SEXY CHICAGO OUT RAPPER GETS REAL RAW WITH DA-PROFESSOR

Towards the end of August, Rapper Flash Gotti had sent me a link to his song that he was releasing, and after finally listening to it a few later, I love response from you." I was shocked and impressed with his bold and outspoken personality, which makes him one of the hottest rappers to burst onto the Out Music scene He became interested in music hearing his cousins play Hip Hop Icon 2Pac's music and it was then that he became interested in rapping after also listening to Biggie Smalls, Aaliyah, Lisa "Left-Eye" Lopes and Michael Jackson, he lists as his main inspiration for recording. The Sexy Rapper had just released his highly anticipated mix-tape which has already gotten great praise from fans and fellow Out Rapper I.K.P. who gave positive feedback on the sexy rapper's FaceBook page with comments such as Hot and Realness. Well I had a chance to interview the rapper via email where he spoke about his mix-tape, growing up in Chi-Town, response to shady haters who think that he shouldn't use (too much) profanity in his lyrics and his feelings on being an Out Rapper.

Da-Professor: This is Ra Shawn a/k/a Da-Professor interviewing Rapper Flash Gotti, who's repping Chicago. Thanks for the interview. How are things going?

Flash Gotti: What's up!! and nothing much just trying to get by in this realm we call life .

Da-Professor: So let the viewers know who is Flash Gotti? 

Flash Gotti: I am very bold yet laid back á honest person and as real as they come , also I'm áa rap/hip hop artist who was born and raised in Chicago ill. with a story to tell threw music, I am music and music is me! so if I go today or tomorrow I'm forever in mp3 form , oh and also I go by the stage name Flash Gotti lol .

Da-Professor: Cool. You have an interesting stage name. How did you come up with it and what does it represents?

Flash Gotti: o wow lol the name flash came from the word flashback I one day was trying to come up with something cool and different for a rap name lol i went by flashback at first then i said no that's not it so i wrote the word flash down and went on a last name search lol I searched names for weeks !! until I went to bed one day and the name popped up in a dream, but the name represents me fully it fits me I just thought it was meant to be. 

Da-Professor: How did you become involved in music and which artists influenced you?

Flash Gotti: Music has always been around me sense i was a kid. My cousin's used to blast Notorious B.i.g ,2pac and No Limit/Master P. threw out my grandmothers house , we used to play video games with music blasting, get drove to school same thing , go to sleep to it, my cousin's i used to watch rap battle each other. It has influenced me ALOT because I feel music can be whatever you want it to be its your story your leaving on earth forever . á2pac Biggie, Lil Kim, Big Pun, Lisa Left-Eye Lopes from TLC , Missy Elliott Aaliyah áand áMichael Jackson are artists I look up 2 á, mostly like old school music /artists because I think there timeless and going to be remembered forever .

Da-Professor: What was it about those artists that grabbed your attention?

Flash Gotti: oh its sooooo much there all legends no matter how u look at it , and they were/are very original and influenced alot of artists 2 day. they all changed the game in there own way. Lil Kim is very bold to me from her lyrics áto her fashion, her voice /raunchy lyrics got my attention because she was very honest same with biggie and 2pac, Big Pun. I jus love his delivery and Left-Eye and Missy I loved how fun and funny they came across áand Aaliyah and Michael j. was angels 2 I cant explain it i just have a soft spot for them álisa Left-Eye lopes as well.

Da-Professor: You're an Out Rapper. What made you decide to perform as an Out Rapper and have you found any challenges being who you are?

Flash Gotti: Well I'm a very honest person anyway so if I was told to be a str8 artist I would not be me, I would be i think fake which is NOT cool, plus i love that im different type of artist i was never one to follow the crowd i like doing my own thing and being me. And no i have not went threw a challenged yet because I'm a open book to everyone, and people respect me for being real with everythang and I love it .

Da-Professor: You just dropped your mix-tape and it's hot! What prompted you to name it Black Listed and who did you work with?

Flash Gotti: Oh thank you!! People I worked with for this mixtape are Swanny River, Skinny Blaze , Booder Quarnelius ákleva b , Elmo, Evon the music bully, Bruno & Sheena . I gave it the title black listed outcast ambition because in some ways being gay in this world u have it the hardest! For just being you on a everyday bases which makes us as normal human beings blacklisted from the world in general, a outcast from your own family all because u want to be yourself,and if your artist u have 2 sometimes act str8 to be famous ! Basically put on a show like your str8 when behind closed doors your not..which is not what I am about at all ...no bueno! lol.

Da-Professor: I love the single "Old School." What inspired you to write that song and to homage to the Hip-Hop pioneers who paved the way for many of today's rappers?

Flash Gotti: Old school is the first track I recorded for the mixtape. I wanted to pay homage to those who inspired me greatly. It was only right in my eyes.

Da-Professor: Another joint I like is Cum Talk (You Sexy Til I Nut). What was the inspiration for that song and what made you decide to add an Aaliyah song to it?

Flash Gott: Thats one of my favs as well, and the song is about basically your super horny and the person you would not normally have sex with thats been trying to get with you looks sexy that day and yo cum is brainwashin / controllin u to go over there and basically do it with this person and after u nutt your like ...wait wtf was I thinking?? lol somebody could sexy as hell to u at that moment your cum is átalking to but as soon as u nutt, there sexy disappears, leaving u on your way home thinking '' I should of just stayed home and jacked off '' lol I thought nobody really did it be4 and its relatable á,the Aaliyah song added to it is '' rock the boat'' I just thought her voice would be perfect . And I was right. 

Da-Professor: Position=Freak is one of my favorite joints. I love when you rap about loving a kat with a big butt and timberland boots as well as how you like to please and be pleased in sexually and in the bedroom. What inspired you to be open lyrically and sexually?

Flash Gotti: Well just me in general i just like hearing / seeing peoples shocked reaction to explicit songs like that lol because they tell me its bold and raunchy ábut they love it at the same time. taking a dare to say what i want inspires me, áthe feeling of '' yea sure did say it and what?'' I just love it.

Da-Professor: My all time favorite joint is Fatally 87. I played that song 8 times already. What inspired you to rap over the G-Dep classic "Special Delivery?"

Flash Gotti: lmaoo wow 8 times lol but yeah its a favorite of mines as well. I just always LOVED that beat its a classic beat. I said this will be perfect to just flow all the way threw to the end. My mind set for that was it has to be hot and different from the original song I said I have to go off on this song go clean on in lol and I think i did . 

Da-Professor: Another favorite is Stop (Think About It) which deals with homophobia and crime. What inspired you to record a song with a positive message?

Flash Gotti: The killings of young kids, hate all over the world inspired that track, gang crime in our community's, the news, and many other things in this world. I just said wow when is this all going to stop it was also showing people / the listeners im not jus all about being explicit , I care 2.

 

Da-Professor: In additinon to rapping and writing, do you plan on doing any acting, modeling and touring in the near future?

Flash Gotti: I want to do acting /modeling hopefully touring as well but my radar is on acting and modeling.

 Da-Professor: I have to admit you're a sexy guy (Sexy As Heaven). When people find out you're a Gay Rapper do yo get the why you gotta be gay and a gay rapper question?

Flash Gotti: Wow thanks (licks lips like precious) I would get a damn u would sound better rapping about chicks or oh my god u like dudes? wow. why? lol.

Da-Professor: You was born and still reside in Chicago. What was it like growing up there and  tell me from your prespective, what is it about Chi-Town guys that makes people wanna holla at them?t

FlashGotti: It was hard for me in Chicago , I grew up in da hood , I mean one day u see a gang member da next u hear they got killed, from missing school cuz there shooting on the block to every other week randomly having the door kicked down cuz my cousins was gang members, to hearing ''GET DOWN THEY SHOOTING!'' ..to coming home from school on the bus n hope u dont get shot or killed i stayed/grew up in a bad area , a area that if u wore the wrong color u get jumped or if your fitted cap was turned the wrong way u got beat up. People love us for our accent to swag to the sex appeal, most Chicago dudes say what they want and say how it it and is str8 thugs from the area they grew up in. so yea Chicago that place to be if u wanna hood boy because u learn to have tuff skin here or else.

Da-Professor: Chicago has also gave birth to many talented musicians including Jody Watley, Minnie Ripperton, Da-Brat, R. Kelly, Chaka Khan, Kanye West, Twista, Marvin Yancy and the late Don Cornileus. How does it feel to be from the city that produced those talented Icons and how do you feel you're gonna add to their musical legacy?

Flash Gotti: It feels good!! áthe brat was/is friends with one of my cousins I didn't know who she was younger I came up stairs from my room and she and my cousin and his friends was smoking and drinking . lol I feel like my music well be my voice forever...for people if somthing happens to me, i will touch somebody and be remembered weither its jus in Chicago or to a few friends my legacy will will live on. 

Da-Professor: Earlier you posted how many shady people tried to criticize you for cursing and being raw on your CD. How important do you feel it is for you to be who you are lyrically and vocally?
Flash Gotti:  Its very important but not just for me for EVERYBODY to be themselves i hope to inspire people to be themselves...being different is being a leader in my eyes . people told me to do this or they don't like me saying this...but i was told to be myself and say how i feel my words on the mixtape is my truth and my story not there's , why edit yourself for another person your just going to be sayin '' dang i should of just did it or said it'' so yeah its very important to be who you are in general.

Da-Professor: There are many hetero Rappers and Singers who be cursing on their records and interviews too.
Flash Gotti: Yes but if a person who is attracted to the same sex express sexuality on a song its seen as nasty or gross but str8 artist do it all the time .

Da-Professor: For the past year, many Black Famous Athletes, Singers and Actors came out including Jason Collins, Frank Ocean and Rayen-Symone. What do you feel about them coming out and how do you feel it will impact the Black Youth and adults who are into sports deal with their sexuality?
Flash Gotti: Well I feel its good and all that they came out, but my question is why do a gay actor /singer ect. have to announce to the world there gay to begin with? its crazy it should not effect anyone because them being gay or bi does not effect there work or anything they was gay be4 they announced it and if they didn't noticed it be4 it shouldn't matter.

Da-Professor: I've noticed how while there many in the community who supports the Out Rappers and singers, but there are many who complain about the lack of artist who represent the community, yet they don't support them. How do you feel about the kids who contradicts themselves and how important is it for the community to acknowledge and support their own?

Flash Gotti: You know its funny because , they support artists when they come out , but a out artist thats already out gets no support i find it very funny and dumb to be honest.

Da-Professor: If you had the chance to work with any artists Mainstream and LGBT, who would it be. Name as many as you like.

Flash Gotti:  Hmm all the artist mainstream i want to work with has passed on sadly like Aaliyah 2pac Biggie and so on ..... but alive i want to work with Lil Kim, Missy Elliot , Kelis, eve Kendrick Lamar producer Timbaland ,Pharrell lgbt artist : Foxxjazell Last O and a few others that i cant think of. 

Da-Professor: Many were upset at the outcome of the Trayvon Martin trail. How did it effect you and how important is it for Blacks to know that despite having a Black President in the White House that they can be subjected to racial profiling despite their sexual orientation and the areas where they live at?

 Flash Gotti: Well sadly it didn't because crimes like that goes on EVERYWHERE in the world , and its very important because ..nowadays people are worried about the wrong things basically brainwashed to the wrong things to worry about there more worried about celebrities then whats REALLY going on around them , the color of the president skin means nothing the color of yours does that's the difference. 

Da-Professor: We've lost many famous Icon including Michael Jackson. How did the loss of M.J. affected you and how important is it for fans to honor his musical legacy?
Flash Gotti: omg I cried sooooo much over his death man i felt as well as others like i lost a family member , his legacy lives on he was a music icon and the true definition of the word legend he was most def ahead of his time and everyone elses time after lol. U wont get another M.J. he was one of a kind. 

Da-Professor: We also lost rapper Heavy D who worked with M.J. on the classic "Jam" How important is it for those who listen to Hip Hop to learn about his contribution to Hip-Hop.

Flash Gotti: He had a big impact on hip hop! words cant say what he did for hip hop because he's a icon. If a person does not know who he is they need to do there research now! 

Da-Professor:We also lost Disco and Gay Icon Donna Summer. How important is it for many to honor her legacy and contributions to music?
Flash Gotti:.Another icon! and original talent people should keep her legacy alive and they will shes a icon and truly missed for me she was another talent lost but will forever live on threw her music.

Da-Professor: TLC and Beyonce each sampled Donna's debut classic Love To Love You Baby for their hits I'm Good At Being Bad and Naughty Girl. What do you think of them sampling her classic for their hits?
Flash Gotti: I think its fine its keeping her legacy in a way alive. 

Da-Professor: How do you feel you're gonna make an impact on the Out Music Industry and with the LGBT Community?
Flash Gotti: You know idk exactly.... but what i do know is i will make a impact on somebody's life i promise you that. 

Da-Professor: Where do you see yourself in the next 5-10 years?
Flash Gotti: I see myself known by more people and a person that people will look at and say wow i wish that was me. 

Da-Professor: What type of guys you like and what do they have to bring to the table beside their looks and sex game?
Flash Gotti: i like honest confident guys, u have to have ambition a drive to wanna be somthing outta life , basically a leader.

Da-Professor: What advice would you give to a person who wants to pursue a career as an Out artist

Flash Gotti: Be fearless, be a leader ,be yourself no matter what! in this industry u have to be the best at what u do , know your hip hop history an most importantly try to stand out from everyone if you do that your already different or weird but remember its better to stand alone then to follow a crowd cuz guess what u follow the crowd and the person who's different well be gettin the most attention, áoh and one more thing ....STOP COMING IN THE GAME DISSING THOSE THAT CAME BEFORE YOU! CAUSE THAT DOES NOT WORK ...AT ALL. diss records go nowhere and nobody wants to get introduced to u coming after a known artist its a turn off to your new fans and the person u diss will just ignore it anyway so dont waste your time cause they are not bothered u trying to get known not them , u burn bridges you will need later on . trust me .. so yea dats about it oh i almost forgot whatever u do ...... you better GO HARD OR GO HOME ! 

OUT HIP-HOP'S MUSICAL KING AND PRESIDENT SPEAKS WITH DA-PROFESSOR

For years, Hip-Hop artists have been dubbed, Kings, Queens and The greatest. Well Out Rapper I.K.P.s name fits him royally. Also known as The President, the Brooklyn-born-Virginia raised artist is known for his versatile flows, lyrics, mellow yet masculine voice and his positive, laid back yet out going energy and personality which makes him one of Out Music's many loved artists. The President released his first EP which showed his poetic flow, but he showed his fans that he could be versatile and get open with his hit "Super Hoe" with fellow Out Rappers Splash T and Loco Ninja, which was only a sample of what he had for his fans; In January he released his mix-tape which further displayed his talented and his ability to work with other artists. He also did production on Singer Da Quan J Motley's current CD as well. The President spoke to me via email about his career.

Da-Professor: What's up President how are things going?

I.K.P.: Been feeling very inspired lately, more than usual. This year has given me a lot of experience that I hope to share in my art.

Da-Professor: Cool Tell the viewers about your name King of Positivity how did you come up with it and what does it mean?

I.K.P.: I.K.P. was something that struck me spontaneously.  The Infamous King of Positivity, which is what it stands for, combines everything I want to represent as an artist. It came from putting together 3 things; the word ‘infamous’, which is a synonym for ‘notorious’ as in The Notorious B.I.G., one of my key inspirations in striving to be larger than life; ‘King’ which was inspired by T.I., another one of my inspirations and his constant references to the meaning of being a “King”, something that commands respect through actions, and since I have to be the King of something, I chose to be the king of Positivity because I feel it’s necessary for me to represent that as lifestyle and a state of mind that can bring personal freedom. When I became infected with HIV in late 2006, I needed to find a way to take back the power that the infection inflicts on millions of others and myself, converting it into something that could empower others.

Da-Professor: Interesting. How did you get into music?

I.K.O.: I come from a musical family. My father plays sax. My older cousins loved hip-hop and their aspirations influenced me to try it.  Music helped me get through my most troubling days when I felt like I couldn’t connect with anyone else.

Da-Professor: Which artists influenced you and how?

I.K.P.: In the beginning I was influenced by Biggie and Missy Elliott, even when it wasn’t exactly cool to like Missy and because people didn’t consider her hip-hop. But the fact that she was from my area of Virginia made her and Timbaland real champions to me and they showed how to think outside the box.

Da-Professor: Cool interesting. You have various types of flow which has a mixture of spoken word to spitting hard and your music has different genres from Jazz to Hip-Hop, Dance, Rock and New Wave. How important is for you to be diverse and versatile vocally musically and lyrically?

I.K.P.: I think it’s very important to bring as many skills to the table so that I can operate in different worlds. I want to be just as accepted at a dance club as I would be at a jazzy open mic event and I want people from different walks of life to find some connection with me.

Da-Professor: You're also a Gay and Out rapper. Have you had any challenges being an Out Musician?

I.K.P.: I would say not yet.  I don’t think I’ve had much trouble because I haven’t yet cracked the level of exposure I’d like to see. But I anticipate any and all challenges.

Da-Professor: I loved your debut singles The Poetry of Color and Let It Be Known. What were the inspirations for those songs?

I.K.P.: For The Poetry of Color, I’ve always felt like more of poet, if not a traditional rapper because there’s a level of class attached with a “poet” as opposed to a rapper. That type of song got me love at open mics and with more mature crowds for its sound. I think rap is a form of poetry and I love using words to draw comparisons and paint pictures. Let It B. Known was inspired by listening to Ice Cube and drawing from his energy and the grooves found on his records. I caught wind of Katy Perry’s single “I Kissed a Girl” at the time I wrote the song and was a little mad about the fact that it felt like girl-on-girl action was way more accepted that guys being romantic, even if guys tend to objectify women. I was going for the principle though.

Da-Professor: Your single Super Hoe is one of my all time favorites. It reminded me of Kid-N-Play's Last Night, UTFO's Roxanne Roxanne. What made you decide to go with those vibes, what prompted you to work with Splash T and Loco Ninja on that song and will you film a video for that song?

I.K.P.: I’m a fan of Boogie Down Productions and I thought that record would be fun to do and it would be the type of record to make me more memorable in people’s minds. I knew Loco would fit because he brings a certain edge that I liked a lot. Splash T was one of the first performers in the Out Hip-Hop world that I saw perform and her stage presence had me hooked since then.  When I made the Super Hoe record it was only right to bring her in. Anything’s possible as far as a video is concerned.

Da-Professor: Another thing I loved about the song is how you discuss insecure women who be so quick to jump on Gay and Bi-Sexual men who they think are trying to flirt with their men when in reality it be their man who be the ones flirting. What inspired you to address that in your song?

I.K.P.: I witness a lot of drama with people in relationships. House parties, personal experiences pushed me to vent on that subject matter. I’m all for defending the person you are in a relationship with but insecurities just don’t look cute. This something that I see a lot in the gay community as well as straight community.

Da-Professor: You also recorded your version of Boogie Down Productions' classic My Philosphoy What prompted you to give that classic a new twist and why is that song a Hip Hop classic.

I.K.P.: Being a fan of B.D.P., My Philosophy was always a record I wanted to cover.  It’s a timeless record that is a prime example of raw rap music at its finest. The album it came from By All Means Necessary was the fire that lit the inspiration to record and produce my first album.

Da-Professor: Another favorite is Bully. Many people especially in the LGBT community are constantly bullied, but when they fight back, they get repriminded by cops for defending themselves. What prompted you to record the song and how important is it for the LGBT community to not tolerate disrespect by ignorant ass homophobes?

I.K.P.: If it’s something I want people to remember me for, its for telling them to fight for what’s right whether it be for yourself or others.  Be the one that sparks the conversation and starts a movement. We need the attention on that. It’s the same as when Blacks had to defend themselves from racist whites in the days of segregation. 

Da-Professor: You know I loved your joint Torch Light Up (Live)! I loved the live feeling on that song. What made you give that song a live feel and do you plan on releasing that song as a single?

I.K.P.: I wanted to have a song that I could do on stage with a live band. I had a great time producing that.  It allowed me to flex my production muscles to pull it all together because I had never put a record like that together.

Da-Professor: You recently finished shooting a video with Out Rapper Kaoz for your single Check Mate. What was it like working with him and how was it working in Minneapolis the city that put Prince, The Time Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis on the map and did you see Jam & Lewis while you was there?

I.K.P.: I think I did see Jam & Lewis at Mall of America! Then again it was so many people there….

I had the best time working with Kaoz and having him in the video was a dream. I respect him a lot for what he does in his city and his community. He’s a ball of energy, all we did was crack jokes.

Da-Professor: You're family is from Honduras. I like to know what is your ethnicity? Black or Latin or both?

I.K.P.: We are Caribbean Latin. We got the best of both worlds. There’s no half anything because we essentially Caribbean Black people due to our ancestry and culture and Latin by nationality.

Da-Professor: From your perspective what is about Black Caribbean men that makes people wanna holla at them?

I.K.P.: There’s a lot to like about Caribbean Blacks!!  I would venture to say some are physically fit from spending a lot of time outside and lifting things like canoes and playing sports.

Da-Professor: Besides rapping and writing do you have any other projects you're working on?

I.K.P.: I be in the lab producing for other folks mannnn….. I love music. I’m in bed it all the time.

Da-Professor: If you have the opportunity to work with any artists mainstream, independent and LGBT who would it be?

I.K.P.: I would love to work with Kanye West, Timbaland, Eminem and Kendrick Lamar. How sick would a record like that be?

Da-Professor: Many were affected and upset at the Trayvon Martin verdict with George Zimmerman getting off. How did you feel about the verdict and how important is it for many Black and Latinos Gays to realize that they can be victims of racial profiling despite their sexual orientation?

I.K.P.: I felt like the verdict was a failure of the justice system to the family and it reinvigorated conversation about race in America like nothing else.

The whole thing with Stop and Frisk is that it’s effective to an extent. If it helps keep the guns of the street and the drugs out of the neighborhoods then that’s where it should end.  If it comes down to sexual orientation, then its time to re-evaluate the true intentions of the policy.

Da-Professor: Sadly we lost many talented legends during the past couple of years including Michael Jackson. How did his unexpected death affect you and the industry?

I.K.P.: We won’t ever have an icon quite like M.J. in our midst because he was a once in a lifetime deal. There’s no amount of words that can truly explain the impact he had on so many generations of people all around the world. It’s a crime shame that we don’t get to see him progress pop culture further and embrace the new generations of pop artists but he will absolutely not be forgotten.

Da-Professor: We also lost Hip-Hop Legends Heavy D and Miss Melodie. How did their deaths affect you and the Hip Hop industry and how important is it for the new generation to learn how the impact they left on  Hip Hop and how important is it for them to be honored?

I.K.P.: They were Hip-Hop pioneers that paved the way for a lot of what we see today. It’s always important to embrace what the past was and the contributions Heavy D and others have made while still looking forward.

Da-Professor: We also lost Whitney Houston as well. How did her death affect the industry and how important is it for fans to honor her legacy and not blame her ex-husband New Edition co-founder Bobby Brown for her issues and drug use?

I.K.P.: Whitney Houston had a voice unlike any other that has influenced so many that came after.  I think it affected the industry greatly. Her death left a void that can’t be filled. People have to realize that there’s more layers to our pop stars and role models than what we see on TV and read in the news. You never know what’s going on in the minds and hearts of our celebrities and so it’s not anyone’s place to judge them for things we can’t see or things they can’t defend themselves from.

Da-Professor: The world was hurt and shocked by passing of Disco Icon/Songwriter Donna Summer. How do you think that her death has many fans still in shock and hurt?

I.K.P.: She’s a terrible loss in the music world. I think fans and admirers will be hurt from her leaving us so soon for a long time.

Da-Professor: Both TLC and Beyonce Knowles each sampled her classic Love To Love You Baby for their hits I'm Good At Being Bad and Naughty Girl. What did you think of them sampling her classic for their hits.

I.K.P.: I thought those were excellent interpretations of that classic song. I’d have to say those records by TLC and Beyonce are among my top favorites by them, if not more because the Queen of Disco’s spirit lives in those records.

Da-Professor: Donna had also worked with Hip Hop producer JR Rotem on her last album Crayons. What did you think of her recruiting him to work with her and what did you their work on the album track The Queen Is Back?

I.K.P.: I thought that was a great move on her part to explore new sounds and that record was dope. Well produced by JR.

Da-Professor: Last summer R&B Singer/Songwriter Frank Ocean revealed that he was bi-sexual and his first love was a man. What did you think of him coming out and do you feel that many in the community will start to show support for the Openly and Out Singers and Rappers who's been representing the community for years?

I.K.P.: I thought it was very respectable and admirable that he chose to be honest with his fans about himself. It will be a slow process before more R&B and Hip-Hop stars come out about their sexuality but from what I can see, the opportunities are opening up everyday with more celebrities in the Black community like Raven-Symone and Jason Collins opening up and sparking the debates.

Da-Professor: What do you want fans to get from your music and videos?

I.K.P.: I want people to be entertained first, then I want other artists to be motivated to seek out the other talented individuals in film to put out higher quality material.

Da-Professor: How do you think you're making an impact on the music industry and the Out Music and LGBT Community?

I.K.P.: I just want to be remembered as someone who was daring and challenging people’s minds and ideas about who we are an what we can be. I don’t believe I fit the common stereotypes of what a rapper LGBT or otherwise are, so I’d like to show that just like my influences have showed me, it’s OK to look different and think different.

Da-Professor: What advise would you give to a brother who wants to pursue a career as an Out artists?

I.K.P.: Don’t be scared to fight for the right to be accepted as you are and question everything.

JERSEY AUTHOR CHATS

When I purchased Novelist Armani Williams' debut novel "Scandilious" he gave me a warning; the book was going to be hot with lots of hot scenes, and he was right. Not only was the book hot, it was great (the book was so hot that I had to rush out the train station and into my apartment to cool off). Born and residing in New Jersey, Williams' original goal was to pursue a career as a singer or actor, and it was while he was taking a youth community drama course where the instructor asked the students to write stories, and after his story got positive feedback from the instructor, he continued to hone his skills, which is paying off in a big way. His debut novel has gotten great reviews and fans are eagerly awaiting the release of his upcoming novel "Harlem Boyz" which will further display his pen game. Armani spoke to me via e-mail about his writing, acting and avoiding stereotypical characters in his writings.

Da-Professor: Hey bro how are things going? Armani: Things are good. Thanks for reaching out to me. Da-Professor: No problem. So you're about to drop your second novel "Harlem Boyz" this fall. Are you excited? Armani: Yes I am very excited to release my second novel. A lot has happened between releasing "Scandalicious" and releasing "Harlem Boyz" so the fact that I can release another book makes me very happy. I'm more than excited. I'm over the moon!  Da-Professor: What can readers expect from "Harlem Boyz?" Armani: Folks can expect an honest story about the lives of four black male best friends who happen to be gay. It gives you a real glimpse at the lives of these men as they experience life along with their careers, family lives, love lives, and the bond they have as friends.                                                            Da-Professor: Interesting. How did you get involved in writing? Armani: Writing found me when I was ten. I was in a drama class down at Newark Community school of the Arts and the teacher was a college professor. A man by the name of Professor Stewart. He told us we were going to write plays. I was terrified. I didn't know anything about writing. But when I went home, an idea hit me about a woman who was on drugs who found out she was pregnant and wanted to deliver a healthy baby so she went to rehab. I always seemed to write about things that were much older than me. My mother still has the original draft I wrote in her photo album.  Da-Professor: Which authors inspire you? Armani: I have been inspired by a lot of authors but I have to say every time I read a book by my favorite author Carl Weber, I get super inspired to write. I love his work. Da-Professor: I have to admit you was right when you told me them book was hot. I read it on the train on my way home and I'm glad I got home in one safe piece (if you get my drift lol) What was the inspiration for the story? Armani: Wow! Eight times? That's awesome. Thank you for that. I'm glad you enjoyed it that much. The inspiration came from my listening to a lot of NYC hip-hop radio jocks and the crazy calls they received from listeners. And a lot of things people suspected was happening in the entertainment industry. It was birthed out of a lot of "What if" situations and my imagination just ran wild with it.

Da-Professor: I love how you had all the characters being college educated, college graduates and professional. What inspired you to have the characters educated and not all ghetto?

Armani: I can't say it was a conscious decision to make them that way. It's just kind of how the story unfolded. I think my being in college at the time had a lot to do with it.

Da-Professor: One of the things I also loved was how you had Teddy's wife Tameka not being the typical basket-ball wife and having a college degree and career as working in real-estate. What prompted you to write her not being the average stay at home wife and having something to offer besides her looks and pussy?

Armani. I wanted to show that she really did hold him down off the court. Even though she was a stay at home wife, she wasn't stupid. She had a degree of her own, helped manage his finances, was his real estate partner, and kept a lot of things together for him. I think it was important that she be more than his beautiful wife, I wanted her to have some sense. In other words I didn't want her to be a bird.

Da-Professor: It was a great move. Athetles nowadays want a woman who's gonna bring more to the table more than their looks and pussy. Another aspect is Teddy's secret relationship with rapper L.Z. an Hispanic rapper. What prompted you to write Black and Hispanic story line?

 

Armani: LZ was Black and Hispanic. At the time I wrote the book, there was a Hispanic man I had a crush on. I worked for an after school program at the time and I forget the little boy's name but I certainly remember his father's face. One of my co-workers and I used to drool every time he came to pick up his son. (Laughing) When I created LZ, I saw that man's face. 

Da-Professor: Your book had 2 twists that made the story hot and added mystery to the story. Teddy's wife Tameka having an affair with L.Z.'s girlfriend and Tamika catching Teddy making love to her brother Andre who comes on to him.What prompted you to write Tamika having a chick on the side, and will you write a future story line with Andre in it?

Armani: It added a little more spice to the story for Tamika to be having an affair of her own. And it really made it sizzle that she was to having an affair with another woman. And Andre definitely could show up in one of my future books starring in his own story. You never know. Stay tuned.

Da-Professor: One of the main aspects I loved about the book is how you had Teddy's parents, sister and her Jamacian fiancee support Teddy showing that there are many fathers who do support their gay sons. How important was it for you to show that not all fathers are homophobic?

Armani: I wanted to show that there are fathers out there who accept their gay sons. It can be real. 

Da-Professor: Many readers have given you positive feedback on your book. 

How does it feel to have support from both the GLBT and the Hetero communities?

Armani: It really means a lot to me that people from all different walks of life enjoy my work. That's so cool. Being human is really what unites us all. 

Da-Professor: Cool. If you're book was to be made into movie, who would you like to play the

cast?

Armani: The only person I have mapped out in my mind is Jennia Fredrique as Tamika. Everyone else I would leave up to whoever handles the casting to find. 

Da-Professor: In addition to writing, you're also involved in acting as well. Do you have any upcoming projects?

Armani:  It's funny you ask that. In the last 12 months I've been cast in three different projects that I either walked away from or was released from. I also had some auditions where I would make it to the final round of auditions and I would be cut at the last minute. I didn't even think about it until time had passed that all of those things distracted me from my writing. I honestly couldn't do both things at once. My future as an actor at this point is still undecided but I am having fun writing and releasing books. So that is where my focus is. 

Da-Professor: Do you have any plans to write movies or television sitcoms in the future?

Armani: I am definitely tempted to write movies and series but not at this very moment. After "Harlem Boyz" drops in fall 2013, I have its sequel and another book I am working on called "Jerzee Loverz" to finish. So in the words of Kelly Price, I'm booked. LOL! 

Da-Professor: Many were shocked and pissed that Zimmerman got off for killing Trayvon Martin. How did it make you feel to know that he got off and how important is it for Black and Latin Gay males to know that they can be the victims of racial profiling despite their skin color and orientation?

Armani: The Trayvon Martin verdict broke my heart. My heart ached for him and his family. For the first two days after the verdict, I remember being furious. Incensed even. And I felt so powerless. You would have thought he was my little brother. I really hope this is a wake up call to the world that racism is still very alive. I think this goes beyond being gay. It has to do with the unfair targeting of black men and boys worldwide. We all have to watch our backs. 

Da-Professor: You're from New Jersey? What is about guys from New Jersey that makes people wanna holla at them?

Armani: Our swag is addictive.  What can I say? LOL! 

Da-Professor: You're from the state that produced many talented acts like Dionne Warwick, Whitney Houston, Faith Evans, Queen Latifah, Naughty By Nature, Derek Luke and Frank Sinatra. How does it feel to come from the state that produced these talented acts and how do you feel you're gonna add on to their legacy?

Armani: Don't forget Tisha Campbell and Lauryn Hill are from here too. It feels great honestly man. I feel like I come from very good stock. Whitney, Dionne, Queen Latifah, Naughty by Nature, and Faith Evans are all actually from the same hometown as me. East Orange, NJ is where its at! 

Da-Professor: Many were shocked at Whitney's passing? How did her death affect you personally?

Armani: I was devastated by Whitney's passing. Being that she is from my hometown and I have been a fan since I was a small child, she felt like a family member as crazy as it sounds. It's funny though, my dad's side of the family went to New Hope Baptist Church in Newark with Cissy and Dionne before Whitney was born. My father sang in the youth choir together when they were kids. My grandmother directed the youth choir too. So my aunts actually when Cissy came to the church and became the minister of music. But yes, Whitney was my girl and I still play her music. 

 

Da-Professor: Many fans are finally stopping blaming her ex-husband New Edition co-founder Bobby Brown for her drug usage. What did you think of their relationship and their duet "Something In Common?"

Armani: I think what Whitney and Bobby had was real love. It was sadly tainted by their drug use but I truly believe they loved each other. And "Something in common" is one of my favorites. 

Da-Professor: We also lost singers Teena Marie and Donna Summer as well. How do you think their loss affected their fans and how do you think they made a great impact on music?

Armani: I had great respect and admiration for Teena Marie and Donna Summer. Both ladies had amazing voices and were trailblazers. 

 

Da-Professor: During the past year, many Black singers, athletes and actresses including Frank Ocean, Akill Patterson, Jason Collins and Rayvone-Symone came out publicly. How do you feel seeing more Blacks in R&B and Hip-Hop and Sports coming out and how do you feel it will make an impact on Black youth and adults who are struggling with their sexuality?

Armani: I think it will start the conversation and make people more cmwillo think it is.

Da-Professor: How do you feel you're making an impact on the book and acting industry and with the GLBT community?

Armani: By just being who I am. I only know how to be me. 

Da-Professor: Where do you see yourself in the next 5-10 years?

Armani: Living somewhere peacefully with the man I love who loves me back in a beautiful home. Happy, successful, and living my life like its golden. 

Da-Professor: I also see that you're very business-minded. How important is it for people entering the industry to be business-minded?

Armani: What one first must realize is that this is a business before it's anything else. And if you don't stay on top of the business side, you will get taken advantage of. 

DA-PROFESSOR'S INTERESTING Q & A WITH RAPPER QUE

Last Christmas Eve, rapper Que send me a copy of his mix-tape, and when I got the opportunity to listen to it, I was impressed with his raspy voice, mellow, yet raspy flow and his lyrics, which ranges from love, to overcoming obstacles to reaching goals. Born in Tennessee and raised in Florida, the rapper got his start like most southerners singing in church, but he later began to rap and battle his siblings, who were so impressed that they encouraged him to hone his rapping skills, which he's done. The Out rapper, who will graduating from college this week is also dropping his mix-tape which is bound to be a hit. I had the opportunity of speaking to the talented and down to earth rapper via telephone and I.M. (due to technical difficulties) and I found out that we had many things in common, and I found him to be very intelligent, mature, mellow, fun and inspiring. Here is how the interview went.

DA-PROFESSOR: Hey bro thanks for allowing me to interview you how are things going?

QUE: Things are well as of now just doing some promo work for my 3rd mix-tape and working on getting in to more fields of the entertainment industry.

 

DA-PROFESSOR: That's great. How did you become involved in music?

 

QUE:  Well, when  I was younger I was always involved in music and entertainment .. I was singing in the church as a child and doing musicals and all of that good stuff and as I  got older I  use to have rap battles with my sister and brother and then one day  I decided I wanted to take this rap thing to     awholenother  level.

 

DA-PROFESSOR: Interesting you went from singing in church to busting out raps. Which artists inspired you and how did they do so?

 

QUE: Lol yeah singing and praising the lord to rapping about this that and the other ... I would say I  have a lot of different inspirations when it comes to rap, Eminem, Busta Rhymes , and B.o.B. to name a few Eminem really influenced me to actually get deep, deep, deep into music .. but the main thing to excel me in to rap was Soulja Boi... and not in a good way I might add lol.

 

DA-PROFESSOR: Lol. Interesting choices I may add. I noticed that you're also a gay rapper. What made you decide to rap as an Out Rapper?

 

 

QUE: Yeeeeeesssss.....  I am in love with lyricism .... and  I  don't really consider myself an OUT Rapper or a Gay rapper. I am just a rapper that just so happens to be gay ... Example .. I  decided .. well not necessarily decided .. but in my life, I  CHOOSE not to hide who  I am and that goes with music ,acting, modeling , singing , or any other endeavor I  choose to take on I will never deny being gay .. but  I also do not make it the basis of my Art I  take my music and I  let it speak for me so its like if I   decide to talk about some Gay sh*t in my music well I guess that's what that song will be about .. not saying I am going make a song about sleeping with music because my music is not meant to lie for me or cover up my life .... but  I am also not going to use my music to examine my life either my music is to tell a story for my fans to interpret if that makes any sense.

DA-PROFESSOR: Interesting theory. I've listen to both of your mix-tapes and I noticed that you did your version of Brandy's I Wanna Be Down. What inspired you to do a cover of her debut single?

QUE: Well, I am a huge Brandy fan. I  grew up listening to her.  I watched her since she was on Thea and I  have multiple copies of all her Albums.  I  listen to her unreleased tracks and her features. She is an Amazing artist along with being an amazing person and I  look up to her.   I covered multiple songs of hers as a Tribute to her and as a way to expand the type of music I  do to show  I am not just one type of artist.

DA-PROFESSOR:  That's great. How do you fell about her comeback and recent album and what is your favorite Brandy album? What did you think of the song she did with Michael Jackson It's Not Worth It?

QUE:  Her Comeback is going great. Chardonnay is a character that really captures the essence of her acting abilities ... .Her album is constantly on replay no matter what I do. I  have to listen to it and I'm always singing along to scared of beautiful and with out you and so sick lol...  I would have to say though my all time favorite Album by her is Never say never ... so many hits and legendary singles come from that Album .... ooooooo.. Michael Jackson and Brandy ... the harmonies and melodies and rifts and runs and all of it just sends chills down my spine.. the lyrics amazing "U came into my life and it's so funny how u made everything right"  I mean something a guy like me can relate to another prime example why I  am so in love with Brandy and her music.... Michael too he has been a big inspiration to my life not only my music.

DA-PROFESSOR: You also did your version of The Fugee's Ready Or Not What inspired you to do your version of this classic?

QUE: Ready or Not??   Lol. Well  I needed something with a message and not only did the instrumental spoke to me and brought so many ideas and inspirations to me ....  I had a certain message  I wanted to get through to my fans and I  felt that I was successful in doing so.

DA-PROFESSOR: Cool. I love your version of Alicia Key's unbreakable What inspired you to do that cover and how do you think she connects with her fans?

QUE: Lol.  Well my boyfriend inspired that song ...  I  feel so much love for him that I  had to convey it through my music .... it is also is a great example of me speaking of my life without making it "Gay" for lack of a better term. Alicia Keys connects with her fans in a deeper way ... with her lyrics ... and when she gets on stage and aura comes over her and she just oozes charisma.

DA-PROFESSOR:  You also did a video with Vonte Red Ranger. I loved how the video was tasteful and intimate. What was it like working with him?

QUE: Well working with him is like working with family ... Fun and creative .. we always get along great and make amazing music.

DA-PROFESSOR: That's great. It's great to see people in the LGBT community getting along and maintaining friendships and working together. How important is it for many Blacks in the LGBT community to support and respect each other?

QUE: I  think it is super important ... don't let my friendships fool you tho.   There are many people who are against me and what I stand for .... but at the end of the day   I will always support unity and equality because if we do not stand together how else will we rise?? 

DA-PROFESSOR:  Great point. It seems like many in the community always complain about the lack of Gay and Lesbian artists, actors and performers, yet many who complain don't show support. How do you feel about their contradicting themselves?

 

QUE: I think that it is very foolish .. I mean we are out here busting our ass's and working hard and then not only do these people not support but they are tearing us down instead of building us up and helping us succeed .. making it harder for us to make it in this industry.

 

DA-PROFESSOR: True. When Frank Ocean revealed he was bi-sexual many were praising him, but when many said that they were glad Frank came out, but we need to support the artists who been representing for the community many shady ones said that we needed to not be shady while the intelligent gays said that the Out artist needed to be supported as well.

 

QUE:   I support  him to the fullest.  He has a very unique style and thinks out side of the box he actually wrote one of my favorite songs Scared Of Beautiful - Brandy .... of course many people say he came out as a publicity stunt .. I don't believe it. I believe it was more of him being upfront and true to himself ... because him coming out could have went either way. Really really bad or really really good... so publicity stunt ?  I think not.

 

DA-PROFESSOR: Now that's interesting. He also wrote for Noel Gourdin as well. Besides performing do you have any other things you like to do in entertainment?

 

QUE:  I would love to act ... maybe have a talk show .. but I  would love to be a judge on some type of Talent show like America's got talent .. but make it more centered towards the Rap community.

 

DA-PROFESSOR:  That's great. If you have the opportunity to work with -mainstream, independent and LGBT who would it be?

 

QUE: Brandy of course. But I would love to work with Lola Monroe, Nicki Minaj and B.o.B. .... Shorty Roc, Foxxjazzel, Swanny River, and Milan .... and  I  would love, love, love the chance to work with Frank ocean and Bruno Mars.

 

DA-PROFESSOR:  Excellent choices.

 

QUE: Yeah they are my main choices.

 

DA-PROFESSOR: Sadly we lost many popular legend such as Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Donna Summer, Don Cornelius of Soul Train and Dick Clark from America Bandstand. How did the death of these pioneers effected the industry and the fans?

 

QUE:  The death of all these people affected me in more ways than one .. they all paved the way for me as an artist to do the things that  I aspire to do in my life .. . but it really irritates me that everyone would slander people such as Michael and Whitney while they were alive, but when they died everyone wants to break down and act like they rode with them since day one?? I can not stand flip floppers if you weren't for them when they were alive why grieve them when they die???

DA-PROFESSOR: Great point People were putting MJ down saying he didn't like being Black and being weird, but when he died they began to cry and when Whitney died many still got on her for marrying Bobby, but many came to Bobby's defense.

How did Donna Summer's death affected you and what did you think of TLC and Beyonce sampling Donna's "Love To Love You Baby" for their singles "I'm Good At Being Bad" and "Naughty Girl?"

 

QUE: I feel like it was sweet and respectful... Donna Summer had a lot of influence for the type of music they do and it is only right to pay homage to those who come before you.

 

DA-PROFESSOR: Great. It's great to see young adults paying homage to Donna.You're from Florida. What is about Guys from Florida that makes people want to holla at them?

 

QUE: Lol. I'm from Tennessee.

 

DA-PROFESSOR:  OK lol what is about a guy from Tennessee that makes people wanna holla at them?

 

QUE: Country Boy SWAG~!!! Lol.

 

DA-PROFESSOR: Yes

 

QUE: Lol.

 

DA-PROFESSOR: How did you feel about the verdict involving Trayvon Martin and do you feel about Black Gays realizing that life isn't about always partying and throwing shade and they can become target of profiling?

 

QUE:  I  honestly feel that the verdict was Bullsh*t for lack of a better word ... and it was an eye opener for everyone ..everyone realizes that they too can become profiled.

 

DA-PROFESSOR: Great quote. Congratulations on your upcoming graduation. How does it feel to be graduating college?

 

QUE: It feels surreal.. because I  honestly never even thought  I would go to college lol ....but now that I am graduating, I can honestly say staying in school pays off.

 

DA-PROFESSOR:  How do you feel you're feel you're making an impact on the music industry and the LGBT community?

 

QUE:  I can't really say... but I  hope I am making a positive impact on the LGBT community ... showing people never to let adversary stop them ... I have been up against so much hatred and adversary since I have been in the industry and  I never given up and I  encourage everyone else never to give up.

 

DA-PROFESSOR:  That's great. Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?

 

QUE:  I see my self being a icon and a role model .. I see my self hosting rap battles or judging Talent shows ... making albums and mentoring upcoming artist giving everyone a leg up.   I also see my Label Vicious Quality (VQ) being bigger than ever.

 

DA-PROFESSOR: How do you manage to have a relationship while pursuing your career?

 

QUE: Well just like any relationship it is hard ..but it helps that my boyfriend is in the industry too so we can work together and our interests don't really clash that much .. but at the end of the day you have to work at it and make a point in showing that you love and care for your partner .

 

DA-PROFESSOR: What advice would you give to a person who wants to enter the music industry?

 

QUE: If you are getting in this industry its not enough to just want it ... you have to crave it and desire it more than anything else in this game if not this game will eat you up and spit you out ... if you are doing music just to be famous then you will never make it .. do music because you want to support your family .. or simply because it is something that you love to do

 

DA-PROFESSOR: Great advice bro. It seems like you have a great head on your shoulder and a great future ahead of you. Thanks again for the interview and continued success

 

QUE: always .....oh and one more thing for the interview I live by the motto I have tatted on my arm ..."Almost Doesn't Count- Brandy"

 

DA-PROFESSOR: Wow you really admire love and respect her.

 

QUE: To the fullest.

 

MUSIC LEGEND PLANS ON BOYCOTTING FLORIDA IN PROTEST OF TRAYVON MARTIN'S UNFAIR JUSTICE AND VERDICT

Motown Legend Stevie Wonder is known for his classic hits, but he's also known for his activism and fights for justice and equality, and he, like many are upset over the injustice that Trayvon Martin received two days ago. Martin was racially profiled, stalked, attacked and killed by George Zimmerman, a guy who is of White and Hispanic heritage, who was part of the neighborhood watch in the area where he lived at, who saw Martin 17 walking and assumed he was a trouble maker called 911 and referred to him as a coon and a punk, and despite being told by the dispatcher to stay in the car and wait for the police to arrive decided to take matters in his own hands and follow him which resulted in a physical altercation and Trayvon who told his girlfriend over the phone that he was being followed wound up being shot and killed. Zimmerman claimed it was self-defense and used the Stand Your Ground law as an excuse for his actions. Zimmerman was found not-guilty and while there were many people including boguie Blacks who support him, there are many more people who feel that Trayvon didn't get the justice he deserved, including Wonder, who decided made an announcement during a concert; that until the Stand Your Ground Law is abolished, he will not perform in the state of Florida.

“For those who may have lost in the battle for justice, wherever that fits in any part of the world… we can’t bring them back…  What we can do is we can let our voices be heard.  And we can vote in our various countries throughout the world for change and equality for everybody.  That’s what I know we can do.

“And I know I’m not everybody.  I’m just one person.  I’m a human being.  And for the gift that God has given me, and from whatever I mean, I decided today that until the Stand Your Ground law is abolished in Florida, I will never perform there again.  As a matter of fact, wherever I find that law exists, I will not perform in that state or in that part of the world.

“Because when I do know is that people know that my heart is of love for everyone.  When I say everyone, I mean everyone.  As I said earlier, you can’t just talk about it.  You have to be about it.  We can make change by coming together for the spirit of unity.  Not in destruction, but in perpetuation of life itself.” Stevie Wonder at his concert in Qubec.

The Award winning Legend has took part in many political protests for many decades. His 1974 top charting classic "You Haven't Done Nothing" was directed at the President Nixon scandal and his 1980 radio hit "Happy Birthday" was dedicated to Dr. Martin Luther King, and was a theme he used to help have the slain Civil Rights Leader have his birthday made into an national holiday. He also was very active in helping get apartheid abolished in South Africa and when he won his Oscar for his classic "I Just Called To Say I Love You" he dedicated his win to South African Activist Nelson Mandela who was in prison for fighting for equality. The South African government was pissed, and had planned to boycott Wonder's music because of his protest and support of Mandela. Wonder wasn't pressed or phrased at all. "If my being banned means people will be free, ban me mega-times" Wonder told United Press International. Stevie also lend support for his friend and former label-mate Michael Jackson when he was falsely charged of child molestation, especially after Rapper Enemem released a song and video "Just Lose It" which made mockery of MJ's trial, facial features and the burns he suffered while shooting a Pepsi commercial with his 5 brothers. Stevie called the video as 'kicking a man while he's down and bullshit.' BET stopped airing the video, and while the Slim Shady rapper continued to sell albums and win awards, his sales hasn't been as strong due to their song and protests. Stevie also went after Lil' Wayne for dissing the legacy of slain teenager Emmit Till in a remix on Rapper Future's single "Karate Chop" which featured Weezy's line 'Beat the pussy like Emmit Till.' Many Blacks were upset at the verse considering the fact that Till was killed for allegedly whistling at a White woman in the south which was segregated at the time."You can't equate that to Emmett Till," Wonder said. "You just cannot do that. ... I think you got to have someone around you that – even if they are the same age or older – is wiser to say, `Yo, that's not happening. Don't do that.' Future's label removed that part of the verse from the song and issued an apology while Lil' Wayne's endorsement with Mountain Dew ended because of the lyrics. Stevie Wonder has always put his talent to good use and always stood up for equality, and with Stevie boycotting Florida and other states that has the Stand Your Ground laws, he will continue to show others how to protest by taking the Higher Ground, while fans in those states will have to rely on listening to his music, missing out to see a talented guy who is for equality. This will let people know that certain things will no longer be tolerated.

This post is dedicated to the memory of Trayvon Martin and to others victims and survivors of Racism, Sexism, Classism and homophobia.

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