Tessanne Chin Tessanne Chin

The ‘Best Worldwide Driven’ Variety & Entertainment Magazine
March/April 2016
Tessanne
Chin
NBC’s ‘The Voice’
journey with me
5 Healthy & Cheap
EASTER BASKET IDEAS
BRYAN HAYES
“farther down
the line”
ST PATRICK’S DAY
FOODIE IDEAS
DROWNING
POOL
HELLELUJAH
OVER a decades worth Of experience and knowledge
Features
04 Bryan Hayes
Farther Down The Line
06Legendary
Gritty, Poetic And Intellecutal
08 Gary Nelson
Continues To Burn
10 Drowning Pool
HELLELUJAH
18Pelugion
This Is Only The Beginning
19JCraig
A Quiet Storm Stirring
21Wormbass
Fulfilling His Destiny
COVER STORY
12Tessanne Chin
Much Has Happened Since “The Voice”
Lifestyle | HEALTH
07 5 Healthy & Cheap Easter Ideas
Have Fun With Healthier Easter Baskets
14 Dr. Vastola’s Health Tips (Column)
The Dangers Of Taking Things For Granted
16 St Patrick’s Day Food Ideas
5 Simple & Healthy Foodie Ideas
22 Be Inspired (Column)
Eloho Shares Words Of Inspiration
ENTERTAINMENT
17 All Hands On Deck (Last Column)
Sierra Alston Interview
23
Juniper On The Water
Industry Passion Into Reality
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Bryan Hayes
B
ryan Hayes crafts personal narra-
“I wasn’t really thinking of a theme, but now that it’s
tives with a novelist’s eye (“Let’s
complete I guess the constant theme I see and hear
Ride”) and a poet’s elegance
is just real life. The songs are real. They’re things
(“Small Town Amazing Grace”).
that I’ve lived and experienced. Like Jimmy Buffett
Clear evidence: The Memphis
said in a song ‘some of its magic and some of it’s
area resident’s seamless Farther Down The Line.
tragic’. Some of the songs make me smile and some
Hayes’ excellent new collection spotlights a rap-
of them make me cry, but I felt like they all have
idly rising songwriter growing exponentially (the
a place on this record.” They certainly do. Farther
title track). “This record was definitely written with
Down The Line effortlessly splits the delicate dif-
more confidence,” Hayes explains. “I was not afraid
ference between moving (“Tangle Me Up in You”)
to touch on subject matter that I might have shied
and grooving (“Everything’ll Be Okay”).
away from a few years ago. I now know what a gift
this career is, so I feel like I owe it to my folks to be
Folks notice. “Not only does Bryan craft a great
honest and open. I want the songs to come from my
song with melody and music, but more impor-
heart.”
tantly he crafts a great story with his lyrics and he
sings them the only way he knows how – from his
Hayes frequently delivers keen insight with earthy
heart,” says Andy Hunt, the celebrated Grammy-
elegance. “We break out those old CDs and do our
winning, Nashville-based producer. Frequent Guy
best to sing along,” he sings on the buoyant open-
Clark collaborator Noel McKay echoes: “Bryan
er “Let’s Ride.” “We fumble through the verses and
Hayes’ songs always come from that sincere place
shout the chorus loud and strong, with both those
that seems to effortlessly draw the listener in. He
speakers blaring Guy Clark and John Prine/Baby,
is among the rare songwriters truly capable of
tonight let’s ride.” The song effectively serves as
channeling life experience into great, listenable
a blueprint for the Memphis songwriter’s career:
songs.”
Free your mind. Loose inspiration within. Let music
speak.
The excellent new album doubles down on past
high watermarks (Still Just a Man…10 Years Later)
“While I was writing for this record, I was just trying
with vivid vignettes throughout (“Southern Rain,” “I
to write the best songs that I could,” Hayes explains.
Wanna Run”). Admittedly, Hayes’ canvas for subject
4 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com
matter has expanded with greater breadth and depth. “I touch on
Still Just a Man…10 Years Later marked a reflective moment in a
God and politics a bit in this record,” he says. “Sometimes that’s a
career built from the ground up. Hayes’ debut Just a Man (2004)
tough row to hoe when you’re playing a lot of the smaller clubs like I
earned a loyal following in the Mid-South and boosted his touring
do, but my songwriting heroes did the same thing. They were always
schedule as well as earning two “Best Of” Memphis Songwriter
open and honest, and I loved that about them. I have always admired
Awards. His second album Long Hard Road (2006) took Hayes and
the fact that Billy Joe Shaver has the courage to sing about Christ
his band ‘The Retrievers’ to the regional level with independent
in bars and clubs. I actually got to open for him in late 2014 and I
internet radio play over the Southeast. His Tangle Me Up In You EP
thanked him for that.”
(2013) grew his audience even farther and earned opening slots for
Randy Houser, Turnpike Troubadours, Billy Joe Shaver and several
Spin that word and expand the notion: Thankful. You’ll notice Hayes
others. “Bryan Hayes and I both come from the Deep South,” says
express the feeling around every twist and turn. Much has to do
The Trisha’s singer-songwriter Kelley Mickwee. “That means he tells
with returning from a side trip he took years ago: Fighting in the
it like it is.”
war in Iraq. Naturally, that mission pushed his songwriting toward
the back burner. “There was a two-year window in 2009 and 2010
His straightforward approach has paid off handsomely. Hayes’
when I was deployed to Iraq and I had to put the guitar in the closet,”
songs have appeared on several compilation albums including the
he says. “I was either at Fort Benning Georgia training or in Iraq. As
Memphis Songwriters Association’s 2010 Members Only album
the military tour started winding down, I picked up the guitar again in
(“Soldier’s Prayer”) and Retriever Records 2012 compilation B-Sides,
Mosul, Iraq and started writing again and reconnecting with music and
Demos & Lies “Woman (You’re Amazing To Me)” and “Small Town
how much I love and missed songwriting.”
Amazing Grace”. Additionally, Hayes appeared on Retriever Records’
2012 live album Live At Farmhouse Studio (“Long Hard Road,” “Texas
Hayes looked toward songwriters like Clark and Prine for insight
in a Bottle”). In addition to writing and performing, Bryan is a
and inspiration when entering the studio for his triumphant return
producer and engineer at Farmhouse Recording Studio (www.farm-
to the fold, Still Just a Man…10 Years Later, effectively modeling the
houserecordingstudio.com) in Moscow, TN.
recording process after the 2012 Americana Album of the Year This
One’s for Him: A Tribute to Guy Clark. “That record changed my life,”
he says. “The way those songs were presented was just so intimate. It
Contact Information
sounded like you were in the room with those guys. Guy’s ability to be
brutally honest is what I take away. He gets right to the point. There’s
Website: BryanHayesMusic.com
no fluff, no smoke and mirrors. Everything from the music to the lyrics
Twitter: @BryanHayesMusic
to the production needs to be there. The first time you hear ‘Stuff That
Instagram: BryanHayesMusic
Works,’ you shake your head and smile and go, ‘That’s it. That’s all it
needs.’ You instantly relate.”
All Rights Reserved
BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 5
legendary
E
rik “Legendary” Heath was born October 15,
1990 in Baltimore MD.
Legendary grew up around Edmondson Ave. A
street notorious for drugs and gang violence.
Legendary was invited to the 2014 BET Hip-Hop Awards the
year he decided to start rapping. That’s not the amazing part!
He had NO industry connections whatsoever. NO knowledge
of recording or promotion. NO mixtape or single out. Only
his street ties.
He fell into the temptation the streets
brought, but decided that going to college
was more important.
Legendary’s lyrics are gritty because of his
street ties, but his college education gives
a poetic and intellectual influence on his
music that appeals to all listeners.
He grew up listening to Cassidy, Fabolous,
Scarface, Method Man, NAS, and of course
Sisqo & Dru Hill. You can almost hear it in
the music.
Contact Information:
Email: [email protected]
Legendary conveys the same lyricism that
these artists used to dominate the rap
game in the 90’s/00’s but with modern
production and limited resources as an independent artist.
Twitter: @LegendaryTBM
Instagram: Legendary410
Photography/Artwork Credit: @Andodaman_Ceo
All Rights Reserved
6 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com
5 healthy & CHEAP
easter basket ideas
Minimize sugar and maximize fun for healthier Easter baskets.
3. Give the gift of reading for Easter. Your tweens won’t know
they’re building their vocabulary with that trendy, yet inexpensive
You’re filling your kids Easter basket to the brim with calorie laden
paperback you tucked into their Easter basket. Find out what the
goodies. Does that make you a bad mom? No. It just means you
latest popular tweenage book series is. Tuck the first book into their
want to put a smile on their faces. Unfortunately, those smiles
Easter baskets to get them started. Just make sure you’re prepared
won’t be bright long if your tweens eat all those sweets. Go ahead
to purchase the rest once they get hooked!
and give them those chocolate bunnies. It’s an Easter tradition. As
for the rest of the basket, try one or more of these cheap, healthy
4. How about adding a dollar store jigsaw puzzle? Tweens love
Easter basket fillers.
them. They’re educationally healthy. They don’t cause cavities. Plus,
they’re well within the budget.
1. Make some healthy Easter basket treats. Your tweens might like
some homemade goodies to replace those artificially sweetened
5. Add cheap Easter basket’ stocking stuffer’ type toys. Head back
store bought treats. Why are homemade treats healthier? You can
to the dollar store for small items like jacks, tops and balls for old
control the amount of sugar. Plus, you know exactly what else you
fashioned fun. Look around the store for more ideas. Add wind-up
used to make them. Sneaky moms can add healthy ingredients like
toys, travel games, a yo-yo or whatever else you can find. Tweens
nuts and whole grains to maximize nutrition.
might also appreciate an inexpensive gift card from their favorite
store. Easter fun doesn’t have to equate with cavities and stomach-
2. Inexpensive art supplies make a nice themed Easter basket for
aches. Minimize sugar and maximize fun for healthier Easter bas-
tweens. Creative development is essential to kids’ health.
kets.
Try adding these popular items:
*Paint and brushes
*Crayons and coloring books
*Clay
*Markers or colored pencils
*Paper
BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 7
gary nelson
G
ary Nelson is a singer, songwriter and
guitar player from Chicago, IL. He now
resides in Arkansas.
Gary started singing late in life. Elvis and the Beatles
were huge influences on his musical direction, so his
songwriting will sometimes have those flavors to them.
Nelson sings lead, harmony and plays guitar, lead/
rhythm, bass, drums and dabbles with some keyboards
now and then.
Gary loves writing songs with interesting melodies and
rhythms. He considers himself as a creator of music,
and loves doing just that!
Nelson writes, records, produces and arranges all of his
material.
Gary loves to perform in front of an audience and
strives to create ‘on-stage’ the same sounds that are
produced on his song’s recordings.
Nelson’s song catalog has well over 100 unpublished
songs and he continues to write songs and perform for
the masses with his latest single “Continues To Burn”.
Contact Information
Twitter: @GN125072
ReverbNation: GaryNelsonOneOnly
The single “Continues To Burn” is Available Now!
Facebook: JamesGaryNelsonOnlyOne
itunes.apple.com/album/id1057416691
All Rights Reserved
8 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com
F
rom the sunny shores of a Floridian sky to the
Not only affording the world of music a genuine outlet to purvey
ears and eyes of a worldwide audience BWD
it’s unbridled talents BWD Radio also promotes and inspires the
has grown from an acorn of an idea into an oak
musicians it unveils, the multi-faceted nature of BWD incorporat-
tree of industry-might, its roots deep within the
ing all avenues of generating awareness and recognition to the
strata of social sites and online promotions, its
talents it reveals, encouraging the growth of their fan-base and
branches far-reaching and bearing fruitfulness aplenty.
helping propel them onto the iPods and bedroom walls of a global
audience.
Starting out developing websites Ms. V proved herself more guru
than mere graphic designer, her final works forging a reputation of
With the recent successful launch of the BWD Radio app the audi-
being the go-to girl for all things attention grabbing and intuitive.
ence all artists are looking to find are as close as they have ever
been, right on the other side of millions of touch-screens and
Quickly she began laying the foundations for what would become
monitors, smart-phones and tablets all bearing the app’s visage
her own empire, reputation growing with each engagement and
across their surface.
the horizon of possibilities expanding even further than first
dreamed.
Now a major player in the world of radio and media, the leader in
the field of generating buzz around the artists it plays on its non-
Whilst making some of the connections that would see BWD
stop, commercial free station, and proudly wearing the banner of
become a leader in its field murmurings and mutterings regarding
being The Home Of The Indie Artists BWD founder Ms. V has proven
the state of the music business came filtering through the wire.
you don’t need a thousand lawyers fighting over who gets the
Listening to the sounds of discontent chattering in the background
best parking spot in front of offices to forge a dominant empire
it became clear that, for all the talented individuals with credible
of multi-faceted out-lets; as the late great British entertainer Roy
worth vying for the attentions of a label or promoter, those in the
Castle once said ‘Dedication’s all you need’. The ‘Best Worldwide
Industry were more concerned with how profitable a bottom-line
Driven’ Station.
they could wring from their talents than the merits and music of
the people themselves.
An avid appreciator of new and classic music Veralyn saw a gap
in the market for someone with the knowledge and nous, connections and cunning, and - of course - the dedication to provide
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drowning pool
G
iant riffs, crowd moving grooves and monstrous vocals are the tools with which
DROWNING POOL build triumph out of tragedy, steadily evolve without compromise,
and remain true to their supporters with over a decade’s
worth of remarkable fortitude and attitude. HELLELUJAH is
absolutely the album their diehard fans demanded and the
aggressive heavy rock world at large deserved.
The platinum-plus conquerors from The Lone Star State
deliver their heaviest batch of hell raising anthems, each
burning with fiery adrenaline destined to light the radio
ablaze and ignite crowds into impassioned sing-alongs.
Only a few seconds into the album’s first single, “By the
Blood,” it’s evident that Hellelujah is the most aggressive,
ambitious, and truly definitive Drowning Pool album since
Sinner, the platinum platter that gave the world Top 20 rock
radio hit “Tear Away” and the massively successful “Bodies.”
It doesn’t get more brazenly defiant than Drowning Pool
Hellelujah bangers like “We Are the Devil,” “Goddamn Vultures,”
or “Push”: forward thinking modern rock anthems incorporating classic elements of brutal grooves with melodic
power that never once sounds weak. C.J. Pierce’s guitar work
is devastatingly crunchy yet dynamically colorful, locking in
perfect sync with the charging rhythms of fellow cofounders Stevie Benton on bass and Mike Luce on drums, as Jasen
10 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com
Moreno’s vocals forge venom and bile into hooks.
Drowning Pool have scorched the stage alongside a who’swho of genre legends, upstarts and everything else on
the spectrum, including Ozzy Osbourne, Mötley Crüe, Papa
Roach, System Of A Down, Kiss, Korn, Sevendust, Seether,
Hellyeah, P.O.D., Five Finger Death Punch, Black Label
Society and stints on Ozzfest with Metallica, Rob Zombie,
and Marilyn Manson.
Each of Drowning Pool’s last three albums debuted in the
Top 5 on Billboard’s Hard Rock chart, cementing the legacy established by their legendary platinum debut, Sinner,
which the band celebrated with a 13-year anniversary
special edition and tour. Moreno’s massive pipes enabled
him to quickly master Drowning Pool’s dense catalog when
he became the band’s frontman in 2012. From his reverent
delivery of the late Dave Williams mosh-pit ready lyrics in
the ubiquitous signature hit “Bodies” to his powerful take
on Top 5 Active Rock hits like “Step Up” from Desensitized
(2004), “37 Stitches” from Full Circle (2007), and “Feel
Like I Do” from their self-titled album (2010). As Revolver
Magazine noted in their detailed review of Resilience
(2013): “Drowning Pool continue to produce consistently killer
albums with an unmistakable sound.”
Hellelujah (2016) is unfiltered and uncompromising, representing a band free to say, play, and do what they please,
thanks to the unending support of their fans. Their shared
loyalty, drive, and passion resulted in what Moreno describes
as a “bad attitude record,” an album that pulls no punches
with inspired confrontation. Producer Jason Suecof (All That
Remains, Trivium, Demon Hunter) was the perfect man to
capture the blend of metallic roots and instantly memorable
choruses, riffs, and wickedly upfront lyrical assaults.
Drowning Pool songs conjure emotions that deeply connect
with those who persevere against the odds and sacrifice to
survive, whether it’s a military soldier serving overseas, or
a blue-collar family trying to make ends meet. Their music
transcends boundaries of race, class and lifestyle as well, resonating with people from all walks of life who look to music
to get them through life’s challenges. The band’s Texas-sized
crunch and gregarious, charismatic personalities catapulted
them to platinum status and hard rock royalty in the early
2000s alongside contemporaries like Disturbed, Godsmack,
and Slipknot. They’ve toured with Ozzy Osbourne. They
regularly perform for U.S. Troops, traveling as far as the war
zones of the Middle East to the outposts of Southeast Asia.
They personally encouraged then-Senator Barack Obama to
push through the Lane Evans Health Act, which improved
healthcare for veterans.
Big sonic slabs of muscular power with a taste of the dark
melodies of post-grunge remain Drowning Pool’s stock and
trade. Their music is an unapologetic celebration of life’s joy
and pain, able to swiftly maneuver between defiant declarations of resistance. Each distinctive era of the band’s history
is represented onstage, where the band bashes through an
arsenal of anthems all delivered with precision strength.
The Hellelujah songs (with more contributions from all four
members than ever) pulse with the power of all that’s come
before and a reinvigorated hunger for the future. Drowning
Pool celebrate the past while firmly focused on the present,
coalescing into a brightly lit artistic future.
Contact Information
Website: www.DrowningPool.com
Twitter: @DrowningPool | Facebook: DrowningPool
Instagram: DrowningPoolOfficial
YouTube: DrowningPoolOfficial
Wiki: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drowning_Pool
Photography: Colt Coan
C.J. Pierce – Guitar
Stevie Benton – Bass
Mike Luce – Drums
Jasen Moreno – Vocals
All Rights Reserved
BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 11
A
t the White House on a bill with Aretha Franklin;
singing duets with Adam Levine and Celine Dion;
showcased on a float at the Rose Bowl Parade and
headlining massive festivals worldwide: Tessanne
Chin’s supple, soulful voice and impressive inventory of credits are equally stellar.
Still, her greatest ambitions are all future tense. As she launches
the next phase of a storied career she is writing and recording
songs for her latest project, partnering in new businesses and
product endorsements, and most of all, delivering her remarkable
voice and charismatic star power to loyal audiences worldwide.
“Every day I’m reminded that I am doing the right thing,” she notes
“It’s a wonderful thing to travel the world doing what you love, and
most of all to share the music.”
This music flowed from multi-cultural ancestral bloodlines in
Kingston, Jamaica as Tessanne grew up with two accomplished
musicians in a home equipped with a recording studio. “I am
blessed that they encouraged me, Tessanne says. “It’s a hard business. They knew, and always showed support.” Leaving home at age
12, Tessanne lived in England, and channeled the emotions of
separation into songs.
Tessanne
Chin
’Love Suicide’ represents a soulful, sexy but edgy side to
me,” says Tessanne. “I love the concept of giving your being
completely over to love and surrendering yourself to this
emotion. I feel that everything from the production to the
lyrics to the melody supports that feeling and paints that
Returning to Jamaica, she fronted the rock-reggae band Mile High picture perfectly.”
and her musical education was uplifted when she joined Jimmy
Cliff as a backup singer and toured the world with the reggae In this phase of her evolution, songwriting is an essenlegend. “I learned so much,” she says of this experience. “He is tial element. “I have to be completely real with myself;
such an incredible personality. No matter how big or how small the more honest than with a diary. It’s therapy,” she says of the
audience, I learned the importance of treating every performance the creative process. And in her lyrics, she delivers what she
same. I learned to leave it all on the stage.”
describes as, “My point of view, my interpretation and the
message that captures the emotion.”
Recording solo, Tessanne released a series of popular singles that
gained attention both at home and with Caribbean audiences in In tandem with her two sisters, Tessanne has opened
the U.S. Her full-length debut, In Between Words was an introduc- Blow by Blow, a full-service beauty salon in Jamaica,
tion to a global audience.
and with its success, envisions expanding to additional
locations. “It’s a wonderful thing to see people walk in and
With her televised triumph as the winner of Season 5 of the hit then to leave feeling beautiful,” she says. She has also
NBC show The Voice, the promise of Tessanne Chin was fulfilled. partnered with Bellami Hair Extensions. “In this age you
Live, onstage for millions of viewers worldwide, performing clas- have to be multi-faceted, to put yourself out there in any
sic songs, becoming the first contestant to hit #1 on the iTunes way you can. Just as in performing: you have to feel good
chart not once but twice, and reaching #4 on the Billboard and you have to look good. The message is embrace who
Heatseekers album charts, she enraptured an enormous audience and everything that you are, with or without makeup.”
and delivered her inaugural Republic Records release, Count On
My Love.
For audiences who know Tessanne Chin through her
Her last recent single, “Fire” embodied what she described as
“woman power…a modern anthem.” Now working on with a select
studio of first call producers, Tessanne is prepping a new project.
The sultry “Love Suicide” reveals new sonic dimensions.
12 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com
live shows and her rich catalog of songs; who follow
her on social media or who witnessed her remarkable
ascension on a top-rated television show, she offers this
message. “A lot has happened since The Voice. There is so
much more to me than that. I want to reintroduce myself
and say, ‘Hi - how are you doing?’ I want listeners to come
on this journey with me.”
When and/or what was the Epiphany in becoming a singer, songwriter and
exclusive interview
performer? That moment in time when you just KNEW what the future held
for YOU! I know it’s hard to believe, but honestly it was at that moment when I
Welcome! Let’s start this journey! Please introduce us to Tessanne Chin…
was 5 singing “Stand By Me “. I never wanted to do or be anything else. I always
I was born and raised in Kingston, Jamaica where I still currently live. I grew up
hoped and wished and knew this is what I’d be doing. I feel very blessed to have
in a musical family and music has always been one of my greatest passions. I’ve
had the parents and family I have who taught me that anything was possible if I
been singing since I was a child and I’ll probably be still singing when I’m in my
worked hard and did my best and believed.
90’s lol. I love writing also and pretty much anything to do with the arts and I
have the awesome privilege of doing what I love for a living.
Do you get nervous before a performance? If so, how do you handle that?
I do!!! I get really quiet and have to say prayers with the band and also just tell
Congratulations on your televised triumph as the winner of Season 5; of the
myself it’s gonna be a great show lol!!! I also try to warm up vocally to break
hit NBC show, The Voice! Tell us about your most humbling moment(s) and
the nerves a bit or if my Dad is around I’ll sip whatever he’s drinking (which is
why. Do share the experience. Was it ALL you dreamed it would be or MORE?!
normally strong, lol!) and just take it from there.
I had a few humbling experiences, but for sure getting to sing with Miss Céline
Dion who has been my idol since I was like 12 years old was by far one of my all
Your latest project “Love Suicide”, can you explain what that means to our
time favorite memories of LIFE!!! She was just the perfect example of grace and
readers and the concept behind it? The way I interpret “Love Suicide” is feeling
class with such a sweet and kind spirit, but she owns her stage and she is just
something so strong that you surrender to it, you fall into it and just allow it to
a master at what she does. The Voice experience for me was incredible. It was
embrace you. It’s all positive and all about the greatness of that feeling, to love
amazing to have had such an amazing opportunity and to be exposed to that
and be loved.
level of quality in terms of production and sound, stage, hair, make up, wardrobe
etc. It was all I dreamed of and more.
What’s your motto or the advice you live by?
I have a few. My favorite right now is “Stay in the now.” It’s so easy to worry about
If you had to explain your music to someone who has never heard of ‘Tes-
things we can’t change and things that may or may not happen, but if we could
sanne Chin’ until today; or after The Voice, how would you describe your
just remember to be present and aware of what is right and what is wonderful
music? My music is soulful and honest with a slight edge to it. I’m a Jamaican
about our lives in any situation you can always find the silver lining.
woman, so you know there is inevitably gonna be that swag to it too.
What can people expect to see at your live performance(s)?
Let’s talk Rose Bowl!!! Most can ONLY imagine what it’s like just to be there in
I love performing live. I love being able to connect with an audience and share
attendance; BUT, on a float?!! How did this soulful voice wind up ‘floating on
with them and talk to them and have a good time. There is also something
by us?!! Lol! We found out the last week of The Voice that the top three would be
magical about performing with my band...all these different energies and sounds
participating, and I feel a little embarrassed to say this, but I honestly didn’t know
coming together to make for one heck of a great time. It’s an experience that I
what it was for a minute because I had never heard of it or seen it. However,
live for sure and one that I’m always ready to have.
that did not take from it being a huge honor and also being able to have that as
a beautiful memory. I was so impressed by the floats and how extraordinarily
And finally, what’s next for Tessanne Chin in 2016/2017? We know your
beautiful they were and in awe of how much effort and time it must have taken
greatest ambitions are all future tense! Maybe on Film!? Any project happen-
to put them together.
ings that you’d like to share with us. Any dates we should be looking to circle
on our calendars?! This year we are focusing on completing the album and also
Share with us some of your musical influences while growing up. What and/
re-launching my career in a different way. I am so grateful to The Voice for giv-
or whom inspires you to be the artist that you are today? Oh lord, we may
ing me an amazing Launchpad, but I want to be Tessanne Chin the Artist not just
run out of space!!! There are so many. As I mentioned before, Céline Dion, Bob
“Tessanne Chin the girl who won The Voice”, so I am looking forward to getting
Marley, Tina Turner, Aretha Franklin, Prince, Michael Jackson, Beyoncé, but I still
to know who I am more as an artist and being able to share that with the world.
loved rock music too like System of a Down, Skunk Anansie bands like The Cranberries.... The list goes on. I love amazing voices, but I also love when music can
deliver an amazing message too. That inspires me, music that speaks to you and
lives on through the ages.
What was the first song that you ever sang? How did it make you feel? In
the studio and or live! I remember it!!! I was 5 years old at my parents band
rehearsal and for whatever reason I got brave and took the mic and started
singing “Stand By Me “ and my Aunty Marie was on the guitar and she started
Website: www.OfficialTessanneChin.com
backing me up. I remember the feeling I got when I started to sing and feel the
Twitter: @Tessanne Facebook: TessanneMusic
song and then to see everyone enjoying it, that was it, it was over, that was it and
Instagram: TheBestess | Youtube: /user/Tessanne
has been ever since.
Nathan Patrick - Photography
BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 13
the dangers of taking things for granted
Drink and Be Merry
INTRODUCTION
Some things are so obvious that they hardly need explanation but that could be a fatal mistake. Let’s take a look at
Henry David Thoreau, grape juice, and how they are related
through the common thread of “Taking things for granted”.
2.
Patients ask me all the time whether
grape juice is just as good for you as
red wine and I HAVE responded “YES”,
because they both come from red grapes
and therefore have equal amounts of
Resveratrol. Resveratrol has been directly related to longer lives
through many mechanisms including gene up regulating, blood
Walden Pond
vessel health and the improvement of lipids and diabetes. It
turns out however, that grape juice does NOT contain the same
amount of Resveratrol which has something to do with the alco-
1.
Located in a beautiful, remote forest, it
conjures up the feelings of solitude and
restfulness. Henry David Thoreau lived
there until he died at the age of 45 and
you would have thought that he would
have lived longer because of the stress free environment. Recent
studies however, at the University of North Carolina have shown
that isolation raised C-reactive blood levels, which is a measure
in inflammation along with hypertension and obesity. Maybe it’s
the fear of being eaten by a bear but there is clear evidence now
that an isolated personality is not a good one and it starts at an
early age (adolescent).
14 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com
hol in the wine, its processing and the skin of the grape which
is part of wine making. So I have to admit that I was wrong (so
much for common sense) but at least I admit my mistakes. I think
the last one was around the Nixon Era!
The Common Sense of Common Sense
3.
Just like the C.I.A. there are no coincidences and don’t take anything for
granted, because isolation is not good for
health and grape fruit juice is not as good
for you as red wine. It’s that simple!
The Common Sense of Common Sense – The Sad Facts
I guess they were honest mistakes and partially derived from existing medical knowledge but that jump to reality can be a risky one.
Just think of how much more beautiful literature Thoreau could
have written if he lived longer with friends and drinking red wine
while giving the grape juice to the ducks!
Dr. David L Vastola runs a private practice in Palm
Beach, Florida, specializing in Internal Medicine and
Gastroenterology, and is often called the Sherlock Holmes
of Medicine for uncovering problems that other medical professionals missed. He has 4 books, 5 children,
has been married for 34 years, has an assistant lovingly
named Patrick the Poodle, and is showcasing a new TV
pilot called, Good Health Hunting, at film festivals. Dr.
Vastola also has an extensive media experience as a medical and nutrition expert on WJNO Radio, Fox News and
CBS 12 News in Florida. His new book Fountain of Youth:
Nutritional Therapies (Carrel Books/Skyhorse Publishing)
is due for release in July 2015.
Dr. David L Vastola
MONTHLY ‘TIPS’ COLUMN
Website: www.yourgoodhealthfl.com/dr-david-vastola/
Brought to you by:
Twitter: @DrDavidVastola
Facebook: Dr David L Vastola
Photo Credits: Dr. David L Vastola - All Rights Reserved
BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 15
st patrick’s day food ideas
St. Patrick’s Day parties usually evoke images of green beer, corned
Shamrock Chips Made From Spinach Tortillas
beef, cabbage, and some sort of dessert colored green with food
coloring. If you are watching your weight, St. Patrick’s Day parties
Using a cookie cutter in the shape of a shamrock, cut out festive
don’t usually offer the best in low calorie or nutritious food choices.
shapes from whole spinach tortillas or sandwich wraps. Bake in
Here are a few ideas for nutritious, delicious, and appetizing St.
the oven at 400 for 5-7 minutes or until crisp. Serve with pot of
Patrick’s Day party foods you can feel good about serving and eating.
gold cheesy dip.
5 Simple & Healthy Ideas
Fresh Fruit Rainbow
Arrange fruits such as red grapes, green grapes, mandarin oranges,
strawberries, blueberries, or chunks of melon into a rainbow shape.
A fresh fruit platter with the Luck of the Irish.
Miniature Spinach Quiche
Using a basic spinach quiche recipe of frozen spinach, eggs, milk,
and Swiss cheese. Make mini-quiches perfect for finger foods at a
party. For an easy crust, use Phyllo dough or crescent rolls.
Guacamole Deviled Eggs
Green Bell Peppers As Shamrocks
Sort of along the lines of Green Eggs and Ham, but with a St.
Thinly slice a whole bell pepper cross wise. Save a few slices to cut
Patrick’s Day flair. Just add some avocado to a basic deviled egg
into stems. Serve with a low fat dip made from Greek yogurt.
recipe and you have a high-protein, low sugar, low carb green party
food.
16 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com
all hands on deck
le’
a
n
i
F
e
r
u
t
a
e
F
sierra alston
Interview
MONTHLY FEATURE
There have been countless reality shows that featured many beautiful
women. Many have seen them engaged in all types of outlandish behav-
iour. Never a step forward, always descending to lower and lower depths.
We have never seen anyone remove themselves from the madness, until
now. On the recent VH1 reality show “She Got Game” which featured rapper The Game searching among a bevy of beauties looking for love, one
young lady decided to eliminate herself and walked off the show! Let’s
meet Sierra Alston!
My name is Sierra Alston and before “She’s Got Game” I was a trophy
wife to the top African-American surgeon in Las Vegas. We stayed married for about 3 ½ years and when we decided to part ways I decided to
become a writer… a blog writer. I also work for a software development
company but once I got on the show and the show ended I started to
discover other skills that I have such as the “Eye
emotional writing so whatever I go through I just kind of build off of that. I
don’t do any more business writing. I do more emotional writing now. Like
my quotes, I kind of want to brand myself as a Marilyn Monroe. When you
think of her you think of things she said. So when you think of me, I want
you think of things I said, that you could kind of relate to.
When it came to the show “The Game” did you have a real interest in
him or was this just part of the show script that you had to follow or
flow with and go with whatever was going?
Well I would say the show definitely was not scripted. This was not your
typical VH1 show… the emotions were definitely real. I went on the show
basically optimistic. I was open minded. I wanted something different than
what I was used to or what I had in the past and I knew that he was a lot
different than the last guy I dated. So I definitely went in just hoping for
the best but also if it didn’t work out I would still gain. I wasn’t going to
leave empty handed. The world would still know who
Candy Workout Course” that I take around certain
Sierra Alston is and it gave me an opportunity to kind of
states. I’m an actress, writing a book, as well as, will
display to everyone who I am and what I’m about and
have a lingerie line coming out soon.
that I’m not your typical drama reality star. I did go on
the show looking for love I guess you could say but more
Okay wow, you got a whole lot going on but you
so I wanted a good friend and that’s what you have to
started all that off by saying that you were a trophy
be first and I saw some things in him that I thought was
wife, did I hear you right?
good but I also saw some things in him that I thought
Yeah you did, I was, past tense, I was.
was just not for me. So I went on there looking for love
but it is what it is.
Why do you describe in that way?
Well if you ask him, he provided me with a lifestyle
that most 23 year old and 24/25 year olds did not have so at the end of
the day, I mean it is what it is. I was a trophy wife, he basically took care
of me, he provided me with whatever my heart desired and I didn’t have
to work. So I basically lived through him and basically he validated me if
that makes sense.
I’m sure that was you know a series of experiences in their own right,
after the marriage dissolved and you said you went on to find some
of the other things that you are into now… You also said that you’re a
writer, what type of material do you write?
Well prior to the show our neighbours hired me as a consultant as well as
their blog writer because they own a software development company. So
Well you know that’s the way the ball bounces, that’s a good intent.
Are there any other side endeavours that you have that we have to
look out for?
I’ve been dancing all my life. Ballet, tap, modern, hip-hop. Basically I’ve
always took a sensual dance course for multiple years and so I decided
to do my own traveling sensual dance course which would teach you the
art of sensual dancing. This also enhances relationships. I would go from
state to state and different women sign up. My last class was sold out in
Washington, DC. I’m doing a fitness brand called “Eye Candy Workout”. I’m
also coming out with a YouTube channel, online virtual course, a DVD and
an app. So that’s just that one thing.
basically I just did all the blog writing for the client to keep them on the
front page of Google and I also did ghost writing but as of now I do more
(Continued Page 20)
BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 17
P
Pelugion
elugion are a three piece hard rock / metal band
This is only the beginning for Pelugion. They are now breaking
from Coventry, England. Influenced predominantly
the boundaries toward becoming an international band thanks to
by heavier bands both old and new.
worldwide radio airplay.
Andy Sweeney, John Pittaway and Brandon Balou first met in col-
Pelugion describe their main influences as Black Sabbath, Metallica,
lege September 2012 whilst studying music performance. Starting
Megadeth, Soundgarden, Alterbridge, Black Label Society, Kyuss &
off at the college rehearsal rooms and playing Metallica and Black
Down.
Sabbath covers at a couple of college gigs, it wasn’t long before
college was over, new rehearsal rooms were found, their first origi-
Contact Information
nal song was written and Pelugion was born.
Website: www.Pelugion.com
Since the beginnings of the band, Pelugion have gigged heavily
Soundcloud: @Pelugion
around England with an arsenal of original songs, won a slot play-
Facebook/Twitter: Pelugion
ing the UK’s biggest family festival, inked a management deal with
UK based FATangel Management and released a lyric video.
Pelugion are a band gaining national recognition for their energetic
live performance and massive sound.
Photography: Stagedive Photography
Andy Sweeney – Vocals / Bass
John Pittaway - Guitar
Brandon Balou - Drums
The band’s latest endeavour is their single ‘Bide My Time’ which is
about to be released on March 25, 2016.
The single has been produced, mixed and mastered at Woodworm
Studios by Mike Exeter who has worked with such legends as Black
Sabbath, Dio and Judas Priest.
‘Bide My Time’ is a story about learning to deal with regret.
Although it may seem like you should have let go of that ex’s hold
on you sooner, you’re almost glad in a way that you waited this long
because how else can you appreciate the good things without having experienced the bad. Now the ex has gone, you know you can
MARCH 25th - ‘Bide My Time’ will be released!
bide your time, waiting for something better to come along... and
maybe waiting for karma too.
All Rights Reserved
18 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com
Now in Memphis, home of STAX and other notable musicians, you’ll find JCraig committed and working diligently on
his many projects.
Music is all over him. It’s in his head, hands, and feet. In a
dimly lit studio, it’s electrifying and amazing to see J do what
he does with ease and perfection. He’s a quiet storm stirring up some southern soul funk. But, don’t limit him. This
accomplished songwriter will astonish you with sensually
charming lyrics, melodically fascinate you with an edgy rock
melody, and bombshell you with some smooth rap.
JCraig
JCraig is an emerging force on the music entertainment
landscape, launching out of total obscurity after overcoming
many of life’s tragedies and transforming himself round by
round into a reliable singer, songwriter, and producer.
After serving his country in the armed forces, JCraig has
emerged simply as an artist with a soulful niche, and he
knows how to work it.
O’ no, J’s not wasting any time with his music production.
Like a whirlwind, he’s plowing forward in a league of his own
and seems to be transcending time and making thunderous
noise as he pursues his musical ambitions. Yes, he’s all in.
This PK was the youngest boy of five, born to a Bishop. From
the earliest moments, he was singing and playing guitar in
the church. Soon, he became an accomplished musician.
Family and peers in New York knew that J was a gifted writer
and musician. Oftentimes, they would par ooze the musical
credits looking for his name. Well, here he is stamping out
one hit after another.
Website: www.iamjcraig.com
Twitter: @IamJCraig | Facebook: IamJCraig
Instagram: 1JCraig
itunes.apple.com/us/album/i-want-your-body/id989302232
All Rights Reserved
BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 19
ALL HANDS ON DECK
(Continued)
I’ve been working with an acting coach. I’ve also been back and forth to
him for sexual harassment on the show, how do you feel about that?
Hollywood, talking to A-list actors, and things like that trying to enhance my
Okay, so basically I’ll keep that brief but I do have my feelings towards it.
acting career, so you’ll see me on the big screen soon.
Basically Priscilla she…from what I’ve seen, from what she displayed in front
of me, she does like attention and if you don’t give her attention then she kind
I have a lingerie line coming out too because I do believe that everyone is
of just…it’s kind of you’re with her or you’re against her and I also feel that he
sexy. I will also have a fitness pro line coming out, it’s kind of a correlation to
basically…he is an aggressive man but I don’t think that he touched her where
the actual workout and I’m writing a book with all my quotes in it. It would
as though she had to sue him.
kind of tell my life story because I do have a lot to tell and a lot of people
look at me and just think that things are so easy because I am attractive. I
Obviously, if you look at me, he would never think that’s okay with me. I don’t
don’t want people to feel like I’ve never been through anything because that’s
know if she incited it. I don’t know if they may have had a couple of drinks
the way the show had portrayed me to be; this perfect woman or this woman
and it went there, and then she didn’t like the results afterwards. That maybe
that doesn’t make mistakes and I’ve made plenty of mistakes and I do have
he was on other girls and didn’t pay her any more attention. I wasn’t there to
skeletons in my closet which will be revealed in my book.
really know what went down but at the end of the day, I do know the characteristics of each person. I do know Priscilla likes attention and I also know that
How did you actually get chosen for the show because the one thing that
he is aggressive. I will just say I don’t believe that he did it where it harmed
I saw that was a little different was that all of the young ladies that were
her. He may have done it playfully and she may have kind of invited it. I mean
on the show were picked by somebody else, so who picked you?
who goes walking around in their underwear anyway so…
Keyshia Cole picked me. So basically all the girls got chosen by one of his very
good celebrity friends and she chose me because she’s more like my mentor
I do want to say this… I don’t want the show to define me at all. I don’t want
and a confidant for me. She chose me and thought it would be something
you to think of me as Sierra from “She’s Got Game”. That’s just one thing I did
good for me due to being the opposite of the last relationship I’ve been in.
at a moment in time of my life and now I’ve moved on to something else. I
don’t just want to be labelled as your normal reality star.
I want to talk to you about, about Priscilla. So I know you guys have signed
a non-disclosure form.
Are you looking forward to doing some appearances, as well as, hosting or
We do, but what do you want to know?
other appearances on TV?
The 10 million dollar lawsuit that she has against Game on the show
As far as appearances, I’ve done a few so far however, I don’t want to do that
about sexual harassment. The show is about sex… you know what I’m say-
many because in Hollywood when you’re trying to be a successful actor they
ing, you see the kissing, hugging, etc.
don’t really want to see that you’re hosting night clubs all the time. So it’s kind
Hold on, hold on there. The show is not about sex, the show is about him basi-
of like you kind of have to choose which one you want to do. Do you want to
cally trying to find a woman that he can do those things with, you never saw
be a party girl or you kind of want to be in the movies. So I definitely won’t
me kissing and hugging and loving…you never saw me doing that.
be doing that much hosting.
No not you… but the other girls… in my opinion the show is about sex. At
the end of the day you got to be 100% on everything. So it’s a sexy show…
Interview conducted and Written by DJ Sincere
it’s about sex. I didn’t see you doing those things. I thought you were han-
With Contributions by Mr. Raaw and Readdy
dling your business. So the 10 million dollar lawsuit that she has against
Twitter: @Drtybsmnt | Facebook (MultiMedia) /Drtybsmnt
20 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com
WORMBASS
F
rom gracing the cover of French Vogue to touring the
In 2008, Wormbass acquired his his first #1 hit in Europe after producing
world over, Delroy “Wormbass” Nevin has had the sort of
a remake of Michael Rose’s Party In Session.
career most aspiring artists dream of having.
From touring to managing, and being a father of four, Wormbass has often
After co-founding and leading the legendary Blaze Band to fame in the
had to postpone completion of his own projects, including his album. That
nineties, a self-taught bassist, “Worm” became a highly sought after musi-
is until now.
cal director, having helped to shape the career of Grammy Award winner
and dancehall superstar, Beenie Man. He’s also musically directed Juno
Fast forward to 2011 as Wormbass is unleashed. His first single, Bring
Award winner Lenn Hammond, Lutan Fyah, and Prophecy.
Back the Paradise, is a fast paced reggae infused dance track that will
rock nightclubs from Kingston to Amsterdam, Miami to Tokyo, New York
A humble and renowned musician, Wormbass has played countless
to Johannesburg; Toronto to Taranto, Alaska to Australia and everywhere
basslines on stages across the globe and in recording studios from
in between.
Kingston, Jamaica to Los Angeles, California, London, England and Toronto,
Canada to name a few. He has toured with and produced for the likes of
Creating his debut album and preparing for its worldwide release,
Sean Paul, Barrington Levy, Lady Saw, Tanya Stephens, T.O.K. and Chaka
Wormbass is focused and ready to fulfill his destiny, as this journey is only
Demus & Pliers. For the latter, he also produced their Back Off The Wall
just beginning.
album in 2007 during a 3 year tenure with the Canadian based label,
Explorer Recording Company.
While with Explorer, Wormbass also produced the album It’s My Time by
Everton Blender as well as multiple rhythms including Girls Gone Wild,
Jealous Eyes and Bad Day. In addition, Wormbass is credited on both multiple award winning, self-titled, debut albums by Juno winners Blessed
and Lenn Hammond.
Contact Information:
In 2007, Wormbass co-wrote and co-produced the South African
Broadcasting Corporation’s Official Tribute Song “Chance” to slain, South
Twitter: @Blackbirdmelody
African Reggae star, Lucky Dube.
Facebook: Blackbirdmelody
All Rights Reserved
BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 21
Monthly inspiration
A
lot of people
are so unhappy
because they are
trying too hard to
gain the acceptance and approval of certain people. They try to ‘fit’
into their expectations thinking that
will help, but sadly it doesn’t no matter what you
do.
those who look down on you or make you feel
worthless. Don’t be intimidated by them. You are
special, you are loved. Just keep your eyes focused
on God.
Be Inspired! With Love, Eloho
@Elohoefemuai | Facebook: Elohosmusic |
www.elohoefemuai.co.uk
The truth is that these certain people you are
seeking approval from can never give you the
approval because they are limited and do not have
the capacity. The only person who has the capacity to approve and validate you is God. Seek His
approval, seek His validation, seek His commendation not man’s and He will bring people around
you, who will value you and accept you for who
you are
I want you to know that God values you. He loves
you and is mindful of you. Do not worry about
22 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com
All Rights Reserved
A simple family gathering around the table may have
more benefits than you think! Bring the family in to
Juniper On Water to enjoy a midday brunch overlooking the water, or a relaxing dinner in the beautiful
Mediterranean inspired dining room.
In today’s households where both parents go to work and
kids have busy schedules with school, homework and an
array of afternoon activities, finding time for a gathering at
the table seems all but impossible. Yet, studies have shown
time and again that eating together has multiple benefits
for everyone involved, but especially for children, and not
only for nutritional purposes but in many other aspects as
well.
After many years of experience in the hospitality field, Scott
and Sho found themselves opening a restaurant to call their
very own. “It really helps you learn when you start at the very
bottom and learn from both the good and bad experiences,”
says Scott.
The duo quickly crafted the idea and space for Juniper On
The Water, and after 18 months of renovation, the restaurant opened its doors, emitting a warm and welcoming
atmosphere to all. Juniper has a one-of-a-kind understated
elegance, quite different from any other restaurant in the
South Florida area. Besides the magnificent view, its upscale,
Mediterranean influence adds the right touch of refinement,
while its beach-like feel instantly helps diners feel at ease.
According to a number of reports issued by the National
Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia
University (CASA), children who eat at least five times a
week with their family are at lower risk of developing poor
eating habits, weight problems or alcohol and substance
dependencies, and tend to perform better academically than
their peers who frequently eat alone or away from home,
according to an article from the Huffington post.
More about Juniper On The Water: About a year ago, owners
Scott, Sho and Chris put their heads together and transformed an industry passion into reality. Juniper, meaning
strength and “to bloom or flourish”, symbolizes the vision,
heart and culinary passion combined by the owners.
Scott and Sho learned every aspect of the business by working their way up through all areas of the restaurant industry.
Website: www.JuniperOnTheWater.com
All Rights Reserved
BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 23
Tessanne
chin
BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 24