The NewNYer

Sincere Dennis’ moniker “The NewNYer,” is quite deceiving, simply because he’s been gallivanting the concrete jungle for some time now.  Honestly, I forgot where we initially met (most likely at a music event or BAPE) but what I do recollect is his warm, welcoming energy and uncanny resemblance to Kid Cudi back in 2007.

Sin is an underground New York legend who’s captured the pulse of the city for nearly a decade.  Ask any Downtown cool kid and they’ll most likely share a humorous story about bumping shoulders or chugging an ice cold can of Pabst Blue Ribbon beer at a Lower East Side pub with the forever-grinning photographer. Although he may seem like a party animal, Sincere strategically camouflages himself in festive environments, which in turn causes his subjects to feel at ease in front of the camera.

The Bronx-born stereoscopic shooter’s career is brighter than ever as he is now an official member of ASAP Rocky’s AWGE creative agency.  I recently sat down with Dennis to discuss his everlasting relationship with NYC, affiliation with the mob, creative endeavors and carefree lifestyle.

Check out the condensed transcript of our two hours long conversation below.

FRENDY:  What’s going on bro, How are you feeling today?

SINCERE:  Today is a good day.  I feel energetic, but out of it at the same time.

FRENDY:  You just came from the gym right?

SINCERE:  Yeah, a little work out. Not too long, I’m only in there for about 30-45 minutes.  I don’t need to be in there sweating my ass off.

FRENDY:  I got you.  So new year, new you?

SINCERE: Same me, just better health *Laughs*.  More healthy shit—no more Backwoods.  I got to chill on Backwoods. That shit takes a toll on you, it makes me feel fatigued. I’ll stick to oils and extracts.  You know, keep it easy.

FRENDY:  Man, you don’t know how much you remind me of Cudi.  This is actually the very first time we’re having a full blown conversation, and to my surprise, I see you even sound like him *Laughs*.  How often do you hear this from people?

SINCERE:  Not so often these days, but people are still saying it.  Like Ferg would see me and be like: “yo, that’s Kid Budi right there,” a whole other nickname, and I’m just like “you’re crazy, bro” *Laughs*.  I started hearing the comparisons around 2007-2008 when I first came Downtown.  That’s how people knew me, the dude that looked like Kid Cudi.

FRENDY:  How’d you find out about the Soho area?

SINCERE:  A girl brought me down here.  She was like “Oh, I’m going to go shopping—you should meet in Soho,” I was like “I don’t know, I’m from Uptown.  We go to 125th for shopping.” So we ended up going Downtown and I’m like, “I thought we were going to Soho?” She was like, “we are in Soho!” and I was like, “oh shit, ok.”

Kid Robot was the very first job I had in Soho. And then I worked at American Apparel, Urban Outfitters.  I deliberately put myself in Soho to be around the people that were moving and shaking in the industry. I knew the people I needed to be around were there.  I had to get away from Uptown. When you’re an Uptown dude that’s all you know. I remember one time leaving a party at Black Ink tattoo shop, and it was me, Rocky and Bari.  I told them I was about to leave to go Downtown to this party and they were like, “bet! let’s go.” We get outside of Black Ink and I guess Bari got a call or text message to go to this house party etc.  They eventually went about their own way and I went mines. They never really wanted to come Downtown and party. Trying to get Uptown dudes to come Downtown was like pulling teeth. Eventually, they got Downtown.

FRENDY:  What were the hottest shops on 125th at the time?

SINCERE:  Jimmy’s [Jimmy Jazz] *Laughs*.  Fuckin’....Atmos...that was it.  I didn’t know anything else—I barely even shopped, really.  A lot of my homies made clothes back then so I mostly wore their shit.  I do that to this day.

FRENDY:  So that means fashion wasn’t really your strong point?

SINCERE:  Yeah, I wasn’t really big on all that fashion shit because I ain’t have that money *Laughs*.  I didn’t have the money to do all that. I had my first apartment on 129th and rent was due! I just can’t be buying clothes.  I decided to stick with what I know.

FRENDY:  Which part of Harlem did you start kicking it in?

SINCERE:  On the East side.  Harlem was chill, those were the days I started coming outside and meeting people.  That’s how I met everybody who I know today. Harlem was an experience.  You got Teyana Taylor who I’ve known, for like, forever.  She’s been doing her thing for a while, now she has an album out etc. She just kept grinding with patience.

FRENDY:  Yeah, I’ve been following Teyana for quite some time now, since her BBC/Ice Cream days. I’m glad she’s getting such a great reception right now.  When did you first meet Rocky?

SINCERE:  I think we first met at Black Ink on 127th and 7th before it became what it is on TV.  I hate that place now, it’s not the same. Most of the original workers are there, but they have all these new characters now.  And I call them characters because they’re not the real people that built up the shop. Puma was my introduction to the shop. He told me to stop by one day to chill.  We really didn’t have anywhere else to go so why not.

I used to see them [the A$AP mob] at random house parties, community center gatherings and just jump-offs.  Once we realized we hung around the same group of people, we became cool. They see me as a familiar face and when we got to Black Ink they were like, “you family.’

FRENDY:  I may sound ignorant, but is Harlem close to the Bronx?

SINCERE:  Yeah, so when you get further up into Harlem, you get to the heights {Washington Heights} and then there’s a bridge where you can go to the Bronx.

FRENDY: Ok, cool. What year did you start thinking of getting into photography?

SINCERE:  In 2012 when the mob got big.  I was like, “shit, I need to find a way to document this.” Around that time I was taking pictures of the homies. I was hanging around Rocky, and the entire crew, and no one was taking pictures.  I mean there were a few people taking pics, but no one was assigned as their official photographer. It didn’t work out how I thought it would, but it was still fine, I still saw them all the time at shows, took pictures, said what up.

I remember a few times, they would come up to me and ask me where’s my camera.  There was a time where I got caught up in just wanting to enjoy and be a part of the experience.  They were asking because they figured I would be able to shoot for them. But at the time I was caught between two worlds: it’s either I’m this person that’s going to capture shit, or I’m going to be a person that’s just out here partying.

FRENDY:  What was the first camera you purchased?

SINCERE:  I had a Canon Rebel T2i.  I had gotten a Nike check for a commercial I did and I bought a camera.  That was it—it was either I take this serious or not. When I noticed there was a lot of people becoming photographers, I was like “shit I don’t want to do this anymore,” because now I’m battling to get the same image somebody else got.  We’re just taking the same pictures in a different angle. I just had to figure out a way. So years passed and I was still shooting digital.

FRENDY:  Photography propelled you to go out even more?

SINCERE:  Yeah, of course!  Because I was sitting at home with no pictures to edit.  Nothing to post on Instagram. If you go all the way back to my early posts you’ll see that I was making memes. I didn’t fuckin’ know what a meme was, but I was doing em *Laughs*.

FRENDY:  I actually dug deep into your gram and saw that you were experimenting with moving images many moons ago…

SINCERE:  Yeah, I was doing these little digital moving photos, like real subtle.  I never really liked still photos, I was always trying to make my photos move.  

FRENDY:  Because you’re a “mover” as well…

SINCERE:  Right, there is something about a photo not just being a still, 2D photo, you know?  So years passed, I got tired of digital. In 2012 or maybe even earlier, I saw this Complex {magazine} interview with Mr. GIF.  He does a lot of 3D work and he was breaking down how he was making these moving photos. I was like “shit that’s crazy,” because no one was doing that at the time.  Months past and I’m looking on eBay and I saw the exact camera he used to produced the moving images. It was only $25, I thought it was going to be like $300 or something like that!  So I bought it, it came, and I sat on it for like a year and a half. And then finally, I said fuck this digital stuff.

FRENDY:  Why did you sit on it for so long?

SINCERE:  I was probably working a crazy retail job that I didn’t want.  I was going out, but not in the mindset where I needed to take photos.  Someone is performing at a open bar? I’m going! But then around late 2012, I decided to start shooting in 35mm film.  In early 2013, I had all these rolls of film and I didn’t develop them until a year later. I went to this one spot in the East Village and they were the only ones that were able to do it right.  So now I’m editing these shits and they’re looking cool as fuck.

After that, I started going to shows and made sure I’m always up in the front. I always wanted to get that close up shot of artists.  No one ever sees me because I hardly have my camera out. I only take it out when it’s time to use it—I go up, snap, and then go back to enjoy the performance. I found a real balance in just enjoying a show and also getting some work done.  Soon after, I started putting them up on Instagram, but then I had to find an app that could keep the same quality. That’s one advantage I have over a lot of people who are shooting moving images, they can’t ever put up a great quality stereoscopic flick.

FRENDY:  When I see these other cats do it, their pics can’t compare to yours at all.  Your moving pics are just so damn crisp! You don’t have to give away your secret by the way…

SINCERE:  I don’t even know what it is.  That’s just the way I’ve always been doing it.  I tell people that I got it from Mr. GIF. I read his Complex {magazine] interview, I don’t even think it exists anymore. I tried looking it up on Google.  Now people are coming up to me asking so many questions. The actual form of photography is called stereoscopic and then lenticular is actually what I print out.  The prints are lenticular.

FRENDY:  What does that mean?

SINCERE:  I don’t know what lenticular means really *Laughs*.  It basically gives a 3D effect on prints.  It gives it that movement. As soon as I started doing that, which was almost a year and a half ago now, things took off.

My homie Jared, who’s my partner in all of this, found me on Instagram under one company’s comments asking them how to print these things.  We spoke but they weren’t really trying to help me. So Jared saw my comment and then replied saying that he was able to help me print the lenticular prints. He sent me a direct message and the rest is history. Since then, he’s been aiding me print all of my lenticular prints.  We had like 3 shows, we sold a bunch of pieces.

FRENDY: Congrats! There aren’t much pictures of you circulating online. Is that intentional?

SINCERE:  I’m just chilling. I rather my work be the face of me.  You don’t have to know who I am or what I look like to like my work.  People like my work and don’t even know what I look like.

FRENDY: What does AWGE stand for *Laughs* ?

SINCERE: We really can’t say what it means.  Honestly, I still don’t know what it means *Laughs*.   To me it’s just a rag-tag group that have met throughout Rocky’s come up.  I feel like he wanted to have a creative team but didn’t really quite know how to do it. Yeah, he has the rest of the mob but they all have their own thing going on already.  

We all make visuals, but I’m trying to stay away from directing videos right now.  I just think I need some more time before I make a video with Rocky. I have an idea that’s slowly coming along.

FRENDY:  Did you have any doubters in the very beginning of your shooting spree?

SINCERE:  To be honest, I don’t even consider myself a photographer.  For one, I don’t know shit about cameras *Laughs*. I just know how to use the ones that are in my hand.  I just do whatever the fuck I want to do. At first, when I started this Downtown thing, I considered myself a graphic designer. Like fuck it, I know how to use Photoshop….a little bit.  That’s it. And then I was like, oh fuck, Photoshop is not working so I started creating some t-shirts. That shit never really happened.

I never looked up to a photographer’s work and said I wanted to shoot like them.  I’m just taking photos. My inspiration come from watching movies. The way the lighting is in movies and how they capture certain angles.

FRENDY:  It’s the same thing for me as a writer. I didn’t major in Journalism in college or anything, I just love writing stories. Granted, I’ve been working on my craft for like 10 years. I know how to put stories and interviews together really well.

SINCERE:  You got to develop your own process.  There’s a lot of people doing journalism for these websites and they’re trash!  Like, they’re not telling me a story. They’re just telling me the information and the person to answer some questions.

FRENDY: Yup! I know you were a part of Rocky’s Testing album shoot. How was that experience?

SINCERE: We all went to capture content.  The way Rocky work is kind of similar to how we all operate. He actually booked a photographer already, but since we captured so much awesome content, he was questioning if he should use the photographer’s stuff or use the stuff that we got.

FRENDY:  Damn, so he already knew y’all would kill it.

SINCERE: Yeah, he just knew we were the gang, the creative team.  We were going to do what we do. That outing was my first time actually working with the rest of the AWGE team members. That was the first week of January in 2018.  I was like ‘damn, that ball dropped hard!” *Laughs*. As soon as that ball dropped, I got a direct message from Rocky and he said something about joining the home team. And I was like, “bro, I’m ready. Just let me know when.”

FRENDY:  You weren’t even expecting that?

SINCERE:  Nah, I was just doing my own thing. I think I just finished working at Milk {studios].  I was working there for like two and a half years. I was shooting festivals that Milk had partnered with, and some events at the Jam Room. Because of that, I didn’t have to work that whole summer.  All I was doing was just going to music festivals, events, just shooting. The owner of Milk really fucked with me and he wanted to keep me around.

Before I was at Milk, I was doing video and photography for Elite Daily 5 years ago.  After I got let go at Elite Daily I promised myself that I wasn’t going to go back to retail.

FRENDY:  What were some of your duties at Milk?

SINCERE: I had to know everything dealing with photography or not.  I had to deal with figuring out how to fix pipe leaks, if the ice machine broke I had to figure out why it broke, and then call a professional to let them know what’s up.  It taught me discipline and how to act fast. How to react to situations quick. I was there for a reason, I was there to learn some things whether it was about photography or not. It taught me how to move, how to talk to people.

FRENDY:  That’s great, you took everything in stride.  You just did what you had to with no complaints.

SINCERE:  Yup.  There were times I had to be there at 4am after a long night of partying.  It was crazy, man. The last thing I did for Milk was shoot Jonah Hill with Desus and Mero. They {Desus and Mero} do their podcast down in the basement every Friday, and they usually drop the episode on Monday.  They don’t usually have guests on their podcasts, but when they do Milk will try to get me to come and take photos.

FRENDY:  I see you’re not too active on Instagram, as far as posting new stereoscopic flicks.  Is there a particular reason for that?

SINCERE:  Yeah, I had to chill ‘cause now I don’t even have to do anything and I get followers.  I rather let that simmer.

FRENDY:  So you don’t think you have to keep the traction going?

SINCERE:  Nah, I don’t want to over concentrate the market. One of my homegirls from Sweden told me that I don’t have to post so much.  I could be active on my story, but I don’t have to post on my timeline so much. And I was like, damn, that kind of made sense.  And then that gave me another way to put out my personality and document where I go without showing my face. People usually ask me “are you going to post pics from the event you went out to last night?” and I say, “no, I was just there. I didn’t shoot that night.”  

FRENDY:  What does it take for your to bring out your camera then?  A super exclusive event?

SINCERE:  Just AWGE related or an event where I know a particular person is going to attend.  I have an unwritten list of people that I need to take photos of. Sometimes, I just want to burn through a roll of film and I just go out and take pictures of homies.

FRENDY:  How often do you take pictures now?

SINCERE: I don’t know, I just walk around with a camera in my pocket.  Like, nobody ever sees me with my camera out in my hand. When I take a picture of you I’m in the motion.  I see a moment, I strap up and get ready for the shot. And then I put it away right after. That’s it, I don’t want to be walking around with it on my neck.  I carry one at all times though.

FRENDY:  Are you still hitting up Soho like you used to?

SINCERE:  Not that much. I’m usually at the Lower East Side. I feel like its the new hub. Before it was Union Square, then Soho, now it’s just the LES.  We in the bars, we chillin’. My homies work at bars so I pretty much drink at a good price everywhere I go.  I’m more about chill shit these days.

FRENDY:  What does a day in the life of Sin looks likes?

SINCERE:  I just go outside.  I’m fortunate enough to get paid and wake up to figure out things.  That’s one of my perks at AWGE. They want us to grow as us and be able to have that time to not have to worry about where my next paycheck is coming from.  I’m able to pay my rent, I’m able to travel and just do my thing.

FRENDY:  You’re basically working everyday, just not in the conventional sense.

SINCERE:  Yeah, I’m still out here trying to find a way to create content for myself, related to AWGE, and Rocky.  

FRENDY:  What are the things related to AWGE?

SINCERE:  So, I’m not on tour right now but I’m still promoting the shows by posting flyers up on my Insta story, stuff like that.  And when I do go to a show I get my little content, make some GIFs. I’m still working, still doing something that’s contributing to the team. And even though I’m not on tour my posters are sold at the shows.  Like I’m making money for the team, from a piece that I have.

FRENDY:  How do you feel about all of the recognition you’re getting?

SINCERE:  I honestly don’t really care.  I don’t need people to be like “yo, that’s sincere!”  I’m good, I’m ok. I don’t need that energy. People ask me If I do music and stuff like that and I always tell them I don’t need that attention.  I would go crazy if I got it *Laughs*.  I’m from New York, that’s all they need to know.

Anchors

The heir of Hip Hop royalty Diggy has just unleashed the visual for the sixth track off his commendable comeback project, Lighten up.

Aptly titled “Anchors,” not only is Diggy dropping gems on this record, the former Jetsetter is jack-hammering bars that might get your girl wetter than a whirlpool in Vegas.  “ We put anchors on the blessings so they can’t leave us/walking overseas but I ain’t Jesus/ tryinna spit me game, I spit it back, ‘cause I ain’t need it/ you should give it to them youngins that be hungry with our same features,” raps Diggy on its first verse.  He then heats things up with: “you wanna kill me, better dig deeper/ she whispered in my ear she wanted Dig deeper (and I did do it)/ If I dig deeper I might hit yo’ heart/ baby we so far apart, tryinna force it isn’t smart.”

The single’s video, shot by HDtayfilms, sees the dapper young spitter in his usual spiffy threads in an array of locations complimenting his retro attire and hard-hitting lyrics.

Check it out below:

Oreo's Creamalicious Lip Balm

Damn, who knew Oreo could be so cheeky?! We’re already enticed to lick off its signature filling and soon we’ll have the option of literally applying the scent of the cookie’s delicious cream on our lips (French kisses will never be the same).

In collaboration with Taste Beauty, the “Stuf,” chapstick is the bestselling cookie company’s first venture into the beauty industry.  Besides Stuf, Oreo plans on releasing a number of limited edition items for a month ahead of National Oreo Day on March 6th.  Keep your eyes peeled and lips pouted because the only way to receive the creme-scented lip balm is by entering a contest on Oreo’s site on February 4th.

While you’re waiting on your chance to cop the very rare Oreo x Taste Beauty ‘Stuf’ lip moisturizer, enjoy 112’s legendary seductive single “Peaches and Cream.” (just imagine the word “Oreo” in front it).

Rio Is Numero Uno

“Beautiful, I just want you to know, you’re the first-ever world capital of architectuuuure.” Don’t mind me, I had a sudden urge to sing my own rendition of Pharrell and Snoop Dogg’s legendary hit “Beautiful,” upon hearing that Rio de Janeiro, the city that they shot its accompanying visual, was picked by UNESCO as the World Capital of Architecture for 2020.

For years, the Brazilian seaside city has been a major tourist attraction due to its ethereal geography, historical museums, delectable food, and of course, poppin’ ass carnivals. As a result of winning the coveted title, Rio will serve as the brilliant backdrop for the International Union of Architects (IUA) World Congress Forum, which is scheduled for July 19-26 2020.  The event is a big pow wow where architects from around the world discuss topics such as mobility and sustainability.

Shout out to Rio one time, man. Let us all celebrate by rocking out to Theophilus London’s ode to the heavenly region:

Soho

In a recent fiery freestyle on Sway In The Morning, Shady Records signee Boogie cleverly stated, “alienated and spaced out I’m screaming like, ‘beam me up’/ I see the rap niggas, I see ‘em teamin’ up/ that’s why I be lyin’ about linkin’ up/ if you ain’t Reason or J.I.D don’t bring ‘em up.” The Compton-born rapper was basically saying that he didn’t work this hard to get in the game for counterfeit industry relationships.  As a matter of fact, Boogie reiterates the same sentiment in a scorching track from his highly anticipated debut album, Everythings For Sale.

Titled after the South of Hollywood, which is only a half hour away from Boogie’s hometown, “Soho” clearly displays how he and his aforementioned Dreamville buddy are proud members of the anti-social social club. Just look at the chorus: “please no more meetings at soho, please no more thinking we bro bros.”

At first, I thought the name of the song stood for Soho, my favorite hotspot in NYC, because that really is where friends (and secret foes) link up for meetings...or window shopping.  In any case, this clearly is a sign for you to cop my hoodie already (haha).

While you’re contemplating the purchase, check out Soho’s visual below:

A Calabasas Freestyle

The very first track found on Jaden Smith’s latest sonic body of work The Sunset Tapes: A Cool Tape Story is dedicated to my favorite region in all of New York—SoHo (shameless plug: there are a few sizes left in my hoodies if you were wondering). Although it wasn’t the project’s premier single, “SOHO” easily became a fan favorite after the Fresh Prince’s heir blessed Instagram with a visual that meshed the latter with a hilarious clip from his dad’s legendary TV show.  Now, the young icon is moving forward with a new freestyle hitting close to home!

Fittingly titled, “A Calabasas Freestyle,” the bar-filled jam fully displays the Karate Kid’s lyrical chops as he spits about his elaborate lifestyle and splurges.  As you might of guessed, its accompanying video takes place in, that’s right, Calabasas, where Jaden is found rocking his own MSFTS gear and shredding with friends.  Check it out below:

While we’re on the subject, I might as well revisit one of my favorite cuts from Drake that also pays homage to the lavish Los Angeles County, “4PM In Calabasas”.  Enjoy!

Pink Sweat$

I’m all about showcasing phenomenal, rising musicians on this platform and Pink Sweat$ is no exception.  I caught wind of the 26-year-old multi-hyphenate about 6 months ago when he released the confessional ballad “Honesty,” from his standout debut EP, Demo 1.

Sweat$ is a proud member of the new age pack of musicians who defy the stereotypical look of an R&B crooner. I mean, who needs chiseled abs when you have a woman-melting falsetto like he has?

Although the Philly native’s project is just 14 minutes long, it is packed with minimally-produced, emotive tunes that’ll snatch your soul.  

Check out the visual for “Honesty” for a preview of what I’m talking about below:

P.S Shout out to my OG supporter MC for her leading lady role in the clip.

Justine's Interlude

D’Anthony Carlos, better known as Goldlink, is the very first rapper to appear twice on the music-centered Youtube channel, Colors.

Performing his latest slow bop “Justine’s Interlude,” the DC native paid tribute to his dear friends: the late Mac Miller and Brooklyn’s own Justine Skye.  By its title alone, you can infer that the song mostly touches on the Roc Nation songstress.  

Goldlink spilled major tea during his second run on “A Colors Show,” and he didn’t even have a mug in-hand like Daniel Caesar (watch Daniel’s performance on the platform here to get that witty joke).

Check it out below:

Keeping Up With Demand: Diversity On Screen

The last five years has seen a surge of new content that have been distinctly constructed to try to reharmonize the evident under-representation of marginalized groups on mainstream TV.

Issa Rae’s HBO series Insecure and multi-talented British actress Michaela Coel’s Chewing Gum have put narratives of black culture to screens worldwide.

Streaming platforms such as Netflix have provided real authenticity to audiences with shows like Atypical; a coming of age comedy that follows autistic lead character, “Sam,” fumble his way, just like any awkward adolescent, through his teenage years.

Shonda Rhimes consistently writes for and casts not only strong female leads, but also people of colour with shows such as Grey’s Anatomy, Scandal and How To Get Away With Murder — and people are here for it. Rhimes’ shows average 8.6 million viewers each week and she herself has received two Golden Globes, eight Emmys, 29 NAACP Image Awards, and a Peabody.

But how could we talk about diversity on screen without mentioning last year’s box office storm, Black Panther. An absolutely monumental moment in cinematic history that brought unapologetic blackness to the screens of the masses, with purpose. The narrative was strong, the characters rich in resources and technology showing a side to the black experience that is not usually synonymous with box office hits — and not a whiff of black suffering in sight.

What is great to see about these shows and movies is that they do not stick to the age old, worn out narratives of white saviours in the black community or those with disabilities being presented as weak or sorry. These shows are displaying its characters normality. These characters and their everyday, through their eyes.

These shows do not leverage the differences of its characters to justify their presence on screen — and that is what is boils down to.

Studios need to understand that marginalized groups don’t need to be legitimized to be on screen, because, at present, the only reason the on screen narratives are beginning to change is because of the people telling the stories.

Film and television has the power to shape culture in a way that many other mediums can’t. It is our window to the world outside of our existence, and fictional or not, we build our opinions based on what and who we see represented on our screens, and the narratives that surround them.

People have a drive and need to see themselves represented, it makes them feel safe, accepted and not alone. Today, with the change in narrative towards underrepresented groups in the media, people are not afraid to ask for what they want to see on screen. They are not afraid to boycott the content in which doesn’t show a version of their truth.

On the flip-side to this, decades of poor representation has impacted how people view themselves and how they feel they are viewed by society — which has had serious consequences. It has caused people to question their own capability. Without seeing stories of those who look like them being successful and in positions of power, people are unable to dream big.

Ambitions are capped by the belief that because of something fundamental to their identity, they will not succeed in life.

Now, it is all well and good that people from these groups are starting to dictate their stories. However, the reality of the situation is those who dominate the film and television industries are not these people. The current media giants need to take responsibility for how they characterize certain groups and commit to providing a platform for a different type of person to share their stories with the world.

Without this, these groups will continue to tell their own stories and carve their own path. There is real cultural value in authentic story telling. People are no longer looking for the glossy images that we are used to seeing. This will have a knock on effect, and in time those that dominate the market will be knocking at the door of these groups to satisfy the demand for authentic representation.

This has already started to happen, and we are now on the cusp of a real shift in the market. A great example is Netflix’s recent acquisition of a multi-year deal with Shondaland, the television company that Shonda Rhimes set up in 2005 to produce the stories that she wanted to tell.

East London based action thriller The Intent was self funded and independently released by black writers and directors Femi Oyeniran, Nicholas Walker. And when the time came for The Intent 2, Island Records and Vertigo Releasing came for a slice of the pie.

As for disability being portrayed, studios are coming under fire for ‘cripping up’ by casting able bodied actors in disabled roles. This is forcing the industry to finally turn to disabled actors to take up these roles. A recent hit was John Krasinski’s A Quiet Place, which featured a deaf actress named Millicent Simmonds.

So the question is, what side of the narrative do these studios and producers want to be on, holding the door open for diverse casts or left knocking on the doors of those creating their own paths to success?

Written by Tsedenia Skitch

FRNDY LMRN Mix 1

Happy New Year everyone! Allow me to kick off 2019 with the very first FRNDY LMRN Mix curated by yours truly and my musically-inclined lil’ cuz, Kareem Hilaire.  Enjoy!

Sir Julien

Sir Julien George is a budding entrepreneur whose eyes, like Superman, are laser focused on the prize.  In February of 2018, Julien reached out to me with an intense interest of being a contributing writer for FRNDY LMRN.  He instantly took a liking to my platform after reading the Original Story I wrote on style maven Danielle Anabi.  Unlike many other business inquiries, the 19-year-old Atlanta native’s initial email, was quite frankly, a fully loaded automatic rifle spewing out his resume, expertly crafted media kit and letter of recommendation for my consideration. (Neo’s got nothing on me the way I was dodging those rapid fires.)

I opted to put George on board and we’ve had a smooth sailing partnership ever since. He has written some outstanding entertainment news articles, and even cooked up fresh interviews with his famous friends.  I’m pretty sure you guys are interested in knowing more about the sophisticated youngster (peeped his poppin’ gram yet?) so I thought it would be a clutch move to put him in the hot seat.

Check out the transcript of my informative chat session with Julien below where we discuss his upbringing in The A, lavish lifestyle, boarding school woes and future endeavors.

FRENDY:  What’s up, J? Let’s get straight to it—can you give me the scoop on your parents?

SIR JULIEN:  My mother was born in New York and had about seven siblings. Her parents created a family band that they called, The Steel Bandits, in the ‘80s. They all played the steel drums, which is pretty dope. They lived and traveled all around the US and played for former President Ronald Reagan. I just couldn’t imagine my mom being in a band *Laughs*.

My dad was born in SoCal. He lived the ‘Carlton Banks’ lifestyle, but with Will Smith’s personality (if that makes sense). He has some funny teenage stories. When he moved to Atlanta, he built several strong relationships with prominent figures and created Elavon. Since then, the company has sold and he’s living his life.

FRENDY:  What kind of services did your father’s company offer?

SIR JULIEN:  My dad has always been an entrepreneur and investor. He has build several companies that still gain recognition today. Elavon built one of the first modernized credit card machines, which has gained billions in profit. His relationships with the mayor and other prominent figures is how he build Tech Labs. Tech Labs, Pindrop, and Purewire have raised over $100M from software companies in the United States including Amazon.

FRENDY:  Wow, that’s incredible!  They need their own #FrendyOriginals *Laughs*.  Are you the only child?

SIR JULIEN:  Facts. Their stories are insane!  Yes, I am the only child. It was so great growing up as an only child, but not having those fundamental principles of “sharing is caring,” was a wake up call once I entered the real world.

FRENDY:  Oh really? what was your first “wake up” call?

SIR JULIEN:  Probably turning 18. I had always been so mature growing up due to the things I had been exposed to. Imagine an eight year old rocked out in Gucci not because his parents told him to, but because he wanted to…that was me. I thought I had it all together, but there was much more to maturity than a trill fit and speaking eloquently. When I first went into the real world as a legal adult, a new sense of maturity and responsibility switched on for me.

FRENDY:  Did you ever have a sense of entitlement growing up since your parents were able to afford you all the finer things in life?

SIR JULIEN:  No. Never because of that. I was only a bit entitled because I was the only child. I always came first in my household, so that’s all I knew. Don’t get me wrong, I was very grounded—I just felt deserving. I lived, I’ve learned, and I’ve grown though.

FRENDY:  Your mom and dad obviously did a phenomenal job raising you.  Any advice from them that still resonates with you today?

SIR JULIEN:  Thank you, homie. My mom has given me so much great advice. She always tells me not to be too trusting in people and has told me ever since I was a kid, “there are no free lunches in this world.” Basically emphasized the importance of independence. I steer clear of people who do things expecting something in return. Even today, she is so cautious of my friendships. She only likes about five of my friends to be honest *Laughs*.

On the other hand, my dad gives me such terrible advice *Laughs*.  He used to tell me shit when I was eight like: “Julien, you don’t drive a Rolls Royce—you should only get driven in them.” Obviously something an eight year old doesn’t need advice on.

FRENDY:  *Laughs* How was life growing up in the ATL?

SIR JULIEN:  I love Atlanta. I definitely get sick of the A when I’m there, but always miss it when I’m gone. I have still not found a place that I could picture myself living in full time. I traveled a lot growing up, but have always felt most at home in Hotlanta. It’s the perfect balance between the calm and the storm. You can turn up, but chill out with friends/family and have the same amount of fun here.

FRENDY:  Sounds like the perfect balance for sure.  Did you have a lot of friends growing up there?  Also, when did you move to Miami? And why?

SIR JULIEN:  I have always had a lot of friends. I still do, but I can still narrow that number down to my truest and most genuine friends. It’s like I have always had two groups of friends—the associates and the ride-or-dies. The majority of my friends also lived in Miami, so I was there so often. It was my social break from Atlanta. I even almost joined this reality show called ‘Summer Break’ in Miami…but then I went to boarding school *Laughs*.

FRENDY:  Was that the one you were telling me about? *Laughs*.

SIR JULIEN:  Nah. ‘Summer Break’ is a YouTube reality series that features a group of friends living their last Summer in LA before college. One year, they were casting to do a season in Miami, which I decided to audition for. Some friends and mine were almost on the show, but they decided to film again in LA. We were all so pissed, but I made some lifelong homies from that call back.

FRENDY:  Got you.  Which HS did you attend in the A? Or did you go to HS in Miami?

SIR JULIEN:  I went to Woodward Academy from sixth grade to my sophomore year in high school. Woodward is the cliche prep school—button up shirts, khaki slacks, varsity jackets. I left and went to boarding school in Connecticut for my junior and senior year. Now that was lit!

FRENDY:  What didn’t you like about Woodward?  And what did you enjoy about the boarding school in CT?

SIR JULIEN:  Well, at one point Woodward could no longer offer me what I wanted. I lowkey needed to grow up and evolve on my own away from the homies I was so close to. I applied to Suffield Academy for my Junior year and didn’t tell anyone. When I got accepted, I knew I was going. I was sad about leaving one of my closest friends, Ahmauri, but life goes on. We made it work and pick up where we last left off every time we see each other.

When I got to Suffield, I could tell the faculty’s lives revolved around their jobs. They lived on campus, too, so work never officially stops. It frustrated me when I was there, but after graduating I am so grateful for how well they prepared us for the real world. Overall, I made nothing but life lessons and lifelong friendships.

FRENDY:  What is boarding school like? What makes it so different than regular schools?

SIR JULIEN:  I mean, at boarding school, you’re with your friends and teachers all on one campus. Imagine sleepaway camp 24/7. It was beyond draining at times. In contrary, boarding school is the ideal preparation for college in high school. We were required to wake up, go to class on time, play a mandatory sport, manage homework, manage social life, and follow the rules, all without your parents. Obviously these tasks aren’t too much to ask me now, but as a junior in high school, I didn’t realize how dependent and entitled I was. Boarding school is the origin of the Upper East Side teenage scandals. I could tell you some insane boarding school stories!  The access that we had was concerning looking back at it—there were for sure some Lindsay Lohans.

FRENDY:  What is the craziest thing you witnessed or experienced in boarding school?

SIR JULIEN:  Hmmm…that’s a tough one. There’s been some crazy shit that has gone down. There was a herpes situation that still shocks to me to this day.

FRENDY:  *Laughs* Gotdamn! now this is getting good. So, boarding school doesn't necessarily mean that it’s in some deserted area?

SIR JULIEN:  Ohhhh. Most times when I tell people that I went to boarding school they ask “What did you do wrong?” I didn’t go to military school, which is typically a result of a bad ass kid. Boarding School is honestly just an elite private school experience. Imagine a $60K education for a high school student—that’s boarding school. These schools are so competitive, too. I have seen some applicants gift some of the most elaborate things to faculty to bribe their kid in. It’s like a secret little society.

FRENDY:  Were you majoring in anything specific? Or was it fundamentally like HS where there isn’t a need to study a particular subject?

SIR JULIEN:  It was like high school in the sense of average class requirements, but there were some additional classes offered that could be geared to the majors we chose in college, which helped our transcripts stand out. The school did implement something called the ‘Harkness Table’, which is a circular table that allows for round table discussions. So instead of our teachers writing things on a whiteboard regurgitating facts to us, they were much more involved.

FRENDY:  Which boarding school did you graduate from?

SIR JULIEN:  Suffield Academy.

FRENDY:  Are you still friends with some of your boarding school mates?

SIR JULIEN:  Yes, for sure. I still talk to people from Suffield everyday.

FRENDY:  That’s awesome. Which college are you currently attending? And why did you choose that particular school?

SIR JULIEN:  I’m studying abroad in Florence, Italy at Lorenzo de’ Medici. I remember talking to my friend Danielle debating it and she was like, ‘You can go to college in Italy and you’re debating for what?’.  She was right, so I basically said ‘Yolo’ and went for it. I appreciate the precedence I set for myself by leaving Woodward to go to Suffield. Looking back at it, my life has been a continuous elevation education-wise.

FRENDY:  Amazing. Did you choose a major yet?

SIR JULIEN:  I decided to major in Communications and Public Relations. I had already known that I was going to major in that since about Sophomore year in high school. I have my own public relations and branding firm, Viral PR Group. Sometimes I feel like I know everything, but education is still very essential. It doesn’t hurt to learn more and perfect your craft.

FRENDY:  What was the inspiration behind your choice of major?

SIR JULIEN:  I really just took my strong points and passion of public relations and made a business out of it. I have always been well spoken; never intimidated to hold a conversation. I have always spoken with a sense of confidence. It is something that has impressed people so much due to the fact that unfortunately, people don’t picture young African American men positively. I want to help change that and be a different type of example, so that’s how I chose my major.

FRENDY:  Congratulations!  I knew you were going to eventually embark on our own endeavors when you initially reached out to me.  How did you find out about me and my site anyway?

SIR JULIEN:  I remember being in science class fucking around on my laptop and coming across your Instagram profile. I liked how authentic it was. Just raw and genuine content. I was going to wait and follow you for a while before DMing you, but I read one of your Original Stories and knew that I wanted to be a contributing writer or collaborate with you in some capacity. So I reached out, we discussed, I wrote the Clermont Twins piece and we have been working together creating art ever since.

FRENDY:  Totally appreciate your contributions—still waiting for some more articles though! *Laughs*.

SIR JULIEN:  Yeah. When I got to Italy, I fell off a bit. Time difference fucked my schedule up, but I’m ready to grind some fresh articles out. I have a new interview that I am starting on today. I promise it will be worth the wait!

FRENDY:  I’m really looking forward to reading it.  What else are you interested in besides Communications?

SIR JULIEN:  Artist management or maybe just music in general. Viral is a branding firm, so our services aren’t just limited to public relations. I’ve built dope relationships through my firm with some dope artists. There’s something motivational about witnessing or being apart of the creative process in a recording studio. Hearing the finalized song is gratifying.

FRENDY:  I know exactly what you mean.  Who have you had the pleasure of working with so far?

SIR JULIEN:  I have had the pleasure of working with artists like Lil Yachty, Trippie Redd, and Kodie Shane, but Rick Ross’ home studio was by far the dopest studio moment.

FRENDY:  He’s the “biggest boss that we’ve seen thus far,” so it’s only right!  What made that experience so magical for you?

SIR JULIEN:  Hearing his unreleased music was definitely the highlight. I grew up around celebs and public figures, so I’ve never really been impressed by them, but hearing the unfinished craft of a hip hop legend is what was magical.

FRENDY:  How does it feel witnessing your childhood friends build their own respective buzz in the entertainment industry?

SIR JULIEN:  I love it!  I’ve always been the biggest supporter of my friends. If I see one of my friends trying to build their own platform in the entertainment industry, or try to gain success in any business venture, I’m helping them however I can. I want everyone to win.

FRENDY:  Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

SIR JULIEN:  10 years. Damn. Definitely mogul tycoon status. I see myself having multiple firms internationally: Tokyo, Shanghai, Burbank, Manhattan. I don’t want the expansion to ever stop. I see myself having some talented ass kids. Possibly living in Amsterdam or in the Hidden Hills. Viral PR Group will be so innovative and inclusive of the future generations to come. There will be nothing like it.

Before You Get A Boyfriend (Music Video)

Brooklyn-based group Phony Ppl has been making their rounds in the music industry since 2008. They’re still here entirely due to producing genre-bending sounds with heartfelt lyrics.  After taking a three-year hiatus, the eclectic quintet has released a new project titled, mō'zā-ik , which certainly proves that great art cannot be rushed.

One of my favorite cuts from the album, “Before You Get A Boyfriend,” displays Elbee Thrie’s, Phony Ppl’s lead vocalist, rapping and singing ability as he is declaring his love/lust (yeah, he isn’t quite sure what it is either) for a shorty before she finds another boo.

Check out the single’s climactic visual below:

Red Table Talk W/ Kid Cudi

Mr. Rager himself, Kid Cudi is the latest guest on Red Table Talk, starring Jada Pinkett Smith, Willow Smith and Adrienne Banfield-Norris.  The Facebook sponsored American web series is known for its intimate conversations with some of the industry’s most influential figures. This particular episode touches on mental illness and addiction.

Aside from cooking up groundbreaking tunes, Cudi was known as the jokester during my time working with him at BAPE.  One would of never thought he was dealing with inner demons—especially after his skyrocketing success in the music and television industry.  “Well, That’s where most of the bad stuff came in because I had to live up to be this person,” Scott states after he was asked about being the hero of an entire generation. “It’s like doing a comedy, but you’re miserable. It’s like my life was this show and I was always supposed to be on.”

Furthermore, the former “How To Make It In America” star spoke of how he used drugs during his depression as an escape because no one was there to mentor him.

Fortunately, Cudi has been off cocaine for about two years and is now looking to consistently hum his way back into the hearts of adoring fans.  While you’re waiting for some new entrancing tunes, check out the clip below:

Claustrophobic (Music Video)

Man, kudos to my little sister for putting me on to PJ Morton.  If the multitalented crooner looks familiar, it’s because since 2012 he’s been one of the keyboardist for Adam Levine’s super successful pop rock band, Maroon 5.

I would of dug a little deeper into the background of the Grammy-nominated New Orleans artist, but words aren’t needed when an act is that good—the music always speaks for itself. Allow me to present “Claustrophobic,” the first single from Morton’s 2017 album, GUMBO.  The song truly is an anthem for all artists who are unapologetically two-stepping to the beat of their own drum. (makes sense why I like it so much.)

Check out the inspirational tune’s visual below, and if you loved what you heard, feel free to explore his fascinating discography.

LA PRKWY Tunes: Days In

Elijah Mora is working diligently to shine bright in the mainstream Hip Hop scene.  I met the emerging rapper this summer while on a shoot with photographer Deandre Mitchell.  Admittedly, I had no clue Elijah was going to tag along, but I’m glad he did. During our various location changes we had a chance to bond and I was thoroughly impressed by his ambition.

The confident 23-year-old spitter is representing the Big Apple to the fullest—more specifically, Laurelton Parkway. Born in Brooklyn with Haitian roots, Elijah and his family moved to the aforementioned Queens suburb at the young age of seven.  “I grew up in Laurelton, definitely a West Indian middle-class area, not the worst of hoods but having friends in different areas showed me shit ain't sweet,” he states. “Although things settled down now, I legit remember days when I couldn’t take my phone out on the bus in certain neighborhoods. Queens just prepared me for the world in general and how to stay on point. Anything can happen at any time.”

With his head on a swivel and an insatiable appetite for success, Mora unleashed a mixtape commemorating his beloved setting aptly titled, LA PRKWY Tunes. The sonic body of work consists of eight original tracks produced by fellow burgeoning artists OOLUWAA, Losco and Wavy J.  Setting himself apart from the pack, Elijah produced a short film alongside More Like This Media titled, LA PRKWY Tunes: Days In, to fully accent the tape’s four premier tracks. He further explained the visual’s significance by saying: “I felt like I have the mind for it, so why not bring a cinematic aspect into music. I was trying to capture just a day in the life type of feel. Kind of like watching the movies ‘Boys In The hood’ or ‘Friday’, showing you different areas of where I’m from and how we maneuver.”

Sit back, relax and watch an eventful day in the life of Elijah Mora below:

Rox Brown's Air Jordan 1s

The growth of Rox Brown is incredible!  During the early years of my dominance at the New York location of Nigo’s former empire, Roxanne was making her own mark at Pharrell Williams’ Billionaire Boys Club/Ice Cream shop in SoHo.  After BBC, she moved on to be the “it girl” at VFILES, while solidifying herself as one of Downtown’s shining personalities.  Her consistent grind has paid off as she is now living her dream as a full-time stylist and creative director.

Roxy’s latest stunt is in the form of a new sneaker! That’s right, she is the latest influencer who has been given the chance to create a stand-out Air Jordan 1.  Her iteration receives a satin upper in an all-black colorway.  Furthermore, Reflective 3M detailing is spread throughout the shoe with a bright red rose graphic embroidered on the heel and tongue replacing the usual “Nike Air.”  Last but certainly not least, Rox’s signature is hidden within its reflective detailing.

The Rox Brown x WMNS Air Jordan 1 is scheduled to drop at select Jordan Brand retailers on Dec. 12 for $160.

Finding: J-Kwon

“One, here comes the two, to the three, to the four/ Everybody drunk out on the dance floor!” I hope you guys aren’t tired of me and my habitual method of writing song lyrics to kickstart a poppin’ write up. Jay-Z said it best: “What you want me to do?  I’m sorry!”  Whenever I’m in the zone—especially when the article is music centered—my hands start typing whatever Source energy tells me.  This particular piece revolves around a Rapper that most people have forgotten about (his Hip Hop prominence occurred during my braided hair era), J to the mothaf%#$ Kwon!

Recently, BET premiered a new episode of their docu-series, Finding, featuring the “Tipsy” king, where he detailed his struggles and triumphs in the “manipulative” music industry.  He’s more than ready for a major comeback, let’s see what happens!

For now, check out the clip below:

Kawhi's "New" Shoe Deal

Breaking news! Kawhi Leonard has just signed a multiyear contract with none other than the grandfather of all dad shoes, New Balance.

Yup, I know exactly what you’re thinking: “This is a move only Kawhi would make!”  The new face of the Toronto Raptors organization is sort of regarded as a rather...unique NBA superstar with a questionable laugh [insert The Joe Budden Podcast sound effect here], but his latest feat is just as clutch as he is during the final seconds of a championship game.  NB certainly doesn’t have enough hops to jump over the Jumpman, however, they’re dishing out major cash that would entice any player in their elevated mind.  According to ESPN, Leonard, 27, was offered more than $5 million per season, positioning himself among the top 15 shoe endorsement deal earners in the league! Kawhi’s last sneaker venture was with Jordan Brand where they paid him less than $500,000 a year.

Twitter is having a field day with this unexpected news.  Check out some of the humorous tweets below:

The Lion King (Trailer)

“Nants ingonyama bagithi baba!!” The Lion King is arguably the greatest movie ever made.  Disney’s classic animated film initially released in 1994 when I wasn’t able to speak English fluently. Despite the annoying language barrier, the Don Hanh-produced masterpiece was still able to move me in ways that transcended time and thought by its enchanting storyline and spirit-lifting hymns.  When I heard there was a live action remake in the works my younger self was back-flipping for joy, now I’m ecstatic to present its very first trailer.

Premiered on Thanksgiving Day, the CGI teaser accurately displays the opening of Disney’s 32nd animated feature where Simba is raised by Rafiki on Pride Rock to the kingdom’s animals.  Fortunately, my man James Earl Jones will reprise his role as Mufasa (he was born for that part), alongside a star-studded cast featuring Donald Glover, Beyonce, Chiwetel Ejiofor and many more.  Additionally, Elton John and Hans Zimmer are returning to fine tune the movie’s magical soundtrack.

Disney’s nostalgic Lion King remake will be released in theaters on July 19, 2019.  For now, check out the trailer below:

Frida Kahlo Exhibit

Frida Kahlo was a magnificent Mexican artist who used her short lived, yet eventful life as a muse to produce incredible surreal paintings and self portraits.  Just in time for the holiday season, the Brooklyn Museum has announced a new exhibition chronicling the revolutionary painter’s work.

The show’s title, ‘Frida: Appearances Can Be Deceiving’, perfectly sums up Kahlo’s aesthetic as she concealed her physical disabilities with elegant Tehuana dresses and jaw-dropping accessories.  Tons of Frida’s unreleased artwork, belongings and even hand-painted corsets and prosthetics used throughout her lifetime will be displayed at the presentation.  (Damn, no wonder why it’s the largest U.S exhibition in a decade).

Tickets for the ‘Frida: Appearances Can Be Deceiving’ exhibit are available for purchase at the Brooklyn Museum site on December 3rd. For now, if you don’t know much about the beautiful artist (is it just me or does she really resemble my alt-reality boo Beyonce?), check out the clip below: