often alludes to, Donuts pers sell out too easily. What about? Shifty is a day in the the shop is a celebration too, of clothes and people that she loves. do you make of the scene? obstacles ahead, life of a friendly neighbour- What made you want to start up your own business? It I don’t think it’s bad making but I also love hood drug dealer. There’s gen- all happened really quickly, we were sat in a bar and someone told something commercial. With erally a lot racial stereotyp- us that they had a space available for rent. We went and viewed Dizzee, the media likes to box a challenge.” ing in these types of films and it, within the next few minutes we were like, right lets make our own it in and call it grime but in my just stereotyping in general. store. It was literally that quick. I co-own Donuts with two of my best eyes it’s . Just because I think a lot of times when you friends. We had all worked together before and we valued our jobs it’s so different from when he get a portrayal of that world, and the opportunities that came with them, but sometimes there started with Boy in Da Corner, it’s in a very stereotypical way comes a time in life when you just have to do things for yourself Dels~is a more thoughtful kind of rapper. that was more grime. Now he’s Riz~at 26 is breaking through those bounda- – a glamorous way or a slit and luckily at that point I wasn’t alone in feeling that way. Discovered by Joe of Hot Chip on Myspace, their got more hip hop influence ries usually impenetrable for Asian actors on film: he is your wrists, depressing kind of What advice would you give to young people that want two and a half year collaboration has lead to much and that’s why he’s getting a the main romantic lead in Dead Set, Charlie Brooker’s way. This guy is a guy first and to run their own business or a business similar to yours? It was so applauded single Lazy on Moshi Moshi. You’re just little more exposure in Amer- gripping zombiefest, with lead role in the hotly tipped foremost. Shifty is trying to be fast that I guess we didn’t talk about money too much or where we as likely to find him watching My Neighbour Totoro ica. It’s not a bad thing that feature film Shifty and with new single Radar out , per- realistic and just show that this would find the money so my first piece of advice would be that if (the 20 year old masterpiece of Japanese animation he’s trying to make his music forming as MC Riz he’s already toured America. guy is a guy first. He’s a dude you wanna start your own business just take a little bit of time to about a flying catbus and forest spirits) as blogging more accessible. If he’s only How much has your background influenced and that happens to be what plan and save some money. The more thought and time you put on cult webspot, atribecallednext.com. With lyrics gonna make Boy in Da Corner your career choice? I don’t know if it has really. I’ve he does and I think that will into a venture, the more you will care about it and want to make it throttling you from a psycho-analysis textbook for for another six albums then it’s become an actor and musician for the same reason appeal to people. That will res- a success so don’t worry if you have to wait a little, because the Myself Malfunction to Manor Enterprise where he only going to reach a certain as most people, they want to communicate with peo- onate because I think people planning bit is so fun and exciting! refers to his hometown of Ipswich as ‘Ips’ . He’s got audience. It’s just broaden- ple, they want to be heard, they enjoy it and maybe are tired of being patronised We spend all our time promoting Donuts and spread- talent in abundance and 2009 is the year he’s going ing the scope. All the greats they are just natural born performers. I guess I’ve with cartoon characters. Shifty ing the word. Always be as passionate about your business as international. did that. Look at Biggie, Jay-Z, got an awareness of how powerful it can be to be in was a low budget movie, part of you were the day you first started. When you make something So how did the collaboration with Hot Chip Kanye, they’ve all done that. the public eye and its good to be able to write songs Microwave films. We were given from nothing it becomes pretty special. You get the support from come about? I was at university still studying when So what ’s your home- for people to listen to I have an awareness of how £100,000 and worked for next friends and family, then nationally, then worldwide and it just keeps Joe found me on Myspace and said I really wanna town like? I’m from Ipswich, powerful film and music can be and I don’t take them to nothing. I even donated my you going. Never give up on what you want to do when the going work with you. I didn’t believe it at first, I thought it Whitton Estate. Sometimes it lightly. There are responsibilities that come with those jeans after the scene where I gets tough (because it does get tough), that is my other piece of was a lie and then I thought ah shit, this is actual- reminds me of here but obvi- mediums but recognising that has not come from my fell off of the bike. It feels good advice, I always say life is what you make of it. Oh and don’t listen ly happening! So I went to his studio sat down and ously London’s a lot more pop- ethnic background. to know it’s going down well. to anyone who says you are too young. Being young is the way chatted and he gave me the Lazy beat. Basically ulated. Within Ipswich there’s The roles you tend to get are of Muslim char- It’s exciting; it’s a film that’s forward, you have energy, ideas, you get inspired, you aren’t how it works, he’ll make some mad beat and send it not many opportunities. That’s acters, are you afraid of being typecast? I think that it close to everyone’s heart. Peo- weighed down by debt and worries. Just be careful, think things to me via email. I’ll write to it, record it at my friend one of the reasons why I want- is inevitable that if you’re a black /Asian/Muslim actor, ple believed in this film and it’s through and always ask for advice from like minded people. Eli’s house, take it to Kentish Town where he records ed to come to London for uni- then you’re gonna get roles as black/Asian/Muslim paid off. Could you tell us a bit about your club nights? The and just make it like that. versity to study. I went to study characters. The thing I’m really excited about and the And the future? I’m night is the same vibe as the store, we book anything that we What music inspires you? I’m inspired by a Graphic Design at Kingston, thing I want to break through in my career is changing focused on releasing an album. like, as well as supporting our friends such as Oneman, Tomb lot of things, not even just music. By films or just eve- so I was there for 3 years and that and start playing characters that are characters Music isn’t just something I Crew, Spiney who are our residents. Check out our myspace ryday things or conversations. I love Biggie, there the plan was to go to the Royal first. I’ve come into the acting business at a time where dabble in outside of acting; it’s page (www. myspace.com/donutsdances) for regular updates. are so many rappers that I love, Andre3000, Nas College of Art after that but I there was a lot of post 9/11 stuff around, where the a part of me. My new single is How do you feel about the British tag? What do you but there are also lots of different types of artists got into the music stuff. characters are Muslims first rather than just people. I Radar, hope you like it! think it constitutes to be British these days? Is it a tag that you that I like too. I like this band The Animal Collective What are you up to at did Road to Guantanamo and Britz, both films with Mus- feel comfortable to be associated with? I love being British, tag and they don’t really show their face that much but the moment? At the moment I’m lim characters, but the fact that they were Muslims was me as British as much as you like! Although I was born in Cornwall that’s what I quite like about it. One of the members performing at loads of differ- central to the storyline. However the audience related and grew up there, I am definitely a city girl. I’m blessed to live in is called Panda Bear and he makes amazing music. ent festivals around Europe, I’d to them as people first and that’s what is really impor- Bristol with such a vibrant nightlife but also blessed to be able to He’s almost like the Che Guevara of indie music. He’s like to go to Japan. I’ve got this tant to me, not that they just become, ‘that Muslim guy’. Interviews spend so much time in London, they hustle and bustle of a city is from New York and I would love to make a record with song called Shapeshift. it’s just That’s the next step for multiculturalism, for me as an Sofi by Shona Harvey, Dels by Shamz a comfort to me. him one day...not a whole record but one song.’ me turning into random objects. actor and for the industry to be a colour-blind place. Le Roc and Riz by Adrianne Mckenzie

22 THE CUT THE CUT 23 Text by Ronnie Grebenyuk Illustration by Bob Brody

According to the historian David Starkey, ‘a British nation doesn’t exist.’ Is this really true? Britain today is a multi-cultural, multi- faith society. You can hear different types of music, different languages, and eat a variety of cuisines on any UK high street. But if different decisions had been made when migrants were coming over from British colonies, things may have been very different.

24 THE CUT THE CUT 25 ccording to the historian David Star- surveyed felt that their difficulty with The Rolling Stones will live on forever. Young Londoners are clearly How important do you key, ‘a British nation doesn’t exist.’ being able to identify as British was a Although there has been a lot of influ- proud to call it this city their feel culture is to the way AIs this really true? Britain today is a result of Britain no longer having a strong ence from America in recent years, music home. The Cut caught 5 in which a young person multi-cultural, multi-faith society. You can identity of its own. Katy wrote that ‘Being is still viewed as an area Britain excels in minutes chat with our Mayor, is raised? Do you think it hear different types of music, different British to me just means I am in a country and also something which plays a major Boris Johnson, to get his influences their behaviour languages, and eat a variety of cuisines like everyone else. Britain has lost a lot role in integrating cultures. Some of the views on the significance outside of the home? on any UK high street. But if different of its own original culture and is now a young people we surveyed believed that of Heritage today. So many of us are lucky in decisions had been made when migrants mix of pretty much everything, especially this is due to the fusion of races in major our childhoods. We grow up were coming over from British colonies, in the major cities such as London’. cities. Nick argued that ‘Music from Africa with parents who love us, things may have been very different. Not everyone feels this way, though, and and the Caribbean has influenced the discipline, a sense of right there were some much more positive whole music scene. If you look at the and wrong and ambitions So, what does it mean to be young and responses. ‘Being British means I can do growth of Soca and Bashment, that’s for the future. Too many British today? The Cut carried out a things that I wouldn’t have been able to affected mainstream music, especially children are growing up in survey of 147 young people aged between do in my home country. I feel very privi- at the moment with funky house’. London without ambition and 16 and 24 to find out more about their leged that I’ve been given the chance to This also seems to work the other way without boundaries. They heritage and what it means to them. round, with the music scene changing lack respect and self-respect, be British.’ Other responses we received how different cultures are perceived and though they seem to When we asked ‘What does being Brit- included words like ‘freedom’ and ‘power, too. ‘Being British African only kind of lack shame, their cockiness ish mean to you?’ there was a mixture which came a surprise to some of us. became cool kind of recently because of often masks a fragility and of reactions. Many simply responded artists like Sway and Tynchy Stryder.’ anger that no one has taken ‘nothing’. We found there was a big Although it is often a victim of bad public- the trouble to give them resistance among those we surveyed to ity, the Grime movement is still some- discipline or give them hope. describing themselves as British, even thing many of you see as an example It is this minority of children those who had been born and bought up of ‘real’ British youth culture. ‘I don’t that is tempted or bullied into in this country. One of those surveyed think it’s necessarily to do with coun- the crime, which destroys wrote, ‘No matter were you are born, you tries. I just think its people expressing their lives and the lives of tend to follow where your parents are themselves because they were kind of those around them. I have from.’ Others were equally hesitant to outcast in the music scene. They’re mak- seen the tragic effects of label themselves, while still acknowledg- ing their own new scene and sound.’ knives and guns on those ing some more positive aspects: ‘Person- families who have lost their ally I hate being British at the moment; ‘If you’re living in Britain you should be sons and daughters in violent all I hear is bad news in the papers. But proud of being British.’ Perhaps this attacks in London. My youth apart from our sketchy politics, I think respondent is right - shouldn’t we be action plan ‘Time For Action’ most people like the opportunities this more proud? Again, one of the themes aims to support and provide country has, which is why so many people that came up over and over again was opportunities to help these from all around the world come here.’ the embrace of mixed cultures: ‘When I go youngsters, before their lives back to the Ukraine, everyone is all the go irretrievably wrong. ‘I don’t consider myself British even same, I prefer it here where there is a mix.’ though have I lived here all my life.’ This wasn’t just about racial diversity, but What was your initial reaction embracing other kinds of diversity too. ‘I when you heard that Barack Of the 68% who were born in the U.K, think the British can be quite deep. When Obama won the election? only 58% of those surveyed said that Despite many of our respondents thriv- I went to L.A to visit my grandma you Do you think that Britain they consider themselves British. Many ing on the diversity of cities like London, literally couldn’t get past first impres- will see someone from an of the others feel that their roots are an overwhelming majority said that they sions. They judge you a lot and the ethnic group becoming Prime elsewhere, but feelings on these sub- value heritage as an important part of British have a rep for being eccentric.’ Minister in the future? jects are often mixed. 21% of the young who they are. A typical response was Most of you felt that on the whole, race re- Obama deserved to win people we surveyed said that they party that ‘Heritage gives me my identity. It lations were a lot better than they used to because he is talented, considered themselves as British: ‘I helps give me an understanding of my be. ’I think the ignorance has gone down, compassionate, and consider myself as a British citizen but roots and what I am’ and the major- and people have learnt more about other because he offers the I am Ghanaian’ or ‘I do consider my- ity we spoke to gave similar answers. cultures. Even if there is still a bit of rac- hope of rejuvenating the self British as I have blended from one The young people we surveyed clearly ism , we are still learning from each other.’ greatest country on earth culture adopting another in Britain.’ felt that their heritage was an impor- in the eyes of the rest of tant part of their lives in helping them There was also a noticeable optimism us. All of these reasons led Despite this ambivalence about British- understand more about themselves about being British in the future. ‘I think me to desire his victory. ness, many of the Londoners we talked to and where they had come from. its going to be cool to be British very soon, And then there is the were perfectly happy to describe them- ‘I have been influenced by my herit- with the Olympics. People are going to final, additional reason, the selves as being from London first and age and family to become who I am start to see who they are, and everyone glaring reason, and that is foremost. Shona answered that ‘London today. I was brought up in two dif- is going to be here. People are British race. Obama winning showed is in Britain and to me that’s the best city ferent societies and inherited dif- and they don’t like to accept that, hope- black people the world over in the world. That’s why I would say I’m ferent aspects from both worlds.’ fully 2012 will bring people together.’ how a gifted man has been proud to be from here.’ Others suggested Only three out of the participants who able to smash through the that the sheer diversity of the city made took part claimed to have no heritage. ultimate glass ceiling. I see it easier to identify with. ‘What’s good Maybe they just like doing things their no reason why somebody about London is that it’s not just black own way or didn’t know enough about from a Black or Asian people or just white people, it’s a big mix. their heritage to be influenced by it. background can’t achieve It allows you to interact with other kinds Britain has always made a cultural the same success in the UK. of people and get a better take on life.’ impact worldwide, particularly musi- On the other hand, some of those we cally. Bands like The Beatles, Queen and Interview by Alpha Gougsa

26 THE CUT THE CUT 27 ------comedy club which actually You know ladies love a bad ------called Stephen K. Amos, and stage, I am not on stage to as a help or a hindrance to BARE JOKES littleman turned into an 10 minute set boy, well Littleman is just that jamie howard he told me about this night that make friends, or say all the your success as a comedian? ------where I impressed the likes except a little smoother around ------takes place at the Comedy right things. When I go on When I first started out, there There’s always a joker in Lee is the Littleman who hails of Estelle and Kojo himself. the edges - YOU DUN KNOW! Jamie hails from Bloomsbury - Store called King Gong. Three stage, all my PC attitude goes was a lot of talk about me, the pack, but these young from Hackney. He is a new kid not to be confused with Holborn people in the audience are out the window. I am there cause I was a brave little Londoners are taking it to on the block, but don’t let that How did you get the name What does heritage mean or Kings Cross! At just 21 he has given red cards, people get to provoke a reaction from white boy breaking the mould, the next level on London’s fool you; he has been making a Littleman? Well it’s stuck from to you, and do you think its been performing for 18 months up on stage, and if you last people, and as long as I make but after a while people get comedy circuit. The Cut meets name for himself by performing back in the day, that’s what important in comedy? Yeah, and has managed to build five minutes without the red myself laugh that is the most used to it. I can no longer the funnymen and women up and down the country. everyone used to call me. But heritage is everything; it’s up quite an impressive CV. cards going up you go through important thing. When it comes rely on the fact I am white. It who are at the forefont of now Littleman is kind of like your foundation, your platform to the final. I went on stage to stage fright, my two good all comes down to what I talk London’s young comedy scene. How did you get into comedy? my alter ego. Lee is the quiet for the future. Comedy and How did you get into comedy? and lasted four minutes with friends Jack and Daniel are about and hopefully people Guaranteed to crack you up? I went to a see a show and reserved me and Littleman is heritage work hand in hand. I was working front of house no material, and from there I always there to help me out. would find me funny if I was Read on and see for yourself. thought to myself, this is when I’m ready to perform. I They mix like chicken and rice at the Gielgud Theatre, where decided I wanted to do comedy. black, purple or green. ------actually boring me! I could used to hang out with the hood to create that wonderful taste! One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Being a white comedian Text by Chloe Forde do this. So I hollered at boys and the sweet boys so I ------Nest was on, and all the cast How do you deal with stage who often performs for a ------Kojo and he gave me a five decided to create the character were stand up comedians. fright? I now have an, ‘I don’t predominantly black crowd, Photography by Ibrahim Fazal Facebook ~ Lee Littleman Vassell Find him on Facebook ~ Jamie Howard ------minute set at his Sunday Lilttleman who is a bit of both. ------One of the actors was a guy care’ attitude when I go on do you feel your heritage acts ------

28 THE CUT THE CUT 29 ------that happens in my life been and will definitely comics that I know and you ------it a hustle to get your face on public transport very often, to be a success in that field Mel Myers from situations with friends, influence you wherever you can also catch me down at kevin J out there. But competition is but when I do, there are so too and will be coming to a ------family, work, my childhood go in the future. Comedians the comedy improvisation ------healthy; all it does is make many jokes just waiting to be shop window near you! I have Mel Meyers is a 23 year old and my surroundings. talk about their heritage as show – Caught In The Act – Kevin J hadn’t even seen a live me write harder and up my written. Personally, I don’t think an audio comedy CD entitled comedian who is going to it is a good way of getting that I do every month with my stand up show up until a year game. As long as I’m being there many places funnier than Kevin J Comedy - The Mixtape take London by storm in At a lot of shows, comedians an audience to relate to you good mates JCX and Slick. ago but now, in just 10 months, booked, I know I’m doing well. being on a bus in the morning! Vol.1, which will be available 2009. Being a woman in a ask people to ‘rep their or gives others a humorous I am also in the process of he has managed to make early 2009 (aka 2000 & mine!). predominantly male scene countries’ and spend a lot of insight to who you are. creating my own quirky line himself one of the comedians Where do you draw inspiration Does 2009 hold anything isn’t going to stop this time finding out where there of unisex accessories so you that your friends will tell from for your new material? exciting for Kevin J aside girl, who says she’ll just crowd comes from. Do you What does 2009 hold for can watch out for that. you, ‘you just have to see’ My main inspiration for new from comedy? I’m looking to ‘shout a little louder’. think heritage is important Mel Meyers and what can material is life! I am a very sell out Wembley and the O2 to a lot of people, and is audiences expect? I am very There are a lot of young observant person and I believe Arena on the same night! I What inspires you when your heritage important to enthusiastic about getting comedians at the moment, this is reflected in many of my don’t really know what the creating new material for you? Most definitely, I think into presenting at the moment is it a competitive business? jokes, there is no limit to the future holds, but I’m in good ------your shows? Damn! More like your heritage is the thing so I am working on that. Since I started comedy, lots of amount of jokes you can write hands, so all should be well. ------Facebook ~ Kevin J Comedian what doesn’t! I get inspiration that shapes you as a person. I will be working on some www.myspace.com/majeztic1 young people have become when it comes to life, people As I mentioned before I’m also www.myspace.com/kevinjcomedy from anything and everything It determines where you’ve sketches with some other ------comedians, which makes and the way we live! I don’t get model, so hopefully I’m going ------

30 THE CUT THE CUT 31 Text by Shona Harvey

So watcha sayin? Bredrin Stoosh/Stush Swagger/Swagga Slanguage A slanger’s guide Noun Adjective Noun

We canvassed a cross Another expression obtained To some it denotes a good Refers to how a person section of the team here at from Caribbean culture, which looking, well-dressed and presents his or her self to The Cut and defined just a is used to refer to a friend, ‘proper’ female; to others it is their peers, in the way that handful of words and phrases usually among males. ‘Bredrin’ an adjective used to describe they walk, talk and dress. which represent the most is a modern alternative for girls with stuck-up, unfriendly Swagger/Swagga is shown common slang around. ‘brethren’, which is a Biblical and pretentious attitudes. from how a person handles plural form of brother. Stoosh/Stush females are a situation. Ironically, if the - deemed to be unapproachable term is shortened to ‘swag’, Example and difficult to ‘move to’. an opposite definition ‘Oh you know Liam too? - is formed: rubbish. He’s been my bredrin Example - from school times.’ ‘That girl is bare stush, Example don’t even bother ‘Her swagger is on point!’ moving to that bruv!’

Skank Gay Chav Noun/verb Adjective Noun

Originating from Jamaican This is an example of a A well-known expression that culture, to ‘skank’ was to pedal word that traditionally had could have originated from a bicycle from a standing a positive meaning but has Romani Traveller culture. A position. Nowadays, it is since developed a new and stereotypical ‘chav’ is an recognised as a derogatory controversial translation. aggressive, white working-class term to describe females The term originally was used young person, who is often suggesting ‘loose’ behaviour as an adjective meaning involved in petty crime and and poor hygiene. It is also jovial or good-spirited. From assumed to be unemployed. acknowledged as a popular the early twentieth century, Chavs embrace tacky branded dance style associated with it began to be used as a sportswear and lack social the Ska, Grime and Funky substitute for homosexuality. decorum. The term had such House music genres. It has since been adopted an effect on modern British - by youths to become an society that in 2005 it appeared Example established playground in a number of mainstream ‘I can’t believe you’re insult, usually referring to dictionaries, including the linking Heather, she is something stupid or lame. Collins English Dictionary. one loose skank!’ - - or Example Example ‘That choong ting over there ‘What do you mean you’re ‘Some stupid chav was knows how to skank hard!’ not coming out tonight?! giving me grief outside You’re gay man!’ the corner shop earlier.’

hrases, accents and countless words have to go on using ‘bad’ language or exotic been created and fused together across words, who’s going to stop them? The other Wagwarn Nang Duppy the capital in recent years – influenced important thing is that for multi-ethnic Exclamation/noun Adjective Noun/verb largely by Black and Asian culture - to young people who may speak languages form a new dialect which is being dubbed or dialects other than ‘standard English’ as ‘multi-ethnic youth vernacular’ by aca- at home and in clubs and in school play- Basically translates as Positive adjective that describes A term derived from old demics and linguists. This modern-day grounds, ‘standard English’ is not their “what’s going on”; a well- something that is good or cool. Jamaican folklore, meaning lingo has had such a phenomenal effect shared language, slang is!. known greeting which is part ‘Nang’ is widely believed to ghost or spirit of a dead on society and culture there is suggestion Thorne also believes that youth slang of Jamaican Patois dialect, have originated from Hackney, person or animal. It has since that it could potentially replace what used is so popular these days that adults might although it is also believed and was initially thought to be formed a very different modern to be known as the Queen’s English! wish to appropriate it in the near future. to have originally evolved derived from a Bengali word meaning, where it is often According to language and innovation ‘Youth is something that everyone wants from the language of African for a naked woman. After used to describe someone consultant Tony Thorne, gone are the days a part of nowadays, even ageing baby slaves who were taught to being adopted by Bangladeshi getting beaten up or as an when young people used to abandon their boomers like me. So the language and speak English by the British youths in Hackney and Tower insult to white people! own special slang and quirky made-up styles of youth is likely to have a far greater in Jamaica during the peak Hamlets, it later became - languages for ‘standard’ or official English influence in the future on everyone. Unless of sugar plantations. popular with other ethnic Example in front of parents, teachers or because of - and this is possible - there’s a backlash; - groups across the capital. ‘I’ll make a duppy of you!’ demands of the workplace. ‘Most authority in other words, a wave of Puritanism and a Example - or figures, like the government and schools, return to the values and rules and regula- ‘Wagwarn fam, what’s Example ‘I think there’s a duppy have very little authority, so if people want tions of the class society we used to have.’ really good?’ ‘This tune is nang you know!’ in the house!’

32 THE CUT THE CUT 32 Photography by Rasharna Hylton, Shannara Hylton and Kiran Nijjar; Styling by Chloe Forde and Kirby Howell Baptiste; Hair & Make Up by Jaime Lee and Anna at CBMA

THE CUT 35 Previous page Edmond wears white jeans by Peoples Market; t-shirt by 1937; jacket by 1937; cap by New Era; shoes by Converse.

This page from top Eabha wears red head band, skirt and braces by Primark; green top by Franklin and Marshall; tights stylists own. Calvin wears green cap by New Era; purple cardigan by New Look; green shorts by 1937; watch by Black Dice; t-shirt models own. Eabha wears green cardigan by New Look; head band, belt, vest and leggings by Primark; shoes by Converse; earings by Freedom at Topshop.

Opposite page from left Calvin wears grey slacks by Primark; purple cardigan by New Look; puffa jacket by Franklin and Marshall; striped belt by Franklin and Marshall. Eabha wears green polo neck, purple dress and grey socks by Primark; shoes by Office; watch and gold chain stylists own. Edmond wears black jumper by New Look; red and black shirt by Primark; white jeans by Peoples Market; rucksack by Atticus.

36 THE CUT THE CUT 37 This page Calvin wears grey slacks by Primark; puffa jacket by Franklin and Marshall.

Opposite page Edmond wears jacket and bag by Franklin and Marshall; black jeans models own.

38 THE CUT THE CUT 39 • • • Style GHETTO GOLD! THE HEADSCARF In your face gold jewellery Oh this wonderful headscarf… Secret has been a big trend. But it’s what can I say? THE QUEEN, a trend that started on the VERA DUCKWORTH, AMY Histories streets and trickled up to the WINEHOUSE, DOLCE AND cat walk. The 80’s and 90’s GABBANA! What a wonderful saw the birth of the BLING mini-trend this scarf is as Street fashion today is all and everybody wanted a it hits every corner of the about mixing it up, donning piece. The gold heart earrings nation! Go get yours girls! ghetto gold with an Eskimo • Eskimo hats were being rocked on the hat, or an African print tops If you’re not rocking an ‘Eskimo’ streets of Brooklyn at least a with old skool denim. But hat this winter, then you’re not decade before they hit your what are the origins of some serious. Otherwise known as pretty ears! Now the ghetto • of the iconic garments we are ‘trapper’ hats or ‘ushankas’, gold look is everywhere: Lily GEEKY CHICY wearing this season? The Cut this style of furry head gear Allen, London fashion week, The geek look was once dig a little digging to bring you first originated in Russia to new rave kids, grime kids, sniggered at in corridors of some secret style histories. protect the nation’s heads and dancehall queens and I’m schools all across the world. ears from its renowned frosty sure you have some of your Now we are left a little red- winters. Adored by former own fabulous Ghetto gold! faced ourselves as it seems the Soviet soldiers and Skepta. geeks were on to something; even Kanye West is rockin’ the look. These huge glasses can sit bang in the middle of the geeky chicy style. Just throw in a piece off tape round the • middle and call yourself Erkel. THE Arab scarf The Kaffiyeh (pronounced kuh-FEE-yeh) is the correct name for what is known to most as simply the ‘arab scarf’. It is a traditional desert Arab head dress, which evolved from turbans in ancient times. Once a symbol of Palestinian nationalism and class struggle, now you can find a whole range of colourful kaffiyehs in mainstream fashion stores like Topshop and H&M.

• Lyle & Scott The brand from the small • Scottish Borders’ town of Back to the motherland Hawick with the iconic golden African inspired prints are eagle has become almost creeping their way on to the synonymous with modern catwalk with designers such youth culture and a must-have as Oscar De La Renta and in the fashion world in recent Matthew Willimson. The high years. Back in the 1960s, Lyle & street is also picking up on the Scott busied itself with clothing trend with huge brands such some of the world’s greatest as Topshop dedicating an sport personalities. entire section to the African cloth inspired print and calling it Zanzibar. However this look dates back hundreds of years. • The most famous African print HITCH THAT WAIST BAND UP is Kente cloth, which originates Shorts, skirts, jeans, trousers – from Ghana. All the print and Right now we are going crazy all the colours of Kente cloth for everything high-waisted. have different meanings. Well this is a trend that dates all the way back to the 1700s, Text by Chloe Forde and Shona Harvey again in the 1970s and now in Photography by Kiran Nijjar and 2009 every shop is stocked with Rasharna Hylton a variation of the high waist!

42 THE CUT THE CUT 43 The TRENDSPOTTER The TRENDSPOTTER COUNTRY GENT WRAP IT UP

For a while now we have been donning the Country Gent and Lady look, working with what’s in our Granddad’s wardrobes is the way to go to finish off this winter. I wonder if the good old Barbour will ever go out of fashion?

Spring is still a while off, so while we await the blossom, wrap up warm in oversized threads. Its all about the layers! Grunge it up like it was 1990 all over again.

Get the look Get the look Photographs by Katja Hentschelfrom Feather pin £6, Beyond Oversized Blazer £45, Topshop; www.Glamcanyon.com; Photographs Retro; Socks £14, Hackett; Stripe tassel scarf £12.71, with blue underline by Lilian Ampo; Skywalkers, I Dream of Wires River Island; Striped Cotton Styling by Patricia Williams £40; Blazer £65, Topman. Cashmere Carigan £24.99 www.pc-williams.blogspot.com

40 THE CUT THE CUT 41 Ava Leigh the same stuff and say the music Hometown: Chester same things. She’s lovely.

What makes you unique? Could you describe your I guess the most obvious music style? Slightly old skool, thing is that I’m doing a style lips to the mic got a bit of lovers rock and of music that not many other sometimes ska as well. No- people are doing. A lot of one seems to know why a girl people think ‘I bet the record from Chester would do company told her to sing Bored of Winehouse, Allen, or even know what reggae reggae because it works, and Adele? Then look no is. but my mum used to be a you’re a little white blonde girl further. The Cut meets big lovers rock fan and that’s from Chester’ but I’ve always the new breed of feisty why I got introduced to the been passionate about reggae female singers who are music. It started from there I so I guess that will set me busy carving a niche for kind of fell in love with it and aside from everybody else. themselves in the music discovered that there was world for 2009. so many different styles of What do you predict for music reggae like ska, roots, lovers in 2009? I’d like Ska punk to rock, ragga, dancehall. replace Indie... I just want good music to be produced. What’s been your most I like writing a song from the memorable moment so far? beginning and having melodies Going to Jamaica. A few like the 50’s or the 60’s I just months after I got signed I hope people start doing that. went to Jamaica to record It’s good because people with Sly and Robbie over are going a little retro now there who’s amazing. I got so people are starting to go to stay in Strawberry Hill backwards, which is good news Calista classical musicians helped. which was where Bob Marley because music was better then. Hometown: London Music is all I’ve known really. retreated after getting shot. Most kids get taken to Spain It’s just paradise up there. or something like that on Much more than a Big their family holidays, where You’re performing with Brother housemate, Calista as my family went to music Carol Thompson! How did Robertson is the sensational camp and explored each that come about? About a voice behind the smash other’s musical souls and month and a half ago we hit single Bongo Jam. For like hugged trees. I loved it. arranged a session to write some the 19 year old Kings together. I love Lovers Rock www.avaleigh.co.uk College music student is the How did you end up doing so I love Carol Thomson! We www.myspace.com/avaleigh new female voice behind Bongo Jams? It was Luke that put together some really cool the rising scene of UK House came up with Bongos, it was tracks, me and Carol are Interview by Adrianne McKenzie music. With her Japanese and a studio vibe late at night on the same page, we like Photography by Akwasi Tawia Poku Jewish Russian/Romanian and completely random. It ancestry, Calista embodies is literally about having fun. the diversity and talent It’s a tribal beat, the guy who common among so many fronts it, bongo man; he’s young people in Britain today. basically this crazy African man who is in the video How would you describe your wearing like tribal gear. We Charlotte O’Conner Does Nothing because I’m what I really want to and be you survive the cold music? My music is like a new made it as a joke, then when Hometown: Blackburn really lazy! And one of my own whoever I want to be, I think winters in Blackburn? genre of classy pop. I always I went into Big Brother after songs which I wrote entitled because I’m a Northerner I don’t know! I guess a nice prefer to make my own music being hijacked they asked Steady Shark which just came I wouldn’t try to or put on cup of tea. I’ve recently from scratch rather than to use it on my entrance As an up and coming artist, from the heart, its all about another accent as you can discovered Berroca, sampling someone else’s. video and it just blew up. It’s how would you describe your a guy that I really liked who hear my real accent coming apparently it’s me on a For me nothing compares to been a complete surprise sound for those who may be was my boyfriend. The song through when I’m singing. good day. It tastes like salty something you’ve made from and has been so much fun. unfamiliar with Charlotte O is called Steady Shark as orange but I quite like it. Big scratch, There is something Conner? I would say that its his name was Edward and I What does Britishness cups of tea get me through endearing about samples, And the future? more like if you’ve got music called him Steady Eddy and means to you? The queen the day and peanut butter but I’m not a producer. I’m working on my first solo on at home, kind of like beach he looked like a shark! He is the first thing that comes and jam sandwiches. The album, alongside bongo jams; music or something you would was a bit of a player and I to mind, nice cups of tea weather really does affect my Did having parents who are nowadays it’s really nice you listen to when you are around didn’t think that I would get and the British flag! mood. I want summer back!! both classical musicians can do all these different the bonfire if that makes him but in the end I did and meant you ever felt pressured things. The follow up single sense, overall I would class it then I got dumped which Your heritage is half African to get involved with music? to Bongo Jams is out now. as acoustic/folk/soul music. was a little upsetting! and half English, how do you No, not at all. I have an think this influences your older brother and sister and What song by another artist In an industry increasingly identity? When people see neither of them do music. It would you say best describes concerned with the American me they don’t know what mix was always my choice to train you and which of your songs market, how important is it to I am. I think heritage is cool www.myspace.com/charlottesoul as a classical pianist and to www.myspace.com/calistaonline best describes you? I actually sound British? It is important as it makes you who you are www.charlotteoconnor.t83.net study at the Royal Academy had it on today, the one by but its not a definite to sound and makes your life a little of Music. Music was always Interview by Alpha Gougsa Alicia Dixon the Boy Does British because I’m not more special and exciting. Interview by Kiran Nijjar something that I’ve enjoyed Photography by Edward Kagutuzi Nothing, but for me the Girl fully British so I can just do And finally, how do Photography by Kiran Nijjar and having both parents as and Kiran Nijjar

44 THE CUT THE CUT 45 “There are a lot of Mor Karbasi language of the heart; where big things in store for Hometown: Jerusulem it goes straight from one heart to another heart; where it British music... people has no barriers of language are being inspired by Your music has been or culture inbetween. I bring described as “Spine tingling this music not just as a Jewish us all over the world.” Gypsy Music”. For someone girl; the subjects are relevant who may not have heard of to anyone and for those you before describe your who love music in general. sound and style of music? The Ladino songs from every Not many songs still survive country sound very different from 1492, how do you revive and the only thing they have in and adapt the 500 year old common is the language. The style into the 21st century? songs have many influences I’m a 22 year old and when I from the various countries. sing these songs I have my With the traditional songs I own interpretation to them, try to make them closer to instrumentwise we have their origins soundwise but electric guitar, flamenco guitar, bring in our own influences bass player, percussionist as such as Flamenco guitar well as traditional drum used and Western influences. The in flamenco music and an album is a blend of traditional Oud (ancient Middle Eastern and modern. In three words Lute string instrument). I would describe my sound When I sing these songs as a mixture of styles. I make them relevant to today, the main thing is that Most of your songs are in all the songs are new. Ladino as well as Spanish and Hebrew, why do you You were born in Jerusalem choose to sing in Ladino? and moved to London, was Ladino is a language, style this a big culture shock for Valentina a British sound then stick with of music and culture, which you? How did this effect or Hometown: London it. Knowing what you want comes from medieval Spain. influence your music? and how you want to sound. I choose to sing in Ladino as If London had better weather since I was little I was always it would be perfect, but How did you get into music? What inspires your song drawn to anything to do musically it is perfect in terms I started out with my mum writing? Everything, I’m a with Spain. My grandfather of the opportunities and the putting me into dance nosey person. I watch people was sure that we originally openness of people. London is classes and theatres and on the tube, listen to their MPHO electronic and you could hear universal artist who takes from things culturally. When I travel, came from Spain, he told me so multicultural with musicians stuff like that, she was really conversations. I’ll often have Hometown: Soweto the music fusing between the wherever I go and whatever I what I notice with other places ‘the blood doesn’t forget’. from everywhere and the encouraging, and then I a big heart to heart with two, so artists such as Prince experience. I am yet to travel is they don’t mix in the same musicians I have worked with played the flute which I people around me and so who plays guitar, keyboard the world and see much more. way that we do here, so it’s Do you think this restricts your are from various parts of the was really bad at. I just I’ve written songs about my MPHO is a distinctive name, and piano were starting to harder to get that kind of audience, as those who are world and they bring their sort of found that I could friends and their situations what is the meaning behind it? experiment with synths and When I mention the word broader, wider sound in other not familiar with the language own rhythms and styles. sing and haven’t stopped and sometimes they don’t Mpho (pronounced Mm’poh) drum programming and so you Britishness, how would you places of the world. There’s a or culture may not connect singing since then. even know about it. I’ve written actually means ‘gift’ in Soweto, could hear the mixture of the define this ? No matter where lot of big things in store and or understand your music? about my own highs and lows. a South African name. two things. But I also love the I go in the world or where I’ve people are being inspired It shouldn’t do. I always get How would you describe It’s just the only thing were 70’s with all the instruments, been in the world wheather it by British music elsewhere in messages from fans saying your sound? The heart of it I feel like when Ive written a Describe your heritage and string arrangements be Japan, America or Africa the world which is exciting. they don’t know anything I www.myspace.com/morkarbasi is soul; I just want it to be a song it’s fully off my chest and upbringing? I was born in and big dramatic style I the one thing that I can’t get am saying but they feel the great soul/pop record. I want can forget about it for now. South Africa and my parents love Hip Hop as well! anywhere else like I get here is music and know exactly what Interview by Kiran Nijjar people to be able to listen and are mixed, when I was four a proper cup of tea. It doesn’t I’m singing about. Music is the Photography by Akwasi Tawia Poku recognise it in 20 years time. Would you say writing songs because of the apartheid I In an industry increasingly matter where you go but to comes naturally to you? moved to the UK and grew up in concerned with the American have a proper builder’s cup According to your Myspace, Yes. I think it has to. But you South London. So I’m a mixed market, how important do you of tea, good tea bags, made you’ve become a big hit on can always get better with South African, South Londoner! feel it is to sound British? with milk and not no lemon Milwaukee Radio; tell us song writing. That’s why I love I don’t ever really think about and sugar like they do in how that came about? I kept it because you constantly are Musically which artists would it like that, I just do what I do. America, where the tea is so getting people contacting influenced by other music. you say influence your sound? I’m from here so it’s inevitable strong and you can taste it. me from Milwaukee saying Prince, Andre 3000, Kate that I will sound like me. I ‘I’ve heard your song’ and I What song would best Bush, I’m influenced in song don’t necessarily feel like I am Where do you think British thought I haven’t given out my describe you? Ooo that’s writing by various people someone who wants to run music is heading? I think there songs to anyone. Somehow really hard. Probably one that I’ve listened to as a kid, around waving the British flag. is a lot in store for British music, the Milwaukee Radio got of my own songs called all kinds of Pop music from I don’t feel I need to prove I from what I’m hearing around hold of my song and loads Making Memories. Whitney Houston, Depeche sound British; I feel its part at the moment and from an of people were in to it. I got Mode to Adam and the Ants. of who I am. I don’t even feel artist like myself who isn’t such a big response so I that defines me completely prepared to be limited by a title The Art of Pop by MPHO is might move there. Ha-ha. What would you consider as as I wasn’t born here. I am of British or Hip Hop or Black available to download now! your favourite musical era? influenced by American music. A lot of places in the www.myspace.com/mphosounds How important is it www.myspace.com/valentinamusic Wow! I would have to say the music but I have also been world are taking from the way to sound British? 80s because it was a time influenced by Jazz and African that Londoners have been so Interview by Kiran Nijjar The most important thing is to Interview by Ronnie Grebenyuk and when artists were coming music, I would rather think of cosmopolitan and have mixed Photography by Jamal Joseph, stay true to yourself. Keeping Nicholas Asamoah. Photography by from live music across into myself as an international and and fused so many different Ibrahim Fazal and Amit Cholera your own identity and if that’s Patrick Owolabi and Kiran Nijjar

46 THE CUT THE CUT 47 music

fresh off the chip “Chipmusic is created through as CalmDownKidder and the sound chips Kittenrock have brought the of old computers music to a wide underground audience, and as lo-fi and consoles such music begins to achieve as the Nintendo popularity, it’s about time people checked out its roots. Game Boy or Commodore 64.” Recommended UK Chipmusic Magazines and blogs have the electro-indie crowd. for been singing the praises his support slots for the likes of the ‘8-bit punk’ music The Phatt Demo by gwEm of Hadouken! and releases for peddled by media friendly One of the pioneers of Kitsune Maison, David E. Sugar bands Crystal Castles and chipmusic in the UK, gwEm began his career making drum Heartsrevolution for some makes distinctive Atari- and bass on his Game Boy time now. However, the most punk music, with guitars under the name Logicbomb. innovative, interesting and and rapping over the beats This release, for the well- downright awesome music laid down by his Atari ST. regarded American chipmusic to be made using old video This album was created to label 8bitpeoples, balances game technology has been demonstrate the uses of dance floor friendly 8-bit made under the public’s MaxYMiser, a music program electro with strong songwriting, noses for some time - and of his own creation, although and remains one of the much of it in the UK. it also contains some of the definitive statements of the best chipmusic to come out of UK chipmusic scene. Available For those unfamiliar with the UK in general. Available (mp3) at www.8bitpeoples.com ‘chipmusic’, it is music made (mp3) at www.preromanbritain. utilising sounds created on com/phattdemo Songs For Cake by the sound chips of old home Firebrand Boy computers and video games Greatest Bits by Syphus Another 8bitpeoples release, consoles, classic examples Sold on the Chiptune Alliance this time from the Scotland being the Nintendo Game Boy tour, a UK tour featuring based Firebrand Boy, Songs or Commodore 64, although some of the most popular For Cake places the sounds more obscure hardware such chiptune artists,, this album of old computers on a whole as the MSX and Amstrad CPC compiles Syphus’ best songs, new context – making lush are also used. Technically, making for an ideal starting sing-along pop music with Crystal Castles, who use point into not just Syphus’ them. It is no wonder that modern software to recreate music but chipmusic as a Firebrand Boy has established retro sounds, do not make whole. Creating music on a strong reputation for his live ‘proper’ chipmusic. Although a variety of consoles, his performances. Available (mp3) music made with old sound melodic approach to music at www.8bitpeoples.com chips may sound primitive has gained him a cult following in theory, chipmusic is in the underground scene. surprisingly accessible. Much Available (CD/mp3) at www. of it can even be downloaded syphus.untergrund.net for free, as most musicians working with this equipment From Grandma With retain a staunchly independent Love by Jellica attitude to the music industry. Recently released on renowned German label A large proportion of Retinascan, this 3’’ CD by one internationally renowned of the UK’s leading figures chipmusic is made by UK based in 8-bit music pushes the artists, many of whom can limits of the Game Boy’s The author has represented Chip be caught on the live circuit. sound chip, producing some Music at BFI events and abroad. Some of these artists, like intense electro music in David E. Sugar and Firebrand the process. Available (CD) Text by Gus Loban Boy, have even achieved at www.retinascan.de a degree of mainstream Images from top left recognition, and their music Fresh Off The Chip Photo courtesy of gwEM, photo by is very much worth seeking by David E. Sugar James Mooney; photo courtesy out. UK based netlabels such Although now respected in of Jellica.

48 THE CUT THE CUT 49 music Music

Established as one of the Umm right... really, what is Obviously I’m considerably sickest MCs in the UK hip hop your heritage? I’m a black better now. And I was never crazy Kyza scene and a former Terra British Jamaican. really a big fan of Biggie or Firma member, Kyza Smirnoff Tupac, the clichéd stuff. I was cousins is back once again after Do you feel British? Yes more into A Tribe Called Quest, the success of his critically of course I do, I was born KRS One, Eazy-E and NWA. acclaimed first solo album here. It’s a very touchy issue The Experience. With a though. I’m third generation Where do you think the UK hip new mixtape and album in Windrush, I was born on hop scene is at the moment? the pipeline, The Cut team English soil. My heritage is not Why is it not more mainstream? decided a catch up was traditionally British obviously, (Laughs) I didn’t want you to needed with Mr Sayso himself. but I still class myself as that. ask me this. How about lack I think it’s stigmatised to a of vision, foresight, funds, The theme for this issue is certain extent because of the talent, proper lyrics, support, heritage, therefore we want to whole colonialism thing... it’s heart, business sense, decent know – what’s yours? I’m half down to opinion and what you radio DJs to play your music, Jamaican, half Kryptonian. consider yourself to be. fairness... I could go on all day. I don’t want to bitch So do you feel that your but I’ll answer it same way. heritage influences who There’s certain stuff people you are and your music? Oh are putting out there that’s most definitely, that is the intolerable. I’m not hating, embodiment of who I am. I rap I’m just being real. It’s not with a tinge of a Caribbean cool to rhyme about stabbing accent, and when I chat, someone in the face when it’s reminiscent of the old you’re not living that life, or ‘toasters’ from the sound going to the shop and getting systems. I inspire myself to a £1.50 box of chicken. It’s be honest. I look at myself funny for a hot minute, but from an outsider’s point of please, you’re making the view, almost like I’m having rest of us look bad and you’re an out of body experience. making yourself an easy It’s like I’m watching a movie, target. You think because and it’s like OK, let’s turn you’re known in the hood on the Kyza show and see or one part of London or a In the clubs we’re listening because I was making rhythm Do You Mind? It’s funky, but So, girls who wear peep what’s happening today. couple of cities, you’ve made to funky house. It’s blowing and grime, the kind of stuff a bit slower, who wrote it? toe shoes and their toes it. No you haven’t! I know I up, there is no rave without it you’d hear on the radio. So, Do You Mind? is a remix, the hang over the edge... What about living in Ladbroke haven’t made it and I’ve been so we caught up with Crazy to hear bongo jam was a original was produced by Do you know what, I have Grove - does that influence doing this for years. I don’t Cousins front man Flukes great experience for me. Paleface, my cousin, and such a big problem with that. you? Oh yeah straight up and get gassed when people see for a little chat about what it was a bass line track so I hate it! It’s like a claw foot or down. I mean I don’t do it as me in the street and recognise makes funky so infectious. So where did the concept I slowed it down and made something and I think it’s a big much now as I used to back in me because I know I still need for Bongo Jam come from? it a bit more funkier. It was issue because a lot of people the first days of Kyza’s virgin to get to a certain point and Tell me about the Crazy It was spontaneous, it just written by Paleface and Kyla. talk about that. I personally notepad. I used to do a little even then I’ll still be humble Cousins name. happened. I was in the studio hate feet, my friends say to thing on the street, get into about it. You know, people Paleface and I are cousins, so at about five o’ clock in the What are the three key me I have a phobia of feet, I badness with my homeboys, always try to justify stupidness that’s kind of self explanatory. morning and the melody elements to making a just don’t like anyone’s. I don’t write about your typical with ‘ah, he’s doing his thing, There’s two other members came into my head. The words funky house track? think it’s attractive at all. It’s ‘crackheads on road’... a he’s getting his paper’ – so?! as well, Kodi and Play. didn’t really make sense at The drums are key in a definite no no for me, I don’t million and one MCs talk about If I went out on the street the time but at the same time funky house, they need to like to ever see that and I think that so you don’t need me to tomorrow and I got a record So how long have you it worked. Then there was be uplifting and vibrant. girls should wear shoes that narrate that part of the story. deal based on me farting into been producing for? help from Calista. She really Decent catchy vocals that are the right size for them. I’m not on the street no more in a microphone, will people I personally have been liked the track, which lead people can relate to. The so I don’t rap about it. hate me? Because if they producing for about 6 years, to it being used on Celebrity third would be a decent mix What’s worse? A girl with was to hate me, I could say Crazy Cousins is new to a lot Big Brother. Before we knew down. A lot of producers straight weave but the What music did you grow up so?! You can hate but at the of people, we’ve only been it, it was an anthem! are making tracks at the roots are afro or a girl with listening to? 80s pop and soul, end of the day, I’m ‘doing my around for a year now. Crazy moment that doesn’t sound puddles under her armpits? old 90s reggae, ragga, jungle, thing, I’m getting my money’. Cousins is the collective and I heard you’re on the track? finished. So getting your mix Definitely the puddles, garage. I didn’t really get into If you’re a black man, you we decided to collaborate Yeah, the male vocals are downs right and mastered ... Sweaty girls are not hip hop properly until about should know what time it is in on funky house, we’ve had a me, at first I used to deny after the tune is complete happening for me. 1994. Before that I was straight this world. Don’t give them any great response from people. it because as Flukes I like is definitely essential. chart and pop music. excuse to say anything to you. to stay in the background. “It’s not cool to Know yourself and know who When was the first time you I like to keep low key, I like OK, let’s switch it up. rhyme about What brought you into it? you’re representing. heard one of your tunes in a people knowing my music Would you rather be Actually you know what, I rave? What was it like for you? more than my face but it was a one-legged Ostrich ‘Do You Mind’ by Crazy Cousinz ft. Kyla stabbing someone was into the hip hop culture. I can’t even remember the definitely a good thing to do or a noseless pig? is out Feb 2. The Crazy Cousinz album, in the face The rapping side came to me first time I heard it but I know everything yourself since you I’d rather be a one- ‘This Is Funky – Volume 1’ is out Feb 23. late, but I used to graff up the www.myspace.com/saysoseddso it was a great experience, don’t have to rely on other legged ostrich you know when you’re not walls with my little brother and Not many people would people. When we do PAs I use because I don’t like pigs Words by Shamz Le Roc living that life” beatbox with my older cousins Words by Shona Harvey play my stuff in the clubs a guy called ‘Bongo Man’. and I don’t eat pork. Photography by Akwasi Tawia Poku and brothers – I was swag! Photography by Akwasi Tawia Poku

50 THE CUT THE CUT 51 music “Youths might think, Art Giggs got kicked out of school, and he is doing alright Giggs you get me’?” SARAH MAPLE

Who is talking the hardest? to shorten so I shortened it Youths might think, Giggs got Giggs burst onto the rap to Giggs, that’s it really. kicked out of school, and he scene with the famous, club is doing alright you get me’? banger freestyle Talking Everyone knows you for the Hardest. From there your flow... My flow? I don’t So you didn’t have any on Giggs has been the one really know what to say- I favourite teachers? No, everyone is talking about. just take a little segment and I don’t think I was no With his unique rapping style out of the day write it down teacher’s favourite either. and his extreme lyrics, he is that is how it is, innit? determined to change the Talking the Hardest - everyone face of UK rap. Giggs passed How do you want your lyrics is hype when that tune gets through our studio to tell us to influence young people? played. Everyone knows the what he is really about. I don’t really talk about a lot lyrics, but what’s the message of positive stuff, there’s a behind them? There is no What’s going on Giggs? I’ve few negative stories I have message, it’s just a quick run Sarah Maple, the 23 year old just won the BET award and been through. I am not telling through a few years in my artist from London quickly got the album Walk in the Park anyone to go out there and life. I started it in the parties, became one of the most out now, in all HMV stores. do anything, but I write about I did not even know it was talked about people of 2008. The Sn1 mixtape coming what’s going on around me going to get that big, it was A painter and photographer was out December and Sn1 at the moment, you get me? just a freestyle ting. I was Maple’s works are strongly clothing line is out there now, It’s me expressing my pain just rapping on the beat, and influenced by her heritage lock on to the MySpace, the in a positive way though. It’s everyone went mad about it. and her culture. Brought up hardest T-shirts around. taking me out of that mad as a Muslim, Maple’s works little life, but in a positive way, What do you think of the portray her beliefs of what it So, the name Giggs - when turning negative into positive. UK grime scene, Chipmunk, is like to be a Muslim and a people thing of it, they think Stryder, and Kano? I don’t woman in the Western world. of Ryan Giggs the Tell me about back in the know, the music’s different. I caught up with Sarah Maple United footballer, how did school days- how was your If they wanted to do a rap to talk about her heritage you come up with it? I used to popularity? You might not want song, then maybe, yeah. and her recent success. be called giggler when I was me to answer that (laughs). There are heavy rappers in younger and I just wanted I got kicked out of school. the endz, obviously I work Maple enters the room with the team Sn1, but if looking very quiet yet humble, they are on it then I will be a large contrast from the happy to work with them. image some headlines have painted of her. She begins What were you doing in the interview by talking about America? Networking and her expressive art style and performing at shows. Meeting influences. ‘My mum was with labels, it was positive. born in Nairobi in Kenya and my dad was born here. My What do you feel about mum’s Muslim and she brought Obama being elected? me up as Muslim and so my That’s a good look man, it work is influenced by that made me feel positive, I feel mixture of cultures. What else like saying I can definitely influences me? Friends and get in there, you get me! family, TV, music everything not just art. I just mess around So we might see you becoming doing stuff if I like it’. the next Prime Minister? I also got a lot of sort of pop cradles a pig, a prohibited Maple is set to start off would leave it (laughs)... I Some of Maple’s work is an culture imagery and a lot of animal in the Islamic religion. 2009, exhibiting her work in would get licked down. implicit expression of her views the work is pictures of myself.’ ‘There was a lot of response New York City, ‘In New York on society, whereas her work because people found it is a lot of excitement there. Plans for this year? This regarding religion or feminism Other paintings by Maple, one quite controversial so some They’re really interested and year I’ll be in America. can be quite unequivocal. of which feature the former of it was quite negative but I haven’t had a major show She uses the human body Prime Minister, are deemed also a lot of positive as well. over there so there’s a lot of and the hijab features a as taunting and offensive. A lot of people found it really buzz at the moment about it.’ lot in her work. Maple also Haram, Maple’s most infamous interesting. There’s a lot of creates work incorporating piece which was on display debate going on about it.’ celebrities. ‘My work, is very at LaSalon Gallery in Notting Controversial works like this www.sarahmaple.com www.myspace.com/trapstargiggs humorous, tongue in cheek Hill, has elevated Maple into might have caused a ruckus and witty. It talks about me the centre of almost every but they have also helped Words by Adrianne Mckenzie Words by Nicholas Asamoah and my cultural background tabloid. In this self portrait to launch the start of a Photography by Rasharna Hylton Photography by Akwasi Tawia Poku and my cultural identity. It’s Maple is wearing a Hijab and promising career for her. Image courtesy of Sarah Maple

52 THE CUT THE CUT 53 Photography Illustration “I love music and feel that creative visuals and audio have a synergy.” BACK IN DAYZ Martin

Gavin Watson takes us back 1994. Before that we were News from the year 1984 Cole to when he took this iconic filth. Everyone thought we the year image, and talks in his own were just working class filth. 1984 words about photography If I thought about taking So do you collect anything as an incidental part of pictures or a career that meant in particular? I collected his life as a Skinhead. photographing babies to put lighters with naked ladies on in Christmas cards. I never for a while, so when my friends When I took this, I was just even got to show it to anyone. would go home for Christmas hanging around, it’s of one It was just really instinctive. to Madrid, Cyprus or Italy or go of my best friends, Barry. If on holiday they would make there was a guy you ever want I’ve stayed very true to sure to pick me up a lighter. to interview he’s the man. doing what I do and that The thing about these is they He was into hip hop but he is photographing people Coal not dole are so tacky, which is fantastic was a mainly a skinhead. I find human beings very All over the north of England Miners in my eyes. Also if someone interesting and I am a great stage strikes against mass pit closures. asks for a light I either get People see the beautiful believer in the microcosm, a dirty look from the girls or pictures, they are like why my life represents my life, a laugh from the guys and are there no pictures of represents a part of humanity. the cool girls. I also made 10 fighting? Because I was part I photograph what’s around jumbo nude lighters as tall as of it! It never crossed my me instead of searching my leg for a recent project. I’ll mind –these were people I after parts of humanity. I be exhibiting them at my next loved. If I was sat here with find people interesting. show if you’d like to see them. a camera right now and my We give ourselves a hard friend got punched in the face time in this country but we’ve What are you working on at I would never even think to had a mass of immigration The original Dancing On Ice the moment? I’m doing some take a photograph. I didn’t and we’ve basically got by. Torville and Dean mania captures editorial work for SuperSweet think here comes Gavin the England’s a great country, not he nation, after they win gold for ice Magazine, DUFF magazine photographer, I’d think here great politically run but it’s a dancing in the Sarajevo winter Olympics. which is a really cool Japanese comes Gavin the pain in the magical place and magical Here at The Cut, we were arts magazine, Foundation arse, if there was trouble I’d things happen here, when you super-excited when we saw magazine which is an go off and leave the darkroom go to parts of Europe and they Martin Cole’s illustrations. American hip-hop mixtape and help my mates. It was say the word nigger as if its They are achingly fresh; magazine and I’m working very separate, in a way, just nothing you realise that we bursting with colour, boldness on an exhibition in Berlin being a skinhead with my are not a bad country atall. and a Martin Kippenberger called Surrender Dorothy friends was more important sense of humour. Still a which is going to be crazy. I’m to me that taking photos. student, Martin’s about as collaborating with this guy proactive as they come. called Philippe Comtesse who These photos were created Skins & Punks is out now. Published Bye bye halfpenny piece Divulging his plans to is a fantastic designer/artist. for no reason atall, they were by Vice. Image courtesy of The one pound note and halfpenny takeover Europe he lets This is going to be so good, I worthless, people thought Gavin Watson/PYMCA. Prints are piece is taken out of circulation. The Cut into his studio. can’t wait. We have a couple we were worthless, the whole available from www.pymca.com. of other artists that have thing was worthless, until Interview by Nina Manandhar What inspires you and are contributed to the exhibition there any stories that lead too, Bevis Martin and Charlie into a particular piece of Youle who did the Hot Chip work? I got this video from album art work with all the a charity shop for 50p and modular block and couple something called Simply others...gonna be good. I’m Dried, ‘A beginner’s guide to also doing a collaboration flower arranging’. I thought with these three french guys it looked pretty obscure... called the 4th, really cool guys. Then I watched some flower arranging on youtube, Thats a packed schedule. pretty fantastic stuff. The What do you like doing when Hawaiian flower arranging you’re not busy working? guy mentioned oasis foam so I love music and feel that I had to have a look if I could creative visuals and audio “People thought get some. I went on Ebay and have a synergy. I love music, we were worthless, the cheapest stuff I could get and I DJ now and again at was letters, so I have D.D.A house parties, 93 Feet East, the whole thing coming. The other day I bought Corsica Studios and last year was worthless, a plasma globe. I’d always did a set at the Tate Modern. wanted one as a kid and had until 1994. Before some ideas for T-shirts I’ve that we were filth..” been commissioned to do. www.myspace.com/highbrowstuff I get inspired by crap things, www.myspace. com/4thfourthdimension which is what makes it special. Words by Nendie Pinto-Duschinksy

54 THE CUT THE CUT 55 Reviews by Shona Harvey, Jennifer Patrick Thomas Owolabi, Kiran Barnes, Rasharna Hylton, Edward Nijjar and Nick Asamoah. reviews Kagutuzi, Akwasi Tawia Poku, Club photos by Gabriel Green.

clubs Music books Film games top ten heritage foods

Foals Slumdog Millionaire In the mixed up city that Olympic Airways A few months after being is LDN you’re guaranteed A track to get lost in: jittery booted out of Channel 4’s never to be without a new guitars fade in and out over teenage sitcom Skins, Dev type of international food to sliding string sounds and tight Patel has landed himself in a tickle your palette. Challenge bass under barely-there vocals new territory, as the star of the yourself to tasting our Top 10. about escaping to fantasy award winning film Slumdog lands of your own making. Light Millionaire. This amazing film 1.Fish and Chips but punchy production + lyrics tells the story of Jamal Malik’s The traditional British Friday on sunsets and birdhouses eventful life, his relationship night feast of choice is still = white hott electric indie for with his closest friends and a winner. bus journey daydreamers. JB Hot Shots family and how he is able to Try it: Faulkners, Dalston High Street by Kevin Meredith fight his way to the jackpot Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare 2. Chicken Tikka Masala Bryn Christopher For any aspiring of the classic television The success of Call of Duty This Anglo Indian/Bangladeshi The Quest photographers this handy show Who Wants To Be A has led to the release of the dish is the now officially the The Quest starts off with Laurel Collective compact book is perfect. Millionaire, with the knowledge newest edition, Call of Duty 4: nations favourite. a really catchy and good International Love Affair It provides detailed and from his life experiences. Modern Warfare. This war zone Try it: Tayyabs, Whitechapel beat, which I got hooked on Heartwarming, headspinning, precise descriptions on how Based loosely on a true story brings you to the depths of 3. Shish Kebab immediately. But as soon as the handclapping, International to experiment with an array this emotional film is expected hell - trust me. It is even more Forget the Doner Kebab, voice came in I was shocked Love Affair is a solid gold of photographic techniques to receive an Oscar award for daring, grittier and far more for those in the know it’s all as I expected something indie love letter. Light, choppy combined with inspiring such a great storyline, and explosive than the previous about the Shish, which has different from looking at the guitars gather speed under examples of photographs has already received four collections. The explosions are it’s origins in the Middle East. cover, which has a calm low lovelorn vocals conjuring up taken by the author Kevin Golden Globe awards and more intense, the enemies are Try it: SHISH, Old Street and Willesden. vibe compared to the song. I images of sundrenched dashes Meredith. These descriptions five Critics’ Choice awards. more aware and the weapons 4. Jerk Chicken think he made a bad decision across oceans to see illicit include how to take the image, With some comedy elements are even more lethal, which If you like spice you will opening the single with this sweethearts. Or, for the less technical details and why such as Jamal’s fall into a gives you the urge to beg for love Jerk Chicken. Best song. I much prefer B Side My romantic among us, a tight, the shot works, all written septic pit, Slumdog Millionaire more action. The storyline eaten at Carnival time. Kind of Woman. It’s got a nice light guitar track for girls. JB in an understandable way. kept me engaged, but it also gives you such a feeling of Try it: Mr Jerk, Wardour Street, Soho slow beat to it, it is also quite Any technical terms that you featured some touching suspense, it is very difficult to 5. Eel Pie and Mash heart warming, a song which is Jelluzz may not be familiar with are moments that made me think keep your hands off the pad. Get a taste of Victorian soothing and meaningful would Hold On fully explained and there’s a twice about what I have. Critics had their doubts Cockney London with go well with a night in and a Hold On is the terrific new single category key system for each Although this film quite long if the makers of the Call of this traditional dish. glass of wine. His voice easily from rapper and producer image specifying what factors at two hours, it is a feel good Duty games could match Try it: Manzes, with eateries in shows off his talent in this song Jelluzz. This kid has got style. are involved when taking that hit and a great British film. The up to the standard of their Peckham, Tower Bridge and Sutton and I feel his emotion pulling I was just flicking through the specific shot. As well as two soundtrack features music recent competitors Rainbow 6. Special Fried Rice me in. With its catchy lyrics, music channels on TV and I approaches to lighting, subject by stand out UK artists M.I.A Six and Ghost Reacon. Well, Special fried rice is a Hardknock Wife the likes of Fenchurch, Nike ID ‘sunny that you gave to me your spotted a new song on Channel matter and composition, and Dizzee Rascal. Plus the all I have to say is they did western adaption of Weekday raving, cheap drinks, and Trapstar. As GoldieLocks all and all know I feel ten feet U. I thought it would be just other sections include the cinematography and the not just bring it to the plate Chinese Egg Fried Rice. free entry all night and good explains, the event was tall” and simple repeated tune. another Channel U kid trying fundamentals of photography clarity of this film (shot in but they took it several levels Try it: Head on down to Chinatown vibes – sound appealing to originally set up to build her Overall I would recommend you to make it big. The next day with explanations of available HD for my fellow techies) will higher. The game takes 7. Falafel you? Then make sure you head fanbase. ‘It didn’t really have to listen to both. The slow songs his single just happened to functions on various types mean that I will definitely be elements from a World War Falafel is made from fava down to Hardknock Wife, an any purpose. I was just going are something you can jam to fly onto my desk and it’s big. of cameras. The different making space for this film in II and brings in modern day beans or chickpeas or a ongoing monthly club night in to play a live set at each one on rainy day. Bryn Christopher This kid is all over the place, types of film processes, are my Blu-Ray collection! ATP affairs, which complement combination of the two. the heart of central London so that people could hear my is very sexy and I would buy watch out for him.The Cut’s fully explained in depth in each other in the game Try it: Falafel Hut, Shepherds organised by producer/ new material, but after a few his music just for that! RH got our eye on him! PTO a glossary of terms as well fantastically well. Modern Bush Market rapper/singer GoldieLocks. months I realised that it had as the processes that take Warfare gives you the chance 8. Teriyaki Don Hardknock is dedicated to become a good platform for Million Dan place once the images have to battle for both Britain’s Teriyaki Don, Chicken, the cool peeps that don’t up and coming underground Inner City Got Plenty Cases Leave London been taken such as image SAS and the US Marines Beef or Salmon, comes in know that they’re cool, and artists and that it had Inspiration defines this song. Kid British are a Manchester editing and management. in a single storyline. The a special Bento box. bangs out a genuine mix of developed quite a loyal crowd. ‘Have a nice weekend baby’, born band known for their If you own any type of camera story revolves around stolen Try it: Taro, Brewer Street, Soho untainted underground music, That’s when I recognised intertwining with the soft variation of fruity sounds and and want to develop your Russian nukes and Middle 9. Smoked Salmon Beigels guaranteeing a jumping crowd it could help out more melody of the instruments goes vocals. I was impressed the photography skills further Eastern terrorists who are hell Popularised by Jewish and a buzzing atmosphere. careers than just my own’. perfectly with the roughness songs from the Leave London then this can be achieved bent on killing you and your immigrants who settled in The much anticipated ‘ A hugely entertaining and style that Million Dan EP sounded very diverse with this insightful and clear- grandmother. Some of the the East End in the early 20th Xmas iPod battle took place and hilariously funny Illaman brings. The song highlights and each painted a different cut book. Without needing storyline will give you a real century, though the fillings last month at Little Portland was the special host for the dangers of teenage picture. After listening to a sophisticated equipment, by sense of shock and disbelief. are no longer kosher. Street’s Social. Teams including the evening, and after a pregnancy and encourages few more of their tracks I was following the simple steps You know what, I am going Try it: Brick Lane Beigel Bakery Nucking Fang, Urban Nerds and heated final showdown, the youth dem to follow drawn in and was left wanting you can develop your skills to stop spoiling the game for 10. Pad Thai RWD magazine squared up with the Croydon Girls took the their dreams instead. NA more. I was slightly phased by whilst taking photos. If you’re you - go out there and buy it, Thai food has become the their iPods to determine who winner’s crown after going the genre but still think it is a a budding photographer then it is well worth the money. NA evening switchover for would able to create the most head to head with previous good experience overall. EK you should check this book Available on Playstation 3, greasy spoons cafes all over hype and noise on the night. champs Urban Nerds. A hard out and feel inspired. KN PC, Nintendo DS, XBOX 360 the city. Its an odd combo Up for grabs were a trunkload night not to be missed! SH but it seems to work. of prizes and goodies from Try it: Turnham Green Thai, Chiswick myspace.com/goldielocksmusic

56 THE CUT THE CUT 57 travel

in the 21st Century it retains its the civil rights movement and surprised that McCain took the free spirit and individuality. But the place that Dr. Martin Luther Tennessee vote. Many of the road trip to make no mistake, though Cali- King Jr. was assassinated. With Obama supporters could vote fornia is full of laid back souls this in its blood I knew Memphis with their tongues but not with success and beach bums, it also has one was a state to see first hand. It their feet due to social circum- of the largest voting powers in had been three months since I stances. Memphis was a place the whole of the US. San Fran- was last in the south and I was of mixed feeling, but like Sam cisco was probably the most keen to see how or if attitudes Cooke I was sure ‘change was politically charged environment had changed. In Memphis I gonna come’. I recently returned to the UK I had been in. Everywhere you stayed with a friend at Rhodes I landed in New York after 5 months of working and looked people were sporting College. Rhodes is one of the on a sunny day in October, 2 travelling around the US. Now, Obama T-shirts, badges, stick- top schools, in the South, it is weeks before the most talked I’ve been to the US a couple ers and if they weren’t wearing also largely right wing, a far cry about election in US history. D- of times before but this time it, they were talking about it and from anywhere I’d been so far. day was coming, and as I sat in was different. Despite going if they weren’t talking about Obama supporters were few a hairdressers in Brooklyn and through the worst economic it, they were definitely think- and far between, something watched senator Obama on TV crisis since the Depression, ing about it. I saw a plethora I learnt quickly. One night at I felt hopeful. I was in New York many Americans felt hopeful of slogan t-shirts ranging from dinner, being the novelty Brit- City once again, not only at an and positive about what the ‘Hope’ and ‘Change’ to ‘Obama ish person, I was enduring the exciting time in US history but future had to hold. The reason? for you mama’ and ‘Barack also at an exciting time in my One man-Barack Obama. Not Obama is my home-boy’. I was life as I was hitting the big-21. only did the notion of Obama’s in a left wing cocoon, and as Back to reality. Heath- presidency bring hope (his far as San Francisco was con- “People of all ages, row airport . October 30th, 11pm, campaign slogan) for the fu- cerned, Obama could do no and although it was the end of ture, it also brought some small wrong. A brief walk on Haight all creeds and all my US tour it was by no means sense of closure to the past. Ashbury (a popular area be- colours were going the end of my election obses- I touched down in At- cause of its involvement in the sion. By the time I had recov- lanta, Georgia in early June, it free love movement) and it was to do everything ered from my jet-lag we were was hot and humid but the talk very clear this was a Democrat- in their power to just a couple of days away from was not about the heat or last ic State. the polls opening. On the 4th of nights TV, no, it was political and I spoke with people ensure he would November live coverage began highly charged. There were no who loved Obama for his poli- become the 44th on the election and state polls, fence sitters, everyone had an cies, I spoke with people who and although I was ready for opinion. My five days in Atlanta loved him for his charitable President of the bed at 12am, I didn’t sleep for were amazing, I saw things and past, I even spoke with people .” another 7 hours. Watching the heard things then set off on the who simply loved him because results file in, I felt less like I was next leg of my journey feeling he was ‘so damn hot’. Obama watching the Presidential race that little bit more enlightened. had the West Coast in the bag, usual foreign grilling. When and more like I was watching an My next stop was people of all ages, all creeds asked about my least favour- athletic one. I was gripped. At 1 Starrucca, Pennsylvania (close and all colours were going to ite aspect of the US, I quipped am John McCain was leading, I to Scranton, Joe Biden’s home do everything in their power to Sarah Palin, a joke that soared said a prayer, crossed my fin- town). Naturally, working at ensure he would become the like a lead balloon. I was greet- gers and sat on my bed watch- a summer camp the conver- 44th President of the United ed by a sea of confused ‘It must ing with cautious optimism. sation was less government, States. be a British thing’ faces. Some- Around 2.01 am things were more gossip. Apart from the Next stop, Hollywood. thing that I did not fail to notice, looking up. 4:24 am, and it’s brief chat I had in a bar with Now as an aspiring actress this was although there were less clear Senator Barack Obama an ex-soldier, who told me he is a place that I have dreamed Obama supporters at Rhodes, will be the 44th president of the would love to vote for Obama, of going to. Talk of the election they seemed to be doing more United States of America as he but wasn’t just not sure if he was replaced by talk of the film than the McCain followers. effortlessly clears the 270 win- could because of his policies industry. Hollywood is a world Obama had much a more visual ning post, with 5 States still on Iraq. Politics was not on my within itself, with its own econ- presence (again I saw enthusi- waiting to be counted. mind. The next time I thought omy, its own politics and its own astic followers selling badges Jubilation from Kent to about the campaign was at way of life separate to the rest and T–shirts), whereas, like Mc- Kenya. Worldwide, the streets, lunch one day, when the Ameri- of the state. Its politics did not Cain, his supporters seemed all bars, community centres, and can camp counsellors had to fill involve the white house, it in- talk and no action. The Obama parks are teeming with Obama out payment forms. When it got volved the playboy mansion. campaign was heavily pro- supporters. Suddenly a park to the part of the sheet marked Instead of selling stickers, peo- active echoing the movements in Chicago seems like the only tax, someone snorted, ‘Vote for ple were selling their talents. of half a decade ago. The feel- place in the world to be. Obama if you want your taxes There were street entertainers ings on the streets of Memphis raised, that’s what he wants to every five feet and concerns did not reflect those at Rhodes. do’. The remark was met with about the future President were Again I saw T-shirts but they And the end results? sighs and rolled eyes and for second to concerns of their fu- were not always worn with the Obama and the Democratic me, that was that. ture agent. same optimism that they had party won 365 votes, with The next leg of my US Memphis was the next been in . It seemed, McCain and the Republican tour led me to the West Coast. stop. Home of the blues, B.B like much of the US, the South Party winning only 173. First stop San Francisco. Cali- King and Elvis. Memphis, like especially had been hit hardest fornia is well know for its radi- San Francisco has a huge polit- by the current economic crisis. calism and its liberal mentality. ical history. Not only is Memphis Many people not only wanted It was at the forefront of the home to the National Civil Rights Obama, they needed him. De- 60s hippie movement and still Museum, It was a key state in spite this desperation I was not Text by Kirby Howell Baptiste

58 THE CUT THE CUT 59 sport

going to the dogs

“There’s something for everybody at this game. It used to be very popular in White City; 20,000 people at the races and 160 bookmakers.”

Whether you know much dine - dining at the dogs?! boxes and introduced to possible to place a bet in a round here – they do the same right before me was quite out and a meal, which is nice sport like greyhound racing about it or not for many - we made our way to the Mark Sullivan, a human betting shop – they didn’t time every time, which makes captivating and you could but generally speaking, the to keep going in the future. greyhound racing is one correct entrance and were encyclopaedia of greyhound exist. So people could only them a very reliable betting sense tension amongst the ‘down-to-earth punters’, as It’s fair to say that the game of those traditional and warmly greeted by the staff racing if there ever was place a bet by coming to the medium. What punters look crowd as the punters screamed we like to call them, are on now largely appeals only to quintessentially British and management. The aim one. His highly impressive track itself. Once punters were for is reliability and that’s why for their backed winner. the decline all the time.’ its original supporters and sporting past times. After was to speak to pretty much knowledge of the game able to go to betting shops, bookmakers will always want Bill Cook – a bookmaker for So, what kind of people those who were there to the recent closure of the anyone at the event and get a firstly gave us insight the crowds started to dwindle greyhound racing in the shops. 60 years – talked to us about still come to the racing? witness the glory days of an Walthamstow dog track to genuine insight into the world into the history and past away and consequently, In terms of it being a social the appeal of the game and ‘All walks of life! From 80,000 attendance at White developers, Wimbledon is now of greyhound racing. Soon popularity of the sport. the number of tracks began night out, I don’t think it will how he became involved. cockneys to kings to servants! City stadium, rather than the only remaining venue in enough we were taken for a ‘Greyhound racing started to decrease. We’ve arrived ever reach the heights it had, ‘I’ve worked at it all my life. There’s something for the young people of today. London. So, it’s only natural grand tour around the stadium in the 1920s. It went through at the position we’re in now although it’s more popular in Prior to going into the army, I everybody at this game. It On that Tuesday evening, I to question - is greyhound by one of the stewards. a period of just building up where the tracks really run the countryside and the game used to love going to the dogs used to be very popular years wondered how long the sport racing a dying sport? Is it I was surprised at what its status in the post-war for the bookmakers. They is now shifting north. It might with my father, who was an ago – in White City there used had left until it completely appealing in any way to surrounded me – for a years, and years after the actually control the sport now well be a case of something owner, and when I came out I to be 20,000 people and 160 died out. I asked Bill what the younger-technology supposedly dying sport, the Second World War was when because most of the tracks coming to a natural end.’ decided to go into the game.’ bookmakers. Unless you were he thought and I was taken obsessed generation of crowd numbers didn’t seem it became very popular. are reliant on bookmaker Bill’s perspective on there, you just can’t imagine aback, and slightly saddened today and its potential too sad and by around 9pm, It wouldn’t be unusual to funding to stay open.’ Next on the agenda was to get whether greyhound racing the difference, it’s amazing. by his abrupt response. saviours of tomorrow? The there was quite a bit of a buzz have a crowd of 80,000 in a Sullivan doesn’t think that information from some of the is a dying competition I can’t suggest anybody ‘10 years, at the most. I Cut team headed down in the atmosphere, especially derby final at the White City the game will ever die but dog owners but they seemed seemed to me more cutting come to the game (laughs) hope I’m wrong! That’s south to find out more. during the actual races. What stadium, and there were does believe that it will change too lost in concentration to yet arguably more realistic but I still get a kick out of it.’ how I feel, I’m sorry to didn’t surprise me was the around a 100 tracks in the UK.’ dramatically into a sport for approach, so we headed in comparison to Mark’s. say. It’s a dying game.’ A freezing cold Tuesday type of people in attendance: Sullivan partly blames the bookmakers not based in outside to watch some of ‘Unfortunately the game Ultimately, it seems that a evening held little promise mainly old and grey-haired the legalisation of betting inner cities, where land values the races and speak to now is not what it was. Around combination of bookmakers when after a long journey working-class men. I could see shops for the beginning of are too great, which was the the bookmakers instead. thirty years ago, there were controlling the sport, the we finally arrived at the straight away that attracting the sport’s troubles and its case with Walthamstow. Watching a race in person fifty bookmakers here, and in rising land values of inner city Wimbledon greyhound young people to the game gradual decline in popularity. ‘I think it will always exist proved to be more exciting the 1950s there was a hundred. grounds and the phenomenal Words by Shona Harvey stadium, the last of its kind in would be no easy feat. ‘In 1963, betting shops because dogs are very reliable than I’d imagined. To see the Now you can see there are change in technology in Illustration by Chris Graham London. After initially being Eventually we were taken were legalised and up until performers. They run 200ths of greyhounds bolt around the four! You do get people that recent years have all made it asked if we were there to to one of the commentary then it hadn’t been actually a second every time they go track at such a rapid pace come here to have a night a hard battle for a traditional

60 THE CUT THE CUT 61 Sport

Under 21s Dream team

The Under 21 league is where so many of the nations greatest footballers started their careers, and year after year it is bursting with new talent. Here at The Cut we have Rhys Taylor Solomon Shields John Bostock Elliot Omozusi Victor Moses Darren Ebsworth Freddie Sears Gavin Hoyte Jonjo Shelvey Ross Montague Matthew Connolly been watching our 18 years old 19 years old 16 years old 20 years old 18 years old 18 years old 19 years old 18 years old 16 years old 19 years old 21 years old favourites closely Goalkeeper Midfield Midfield Defender Midfield Defender Forward Defender Midfield Striker Defender to put together our Chelsea Leyton Orient Tottenham Hotspur Norwich City Crystal Palace Millwall West Ham United Watford Charlton Athletic Brentford FC QPR Dream Team for this season. Could these 11 faces be Rhys Taylor, the team’s Sheilds has been at A South London born Omozusi is a former Nigerian born English This upcoming Millwall Sears, who’s nickname Gavin Hoyte is now on Youngest ever The young, tall first Connolly is the household names safe pair of hands, Leyton Orient since he Midfield teenage England Under-19 Under 19 international defender hasn’t had is ‘Searsy’ is a fan loan at Watford until Charlton player team striker made his squad’s veteran- he’s of the future? has played for the was 12 years old and prodigy playing for international; he has made 28 first team a lot of first team of former West Ham the end of the season at 16. He has only debut in April 2007 the oldest player even Remember where Wales under-21 team is the club’s number a North London club. is now on loan at appearances for appearances but is a player Paolo Di Canio, but was the Arsenal been playing 59 but since then he though he’s only 21. you saw them first. and had his first 15. He has made one He made his league Norwich City where Crystal Palace scoring reserve team regular. Sears made his debut Reserve team captain. days but scored 14 has been loaned out Matthew Connolly is a appearance at the brief appearance for debut for Crystal he has made 19 4 goals after getting for the club on the 15th goals in 23 games to other sides and former Arsenal player Text by Drew Mark and age of just 17. the first team from Palace on 29 October appearances. He his first chance in the March 2008 scoring his for the Under-19 used sparingly in the who plays in the Nicholas Asamoah the bench during 2007 at the age of 15 has also made 8 first team at the age first goal for the club in squad. Shelvey then Brentford first team. centre back position. the 2006/07 season years and 287 days, appearances for of 16 in the 2007/08 the meantime. became the Charlton’s and since then has making him the clubs Fulham. season. Highly rated youngest ever scorer been named as youngest ever player. by club and country after scoring against a substitute on a he is known for being Norwich City in the FA couple of occasions. a quick, powerful, cup 55 days before his skilful player. 17th birthday.

62 THE CUT THE CUT 63 Sport Friends

50/50 Out and Skiing About

worth trying. I want to say thank you to Bromley Skiing Arena for letting us try out something new.

Shona

What did you expect? For some reason, I expected the skiing to take place indoors, I was a bit surprised when I saw everything was going to take place outside. I wasn’t looking forward to falling over - regularly, onto a hard and wet surface, especially after having had less than two hours’ sleep the night before!

What did you think of your experience? I actually enjoyed myself and the lesson wasn’t as physically demanding – or painful – as I had imagined. I didn’t fall over once, which was another bonus, unlike Nicholas – sorry!

What did you like about it I liked the feeling of skiing itself, and I also liked the friendly cab driver who took us back to the station who provided us with hilarious stories about the area.

What didn’t you like? Nothing apart from the cold, Now is the time of the year surprised with how good again, it was jokes. The taxi wet weather we had to ski in many of us will be dreaming it was even though it driver coming home was very and the fact I stupidly forgot of skiing holiday on the was raining and cold. funny but I would not disclose to bring my own gloves! mountain slopes of Italy, the type of things he said. Austria, and southern France. What did you expect? Actual skiing was too good. Would you go again? However, here at The Cut our I thought when we got there, Before I went on this trip, I had budget would not stretch to it would be in a big cliff What didn’t you like? no intention of ever making an foreign climes. So on a cold with lots of snow, but it was Dropping twice lol... it effort to go skiing. But now I and wet Sunday morning nowhere near that. Even wasn’t painful though. can definitely picture myself in December we set off to though it was cold, the going back for another lesson. Bromley Ski and Snowboard surface was a slippery metal Would you go again? Centre where first time skiers, and unfortunately there Yes, I am planning on taking Do you think that more young Shona and Nick, were about to was no snow to throw at the up a course soon and you people should go dry skiing? take their first skiing lesson. skiers. I am not going to lie, will soon see me on telly. All young people should Let’s see how they got on. at first I regretted coming Watch out for the name... grab the opportunity to go along but after participating Nicholas Asamoah! skiing if they can. It’s fun and Nicholas my morale was boosted. challenging to take part in and Do you think that more people a cool thing to experience. What did you think of What did you like? should go dry skiing? your experience? One woman dropped a few Yeah trust me... if I was It was an absolutely great times, at the time it was not fascinated you would be. It is Text and photography experience. I was completely funny but when you review it definitely a new experience by Adrianne McKenzie

64 THE CUT THE CUT 65 Contributors

Issue 03 get involved!

Nicholas Asamoah Ronnie Grebenyuk Chloe Forde Kirby H.Baptiste Executive Editors Senior Editor Senior Editor Fashion Editor Fashion Editor and Publishers Nina Manandhar and Nendie Pinto-Duschinsky Photography Mentors Adrian Wood and Derek Wiafe Journalism Mentor Paul Macey

Rasharna Hylton Shamz Le Roc Alpha Gougsa Adrianne Mckenzie Photo Desk Editor Music Contributor Political Editor Front Section Editor

Executive Editors of The Warsan Nur Drew Mark Shona Harvey Roxanne Swan Cut Nina Manandhar and Journalist Journalist Reviews Editor Journalist Nendie Pinto-Duschinsky are directors of Hardcore Is More Than Music, a Social Enterprise specialising in youth consultancy and arts collaborations.

The Cut is a non profit project which is part funded by work for clients including The Stephen Lawrence Centre, Diana Nortey Ibrahim Fazal Amit Cholera Jamal Joseph The Tate, The Institute of Journalist Photographer Photographer Photographer Contemporary Arts, Exposure PR, Dr Martens, The British Youth Council, Blue Rubicon PR and Westminster Council.

Hardcore Is More Than Music is in The Observer’s Top 100 Creative Business’ in the UK / Are you a writer, Courvoisier Future 500 for 2009. photographer or illustrator, Kiran Nijjar Edward Kagatuzi Patrick Owalbi Akwasi Tawia Poku aged 21 or under, looking Photographer Photographer Photographer Photographer for the opportunity to get your work published? Then we want to hear from you.

For information on our To find out about joining activities please visit the team or becoming a www.thecutnewspaper.com contributor email us: www.hardcoreismorethanmusic.com [email protected] Contact us at Shannara Hylton Jenni Barnes [email protected] Photographer Journalist

66 THE CUT THE CUT 65