7 Rings
Megan Thee Stallion has encapsulated her fiery, world-conquering boldness in a symbol most befitting her extraordinariness: her “f**k you” rings. The hip hop superstar proudly flaunts seven brilliant diamond rings, upon which each letter of the brashly worded “f**k you” is affixed. Valued at $200,000 and encompassing 126 carats,
Megan Thee Stallion has encapsulated her fiery, world-conquering boldness in a symbol most befitting her extraordinariness: her “f**k you” rings. The hip hop superstar proudly flaunts seven brilliant diamond rings, upon which each letter of the brashly worded “f**k you” is affixed. Valued at $200,000 and encompassing 126 carats, Megan’s fans have embraced the crystallized catchphrase as a welcome addition to her signature looks.
The ostentatious ring set not only signifies Megan’s unceasing confidence, but is also an emblem of her triumphs against adversity. In defiance of the public’s lack of sympathy for her suffering from gunshot wounds allegedly inflicted upon her by singer Tory Lanez, she debuted her rings on Instagram with the caption “Dear haters” alongside middle finger emojis. The “f**k you” rings then made a reappearance at the American Music Awards, where “WAP,” Megan’s provocative duet with Cardi B, was deemed “Favorite Rap/Hip Hop Song.”
The reemergence of the rings was received with overwhelming praise on social media, solidifying them as integral to the rapper’s wardrobe. While Megan admitted to being surprised by people encouraging her to wear such profane jewelry regularly, she will nonetheless gladly indulge in her popular fashion statement.
Photo Credits: Blavity, Page Six
Report: Nia Hunt
Quarantine Playlist
Quarantining and social distancing is definitely starting to get everyone a bit stir crazy. But how do you unwind and really sink into your moods? Music. Here’s a quick playlist to get you through the day and all the different vibes you may be feeling.
Quarantining and social distancing during this pandemic is definitely starting to get everyone a bit stir crazy. Jumping from Zoom calls to another, meeting your boss or talking to your professors about the final or project has got everyone crazy. But how do you unwind and really sink into your moods? Music. Here’s a quick playlist to get you through the day and all the different vibes you may be feeling.
For the quick workout:
Cardio, yoga, and those 15- pounds are all we can do at home since we can’t go to the gym anymore. So we’re going to compensate. Hold that pose a bit longer, run that extra half mile, or just one more rep. Here are some songs to get that heartbeat jumping.
Instructions- Jax Jone (feat. Demi Lovato, Stefflon Don)
Stayin’ Alive- The Bee Gees
Work R3HAB Remix- Rihanna, Drake, R3HAB
Blueberry Faygo- Lil Mosey
Bali- Rich Brian (feat. Guapdad 4000)
Lo-fi Work Zone:
Though we’re social distancing, we still have to work. Some of us have finals, projects, presentations, dissertations, and such to finish up. These are great to listen to when you just need some chill background noise to work to.
Unfaithful- H E R B
We Used to Talk Every Night - Elijah Who
Cruzin’ - Orca Vibe
Bossa- Soulwanderer
Black Coffee - Nicobox
When we just need to cry a bit:
Never bottle up your emotions, and plus we’re home we can let it out. Grab a box of tissues with these heartbreakers. Let it all out, cause that's just how it is sometimes.
Someone You Loved - Lewis Capaldi
When The Party’s Over - Billie Eilish
When I Was Your Man - Bruno Mars
Fall Apart - Post Malone
Who Hurt You? - Daniel Caesar
Songs that released in 2020:
2020 has definitely been a whirlwind, but also had some hot releases. And there’s more to come for this year. Look out for Lady Gaga’s new album coming May 29, which was delayed due to the current pandemic. The album is rumored to feature Ariana Grande, BLACKPINK, and Elton John.
Intentions - Justin Bieber
Blinding Lights - The Weeknd
Old Me - 5 Seconds of Summer
ON - BTS Stupid
Love - Lady Gaga
Silly Watch - Lil Uzi Vert
Boss B*itch - Doja Cat
Hangout with your friends over Zoom:
Here are some party hits to have with your friends during that weekly Zoom call, FaceTime, whichever you use. Party it up, virtually of course.
The Box- Roddy Ricch
Gimme Love- Joji
Savage Remix - Megan Thee Stallion (feat. Beyonce)
Rockstar - Post Malone (feat. 21 Savage)
SUGAR - BROCKHAMPTON
Album covers from the respective artists.
Report: Katie Mok
Say Hello To A New Form Of Live-streaming Thanks to Erykah Badu
Whether it involved reconnecting with old peers, performing, or even doing song writing battles, one artist who stood out the most was Erykah Badu.
Many artists have shifted to live-streaming platforms due to the pandemic. As all thing’s entertainment have been cancelled, many have tried finding a coping method and ways to shed light to their fans in this difficult time. Whether it involved reconnecting with old peers, performing, or even doing song writing battles, one artist who stood out the most was Erykah Badu. This pandemic did not stop singer-songwriter, actress and record producer, Erykah Badu as she is back and is more creative than ever! Erykah managed to pull off a stellar live stream music video with two other musicians. She is the first artist to charge a rate between $1-$3 to watch her perform live!
Not only did she have previous live-streams in her bedroom but most recently, she performed Apocalypse 3.1. While maintaining to focus on social distancing, she managed to have everyone on screen and separated in a colorful bubble. Her vision for this project was to show her audience an exaggerated appearance of how social distancing looks and how all three performers would have to perform live without any mistakes. Being in separate bubbles make things a bit harder as many factors may play by being separated the way they were (picture below). Many fans raved about her creativity, style and uniqueness. Artists such as Cee Loo Green, Keyshia Cole and Diddy have also shown their support for Erykah’s Quarantine Concert Series. Most recently, Erykah conducted a press conference via Zoom to speak on how her Quarantine Series began and how she was able to overcome some obstacles she faced. To learn more about her series and watch Erykah’s press conference, visit: https://baduworldmarket.com/pages/stream.
Credits: Instagram @erykahbadu
Report: Jessica Tamay
Lady Gaga's Sixth Studio Album, Chromatica Is Coming Soon!
Lady Gaga Announces New Album, Chromatica Will.
Lady Gaga’s anticipated upcoming new album finally has a release date and title. Her sixth studio album Chromatica is set to be released April 10 by Interscope Records. She has also launched a selection of new merchandise and an exclusive vinyl color at her website, ladygaga.com. Led by the dance bop "Stupid Love," the album will feature 16 tracks on the standard edition with two or three additional bonus tracks on the deluxe version. It will serve as the pop star’s first solo release since 2016's Joanne.
She discussed the record in an interview with Zane Lowe on Apple Music’s Beats 1. When she discussed the album’s concept with Zane Lowe, Gaga said, “The symbol for Chromatica has a sine wave in it, which is the mathematical symbol for sound, and it’s from what all sound is made from, and, for me, sound is what healed me in my life period, and it healed me again making this record, and that is really what Chromatica is all about. It’s about healing and it’s about bravery as well and it’s really like, when we talk about love I think it’s so important to include the fact that it requires a ton of bravery to love someone.”
You can pre-order Lady Gaga's album Chromatica now
Words by Amanda Lou.
KINGMINZLY SHORT FILM EXTRAVAGANZA
The LATEST: Short Film Series by KingMinzly & Anahata Milytia
The LATEST: Short Film Series by KingMinzly & Anahata Milytia
WARNING SOME SCENES IN THESE FILMS MAY BE NOT PLEASING TO ALL AUDIENCES. VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED
The Raptor: Inspired by the 1977 horror film Children of the Corn
anahataxmilytia.com
Avant-Garde': Pilot to the Avant Garde' short film series
Y Why: Fashion Film showcasing Vintage Gucci, Maison Margiela
SAF: Natural Born Killers www.anahataxmilytia.com
[C R E D I T S]
Creative Directors / Stylist:
KingMinzly - @kingminzly
Billyracxx - @billyracxx
Engineer / Producer:
Phoolish - @earthshamanajna
Shot / Edited / Director
Dakota - @dak.ta
Jay Mos - @j.mos
Featured Actors
Leslie
Allison
Raeographer
Ciarra Nicole
Greg$
Uncommon Ricky
5 Instagrams You Should Follow
Add some fresh faces to your Instagram feed! We've pulled five of our favorite personalities on Instagram!
Add some fresh faces to your Instagram feed! We've pulled five of our favorite personalities on Instagram!
Jennifer Grace
@thenativefox
This stylist, editor, model and designer is based in Southern California. She works with major brands such as DVF, Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, and Neiman Marcus. Her style is very simple but modern and through her blog you can find inspiration daily.
India Rose
@indiaroseco
This London based blogger runs the lifestyle website india-rose.co. This blog features photography, personal style, short films, music, and interviews. It boasts a fresh and urban perspective and aims to inspire.
Aleali May
@alealiemay
This fashion blogger also works as an image consultant and model. She started her work in fashion with Louis Vuitton and now has collaborated with many brands such as Nike and Adidas. She uses her blog as an outlet to share experiences in not only fashion but also travel and entertainment.
Brittany Xavier
@thriftsandthreads
This California based blogger is very relatable since she regularly wears affordable and easy to access clothing. You can find many of her outfits at stores such as H&M, Topshop, and Zara. She even links her pieces on her blog to make it super easy to find and purchase. She describes her style as versatile, casual and comfortable.
Rocky Barnes
@rocky_barnes
Born and raised in Southern California, this blogger is a beach girl at heart. She describes her lifestyle as gypset, which is a fusion of the carefree lifestyle of a gypsy with the sophistication of the jet set. She created her blog to share her personal style, modeling work and travels.
Curated by Aliza M. (Access Intern)
Lovello Elizabeth Sits Down with ETalksOnline
Lovello Elizabeth stopped by Etalksonline Radio!
Lovello Elizabeth stopped by Etalksonline Radio to tell us how she got started, her vision, and how Hip-Hop artist Dej Loaf got a hold of her pieces
Browse & Shop Lovello Elizabeth's Pre-Fall Collection
NYFW X ACCESS MEDIA TEAM
Meet the people who capture all the madness. Our NYFW SS17 Media Team.
New York Fashion Week is almost here! This year we're doing it bigger than ever! We've partnered with Walk Fashion Show as their regional media partner, meaning all of your exclusive fashion week coverage will coming from yours truly. We'll have exclusive designer interviews, behind the scenes footage, live feeds and more. Make sure you follow all of our social media platforms to keep up with the action! We'd like to introduce to our SS17 NYFW media team, who will be making all of this magic possible! Check out the media team's bios below and save some of their contact information for future projects!
Harrison, Hart
Age: 22
hhart1@students.towson.edu
Phone: 410.598.1703
www.harrisonhartphotography.com
Instagram: @hhart1
Harrison Hart is a Baltimore native with a passion for photography and filmmaking. Growing up with a camera in hand, he is documenting the world through his lens – capturing people and places with his unique style.
As a photographer, Harrison develops images that tell the story of the kinetic world around us. His photographs are a celebration of the inspirational and beautiful aspects of life. They are also compassionate depictions of people and situations which are more desperate and call out for our attention. Harrison brings a unique artistic style to his photographs of weddings, special events, portraits, and sporting events. His documentary photography tells the stories of issues and human situations with clarity and poignancy.
Bria Scott
Age: 19
Email: BlackMythPhoto@gmail.com
Phone: (484)350-7407
Website: (Coming in October)
Social Media Handles: Instagram: @BlackMythPhoto
Bria Scott is a Philadelphian creative who was born and raised in a small section of Germantown known as Dogtown. She is currently enrolled at the University of the Arts to study the advancement of Photography and Film while pursuing her own photography business under Black Myth Photography which was formed in the Winter of 2013. Her work is inspired by geniuses such as Hype Williams, A$AP Rocky, ScHoolboy Q, and Onoe Capone.
Tristan Baboolal
Age : 23
Email: StanWayne15@yahoo.com
Phone: 240-752-2183
Web: Iamstanwayne.com
Instagram: _Stanwayne_
Mariah Rachel Burke
Age: 23
mrburke@wesleyan.edu
267.231.8724
mrburke.wix.com/mariahrachelburke
instagram: mariahrachelburke
My name is Mariah Rachel Burke. I am a born and raised Philadelphian who spent years photographing the city around me before moving up and away. I attended Wesleyan University where I studied English and Film. I have spent over four years in the film industry, during which I have worked on projects for Ira Sachs, Eric Weber, Nike SB, among others. I am currently producing an independent film directed by a Wesleyan alum, set to shoot in September, 2016. My photography has been published by Method Magazine and will appear in Prolific Quarterly and Element Magazine in Fall 2016. I have spent time living in Philadelphia, New York, Madrid, and New Orleans.
Name: Kyle Avery Adams or Montrekyle
Age: 21
Email: kadams916@gmail.com
Phone number: 2674428509
Website: vimeo.com/montrekyle Instagram: @montrekyle
Montrekyle is a visual artist who creates short fashion films along with captivating visual artist features throughout DC Philadelphia and NY.
For more information on the NYFW Media Team, please use the contact information provided or email accessbynkc@gmail.com.
Access Social Media Information. (It's so simple)
TWITTER/INSTAGRAM/FACEBOOK/PERISCOPE/TUMBLR/PINTEREST/SNAPCHAT
@ACCESSBYNKC
Fade x Kanye West x Teyana Taylor
FADE x Kanye West x Teyana Taylor
In case you missed the debut of Kayne West's "Fade" music video starring Teyana Taylor, we have the full video.
We love the way the video was premiered for the first time during the MTV Video Music Awards, along with the creative concept. The sex appeal of Teyana Taylor mixed the 80's vibe of dancer in the gym was phenomenal.
Drop your thoughts in the comments below!
Access Exclusive: Digital Art Gallery x Walt (VH1's Black Ink Crew)
At the Digital Art Gallery's 1 year anniversary event, we had a chance to pull Walt (VH1's Black Ink Crew) aside for a quick chat.
At the Digital Art Gallery's 1 Year Anniversary event, we had a chance to pull Walt (VH1's Black Ink Crew) aside for a quick chat. Partnered up with Kwashee Totimeh, the duo works to create redefined art exhibits in various cities. With no limit on mediums or expression, the events pull massive audiences to celebrate the cities creatives. Many recognize Walt by his role on a popular network reality tv show, Black Ink Crew; what most don't know is he's first and foremost an artist. Displaying his art through photography, Walt finds expression in all things.
Check out our full interview below.
Digital Art Gallery: @theDAGtour
Walt: @da_Wizrd
Credits -
Interview: Megana, Access Intern, @anagem12
Directed by: Access by NKC, @accessbynkc
Refresh: 5 Celebrity Snapchats To Follow
In all the Snapchat craze, here's a few accounts we think you'd like to follow.
With over 100 million users daily, Snapchat is always the perfect source for entertain. Don't worry it's our guilty pleasure too, that's why we've picked 5 Snapchat accounts we know you'll love!
Deepica Mutyala - YouTube Beauty Guru
@deepicam
Reigning from Texas, Deepica grew up in a South Asian community with her parents, who dreamed of her becoming a doctor. But her passion for beauty and living in NYC was bigger than her parents dream for her. She filmed multiple makeup tutorials for Birchbox then ended up starting her own channel. She became a huge success after her “How to Cover Dark Under Eye Circles” video went viral. She now lives in NYC and continues to update her YouTube channel while working as an on air beauty expert on the TODAY show.
Her Snapchat includes hilarious videos of her adventures in New York and L.A. as well as exclusive interviews with celebrities like Gigi Hadid! She also features giveaways, behind the scenes looks at her videos, and sometimes a quick beauty tutorial on her Snapchat. So go ahead and add Deepica if you are a fellow makeup lover!
Hannah Bronfman: Founder of HBFIT.com/Workout Enthusiast/DJ
@hannahbgood
This 28-year-old has done it all. From creating the app “Beautified” to being a DJ, Bronfman is a well accomplished woman all while staying in tip-top shape. She recently created HBFit.com, which includes workout inspirations and healthy recipes. Bronfman is the definition of #fitspo. On top of everything, she recently got engaged to Canadian DJ, Brendan Fallis *swoon*.
Bronfman’s snaps include her hardcore workouts at the gym and videos of her DJing at major parties. She keeps it exciting and real 100% of the time. Go ahead and follow if you’re the do it all type of girl (or wish you were). Follow her through her journey in life while staying fit, fashionable and fun.
DJ Khaled - Record Producer/Musician
@djkhaled305
If you haven’t already added DJ Khaled on Snapchat already, then you are missing out. His “keys to success” are supposedly inspirational but tend to be hilarious. You will frequently catch him either popping open a bottle of Ciroc or giving inspirational talks while working out on the elliptical.
FYI this is for the type of person that is looking for a pick me up after a long day of work.
If you’re that person that sits in a corner and laughs at their phone, then DJ Khaled is someone you need to follow ASAP. Some benefits of adding him are that you get to be apart of his concerts and sometimes get to meet some fellow famous rappers. So go ahead, grab your phone and bottle of Ciroc so you can gain some inspiration from DJ Khaled.
Mimi Ikonn - YouTuber/Co-founder of Luxy Hair
@mimiikonn
Mimi Ikonn is like coming up for fresh air. She’s beautiful, sophisticated and funny all while being down to earth and real. Years ago she started off doing makeup and hair tutorials on YouTube. Ikonn ended up marrying her business partner, Alex Ikonn, and they started Luxy Hair, the hair extension company, together. They now live in London and travel the world all while living a completely healthy lifestyle. Life is what they dreamed of right now! In fact, Mimi is currently 6 months pregnant!
Ikonn’s Snapchat is nothing short of amazing. This couple travels so much and documents it all. You feel as though you are traveling to Italy and Greece with them! Not only does she literally show you the world through her eyes, but she also snaps amazing pictures of her adventurous lifestyle. You get to experience the food she eats which is full of fresh fruits and vegetables with no artificial ingredients whatsoever. On top of it all, her fashion sense (and of course makeup) is always on point. Following Ikonn will open your eyes up to the beautiful world we have around us.
Lena Dunham - Actress/Co-creator of Lenny Letter
@lennyletter
If you haven’t heard of Lena Dunham yet, you’re doing something very wrong. Not only is she featured as Hannah on the HBO comedy-drama series, “Girls”, but she may possibly be the funniest human. She is the realest person and perhaps that is due to her ability to flaunt her not-so-typical Hollywood bod. Whatever it is, Dunham is one of the most successful women. Not only is she a published author, but she also recently created the online feminist newsletter, Lenny Letter. She is passionate about her beliefs in this world and isn’t afraid to speak up.
Her Snapchat is definitely one to be reckoned with. Her sense of humor and vibrant personality definitely come out on camera. She discusses important life topics in order to keep our young generation educated. She is using social media to spread the word on issues that should be talked about more. Go ahead and follow Lenny Letter if you have a great sense of humor, but also want to learn more about our world.
Credits -
Curated by: Megana, Access Intern
Hello, World!
Sunday Chill
This Sunday Chill playlist is an eclectic mix of soulful sounds of sex, love and passion.
This Sunday Chill playlist is an eclectic mix of soulful sounds of sex, love and passion. We found some songs that would help relax and sing along as you clean or enjoy a good book. Whatever it is that you plan on doing while listening, you’ll be entering a peaceful vibe to help you conquer the week ahead. Rejuvenate. Groove. And enjoy.
Curated by Access intern, Bria (@briakiara_)
BILLY OCEAN TWO
New music from Billyracxx. Listen now.
Austin artist/Florida native Billyracxx of AnahataxMilytia released his second project June 3rd.
'Jason Billy American Artist/ Creative Director/ Designer from Orlando, Florida known as "BILL$" or "BILLY OCEAN" has taken his artistry to another level. With his Florida roots and Houston influence BILL$ has turned his unique sound into something that could easily be accepted by the mainstream masses and articulated through editorial visuals. BILL$ has leaped to platforms such as SXSW etc. and also shared the stage with plenty mainstream artist. BILLY OCEAN is definitely a multi - talented creative connoisseur.' (bio via anahataxmilytia.com)
Download and Stream:
BILLY OCEAN TWO
Sound Cloud: https://soundcloud.com/billyoc/sets/billy-ocean-two
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/4RccE0LwAOEbD2advRoRmP
itunes: https://itun.es/us/326Tcb
Tidal: http://tidal.com/us/store/artist/7562747
Amazon: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01GI1ONZW
Summer LIT
10 Tracks Playlist = Summer LIT
Music for any time that you’re planning on having fun. Parties, beach days, everything. Stay lit this summer; 10 track-playlist for your summer vibes.
Curated by Intern, Katie Finkle - @finklekatie
Links We Love - No.3
The latest and greatest links from this past week & more...
Why Minimal Doesn’t Have To Mean Boring
"From clever cuts to lovely construction, minimal fashion doesn't give it all away immediately"
via refinery29.com
Audio: Justin Timberlake, “Can’t Stop The Feeling”
"Justin Timberlake breaks his hiatus with a flirty, upbeat summer jam, 'Can’t Stop the Feeling.'”
via saintheron.com
Zoë Kravitz Is The New Face of YSL Beauty
"As part of her collaboration with YSL, the actress and fashion muse will share some of her beauty tips and favorite looks as well as star in a corresponding video project."
via saintheron.com
Lupita Nyong'o Graciously Shuts Down Vogue's Comparison to Audrey Hepburn
"Lupita cited Nina Simone as one of her sources of inspiration. However, Vogue reported that Lupita's mane was reminiscent of a shoot the magazine did (below) with Audrey Hepburn in 1963."
via popsugar.com
Rolls-Royce Wraith Luggage Collection
"Designed in the same studio by the same people that brought the car to life, the Rolls-Royce Wraith Luggage Collection is the perfect accompaniment for a long trip."
via uncrate.com
Shop Our Resort 2016 Picks
Bri Steves Is Doing Music Her Own Way
Bri Steves continues to expand on what it means to be a musician with her coverage feature at Wildfire: The Series.
“Understanding that the thing you cannot waste is time— put into perspective how bad you want success and move to achieve it.”
Bri Steves changes gears for Wildfire: The Series. Catch the artist in a new light as she interviews creatives and guests about their event experience. The event, taking place April 30th, is aimed at providing a platform for emerging creatives and artists to showcase their designs and talents.
The 21 year old rapper/songwriter began her music career during her senior year of high school. “Writing poetry sparked my love for stringing words together, and listening to Camp Lo, Marvin Gaye and early Kanye West did it for me.” With encouragement from friends, Bri Steves decided to dive into recording. Like many other creatives, Bri Steves draws inspiration from her family, specifically her mother. "I looked to my momma. I know that sounds cheesy, but she's a formidable woman. I want to be the same." For everyday inspiration, the recording artists finds that she looks to anything out of the ordinary; colors, people, etc.
The summer of 2015 changed everything for Bri Steves. Originally, she planned on attending a fashion internship in New York, but instead she met her mentor, Dyshon Penn and manager, Dave Ghetto. The trio instantly had connection. "I finally got around people who understood the place where I was at musically and who could pour knowledge into me about getting better, that's what I was searching for." Very close to quitting music, meeting the new duo put everything in perspective for Bri Steves. She promptly called back the internship, declined the offer; she then purchased studio equipment and never looked back. She currently has several tracks on soundcloud. Some of which she has performed at World Cafe Live and Pubb Webb. With a list of growing events and appearance, you can find them all at bristeves.com
In the upcoming year, you can expect to see Bri Steves traveling much more and expansion within her brand. In the expansion, she plans to become more of channel for young girls. Also with goals to become more polished and respected within her industry. For the month of April, she has a few shows in addition to Wildfire, including one with REC Philly. Expect to see her at April 30th at Wildfire: The Series.
Quick Q&A with Bri Steves
We saw that you attended SXSW this year, what was your experience like?
Eye opening. I saw first hand how the music business is highly a relationship business. Networked with a lot of people down in Austin and made some great plans for the future. As an artist, I learned a lot; whether it was performance wise, watching other performers or having to first hand travel out of state to represent myself with my team.
During a set what is something you do to set yourself apart from other artists?
I have a pretty tight relationship with my Dj, DJHvnlee, and her scratching throughout my set is pretty important. I prefer a great show experience, so I'll rotate between drums and other instrumentation to make my set bigger. Mixing in whats hot now for my audience is very important to me, and being super interactive with the crowd.
What advice would you give to anybody who wants to do your job (or at least begin the journey)?
Quit your day job and pursue what you want all the way. It'll be lucrative if you put your time into it. But 10,000 hours is needed to be great at anything. Understanding that the thing you cannot waste is time-- put into perspective how bad you want success and move to achieve it.
If you could collaborate with any artists, who would it be?
In the city, it'd be Chynna Rogers and Joie Kathos, I admire their swag, flow and work ethic. J. Cole is definitely on my list for the big leagues, he's one of my biggest inspirations musically, alongside Kendrick Lamar.
Learn more about Bri Steves at www.bristeves.com
Curated by Niani Patterson (nianipatterson@aol.com)
THEakasha is Destined for Great Heights
Theakasha shares music because she wants to connect with others on a deeper level. Her message can't be said with just words..
“DO IT!!!! DO IT ALL! DO ANYTHING YOU WANT TO DO! EVER! BUILD YOUR NETWORK, BUILD YOUR BRAND AND DON’T EVER LISTEN TO A “CAN’T”! YOU ARE POWERFUL!!!!”
Up and coming creative, Theakasha, is set to spin for Wildfire: The Series. The event, taking place April 30th, is aimed at providing a platform for emerging creatives and artists to showcase their designs and talents.
With humble beginnings in Jersey City, NJ, most of Theakasha’s inspiration came from her childhood. “There’s so much beauty and pain in my city, I’m a product of all of it. Some things that particularly used to inspire me in my younger years were RIP street memorials.” Seeing countless memorial taught her to embody the struggle between beauty & pain. The creative has been always been drawn to things that aren't always aesthetically beautiful, but so detailed that they make you feel. Her need to evoke and create emotions from people is what keeps her pushing through all of her work.
The 22-year old creative took interest into DJ’ing after graduating high school. She looked at Vashtie Kola and other black female disc jockeys with admiration. It was after a Black woman, in multiple industries doing all the things she wanted to do that she quickly realized everything was in reach of her. Currently living in Philadelphia has provided her the perfect platform to get started.
“I’ve always had an eccentric music taste and I’ve always been skilled at discovering fire underground music, since high school.”
With her expanding lists of events, Theakasha hopes to make this her main source of income in the next year. "..Meaning that I won’t have to work anywhere outside of my brand, I’ll still have my hands in many pots engineering, directing, curating, etc., but I won’t have to go outside of what I love to be able to pay my bills and feed myself." If you can't catchTheaskasha at our upcoming event, no worries the summer will be crazy for her! Stay updated with all of her shows and appearances at theakasha.us/events.
Quick Q&A with Theakasha
How would you describe your overall style?
Gracefully nonchalant.
During a set what is something you do to set yourself apart from other DJ's?
I ask people to bring me packs of Tropical Skittles & I hate trap music, so don’t come to a set of mine expecting to hear that all night.
Are there any celebrity events you would like to DJ? Why?
I really want to live DJ a Paris or Milan fashion week show. For a cute designer brand like Kenzo or Chloe. Just because I always think certain songs should be Naomi Campbell walked to and I’m always thinking about how much better models & clothes would look if the music was better or more cohesive.
What would you say your spirit animal is?
Saying “spirit animal” is very appropriative of Native American cultures, so I never say that. BUT, for the sake of the question it’d probably be a Tupac/Eartha Kitt hybrid.
LINK UP WITH THEAKASHA
Curated by Niani Patterson (nianipatterson@aol.com)
At the rise of Covid-19 many of us first questioned the timeline of fashion week and would we see the regular calendar continue - the question weighed over many of us for months! It was refreshing to see design houses and designers across the globe take advantage of the uncertainty and plow into production mode - thus my interest in Jerri Reid New York - The Black Designer based in Brooklyn New York wow’d instagram with his latest collection paying homage to the Black Is King film which debuted earlier this year in July. I was taken aback at quick of a turn round the young designer produced and released his well crafted designs reflecting some of the films most memorable moments.