WELCOME TO MIAMI

SUPER BOWL 2010 edition** **special

ATURING FEdj khaled

KEVIN COSSOM // DANJA // TRINA PRETTY RICKY // SHONIE // HOT YELL+A SWAZY STYLES // KEISHA KASH // TORCH Gun Play // YOUNG BREED // & MORE WELCOME TO MIAMI

SUPER BOWL 2010 edition** **special

ATURING FEKEVIN COSSOM &DANJA

DJ KHALED // TRINA // GUN PLAY PRETTY RICKY // SHONIE // HOT YELL+A SWAZY STYLES // KEISHA KASH // TORCH CP HOLLYWOOD // YOUNG BREED

PUBLISHER: SIDE A Julia Beverly 10 Club Listing SPECIAL EDITIONS EDITOR: 11 Miami Map Jen McKinnon a.k.a. 12 Lex Promo Top 10 Ms. Rivercity 8-9 Event Listing 16-17 Keisha Kash CONTRIBUTORS & CREW: 18-19 Trina Ashley Smith 26-27 Young Breed Eric Perrin Jee’Van Brown Kisha Smith 22-23 Danja Maurice G. Garland 24-25 Kevin Cossom Mercedes Randy Roper Terrence Tyson Torrey Holmes SIDE b PROMOTIONS DIRECTOR: Malik Abdul 6 CP Hollywood 14 Ed da World Famous STREET TEAMS: 8-9 Shonie Big Mouth Marketing 10-11 Torch Lex Promotions 12-13 Gun Play On Point Entertainment 16-18 Pretty Ricky Poe Boy 20-21 Swazy Styles Strictly Streets 22-23 Hot Yella SUBSCRIPTIONS: To subscribe, send check or 24-26 DJ KHALED money order for $11 to: OZONE Magazine 644 Antone St. Suite 6 Atlanta, GA 30318 Phone: 404-350-3887 Fax: 404-601-9523 Web: www.ozonemag.com COVER CREDITS: Kevin Cossom & Danja photo by Ty Watkins. DISCLAIMER: OZONE does not take re- sponsibility for unsolicited materials, misinformation, typographical errors, or mis- prints. The views contained herein do not necessarily reflect those of the pub- lisher or its advertisers. Ads appearing in this magazine are not an endorsement or validation by OZONE Maga- zine for products or services offered. All photos and illus- trations are copyrighted by their respective artists. All other content is copyright 2010 OZONE Magazine, all rights reserved. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any way without the written consent of the publisher. Printed in the USA.

OZONE MAG // 7 8 // OZONE MAG MIAMI Event Nas, Goodie Mob, & Mayday! Listing @ Adrienne Arsht Center, Knight Concert Hall 1300 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami, FL, 33132 Thursday, FebRUARY 4th 8pm Tickets: $35 to $200 EA Sports Madden Bowl @ The Clevelander Hotel 1020 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach 9pm – 4am Saturday, FebRUARY 6th Runners of the Game Official Super Bowl Party Eden Roc Super Bowl Party w/ Snoop Dogg @ Karma @ The Eden Roc Renaissance 619Washington Avenue 4525 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach 9pm – 2am The Main Event w/ NAS @ SOBE Live $450 General Admission, $750 VIP 1203 Washington Avenue Celeb Super Bowl Gifting Suite @ Karma Saturday Night Spectacular Hosted by Jim Carey & 619 Washington Avenue Jenny McCarthy Info: 205-213-8155 (Gardner Craig) @ Top of the Bank of America Building 9pm – 3am Million Dollar Girl Super Bowl Kick Off w/ Trina @ SOBE Live - 1203 Washington Avenue Taste of the NFL – Food & Wine Tasting @ Fort Lauderdale Convention Center Hometown Legends: Welcome to Miami Edition 7pm – Late @ MIA - 20 Biscayne Blvd., Downtown Miami $755 General Admission, $950 VIP (305) 642-0032 Maxim Magazine Party w/ Jermaine Dupri & DJ Vice Ne-Yo, Jagged Edge, & Verse Simmonds @ The Raleigh Hotel @ Adrienne Arsht Center, Knight Concert Hall 1775 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach 1300 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami, FL, 33132 9pm – Late 8pm Tickets: $35 to $200 Penthouse Party @ Passion Nightclub Seminole Hardrock - 5701 Seminole Way, Ft. Lauderdale Friday, FebRUARY 5th $350 & up

Mike McKenzie/Genesis Superslam Celeb Basketball Game Playboy Super Bowl Party @ The Sagamore Hotel @ Miami Norland Sr. High School (Poolside) - 1671 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach 1050 Northwest 195th Street, Miami, FL 9pm – 4am Leather & Laces Super Bowl Party w/ Kim Kardashian, Roselyn Sanchez and Holly Madison Sunday, FebRUARY 7th @ The Paris Studio Theatre In Stadium Hospitality (Food, Open Bar, Live Enter- 9pm – late tainment) $350 General Admission, $750 VIP @ Dolphin Stadium 2269 Dan Marino Boulevard, Miami Gardens First Ten: First Friday Super Bowl Edition 2:30pm - 5:30pm plus 2 hours post game @ Justin’s Bar & Lounge $450 (Must have Super Bowl Tickets to enter) 17813 Biscayne Blvd., Downtown Miami Touchdown Club Hospitality (Food, Open Bar, Live VIVID - Tootsies Cabaret Super Bowl Party Entertainment) @ Tootsies Cabaret Located Next to Stadium 150 NW 183rd St. 2:30pm – 5:30pm 10pm – Late Super Bowl Ticket required for entry $450 All Access Admission NFL Tailgate Party @ Dolphin Stadium ESPN Super Bowl Party w/ Ne-Yo & Keri Hilson 2269 Dan Marino Boulevard, Miami Gardens The Fontainebleau Hotel - 4441 Collins Avenue 2:30pm – Kickoff 10pm – Late $1,500 (Must have Super Bowl Tickets to enter) Juvenile performing @ SOBE Live Super Bowl XLIV @ Dolphin Stadium 1203 Washington Avenue 2269 Dan Marino Boulevard, Miami Gardens 6:30pm Jordan Brand Super Bowl Party @ Karma 619 Washington Avenue The Big Game After Party @ LIV 4441 Collins Avenue Ochocinco’s Celeb Mansion Party 4745 Pine Drive, Miami Beach, FL 9pm – late OZONE MAG // 9 Mansion SET 1235 Washington Ave., 320 Lincoln Road Miami Beach, FL Miami Beach, FL MIAMI (305) 531-5535 (305) 531-2800 www.setmiami.com CLUB LISTING Metropolis Downtown 950 NE 2nd Avenue, Miami Shine (305) 415-0088 1800 Collins Ave., Miami 90 Degree Club Warehouse Beach 90 NE 11th Street, 90 NE 11th St, Miami, FL Mia Downtown Miami (786) 425-3545 20 Biscayne Blvd. Skybar (786) 425-3545 Downtown Miami 1901 Collins Ave., Miami Coco’s Lounge Living On (305) 642-0032 Beach Amika The Edge (305) 695-3100 1532 Washington Ave., 1430 NW 119th St, Miami Miami Velvet Miami Beach, FL 33139 (305) 688-5005 3901 NW 77th Ave, Miami SIN (305) 534-1499 (305) 406-1604 1532 Washington Ave, Miami Crobar Beach Angel Ultra Lounge 1445 Washington Ave., Mokai (305) 532-4786 247 23rd Street, Miami Miami Beach 235 23rd St., Miami Beach Beach, FL (305) 531-8225 (305) 695-0288 Sobe Live 1203 Washington Avenue Area 51 Dream Mynt • Miami 950 NE 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 1532 Washington Ave., 1921 Collins Ave. (305) 695-2820 (305) 358-5655 Miami Beach Miami Beach, FL (305) 674-8018 (786) 276-6132 Sofi Lounge B.E.D. 423 Washington Ave., Miami 929 Washington Ave., Miami Expose Nikki Beach Club Beach (305) 532-9070 766 E 25th St, Hialeah 1 Ocean Drive (305) 532-4444 (305) 691-8980 (305) 673-1575 Big Fish Space 55 SW Miami Avenue Rd., Fat Tuesday Nocturnal 34 NE 11th St., Miami Beach Miami, FL 3015 Grand Ave, Miami 50 NE 11th St., Miami, FL (305) 375-0001 33133 (305) 576-6996 Blue (305) 441-2992 Spirits 222 Espanola Way, Miami Onda 5729 Seminole Way Beach Fifth (The) 1248 Washington Ave., Hollywood (305) 534-1109 1045 5th St., Miami Beach Miami Beach, FL (954) 327-9094 (305) 538-9898 Phone: (305) 674-4464 Bricks State 66 SW 6th St, Miami, FL GEM Nightclub & Res- Pearl Lounge 320 Lincoln Rd. (305) 371-6950 taurant 1 Ocean Dr., Miami Beach Miami Beach 671 Washington Ave, Miami Café Iguanas Beach Penthouse Inc Studio A 8358 Pines Blvd., Hollywood (305) 674-0977 1434 Collins Ave, 60 NE 11th St., Miami (954) 433-8787 Miami Beach (305) 538-7625 Glass (305) 538-4010 Cameo 432 41st St., Miami Beach Suite 1400 West Ave, Miami Beach, (305) 604-9798 Platinum Plus 1437 Washington Ave. (305) 695-0517 7565 W 20th Ave, Hialeah Miami Beach Harrison’s (305) 558-2221 (305) 604-3664 Chakra 411 Washington Ave., Miami 1500 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach (305) 672-4600 Porterhouse Take One (305) 672-2001 7050 W. Palmetto Park Rd., 333 NE 79th Street, Miami Ivy Room Boca Raton, FL Club Ache 1233 Washington Ave, Miami Tootsie’s Cabaret 3425 Collins Ave, (305) 532-1525 Rain 150 NW 183rd St., Miami Miami Beach, FL 323 23rd St, Miami Beach (305) 651-5822 (305) 604-8688 Karma (305) 674-7447 619 Washington Avenue, Tropics Nightclub Club 112 Miami Beach Rokbar 7100 Pines Blvd., 1439 Washington Avenue 1805 Collins Ave. Pembroke Pines Miami Beach, FL King of Diamonds Miami Beach (954) 985-8382 17800 NE 5th Avenue, Miami (305) 535-7171 Club 45 (954) 744-6582 Vice 4545 NW 7th St, Miami, FL Rumi 1445 Washington Ave., 33126 Krave 330 Lincoln Road Miami Beach (305) 442-6369 1203 Washington Ave., (305) 672-4353 (305) 532-2667 Miami Beach Club 66 (305) 673-5950 Ruby Lounge Vision 66 SW 8th Street, Miami, 623 Washington Ave., Miami 3015 Grand Avenue, FL 33130 Lady Luck Coconut Grove (305) 371-6950 1610 NW 119th St, Miami, Santo (305) 461-1118 (305) 688-1151 430 Lincoln Rd., Miami Beach Club Boca (305) 532-2882 Voodoo Lounge 7000 West Palmetto Park Rd., Level Nightclub 111 SW 2nd Ave. Boca Raton, FL 1233 Washington Ave, Miami Sax on the Beach Fort Lauderdale, FL (561) 392-3747 Beach, FL 33139 1756 N Bayshore Dr, Miami (954) 522-0733 (305) 532-1525 (786) 924-5535 Club Ebony Wet Willie’s 12953 NW 7th Ave, North LIV Scores Miami 2911 Grand Ave. Miami 33182 4441 Collins Avenue, Miami 17450 Biscayne Blvd Coconut Grove, FL 33133 (305) 685-5305 Beach, FL 33140 North Miami Beach (305) 674-4680 (305) 945-6030 White Diamonds Club Escape 737 Washington Ave. 7707 NW 103rd St., Miami Madonna Night Club Seven Miami Beach, FL 33139 1527 Washington Ave 685 Washington Ave., Miami (305) 761-6736 Miami Beach, FL Beach (305) 534-2000 (305) 538-0820

10 // OZONE MAG SOUTHMAP BEACH

Whyte Noise 300 SW 1st Ave. Fort Lauderdale, FL

OZONE MAG // 11 12 // OZONE MAG Lex Promotions is a well-known marketing group in the Miami area. Experienced in handling major and INDIE label accounts, Lex Promo is a go-to re- source for online and street promotions. If you’re Top 10 visiting the area for Super Bowl weekend, here are MIAMI Lex’s suggestions for clubs to CHECK OUT: MANSION - 1235 Washington Ave., Miami Beach, FL NIGHT 1 Mansion is the Miami club! When you think of Miami, you think of Mansion. It’s a landmark, and it’s also infamous for not CLUBS letting artists in the club. Be forewarned. By Alex “Lex” Pierre-Louis LIV - 4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33140 2 LIV is the billion dollar club where the groupies come out and the ballers play! It’s located in one of Miami’s premiere hotels, the Fontainebleau.

SPACE – 34 NE 11th St., Miami, FL 33132 3 Space has been around for 15 years strong! It’s the only spot where you can party till 3:00 pm, or just party for 72 hours straight. It’s also home to the “lip-biting animals.”

TAKE ONE - 333 NE 79th St., Miami, FL 33138 4 Take One is the home for every afterparty! It hosts some of Miami’s best record-breaking DJs like Jam Squad DJs, Haitian Mike, and Nasty. And it’s where Bizzle, a.k.a. Chowtime, will show you how to make it rain $5k in 5 minutes.

CAMEO - 1445 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 5 Also known as “The Stepchild,” this club is notorious for being the hottest club for six months, and then closing down… then back to being the hottest club again.

TOOTSIE – Corner of 441 & Miami Gardens Dr., 150 NW 6 183rd St., Miami Gardens This is the club that brings Las Vegas to Miami with the sexiest women in the world (it’s also well-known for a physical incident involving Trick Daddy).

KING OF DIAMONDS - 17800 NE 5th Ave., Miami, FL 7 Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to King of Diamonds - home of NFL/NBA players and Disco Rick on the mic. Don’t walk in here without at least $2,000 in your pocket! #RecessionProof

BED – 929 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 8 “Eat in BED, drink in BED, and you can even fuck in BED.” This is the party spot for all the video vixens, and even if you aren’t a celebrity, your dreams can come true here.

SOBE LIVE – 1203 Washington Ave., Miami Beach, FL 9 Nominated “Best Hip Hop Venue” by VH1, on any given weekend you catch Hip Hop’s biggest stars on stage. In ad- dition to being the Spring Break headquarters, this is where Uncle Luke has college girls going wild.

90 DEGREE – 90 NE 11th St., Downtown Miami 10 “Ya Tu Sabes.” – Dominicans, Cubans, Puerto Ricans, Colombians – this is where you will find the sexiest Latinas!

Contact Lex Promotions on Twitter: @LexPromotions or email [email protected]

OZONE MAG // 13 SUPERBOWL EDITORIAL

s I’m writing this with my eyes half Florida artists have staying power, there’s not open, it’s 4:30 am in Atlanta and I’m much turn around as far as rappers falling off Aday-dreaming - well, night-dreaming and new ones taking their place. Pretty much actually - of sunny Miami. It’s rained here everyone gets on top and stays there. So I for 5 days straight, and it’s too cold for any thought about what we were missing, what Floridian to endure, making this mag difficult the music listeners are missing in general, and to complete because I want to grab a blanket it was obvious – female representation. and hibernate. *sips Red Bull and continues typing* You’ll notice a few more female artist features than usual. And that’s kind of a reflection of But this issue is nearly done, and despite the the game in general right now. Newcomers depressing weather and sleep starvation, I’m like Lady Gaga and Nicki Minaj have made really vibing on the inside. There’s no greater such a huge impact recently, and vets like feeling than finishing a major project. The way Trina and Lil Kim are staying active. I predict I feel right now is probably how a musician this trend will strengthen. As you flip through feels when they turn in an album to their label. these pages, when you stop to stare at the Relief. Pride. Excited to see the final outcome. chick pics, make sure you take a few minutes Anxious for the world to share in my work. And to read their stories too. In this business, it even though an artist has months to record takes twice as much effort for a woman to be an album, and I only had a week to interview noticed outside of her looks. They deserve Florida’s finest, it’s still the same level of satis- props. faction. It takes the same level of dedication to come up with a direction, a list of goals, And I deserve a few hours of sleep. [Turning off execute them within a deadline, and turnout a phone, logging off Twitter, tuning out haters] quality, creative product. Not to mention over- See you Super Bowl Weekend. coming unforeseen setbacks (like how I lost my voice for 3 days - Ms. Rivercity (below, center) and couldn’t inter- view anyone). But we at OZONE do this nu- merous times a year, and still keep variety in the content.

Variety in mind, I really struggled for ideas this Super Bowl edition. Not because there’s a lack of talent in Mi- ami, but because we’ve interviewed everyone in the city already. And because South

14 // OZONE MAG OZONE MAG // 15 Keisha Kash Words by Ms. Rivercity Photo by Hassill Photography

16 // OZONE MAG Keisha Formerly USING THE TAGLINE the “Rapping Beyonce,” Keisha Kash started promoting herself as a rapper before realizing her potential as a Pop artist. Switch- Kash ing gears for the new year, Keisha Words by Ms. Rivercity talks about how she’s transi- “Bleah, Bleah, Bleah,” and I concentrated on Photo by Hassill Photography tioned since beginning a career that for two years. I really wanted to branch into Pop music and mix that in. I recorded in music. Now focused on a new three Pop songs, and ever since I did that sound, Kash has a lot of new everything has changed dramatically. I have a doors opening for her. song called “Pretty Picture,” another one called “Timmy” and “Girlie Girl.” That’s really what I’ve Are you originally from Miami? been pushing for the last five months and it’s Not originally. I was born in Trinidad, grew up opening up doors for me. in New Jersey, and moved to Miami about five years ago. So it’s been easier for you to catch people’s attention with the more pop-sounding How did you get into making music? music? I was pretty much in the background for a Yeah, I was kind of at a stand-still. I was get- little while working with other artists. I worked ting a lot of no’s. As soon as I switched over with a girl that was with Konvict Music and a my style and genre of music, a lot of stuff has few other locals from Atlanta. When I came to changed. If that’s what my supporters like Miami I started getting more into the music from me the most, then that’s what I’m going scene and decided to focus on myself. I’ve to concentrate on. They determine what kind always been writing and dancing since I was of music I should put out. five years old. There just weren’t any musical people in my family to show me what to do, Are you getting shows yet? but I always loved music since I was little. For my birthday we did a big show with Power 96 and had radio commercial. Baby Bree from What were some of the songs you first put Power 96 has been showing me a lot of love. out? My first track was a remix of one of Missy’s What else do you have going on that people songs. I put it online and everyone liked it. It should be checking for? had 16,000 views on YouTube. I got a lot of People should be checking for the singles I positive feedback and encouragement to con- have out. I’m working on a lot of new material tinue doing music, so I did. I’m a very unique too. “Pretty Picture” is my main song that person so I like different sounds. I teamed up everyone’s vibing to. with a production team in New York called Sinister Sounds and they came up with the Hip Is there a way for people to reach out to Hop sound I wanted at the time. They made you? the first single I had called “Bleah Bleah Bleah” I’m always on Twitter, @KeishaKash. People that I did a video for. People loved the song can sign up on my website KeishaKash.com. out here in Miami. All my videos and behind the scenes footage are on YouTube.com/KeishaKash. How did you promote yourself? Do you have a management team? As a new artist, what do you want people to No. When I first came to Miami I didn’t know know about you? anybody, and I don’t have any family here. I want everyone to know I’m on the grind. I I started getting out and going to clubs want to be someone that’s doing something downtown and South Beach. A lot of people different. There’s not a lot of females doing know me on South Beach. From there I just what I’m doing in pop music. I’m like the black connected with a lot of people, doing events Lady Gaga. That’s what everyone out here and fashion shows. calls me, Keisha Gaga. //

What direction are you going with your music now? Well, I was doing the Hip Hop thing with

OZONE MAG // 17 TrinaWords by Ms. Rivercity

18 // OZONE MAG It’s my real life. Everyday I’m followed around Trina has reinvented herself year from the office, to the studio, in and out of after year for over a decade, and town, different shows and events, touring, 2010 is no different. This year she’s seeing what I do at home when I’m not doing scheduled to release her fifth music, as well as what I do with the artists I studio album, officially launch a work with. I have about 5 or 6 artists I work clothing line, and make her debut with. Everything I do is going to be on the in television. Her grind is nothing show – the good, the bad, and the ugly. short of Amazin’. Are you still working with the Diamond Doll So you’re working on your fifth album? Foundation? That’s correct. My fifth solo album, titled I’m doing a Diamond Doll camp this summer Amazin’, comes out June 8th. I’m really excited for the girls. Usually I do a panel and we talk about it. It’s a summer album, so it’s really fun. about things like teen pregnancy, alcohol and drug abuse, education, and finances. I wanna When you say “summer album,” can you do something a little different this year. A lot explain a little more about the theme? of the kids are really young and don’t wanna Honestly, I think it’s my best album yet. I have hear you just preaching, so we’re gonna make major control of how the album’s being put to- it more entertaining. I love giving back to the gether. It’s good for an artist that’s been in the kids. I love answering their questions to let game a while to have that kind of control and them know that I was once a kid, I was teen- have the label see my vision. I tried a lot of dif- ager, I was in a relationship and had my heart ferent things – up-tempo pop records, street broke. I’ve been through all the things these records, dance records, I took it back to the girls are going through, or will go through. It old-school. I worked with Rick Ross, Ludacris, gives them confidence and motivation. Monica, Nicki Minaj, Plies, Pretty Money, Keri Hilson, Diddy – it just goes on and on. It’s great You had a major appearance in the “5 Star to still be relevant and put out a great album. Chick” remix last year. People really liked your verse. Speaking of Keri Hilson, “Million Dollar Girl” I thought it was a great record. It was the is the single you have out now, right? first time I did a record with me and another Yes, “Million Dollar Girl” featuring Keri Hilson female feature with the guys. Me and Nicki and Diddy. When I first got the record, I Minaj were holding it down for the women. It thought of Keri Hilson instantly. She has a was something new. Everybody wants to be a beautiful voice. I sent it to her and when she 5 Star now. sent the vocals back I was blown away. Then I added Diddy. He’s just a fly guy, he’s very Everyone commented about how you still swagged out and he added a good twist to it. look just as good in that video as you did back in the day. How do you keep yourself You were introduced to us over a decade up as far as the beauty regime and workout ago… routine? Yes ma’am, in ’98. I have a lot of wear and tear from makeup and hair artists so I just try to take care of my skin. How does your life now compare to where I get facials and try to keep my skin as clean as you thought you’d be at this point? possible. I have a bad problem with not wash- I never really thought I would be a musician. ing stuff off my face after a show. I’ll be tired I always loved music, but I kind of thought I’d and just want to fall asleep. I have pretty good be doing television, maybe movies. That was skin, I don’t really break out, but I try to get always a passion of mine. I’m definitely looking facials and keep it clean. I’m not an exercise forward to pursuing that after this album. I’ve fanatic but I try to exercise as much as I can. I had some [movie] offers I’m looking into. do cardio at least 3 days a week and try to eat healthy. I need a lot of energy to travel and I heard you may be doing a reality show. perform. Yes, I am. The show will start maybe within a month or so. It’s based around my life and the Is there anything else you have coming up things I do as an artist, a business person, a this year? clothing designer. It’s going to show the things The album is coming out June 8th. Look out I do on a daily basis besides music. for Pretty Money, that’s the first project I’m working on. Look out for the reality show and Are you going to allow the show to portray the clothing line. 2010, look out for Trina! // any of your personal life? Or will it be strictly about your career? OZONE MAG // 19 20 // OZONE MAG OZONE MAG // 21 Danja Words by Ms. Rivercity Photo by Ty Watkins

22 // OZONE MAG TO LIST Danja’s production credits and accolades would require an get the right record? entire page in itself. STARTING OFF I definitely feel like working with everybody is Danja As a TIMBALAND protégé, Danja, the wrong thing to do. Whether it’s me, or The Words by Ms. Rivercity a.k.a. Danjahandz, went on to BE- Runners, or Swizz Beatz, or whoever it may be, Photo by Ty Watkins COME a Grammy-winning producer an artist should definitely hone in and figure himself, creating number ONE hits out a style and sound. An album will feel more cohesive, rather than it being all over the for names like Britney Spears, place. Working with a lot of different produc- Pink, Justin Timberlake, Nelly ers just creates confusion to me. Furtado, Duran Duran, Madonna, T.I., AND Trey Songz. Danja is NOMI- Out of everyone you’ve worked with, who NATED for two Grammy awards are the people you’ve vibed with the most, in 2010, including Keri Hilson’s like there was a natural chemistry? “Knock You Down” written by Definitely KC (Kevin Cossom). Aside from him, Danja’s artist Kevin Cossom. With I’m able to really open up and be creative with a proven chemistry, Danja has Britney Spears. I feel like that with Tip too, he’s real accepting and we click well. Justin clearly found his next New Age Timberlake is another one. Rock Star in Kevin Cossom. With sales shifting in the music industry What does it feel like to have worked with from record sales to now ringtones, has it some of the greatest pop and R&B acts of our personally impacted you? How have you generation? adapted to that? Man, I don’t know. I never think about it. I feel It’s a major issue. Kids really have to buy into like there’s still a lot more I can do. Work- an artist to buy their album. I’m grateful I’m ing with those people is always great, and I in a position where people come to me for worked with them pretty early in my career. I their single, so I’m not missing an opportunity think I’m just so much more focused on break- to make money. If it’s a hit, I receive money ing acts and bringing new, quality acts into the for the publishing. Making money off record business. I never really think about who I’ve sales, that’s really not happening. But I like to worked with up to this point. work on whole projects. I like to get in and do five to six records on an album. You know, Speaking of breaking acts, you actually have everyone goes to whoever has a hit at the your own label. What is your focus with that? moment, so artists are going to get records The label is called N.A.R.S. Records, which is from everybody and aren’t really interested in an abbreviation for New Age Rock Stars. It an album. Luckily I’m one of those producers basically speaks for itself, just to bring in a people come to for a single. new evolution of artists, a new age of acts from Pop, Rock, Hip Hop, R&B, whatever. And For those interested in the technical side of the first act that’s signed to the record label is things, what equipment and tools do you Kevin Cossom, through Jive. use to make instrumentals? I have maybe thirteen various keyboards. I use Was the record label already formed when MPC and I use Logic. Inside my Logic I have you met him, or did you create the label loads of virtual instruments. I have a massive specifically with Kevin Cossom in mind? sound library. At the end of the day, you can’t It kinda happened at the same time. It never tell that I use just one thing. really was a major goal or dream of mine to have a record label. As I started coming across What’s coming up for you in the near future? acts I felt were special, KC was one of the I went in with the Weezer band not too long first, and the business became legitimate, it ago. We did a couple crazy tracks. I got some became something I had to do. As my goals new things with Usher, Jennifer Lopez, Britney started changing in the business, it seemed Spears, Kevin Cossom. It’s a lot of opportuni- right for me to start my own label if I was try- ties right now. I’m just trying to get in and ing to break new acts. It kinda just happened knock it out. It feels like it’s not enough time because of Kevin Cossom. in the day for all the stuff I have on one plate, but I’m making it happen. // Do you feel it’s important for a new artist to work with a specific producer and come up with a signature sound? Or should they work with a lot of different producers until they

OZONE MAG // 23 Kevin Cossom has appeared in OZONE a handful of times, but the history behind your working relation- never as a Grammy-nominated ship with him? We met a few years ago, right around the time songwriter. KC is opening up 2010 I first got my publishing deal. A representa- with his first ever Grammy nod tive from my publishing company, Sam Taylor, for writing Keri Hilson’s “Knock sent me to work with Danja. At the time, You Down,” and he’s also raising Danja had just come off of working on Justin attention with his own single Timberlake’s Future Sex Love Sounds album. He “Relax” ft. Snoop Dogg. A familiar had just done “Promiscuous Girl.” He had been name behind the scenes of the doing a lot of big things. I was writing for a music industry, Kevin Cossom will girl group and he was producing for them. soon be a familiar face EVERY- We went in for a 3-day session and on the last day he asked me if songwriting was the only WHERE. thing I wanted to do. I told him no, it was just to pay the bills and I wanted to do the artist What have you been working on since your thing as well. He talked to my manager, and last OZONE interview a few months ago? about a month later he did some records for I just dropped a mixtape in November called me. We got in the studio for like five days and Hook Vs. Bridge. I’m promoting that heavy. I’m came up with four dope records. That’s how working on an album and trying to finish that we noticed there was a chemistry. A month up. We also got a song called “Relax” featur- later we did the same thing and got some ing Snoop that we’re going hard with. It’s more good records. We knew we needed to supposed to be the first single off the album. be working together, so I signed to his label We’ll be shooting a video in the next month. N.A.R.S. Records. You know, he produced I’ve still been doing a lot of writing. I got “Knock You Down,” so this is our first Grammy something out with Chris Brown called “What I nomination together. It proves that we’re a Do” featuring Plies. I wrote that with my home- good combination. boy Pooh Bear. I got a song on Mary J Blige’s album called “Tonight.” I got a few things on DJ The music industry is familiar with your Khaled’s album. I’m getting prepared for the name and your work by now. Are people Grammy Awards. A song I wrote for Keri Hilson starting to recognize your face yet? called “Knock You Down” is up for a Grammy I think the more I get the mixtape out there, this year. the more people research me. I’ve been a few places and people recognize me. When the Being nominated for a Grammy must be one video comes out and I get face time on cam- of the highest points of your career so far. era, more people will recognize me. Besides Definitely. It’s different if I just wrote the the face, people are recognizing the name chorus or put in a few lines, but I pretty much and that’s the most important. wrote the whole thing. I did the whole concept and everything. For it to be nominated for a You’re pretty much following the same path Grammy is huge. You know, for it to be a #1 as Ne-Yo or Keri Hilson, and there are predic- record was already crazy, but to be a Grammy- tions of you being that next big R&B artist. nominated songwriter is big. Are you prepared for that level of super- stardom? Tell us about your mixtape. Is it mostly origi- It’s nothing you can really prepare for. You just nal production, or is it more like a mixtape keep it in mind. You gotta realize you can’t format? do certain things you used to do all the time, Most of it is original. “Headboard” featuring or go some of the places you used to go. You Plies is a song I wrote the chorus to, but it’s just have to be smarter with the things you a Hurricane Chris and Mario record. I wrote do. That’s the biggest thing. I want to be as a verse to it so I wanted to do a remix for it. normal as possible, if that’s possible. But yeah, The Drake record “I Get Paper” is a remix I did. it’s hard to prepare for that when all you have Other than that, everything else is pretty much is an idea of how it’s going to be. All I can do is original. There’s a lot of good features – Rick stay focused and prioritize. Ross, Joe Budden, Pusha from The Clipse, and Kevin good production as well. It’s still a mixtape; Where can people get at you and hear some there’s 14 joints on there. of your music? Hit me up at KevinCossom.com or on Twitter: Cossom You’re signed to the producer Danja. What’s @KevinCossom. //

24 // OZONE MAG Kevin Cossom Words by Ms. Rivercity Photos by Ty Watkins

OZONE MAG // 25 Young Breed Words by Ms. Rivercity

26 // OZONE MAG As the newest member of Triple Cs, Young Breed appears on many of little bit for us ‘cause you know, we a gangsta the group’s songs, and is now re- rap group. But it’s all good, we always wit’ it. ceiving his recognition. Here’s an That’s why we doin’ mixtapes songs. We just update on what he’s been focused remixed the Jaheim record. We just touching on since our last interview for on that female fanbase and they’re checking his Patiently Waiting article. for us. We’re gonna give ‘em what they ask for. When you sit down to write a verse for the What have you been in the studio working ladies, who comes to mind? on recently? I just go from our day-to-day experiences and We’re working on our two mixtapes we’re traveling. I think about the ladies that go out finna drop. We’re pumping up for our new of their way to ask for a picture or autograph. album Color, Cut, Clarity. We got a lot of music, Or the ones that travel a few miles outside of a lot of freesyles we been droppin’, and we’re their city ‘cause they know we’re at that venue. definitely giving the streets somethin’ to look That’s what I’m thinkin’ about when I get it in. forward to. As far as your solo material, have you been People are starting to recognize you as part collaborating with anyone outside of the of the group now. Have a lot of people been group? reaching out? It’s all about Triple Cs right now, but of course Yeah, the response is amazing. We’re getting I’m working on my next project coming up more and more love from all markets. after Color, Cut, Clarity. I’ve been working with a lot of producers – Gorilla Tek, The Olympiks. You had been doing your thing for a while I’m about to drop a mixtape called Project before getting with Triple Cs. At what point President. did you realize you had enough skill to make this a full-time thing, so to speak? Was there Solo artists only have to worry about creat- a big moment of realization? ing their own material, but you have to con- What happened was, I already had got the centrate both on the group and your own stamp in the hood. I had my homies in the music. How do you keep up with all that? hood tellin’ me, “You can take this a lot further.” I love it. That’s what separates the hustlers But at the time I was just doin’ it ‘cause I had from the people just sitting in the studio a love for the music. What really motivated knocking out a song or two. I feel like I’ve me and changed my mind was when my big gotta broaden my horizons. We’re always brother told me, “You don’t understand what’s growin’; we’re always gon’ get better. I’m just goin’ on. People are startin’ to recognize you. puttin’ in work. It’s all good. That’s what bosses This is what you gotta pursue.” When I sat back do – multitask. You gotta make it happen. and focused on it, I noticed the progress I was Money comes from everywhere. makin’, and I buckled down. Do you have anything else you’re trying to So you’re now part of a major album release. do outside of recording? What are your thoughts on the album Triple I’m workin’ on my clothing line Uptown Ap- Cs recently put out? parel. We just inked the deal for Spilled Ink I felt like it was a great power move. People Originals too. Spilled Ink Originals is more got to hear all us individually. More and more high-end, fitted clothes. We opened up the people started taking to Gunplay, more people urban clothing line under Spilled Ink called started takin’ to Torch, more people started Uptown Apparel. We got t-shirts, hoodies, taking to me. We achieved the goal we were sweatshirts, denim pants. It’s lookin’ real good. looking for with this album. Y’all check that out on SpilledInkOriginals. com. For the new album, what are some things you want to put into it that didn’t appear in What else do you want to let the people the first one? know? We’re gonna touch on the female fanbase a The album Custom Cars & Cycles is in stores little bit more. I feel like we might have left out now. Color, Cut, Clarity is coming soon. Project a little bit of that genre for the ladies. President is on the way. Look for more music coming soon. // So is recording songs for females kinda step- ping out of your element? Yeah, I mean, it might be steppin’ out the box a

OZONE MAG // 27 28 // OZONE MAG OZONE MAG // 29

CP HOLLYWOOD Words by Ms Rivercity

CP Hollywood is a prominent the track I just did with him is poppin’ real fast. name listed in production cred- I’d definitely say Iceberg and BallGreezy too. its for South Florida artists. If Obviously Brisco and Billy Blue are doing their there’s a rapper in Miami you like, thing, but I think the next one is gonna be Iceberg, BallGreezy, or Bizzle. chances are CP has produced for ‘em. He most recently landed How did get your big break and start placing Trina’s new single, and has a few with all of those artists? other major things in the pipeline. I had a name in Tallahassee and I moved to South Florida in 2005 and started from square Who all have you produced for? You’re a com- one. But the first record that brought me atten- mon name when it comes to Miami producers. tion in Tallahassee was with Smoke from Field I’m probably most known for Unda Surveillance’s Mob called “Cut Friend.” I was actually an artist “Shone On Deck,” which was a big single here back then. The record that caught me a buzz in about a year and a half ago. Then I did a record Miami was “Shone On Deck.” with Sean P from the YoungBloodz. It was his sin- gle last year called “Hoodstar,” which I was singing What else do you have in the works right on. Last year I had a song out called “International now? How can people get at you for beats? Boss” with Haitian Fresh, Rick Ross, and Busta I got a street album coming out with Papa Rhymes, and another record with Haitian Fresh Duck. I produced the whole album. I signed two and Pleasure P called “No Panties.” I did a record 13-year-old female pop artists and I’m putting with Hurricane Chris and Kaliko called “Drank n together their album. People can hit me at cp- Dro,” and “I’m So Throwed” for Frank Black. [email protected] or Twitter @cphollywood954 or Myspace.com/cphollywoodsce. // Those are all some pretty hot records that got a buzz. All these records got on the radio. But I’ve worked with pretty much everyone in South Florida – Ice- berg, BallGreezy, I have Bizzle’s new single called “Recession Proof.” Khaled broke it the other day. I just did the Triple C’s record for Freddy Fred.

You didn’t mention the new record for Trina. That’s a pretty big placement. Yeah, the one with Trina, Diddy, and Keri Hilson. I had a beat ready and another producer I work with named K Pon laid some extra keys down. I got with a writer named King and he sent it to Trina’s team. It took them about 6 months to lay it down, it took forever, but they got Keri on it first. Then Diddy got on it.

Are you trying to achieve a certain sound or reach a certain audience? Or do you just pro- duce whatever you feel like it at that moment? The easiest stuff for me to make is down South music, but what I like to do and my best stuff is R&B/crossover/pop music. The Trina record is really like a pop record. There’s just a bigger audience for pop music and there’s more money created from the music. I just try to make singles. None of my music is really album cuts.

Who are the hot up-and-coming artists in South Florida? Bizzle has “Naked Hustle,” “Lip Bitin’ Animal,” and

OZONE MAG // 7 ShonieWords by Ms. Rivercity Photos by Frank Antonio

8 // OZONE MAG Recently acclaimed as the “Remix Queen,” this singer/musical poet keeps a song buzzing in South Florida. After breaking onto the father played piano. Even when I was younger, all scene a few years ago, Shonie I was taught to do was work on my craft. signed a deal with Slip N Slide/Def Jam and is currently working on When you put out your first album, what her solo debut album Passionate impression do you want to leave with your Pieces of Me. audience? That it’s real and I’m not trying to follow what ev- What’s new with you? eryone else is doing. I’m not just trying to come I’m working on my album. I’ve been working out with a club record like everyone else. I gotta with a lot of people like Brisco and Trina. Right do me at the end of the day. It’s what my feeling now we’re trying to figure out what the single is is. When they hear this, this is what I want them gonna be. I don’t want to move too fast, but not to feel. It’s too much going on in the world not too slow either. I did a record with Flo Rida that’s to talk about it. Everybody’s going through rela- crazy. I pray to God he puts that out. I did a record tionship problems; everybody’s going through with Brianna that I’m thinking of putting out as something. I want it to relate to everybody in the a single. Shouts out to her, she’s definitely one of world, where everybody can believe in it. the best things coming out right now. I’ve been doing crazy remixes. I just remixed “Say Aah” by So are you totally opposed to doing a club Trey Songz and I remixed Trina’s new single. We record? definitely goin’ hard. The album will be coming It’s an up and down thing. You try to figure out out this fall. It’s a new year and we wanna put out whether you wanna go club or radio or what’s bigger and better things. gonna work faster. Every artist always goes through that. Honestly, it’s up to the people, So did you have any New Year’s resolutions? because they have to accept it. They have to let Every year we just grind harder than what we’ve you know what’s working. That’s what we’re try- been doing. People that haven’t made it yet that ing to do now, let the people decide. We’ve been thought ’09 was gonna be they year, they’re defi- testing records on the internet and radio station nitely gonna go harder. We gotta look back and to get everyone’s opinion. figure out what we didn’t do. Every year we want to work harder and stay around positive people. Do you have any concrete records that you know for sure will make the album? You’re a signed artist still working as an inde- Ah, we have one called “Lights, Camera, Action” pendent, almost. Give us the specifics on the that was produced by Midus of Golden Child label deal you have. Productions. It was a buzz record so I know it’s When I signed to Slip N Slide that’s when the Def definitely going on the album. Jam deal came about. My name’s been out there for a hot minute. I put out my mixtape when I was So what would be some of the biggest mo- 17 and that’s what created the buzz. Def Jam saw ments in your career so far? the spins we were getting with my single at the When I sang in front of L.A. Reid. I didn’t think time, “Can’t Let Go,” featuring Fabolous. That’s how I was gonna get through that. My palms were the deal came about. In order to keep Def Jam sweating and that was a scary moment, but I interested, we gotta continue to do that, whether got through it. When he said, “Welcome to Def it’s putting out mixtapes or a buzz record. You Jam,” that was the greatest thing. A lot of people can’t wait on a label, you gotta do it yourself. dream of that. Wherever God takes me, that is always gonna be one of my proudest moments. Besides your singing talent, you’re known for your songwriting abilities as well. Where will you be during Super Bowl week- Oh yeah, I’ve always been writing. When I was 17, end? I was already working on Trina’s album, working I’m going to be everywhere, at all the hottest with Flo Rida, Brisco, the Diddy family, Day 26. parties. We’re gonna pop bottles for Super Bowl Weekend. // How did you develop your talent? Was it natu- ral, or did you practice for a long time? I was in the church. My mom was a minister so I stayed drawn to the church. I’ve always been around musical people. My mother sings; my

OZONE MAG // 9 TorchWords by Ms. Rivercity

10 // OZONE MAG Coming off a great year with several mixtapes heavy in the streets and one major label less features and more Triple Cs. People were release, Torch and Triple Cs are saying they wanted to hear a lot more of us. continuing to build their momen- They know we can hold our own, we’re nice tum. As one-fourth of the group, with it. So you gon’ hear more Triple Cs, more Torch also has his own lane and polished records, and the last album was supporters. Here Torch gives us a really more raw and uncut and for the street crowd. We gonna keep our street crowd, but rundown on what’s new for him, we gonna make a couple more records that and what makes him a standout will get a little more radio play. part of Carol City Cartel. So you’re trying to get more of that radio Tell us what you have poppin’ right now. market? We got the album Color, Cut, Clarity coming We already knew what the people wanted, soon. We got the new mixtape Sticks & Stones. now we gotta give the PDs and radio what I got my solo mixtape Crash Course comin’. We they want. All our mixtapes is what the people got a lot of big things comin’ this year. want, and our album is like a hot ass version of a mixtape. This new album is gonna be more You put out a lot of solo material last year. polished, you’re gonna hear a lot of growth What all did you have circulating? in Triple Cs. Of course it’s gonna surprise My shit be like albums. I have a lot of original everybody. material, I don’t usually jack people’s shit like everybody else. I had about 3 or 4 mixtapes Have you come up with any singles yet? worth of material. I’m working on my next We got a lot of records recorded, that’s all we street album. do. Right now we’re on everybody’s radar with “Teflon” for Ross’ new shit. When we record Being from New York, your sound touches a 100 songs, putting together an album isn’t re- different market than your group members. ally hard. Even with the last album, we didn’t When you’re looking for beats for your solo release the records that were good for radio, music, do you use the same producers as we kept it street, but we had those records. Triple Cs? Or do you work with different people? What direction are you trying to go with I work with everybody that provides heat. your own solo records? Sometimes I work with producers from the My music has always been more about life group, but those people craft different kind of than death. I’m pro-life. I talk about the beats that what I’m on because I’m not from struggle. You can just expect a lot of good this region. But a lot of my stuff on this new music from me. I done been there, done that, mixtape came from up north. We do have a touched on every subject in life. It’s time to couple Runners beats on it, JUSTICE League, start making more grown shit and get money. Transformers, Olympicks, just to name a few. It should be coming out within the next couple You have a reputation for lyrical content. of weeks. We’re gonna drop the Triple Cs mix- Definitely. The game has changed. You can’t tape first. We’re just keeping shit in the streets be in the trap forever. There’s gotta be some so we stay relevant in the game. We’re one of kind of message with your music. You gotta the hottest labels in the game. be able to balance it. That’s what makes Ross such a great rapper. He doesn’t just give you So you guys have a fourth member now, the trap; he makes good music too. That’s Young Breed. What do you think he adds to what I pride myself on. I’m a writer and I do a Triple Cs? lot of writing for people. That’s how I became He’s like the gutta, young version of Triple Cs. more musical with my craft. We just added another element by bringing him into the crew. We been seasoned together, Anything else you want to add? but when you get that younger strength in Everybody follow me on Twitter @TorchCCC to there, it’s like a big bowl of gumbo. keep up with everything. I got my own web- site TorchIsNY.com. It’s like somebody told me, Everyone likes to try to outdo their last proj- if you ain’t got 15 ways to get money in this ect. Are you guys trying to improve anything game you ain’t using it right – I’m up to 20. // from the last album? The only improvement is that there’s gonna be

OZONE MAG // 11 Gun Play

12 // OZONE MAG What kind of songs are going to be on your mixtape? Is it mostly original stuff or freestyles? It’s half and half. It’s gonna be action-packed. Gun I used the Jeezy and Rihanna “Hard” beat, I did Waka Flocka’s “O Let’s Do It,” I did “Get Wit This Pimpin” – that song that’s big in Atlanta. And I did stuff like Master P’s “How You Do Dat There,” the C Murder and BG beat, I went back Play a little. Known as a standout character What about the original beats? What do you have in the works as far as that goes? in Triple Cs, GunPlay may play I also got beats from some local producers like hard, but he works hard too. C-Nal Tracks. He got this one record that I’m Whether he’s dropping a verse about to go hard with called “Wild Out.” It’s me with Ross, Torch, and Young featuring Piccalo. It’s like a party vibe, some- Breed, or recording for his own thin’ they not expecting from GunPlay. I’m projects, GunPlay always has getting a real good response. It’s only been something new on deck. Be on the out a couple days and has a couple thousand lookout for his work on the new downloads. I’m about to shoot a video to that. Triple Cs Sticks & Stones mixtape, So I hear Triple C’s is already working on the the re-release of his SniffAHill next album Color, Cut, Clarity. tape, and his brand new project Ci- Yeah, we gon’ give ‘em more gangsta shit, gar Fare & Hardware coming soon. but this time we’re gonna definitely focus on radio. We’re gonna deal with less features, What’s new with you and Triple C’s? we want to showcase just Triple C’s more. We We’ve been hittin’ up the streets with these want to put the focus on Torch, GunPlay, and mixtapes, shooting videos, working on solo Young Breed, and everybody already know songs, as well as the crew. We just shot the how Ross does. We’re coming with more video with me, Breed, and Torch called “I Be hooks from us. Out Here.” We’re letting everyone know Triple Cs is still grindin’. Where will you be during Super Bowl Week- end? Do you have your schedule yet? Y’all stay keeping something new out there. I’m gon’ be jumpin’ around, I know that. I’m You’re always releasing new songs, mixtapes, gon’ be all over the place, gettin’ into so much and a lot of videos. It’s like y’all don’t really trouble. We gonna be everywhere. take any breaks. You gotta stay hot ‘cause it’s always a mutha- What about on nights when you’re not fucka tryin’ to take yo’ spot. You gotta keep booked somewhere? Where will you be givin’ ‘em hot new material and stay in they when you have some free time? face. That way, by the time you put the album One of my homie’s cribs or Ross’ crib. Or out, it’s a lot more people have seen your face probably at Take One. I keep it real simple. I and heard your music so they more likely to ain’t with all the extravagantness. I like to just buy the album. barbecue at my dawg’s crib in the hood or whatever, just chill. When are you dropping the new Triple C’s mixtape? What else is going on with you? Sticks & Stones will be out in February. I got EveryDayGunPlay.com coming soon. By the time y’all are reading this you can login to What about your solo mixtape? my website. I’ma show y’all how I’m livin’. You After Sticks & Stones, then I’ve got my tape gon’ see all my videos, all the new freestyles, Cigar Fare & Hardware comin’. I’m gonna re- download the mixtapes, do all that. I’ma have release SniffAHill. We’re gonna bombard the blogs on there, everythang GunPlay. // streets. Words by Ms. Rivercity

OZONE MAG // 13 Formerly the PD for 102.3 in Tal- ED DA WORLD lahasee, Ed Da World Famous IS NOW a DJ, on-air personality, and sports radio host in Miami. He FAMOUS can also be heard in Augusta and Words by Ms Rivercity Valdosta, GA, as well as ON the CORE DJs Radio show and his own internet show. He’s pretty much doing events. everywhere, and this Super Bowl weekend he’ll be interviewing What do you have going on for Super Bowl your favorite Athletes. Weekend? Monday through Friday of that week I’ll be on Introduce yourself and tell us what you have radio row interviewing athletes. I’m hosting the going on. midday show on 790 The Ticket. I’m one half of I’m Ed da World Famous. People know me for a show called The Sports Brothers with Jeff Fox. being a Program Director in Tallahassee at Blazin’ I got a bunch of Super Bowl parties tied in with 102.3. I left there about 4 years ago. I’m in Miami the radio station. Ricky Williams has an event. and I still do radio in other markets. I DJ in clubs Michael Irving has a couple events that we’ll around the city and I’m a full-time sports host. It’s be tied into. I’ll be at Sahari Lounge on Friday, a new venture I started. Saturday, and late Sunday night.

How long were you at the station in Tallahassee How does doing sports radio compare to before you moved to Miami? music radio? I started in radio in Tallahassee when I was in col- Hip Hop and music and sports all ties in well lege at WAMF. I went to work for WHBX. After that with each other. Every time we talk to an ath- I left Tallahassee and worked in Cincinnati and Co- lete, we make the conversation not only about lumbus, GA, then back to Tallahassee where I had what they do sports-wise, but we also ask who the opportunity to work as an on-air personality they got in the iPod, who they listen to when and run Blazin 102.3. I was there for four years. they get pumped up for a game. We’re not the typical hosts, we try to get them to relax and Do you have residencies in Miami or do you have a normal conversation. It makes it easier bounce around? when we do interviews. When I got down here, people knew me as a radio personality so I kinda had to fight my way in You mentioned that you do radio in other as a DJ. I’ve had a couple of residencies, and right markets. Which ones? now I’m at a spot called Sahari Lounge. Other I still do music radio. I voice track for a station in than that, I bounce around at spots like Sobe Augusta, GA and one in Valdosta, GA. I do my Live, Ink, Cameo, Dreams. Personally, I really enjoy own show called World Famous Radio, it’s on a couple internet stations. I’m also the technical producer for the CORE DJs radio show. I pretty much put that show together and mix as well. It airs on 27 stations every week. I have my hands in both sports and music radio and I’m happy where I’m at right now.

Besides radio, are you involved with any other ventures? I work with Lex Promotions as Director of New Artists. It’s kinda like A&Ring. A lot of local acts want to know how to promote their music in a way that makes sense. They come to me and I explain how Lex Promotions promotes. So you could say I help local artists step their promo- tional game up.

How can the people stay up to date on what you have going on? My website is WorldFamousRadioShow.com, as well as 790TheTicket.com. //

14 // OZONE MAG ED DA WORLD FAMOUS Pretty Ricky

16 // OZONE MAG Words by Ms. Rivercity Pretty Photo by Hannibal Matthews Ricky

OZONEOZONE MAG // 17 << Though not the same group when it comes down to sex with me. I do it all. that emerged on the scene in 2004, I like all types of girls – freaky, shy, bossy. I’m a Pretty Ricky is grinding the same variety man. I gotta have some Taco Bell, some in 2010. Diamond Baby Blue, Spec- KFC, Wendy’s, and a home cooked meal. tacular, Slick ‘Em, and Lingerie Lingerie: I just like to do whatever a woman tells released a self-titled album late me to do to please her. last year and are already back to work on a new album. Here they What’s going on with the new album? I hear talk about their independent you’re back in the studio already. endeavors, as well as some of the Lingerie: The new album is called Bluestar 2. It’s gonna be hot. We have a new record with recent media attention they’ve Jodeci and H Town. Working with legends was a received. dream come true. Just to be spoken in the same breath with Jodeci and H Town is crazy. You released an album not too long ago. How’s Slick ‘Em: This album is gon’ be way different. It’s that doing? off the planet right now. We just started work- Spectacular: It’s doing what it do. We wanted to ing on it less than a week ago. make a real sexual album where you can just Spectacular: We’re taking a whole other ap- press play and make love all night. proach with this album, trying new stuff. Diamond Blue: It’s doing great. We’re indepen- Whatever comes out is gon’ be a classical album dent so it’s a different ball game for us than when like we always give the fans out there. They’ll we were major. We love the independent game. get their money’s worth. The name of our company is Bluestar Entertain- ment International. The name of the album is I see you guys are sticking with the coordinat- Pretty Ricky. It’s the official baby makin’, love ing outfits. Do you have a stylist or someone makin’, headboard breakin’, panty droppin’, have a that creates these looks for you? baby by me be a millionaire album. Diamond Blue: Yeah, April Roomet is our stylist. Slick ‘Em: When all of us dress as one it creates Since you brought up baby-making, Blue, let’s unity. We feel more like a group when we wear talk about Tisha Martin-Campbell’s younger the same thing. sister Tiara. She claims you got her pregnant. Diamond Blue: Man, I fucked her. I ain’t even gon’ Spec, last year when you made your Youtube lie. I wore a rubber though. That ain’t my baby. grind off videos, was that just for promotion? I guess that’s the price of fame. I strapped up! I It got you a lot of attention. really think it’s just a fan doin’ what overzealous Spectacular: It didn’t really matter about all that fans do. She hit me with some pictures talkin’ stuff, I did it ‘cause I wanted to. At the end of about she pregnant, then she hit me with anoth- the day, it was promotion and it brought hype er message talkin’ ‘bout she gettin’ an abortion, around the album. It is what it is. all kinds of crazy stuff. The story just don’t match up. It’s cool though, they used a real cute picture Are all of you single? of me [in the blogs] so I don’t mind. Spectacular: Yeah, I’m a bachelor, baby. Diamond Blue: I’m seeing someone right now. Well back to the music – last year you guys Slick ‘Em: I’m seeing a lot of people right now, all made some noise with the “Tipsy” song. What’s over the world. on the agenda now? Lingerie: I’m single. Diamond Blue: Yeah we had “Tipsy In Dis Club” and now we have “Say a Command.” I wrote and Do you have any set plans for Super Bowl produced ‘em. We wanted to give y’all that Pretty weekend? Ricky sound – that real sexy, in the bedroom Spectacular: With the tragedy that happened music. in Haiti, I’m doing a Madden tournament and a Super Bowl party to benefit Haiti. You can go to Going along with the theme of “Say a Com- our website PrettyRicky.com or my Twitter.com/ mand,” what are some of your favorite com- IAmSpectacular and I’ll keep everyone updated. mands in the bedroom? You can subscribe to my hotline for information Diamond Blue: I love when a woman tells me to 877-305-7732. You can call me – I do freak hour eat her pussy and I get the opportunity to say… every Friday at 11pm EST. Our other Twitter ”No!” (laughs) pages are @DiamondBlue, @SlickemHound, Slick ‘Em: I like to do everythang. It’s no limit and @LingeriePR. We also got our own reality show on PrettyRicky.com. We broadcast every weekday at 8pm EST. //

18 // OZONE MAG OZONE MAG // 19 Swazy Styles Words by Ms Rivercity Photo by James P

20 // OZONE MAG Originally from the Bronx, NY, Swazy Styles (NOT TO BE CONFUSED also working on my album called Hustle Life. I WITH GEORGIA NATIVE AND SLIp-N- got production from CP Hollywood, The Run- SLIDE SIGNEE SWAZY BABY) MADE ners, Mike Beatz, Ace of Spades. I got Triple major moves after moving to Cs on the album, KC, Billy Blue. I got K Pon on South Florida. Taking advantage the album. He has a big song with Flo Rida. I’m looking to release the album in the 2nd of the networking opportunities quarter of 2010. I got distribution so it will be around him, Swazy has the sup- on iTunes, Amazon, and all that. port of many area DJs, including Shadyville’s DJ Epps. Here, Swazy Are you pushing any songs as a single? explains how he’s taking his craft My first single I dropped was called “Pockets to the next level. Full of Green.” It was cosigned by Shadyville DJ Epps. He’s my official resident DJ. It played How did you start getting your name out on radio from Palm Beach to Dade County. I there? did well with the ringtones. I had over 54,000 I started out freestyle battling on the block in ringtone downloads. Now I’m working on my New York. I was real animated with my flow second single called “Sounds Like Money.” I and delivery. I used to eat a lot of dudes up. I dropped that last February. It did so well that saw I could put together songs, so me and my Unda Surveillance wanted to jump on it so crew put together a nice home-based studio. we got the remix with Unda Surveillance. The People started liking our music so promoters video is out. The remix is in heavy rotation started booking us for shows. At the time I was in clubs and radio. I’m going to let the remix in a group called Amped Up with another art- bubble a little bit and drop my next record in ist called Precise. We continued on our journey March called “Already” ft. K Pon, produced by for about 5 or 6 years and then I went solo. CP Hollywood.

What brought you to Miami? Do you know what you’ll be doing Super I moved to Miami in 1993. We came out here in Bowl Weekend? Are you booked anywhere? for opportunity. I was young, my mom’s loved I’m booked at Club Dream, SOBE Live, and I’ve it out here ‘cause of the weather and all that. It got a show at Nocturnal in Downtown Miami. was a better environment to raise a teenager I’ll be real heavy that weekend. in. When we moved down here, I continued to pursue my goal. I met all the right people and What else do you have going on? networked. I established a name for myself in I have two tours set up. We’ve got the Dream Miami and Ft. Lauderdale and Palm Beach. Big, Hustle Hard Tour set up. We’ll be doing 10 cities, starting out with Miami, Orlando, and You have a decent internet presence. What Atlanta. I’ll also be in the Bay Area and North have you been doing to establish yourself on Carolina. the net? 8 months ago I teamed up with a company What’s the overall impression you want to called YoRaps.com. They’re managing my PR leave with people, as far as your musical and giving me an online presence. We also did style and who you are as an artist? a mixtape feature for their website, presented I want everybody to know that Swazy Styles is by Block Starz Music. I had a lot of heavyhitter here to give you originality. I like to party and DJs cosign me like Supastar J, DJ Epps, Chuck have a good time, so that’s part of my music. T, DJ Drama, DJ Scream, DJ Nasty. I had over 7 At the same time, I like to give something DJs cosign my mixtape. My mixtape had 40% back to the streets. I’d say my style is versatile of the downloads on the website. When they for everybody. I’m originally from New York, saw that, they knew there was a hunger for my so I got that New York swag with that down music so they presented me with a contract. I South sound at the same time. Excellence is signed with Block Starz Music. my goal.

What’s the next move? Is there anything else you want to add? I got my assistant Aldo working real hard for I want everyone to check out my website me. I’m gonna continue to build that buzz out SwazysWorld.com. Check me out on YoRaps. here on radio, Power 96, and 99 Jamz. I just com and BlockStarzMusic.com. For inquiries, finished a mixtape called Live From the County holla at my personal assistant Aldo Mottolese Line, hosted by DJ Laz from Power 96 and DJ 305-643-0786. // GQ. It’s got 7,000 downloads right now. I’m

OZONE MAG // 21 Hot Yella

Words by Ms Rivercity Photo by Asap Imaging

22 // OZONE MAG Hot Yella is a fast rising name emerging from the Tallahassee area. Recent cosigns from DJs Storm and Supastar J Kwik have a Are you doing another mixtape soon? lot of people checking for Yella, I’m working on singles right now. I’m coming and her new song “Miss Me” is tak- out with something every couple months. ing off in Florida. Right now I got “Miss Me,” I got a freestyle to Jay-Z’s “On to the Next.” It got on a mixtape Introduce yourself and tell us how you this week and “Miss Me” got on two mixtapes started rapping. this week. I also got a new single coming out Well, I started off singing. The first time I ever called “Cat Walk.” recorded anything I was in 7th grade. I actually rapped a little back then, but I started out sing- You mentioned interning at the radio sta- ing. I also write music – I write R&B and Hip tion. What were some things you learned in Hop records. I’m an artist on Triple Threat, so the internship that have helped with your a lot of people know me for my tagline “Triple music career? Threat.” It was a promotional internship and I also did a couple call-ins. It helped me. Radio and Where are you from originally? doing music is somewhat alike. You have to be I’m from Tallahassee. I was born in Florida. I’m good at networking and dealing with people. also from Madison, Wisconsin and Las Vegas. There’s a lot of good information you can I moved around a lot. In high school I went to learn in radio and bring that over into music. three different schools. I moved around a lot in middle and elementary school too, so my It seems like Tallahassee would be a good versatility comes through in my music. market to gain a fanbase with all the college students living there. Is that an advantage Do you still sing at all? Or are you strictly for you? rapping now? Yeah, 100 percent. We have all these universi- Yeah, I still sing on some of my hooks. I’m ties here. If you can’t touch the people here mostly rapping right now though. I’m making and make a mark in the music industry, then a lot of fun records, a lot of club records right it’s probably gonna be way harder for you to now. That’s what I really love to do – make do it in a different market. There’s so many feel-good, happy music, stuff for the ladies. But students and people thirsty for entertainment I also write R&B records and sing. and clubs.

Tell us about the “Miss Me” song you have As a representative for the ladies, what do buzzing on the net. you feel is missing from the game as far as “Miss Me” is out right now. I really wanna give a that goes? big shout out to Supastar J Kwik in Tallahasse, There’s an obvious lack of female artists. I also all the DJs on Twitter, Facebook, and think a lot of it has to do with how women Myspace supporting the record. “Miss Me” is a present themselves as a business entity. A lot song for the ladies. There’s a free download on of men look at it as more of a business. But HotYella.com. with Lady Gaga and Nicki Minaj, people like that, I think it’s going to be changing soon. What’s the situation with you and DJ Storm? People are really thirsty to hear a good female Are you her artist or is she just helping you artist. There’s gonna be more to come from get your name out there? “bad bitches.” Storm and I work together. I had been doing music for a while [before we linked up]. We What else do you have in the works? worked in radio together. I interned at the Look out for my new single and keep yourself station Blazin’ 102.3 for about a year and we updated on HotYella.com. That’s where every- became friends. She hosted my mixtape that I thing is, links to my Myspace, Facebook, Twit- put out last June. I was gonna put out the mix- ter. For booking you can contact 26 Talent at tape anyway, and Storm was like, “I’m all about 850-320-1030. All my ladies, keep your heads my ladies, chicks in charge.” So she wanted to up and you’ll hear more to come. // host it. It turned out to be a real good mixtape. It’s called Life of a Triple Threat. You can also check that out on my website.

OZONE MAG // 23 What’s the plan for Ace Hood? He did two albums and everyone’s wondering where Back to his usual tricks, DJ Khaled you’re going to go from here with him. is busy putting the biggest names We have a smash record. I’m about to release in rap together onto one super- his single. We got a new record coming out project. Victory, Khaled’s fourth with Trey Songz that’s a fuckin’ hit! compilation album, is slated for release this March. among the Ace already had one single come out with expected features like THE USUAL Trey Songz that did pretty well. Is that why SUSPECTS YOUNG Jeezy, Rick Ross, you went with him again on a collaboration? The record you’re talking about was like a Wayne, and T-Pain, there’s also a Top 10 record I think. It was huge. That record big surprise Khaled is waiting to doing so well is what made me realize that REVEAL. Ace is good at making records for the ladies. Another reason I had Trey and Ace do another What’s new with you? We’ve been hearing a record together – they have great chemistry. lot about the album lately. What’s the update But that was a learning experience for Ace, with that? he had to find himself. Ace comes from the The album is coming out March 2nd. It’s called hood so he hadn’t experienced a lot of stuff Victory. This is my fourth album. musically in his life. Right now he’s a brand new fresh artist coming into his own. He’s got It’s been a little while between your last some hits under his belt, and we’re gonna album and this one. What are some things drop a new one this year that’s gonna be big. you’ve been focused on in the meantime? Well, I’m the President of Def Jam South so You’re known for creating super collabos. I’m busy with that. I’m working with Rick Ross, What types of features can we expect on Jeezy, Ludacris, Ace Hood, basically the whole your album? Def Jam lineup. I’ve got a single out now called “Fed Up” featuring Usher, Jeezy, Ross, Weezy, and As President of Def Jam South, what exactly Drake. The video is huge. I’m about to drop are your roles under that title? What are you two records. My second single is called “All I expected to accomplish? Do Is Win” featuring Ludacris, T-Pain, Snoop, Everything. The President delivers hit records, and Ross. I have another record called “Put Ya makes sure my artists are happy, and oversees Hands Up” featuring Jeezy, Ross, and Plies. It’s each project as a whole. I did that last year gonna hurt the streets on a whole other level. with Rick Ross’ album. That went #1. We broke I guarantee Victory. a new artist last year named Ace Hood. This year we got Rick Ross coming back out with If you could put some artists from any era on Teflon Don. I predict that will be #1. We got one record together, who would you have Jeezy coming out with TM103. I predict that collaborate to make an epic song? will be #1. Ludacris is coming out with a new Definitely Jay-Z, Michael Jackson, Bob Marley, album soon. I predict that will be #1. We just Tupac, and Biggie. workin’. Def Jam is one big team. We all come together and help each other – from all the What would you name that record? executives, to all the A&Rs, to all the promo- “I Am Legend.” tions people. You also recently signed a new artist from When you first started working and build- Virginia, right? ing the Khaled name, is this where you saw He goes by the name of Rum. Rum is from yourself going? Richmond, VA. I’m taking my time with Rum. This is exactly what I predicted I was gonna do. He’s so big in his city and his street cred is so amazing. He has like five records playing So did you have a specific plan in mind for on radio in his city; he has like 20 records in your career path, like an outline of goals? Or the club in his city. He has his city in a frenzy. did it just fall into place? His buzz over there is so crazy. His wordplay I definitely set goals to get to a certain level and punchlines are so amazing. The way the every year. I still got more goals to accomplish, game is structured now, it’s different, so it’s but each year it played out. hard to break new artists because the game is so saturated. So what I’m doing with Rum

24 // OZONE MAG DJ Khaled Words by Ms. Rivercity

OZONE MAG // 25 is taking my time. The same buzz he has in his city, I want that to leak to other cities, like //DJ Khaled Miami, the rest of Florida, Atlanta, and beyond. continued We’re doing mixtapes, doing promo runs, and leaking music until we get a groundbreaking record that we can’t control. And when that It’s harder because I have to deal with clear- happens, he’ll already have his big buzz so it’ll ances, scheduling, and there’s so many artists all connect. I have a vision with him to be the involved. But I’m respected, and with my re- next big street authentic, down South artist, lationships and passion for the music, people with real raps. know I can do it. That’s why I’m on my fourth album. I put quality music out there. But I Do you have anyone else signed to We the make my albums like I’m a solo artist, like I’m Best? Nas, Biggie, Pac, Pun, Wayne, or Jay-Z. When a I signed an R&B kid named Jarvis out of lot of people make compilation albums, they Atlanta. You’re going to hear some music from just put records together, but not me – I put him real soon. Right now it’s all about Victory, a sound together. When you hear it, you’ll so I’m gonna start breaking Jarvis sometime understand why it’s titled Victory. My records in March. are big records. It’s special.

This is the same Jarvis that was signed to Do you have plans to work with any female DTP? What made you interested in him? artists? I don’t think we’ve seen too much of He used to be with Jermaine Dupri too. I didn’t that from you yet. really know who he was, and what happened I’m supposed to put Nicki Minaj on this one. was, I heard his music, some of the new She’s agreed to it, but with her schedule and records y’all haven’t heard yet, and it was so mine we haven’t done it yet. I don’t want to amazing. I heard the passion. I got records in put her on just any record. It’s got to be right. the safe right now that’s crazy. He just hasn’t I’ve worked with females before – Lil Kim was had his chance yet. I feel like he’s young, the on my last album. Trina’s been on two or three girls love him, and under my brand with his hit albums. I’m looking forward to working with records, he’s about to explode. He’s another Nicki Minaj in the future. I want to work with one that I’m going to take my time with. Every- Lil Kim again. And of course I want to work one under my belt, I’m developing them right with R&B artists like Keyshia Cole, Beyonce, now. I’m not just gonna throw them out there, Alicia Keys, Mary J Blige. That’s my next goal. it takes time. It took me 15 years to get where I’ve worked with some of them on other proj- I’m at, maybe longer. If you ask any artist, from ects, but not on mine. Jeezy to Ross to T.I. or Wayne, they’ll tell you they’ve been doing it for like 20 years. A lot of You’ve confirmed that Shyne is being fea- people take this game for granted – it’s a grind. tured on the album. When can we expect to It’s work. hear that? I’m going to talk to Shyne and see if we’re You mention developing your artists and going to put it out ahead of time or wait. I’m making sure they’re ready to be released. letting Shyne decide the destiny of the record Are they ready enough for your upcoming we have together, out of respect, because album? nobody’s heard from him in a while. He actu- They’re going to get a look on my album, ally co-produced the record. I got a totally definitely. Rum has a solo record on my album different respect for Shyne. I don’t want to called “Bringin’ Real Rap Back.” I feel like this give away the concept of the record, but we record is one of those street records that’s just have a big surprise. gonna give him a stamp. When people buy my album, they’re gonna love it. They’ll be like, What else do you have going on that people “Damn, who is this kid?” It’s part of the break- should know about? ing process. Then when they research him in My album Victory is coming out March 2nd. Virginia, they see that he’s the king in Virginia. I promise you it’s amazing. I got every artist in the game on there, and I put amazing You’re helping put together major releases concepts to amazing records. Look out for “All for solo artists alongside doing your album, I Do Is Win” and “Put Ya Hands Up.” Look out for which involves a lot of artists. Is creating an “All My Life” – that’s one of the titles I want to album like yours more difficult? There’s prob- put out there. // ably a lot more involved.

26 // OZONE MAG //DJ Khaled continued

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