Kaylan Kelsey Kristen Started small as Mega successes have.
The grownup in a musical home with both parents encouraging the pursuit of selves-development through what they love – instruments, dress-up, singing and loving life. Their first performances where among family and friends then, for the community and before long they were booking even bigger festivals and shows in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area, including Six Flags Over Texas, the Great Wolf Lodge, Dallas Arboretum, the Tyler, Texas Rose Festival, and the North Park Dallas Mall, honing and refining their skills to perform for large crowds.
2009 there were on Disney World Tour and 19 public schools tour.
Butterflies formation is their signal to pay attention and create the new song, theme or skill. at age four they started to study Suzuki violin method and write songs. Music and performing it is in their blood. Each of the sisters’ signs and plays multiple instruments.
The ease at which the creativity flows one can attributes to the encouraging environment they were raised with, one of limitless potential and worth.
That exactly what they promote for others to see and adopt a way of life. Being a band without assigned music genres says a lot- they are good at all of them since each represents mood and feelings that come up or the influence of other performers with their own twist to it such as Crosby, Stills & Nash, Bob Dylan, and Neil Young and Harry Potter story.
The girls had now perfected performing in larger festival settings but began resenting being rushed on/off stage quickly with sound engineers dismissing them over their technical requirements due to their multitude of instruments they had each set. So, they got creative. They began learning and teaching themselves about sound systems and soon acquired a new wireless prototype technology to run their own sound from their iPads and iPhones on stage. Before long they had perfected running the sound system professionally. This gave rise to the next chapter of their career, the K3 Sisters Coffee House Tour, where they partnered with Guitar Center to perform intimate coffee house shows while also giving away new guitars to disadvantaged youth at performances. By the time the coffee house tours ended, the girls knew how to run sound on any stage for themselves, and their own unique sound requirements to produce a great live listening experience.
In Winter 2019 they went online with LIVE performances across YouTube, Instagram and TikTok leading to over quarter billion views!
Their goal is to empower self-esteem and believe that all is possible when you follow your instinct to develop skills and share your creation with the world to make it better than before. The message they share is that be the best you can be and takes others into consideration when you grow and expand they better version of yourself. There are no limits in the creative world any and only limits were set by the people that could not see far enough.
They are writing songs and performing with the power of the spirit that is unstoppable, every detail of that is expressed through the enthusiasm, clothes and attitude attached to each performance and our interview here for which they wore pink cowboy boots unmistaken for Texan girl.
Piera Van de Wiel Singer-Songwriter and founder of Stronger With Music that promotes the importance of Music and Mental Health and Music and Social Impact. The company works globally with NGOs and has performed and spoken at UN-sponsored events: International Women’s Day launch of STEAM (inclusion of arts and culture in the world of STEM) with Aspire Artemis Foundation and sponsored by Mission of Djibouti and performed and spoke at the Regional Caribbean STEAM & Innovation Symposia in St Lucia with UN Women, Microsoft and Aspire Artemis Foundation. The 1st September 2020 marked the 1st Year Anniversary of Hurricane Dorian. Hurricane Dorian, the strongest storm to ever hit the Northern Atlantic hit the island of Abaco, Bahamas, on the 1st September 2019. 85% of all property was either destroyed or made uninhabitable and the struggle to rebuild continues. Piera has called the Abacos home since she was 7 months old. Her song “Come Back Home (Abaco Relief Song)” has been raising awareness and funds for the last year. The song received the Silver Medal of Outstanding Achievement in “Listener Impact” at the Global Music Awards. This Anniversary Edition Music Video was a Finalist for Best Music Video at the Independent Shorts Awards, Quarter Finalist for Best Music Video at the Los Angeles Film Awards and also officially selected for the Arts x SDGs (sustainable development goals) Festival and remains on the film festival circuit to provide global reach and aid. She has performed globally to raise awareness. She performed at the Hope for Abaco Benefit Concert in Florida in December, which raised 90K. Watch the Anniversary Edition Music video for “Come Back Home (Abaco Relief Song) here:
Please consider offering aid and donations, they still need your help. Please donate to Abaco Strong a 501(c)(3). Their mission is to enable the rebuilding of sustainable businesses and communities in the Abaco Islands.
Van de Wiel is using her voice to empower global causes, and during this year of Covid-19 she has also directed her efforts into raising awareness of the shadow pandemic of Domestic Violence. Her single “Used” is raising awareness for domestic violence. She is highlighting the work of the United Nations Trust Fund To End Violence Against Women. “Used” is a song that is an emotional rollercoaster of how one can feel so safe where you let your barriers down only to feel used, abused, and taken for granted but ends with a lasting positive message of strength and hope.
UN secretary general António Guterres tweeted on 6 April: “Many women under lockdown for #COVID19 face violence where they should be safest: in their own homes. I urge all governments to put women’s safety first as they respond to the pandemic.”
The United Nations Trust Fund to End Violence Against Women
Let me highlight several examples of the UN Trust Fund’s work focused on COVID-19 crisis situation that speak eloquently to the challenges that beneficiaries and organizations are currently facing.
As a global grant-giving mechanism they specialize on ending violence against women, they also provide a birds-eye view of the challenges that civil society organizations face across the globe.
Piera at the UN Waman Innovation Symposium at St Lucia
This shadow pandemic needs to be addressed and we need to give ourselves active tools in order to help these victims. Van de Wiel mentioned the Canadian Women’s Foundation Tik Tok video that went viral when a woman is seen having a call with her friend and performs a specific hand gesture. This gesture is a distress signal, and we need to be bringing it to the forefront of our attention to victims and also to people over the world who can recognize it and can offer help.
Hand signal for domestic Violence seeking help
You can listen to her music on spotify and follow her spotify profile
Photography by Marta Buso and Wladimiro Speranzoni
Location Ca Sagredo Venezia
Dresses by Eleonora Lastrucci @eleonoralastrucciofficial
Mostra del Cinema di Venezia 2020
The thought of what I’ll do in the future is constantly in my mind, at the moment I’m still trying to figure out how to turn my passions, fashion and art, into my future career.
I was introduced to the world of fashion very early in my life, first from my mother as she was working hard for giving me a brilliant future, and then 15 years later, my older brother followed her same steps in achieving his dreams.
And now I’m here at seventeen, just following my heart and I’ve already walked on the red carpet at the Film Festival in Venice, with my other half, Cosimo.
Our love story is very unique and of course romantic; in poor words, we met on Instagram during quarantine, he was staying in London while I was staying in Lake Como. As soon as the quarantine was over he flew to Italy and we met the day before my birthday; we never separated since, and I can define him as my life’s gift.
I was asking myself today what is keeping me from believing where I’ll arrive and if I’ll arrive, and then I said: my family. Without them I couldn’t go anywhere starting with my mother, who motivates me every day to follow my dream and my heart, my father for leaving me the freedom to choose the life I’d like to have, my brother who, although he does not really support me since we haven’t spoken in a while, but who I respect a lot for inspiring me every day to improve myself, and last but not least, my fiancee who since the day we met never stopped believing in me and loving me for the person I am.
Cosimo de Medici di Toscana and ElisaCosimo de Medici di Toscana and Elisa
Elisa Caterina Egger – my introspection on life as I see it now.
Here are few words about my other half Cosimo and his impact on the world.
Cosimo de’ Medici, born and raised in Milan, is a descendant from the old Florentine family, de’ Medici. Cosimo left Milano at the age of 16 to finish high school in the UK and never left since. He obtained an undergraduate degree in Business Management and a master’s in Cybersecurity both from London universities and took his first job as a cybersecurity consultant, aka hacker. Last year he made a career change and became a “blockchain” engineer, now he is launching his own startup; an online food marketplace that uses blockchain technology to let consumers order and trace their food products directly at the origin, saving up to 50% on retail margins while eating fresher local food. Cosimo is hopeful that his idea will help local economies tackling issues such as food waste and unfair competition while giving consumers an unprecedented amount of information about the food they eat. Cosimo and his fiancee Elisa Caterina Egger recently attended the red carpet at the Venice Film Festival where they made their first appearance together in public.
FSHN- When did you realized your life purpose for the first time?
NDL- I was 3 years old when I felt the presence of God while at the daycare in the Church. I felt this unconditional love and warms like a blanket over my body reassuring me and I accepted that feeling as a feeling of God.
FSHN- Had any of your family members was influential of your choices in life?
NDL- At the same of three my grandmother introduced me to the movie “Singing in the Rain” and instantly I knew that being an actor was my life purpose and calling. I know now that I was correct to feel that as it is what makes me happy is when I make people feel and have them connect to their feelings in the way they would not without my performance. I like making people happy and makes me happy too.
FSHN- you mentioned starting over on your journey to Hallmark and which endings had the most impact on your overall life changes
NDL-This belief was behind “many times starting over” as the life of performer I and not as a straight line going of straight to the top. I had to fight for my carrier. Often it was a dark time. Especially under contract with Louis Lou Perlman and my Band “Incenses” which was Girl band. Perlman went to jail for pyramid scam and I was bound by his contract and could not work during that time- I lost it all. With $150 in the bank, I decided to go to Californian and attend community college. My boyfriend at the time was a member of a Boy band and shared the same fate as mine under Perlman contract. When I told him of my plan, he informed me that he will then go with me and attend law school in California. So, we went and now we are married with two children. This was the silver lining for me in all that seemed so unwanted in my life. Now, I am more open to the journey not just to the destination.
FSHN-What was your next carrier step after graduating from two your college?
NDL- I auditioned for the show North Shore and got the part just in time for writers’ strike which stopped it all in my pursuit of making it, and my self-esteem filled with doubt taking away my happiness.
FSHN- how did your escape the hold of the event?
NDL- I decided that I will be happy as me and not rely on outside forces to make me less.
I adopted great words of advice from
Julie Elizabeth Day-“ I decided to be happy independent of my worth as an actor”
FSHN- what this enough to bring you to where you are today?
NDL- what this word did was to bring me into self-responsibility to be happy inside and take part in meditation as means to connect within myself and become spiritual in sense of lifestyle not necessarily religion as ways to feel fulfilled every day.
FSHN-How do you feel the fulfilment of your life purpose making people feel good and happy and make you feel the same, is taking care of you financially?
NDL- I feel it is not the job to move to be paid as all is open to unfold naturally. Nothing is permanent.
Last two years have sealed the deal of my purpose of life and death, by the clarity of the understanding leading to those two beliefs that came from seeing life from different places,
Be the best version of myself
Leave the world better than I found it
There are so many good people creating tiny and huge miracles during performance every day on TV.
I wake up every day thinking about how I can be of service to and to the challenges that bring goodness that exists in the world into life. This kind of thinking” will begin to change your life”
I believe in miracles as they have happened to me many times, and they strengthen my faith in the spiritual world and its power to make beautiful life happen.
FSHN- how would you describe your work environment at Hallmark?
NDL-Simply Kind environment that feels like home, that is taking care of me and my family in many ways. Not just financial but the attitude of kindness, respect that I bring home with me at the end workday is priceless.
FSHN- The charm, warms and faith in Niki’s heart is ever-present from an early age and is visible in her relationships with her hometown as you can see in this video filled with authentic words she speaks to us.
During our unprecedented times of social isolation, our magazine editor decided to find answers to finding love.
We have choices of not looking for it, staying emotionally where we are and making best of it, but some feel top lonely not to look for love.
We went to the experts on lobe Constantine Tino Detrich to give us a way to navigate this unknown territory given no in person dating situation.here are some key question we asked and got surprising answers to them.
FSHN–Hasfinding love slowed down?
Ella recently did a survey on wellness this month showing:
Most people are either staying in the relationship they are in, or they are not finding someone new. Our survey found that only 10% of respondents have met someone new.
42% declared to not having met a new partner during the Coronavirus pandemic.
2. FSHN-What Is the new way of connecting aside from online and introductions?
The impact on the way people date is immense. With the coronavirus keeping people indoors, singles aren’t just meeting online. They’re holding virtual dates over video chat services like Zoom and FaceTime. People in current relationships are also learning how to have a strong relationship apart and this experience is forcing many people to try out long-distance dating. They’re also getting creative with dating out of necessity.
It’s not necessarily about the physical right now. We are back to the old ways of long phone calls and getting to know each other more deeply than the surface level of modern dating before the shutdowns. Communication skills and intelligence are going to matter more than “hotness” or beauty.
3. FSHN-New Rules of building thought intimacy with social distance.
We need to go back to writing letters, not necessarily on paper, but long letters sent one’s significant others to enable one to express their thoughts in a more meaningful way.
The short texts take away a certain degree of romance and enable impulsive messaging that can result in misunderstandings.
4. FSHN-New ways of keeping intimacy stimulating for long term couples already.
People are getting used to the idea of virtual dating and relationships. I suspect this trend could carry over after the pandemic ends and create a shift in the dating habits not seen since online dating started.
Sex toys sales are booming during the pandemic as people are finding new ways to stimulate and become creative in their interaction.
5. FSHN-Tips on non reacting and responding to irritating situations for couples living together.
Take some time apart in different rooms or try to find alternatives for entertainment outside of being together (such work, talking to friends by zoom, music etc.) With the close quarters’ contact, it’s important to build in time by yourself.
Avoid overreacting when you respond to your partner.
6. FSHN-Tips on finding attraction again when boredom sets in.
Redefine attraction.
Remind yourself why you fell in love in the first place.
Recognize your fears and face them.
Improve the mental and emotional connection.
Do some thrill-seeking together.
Learn each other’s love languages.
7. FSHN-Kind acts that rekindle love-
Improving one’s sex life with their partner is one of the easiest ways to rekindle love in a relationship.
Ella’s recent survey Over 60% of our respondents said they are looking to bring more excitement into their sex life.
Ways to rekindle love by improving your sex life include:
Using aphrodisiacs
Experimenting with sex toys
Utilizing sex furniture
Swings and special pillows
Engaging in sexual wellness practices
There are sexual wellness books that outline:
Innovative Sex Positions
Foods to eat for increased sexual performance
Kama Sutra techniques
8. FSHN-Space arrangements tips for personal space in a small apartment.
Each partner in the relationship should be able to claim at least 2 hours a day of alone time in the bedroom.
Be conscious of lighting and furniture arrangements. Feng Shui matters. A mirror on a wall can make a room seem a lot bigger. Bad lighting can give you headaches. Avoid clutter as your space is more important spending more time at home.
9. FSHN-How to share child-care responsibilities and keep love alive without fighting.
Scheduling is key:
Each parent should be able to have a designated amount of time blocked out, during which, responsibility for taking care of the kids falls on the other parent.
This time is sacred and should only be broken in emergencies.
Dividing the mornings: every parent should be entitled to two sleep-in days each week.
10. FSHN-Tips on the attitude that keeps couples close and their entertainment harmonized.
Ability to understand where your partner is coming from is key.
Everyone makes mistakes and it’s important that we allow our lovers to be human.
Be understanding and tolerant with your partner, be forgivable.
Empathy, which means caring as much about your partner’s well-being as you care about your own, makes the difference between a healthy relationship and an unhealthy one.
Ultimately the love is on the rise as partners take time to get to know each others values, morals likes and cultural expectations those building a stable foundation for relationship to grow and move into intimate state with respect and open heart and mind. This in term will offer greater chance as longevity of this connection and joy of each others company.
This idea of keeping up with Jones’s to show off who you are with or what do you have never lead to success at love. It is a game that leads to failure, as Detrich mention the song Escape Pina Colada.
To find authentic love you need to be authentic yourself.
Amber has been an ensemble member at Dad’s Garage Theatre in Atlanta since 2004 and she still performs improv there to this day.
-She goes back into the recording studio regularly when it is time to record a new season of Archer. Each recording session usually varies, but they can take as little as 30 minutes depending on what the script requires.
Amber Nash is known for her role as fan-favorite “Pam Poovey” on the hit adult animated series Archer. Over the course of ten seasons, she has used her voiceover talents to build a successful career and large fanbase.
Since many voiceover roles are recorded by on-screen actors, we wanted to speak with Amber to learn how she was able to arrive at the wonderful career she has now.
She first went to college and got her degree in Psychology from Georgia State University and then worked at a wilderness camp for troubled teens before she chose to pursue acting full-time.
FSHN- How did you decide to become an actor after completing a psychology degree?
AN- In truth, my psychology degree proved to be a solid base for my improv performances [at Dad’s Garage Theatre in Atlanta]. To understand people and the place from which they react is pure psychology. I was able to draw from my observations and make fun or simply point it out to people so they would relate to it and then laugh at themselves for it. It’s a pretty good way of engaging people into what is going on in life and having fun with it.
FSHN- How did working at the wilderness camp change your direction in life?
AN- I realized how much I enjoyed making people happy and that I had this gift of reaching even difficult teenagers with my sense of humor. I saw an opportunity calling and went on to pursue it…but not without years of working small jobs, auditioning, and doing improv just hoping that the right opportunity would come along.
FSHN- What do you think was the tipping point in your career decision making?
I don’t know if there was a tipping point in my career decision making per se, but I’ve definitely decided I want to go out for more on camera roles. I don’t see it as giving up my identity as a voiceover artist, rather I’m just opening the door for more creative opportunities. I’m excited to see where it leads.
FSHN- Is this the typical route of an entertainer to go from voice over to on screen?
AN- Actually, it is usually the other way around. Typically, you have name recognition and popularity on TV or in movies before people get to see you in voiceover roles.
FSHN- That makes you a trail blazer of opportunities for other to follow.
AN- I like to think that, given the competitive nature of winning over an audience and developing a steady following…in my case entirely with my voice and an animated character.
AN- I think it was something they did not expect and feared if they would be asked to take on. I was feeling good about it and simply followed my heart not worrying about loss of steady income from voiceover character I know held, but rather looking forward to next step in my life.
FSHN- What would be your words of advice to young people entering the entertainment world?
AN- Be who you are and follow your gut as it will take you where you need to go.
The 10th season of Archer is airing now on FXX. Amber also co-created and hosts a Facebook Live show called Archer After Hours with her co-star Lucky Yates. It is available to watch on the Archer Facebook page.
Amber Nashmost current projects below.
-Season 11 of Archer will premiere September 16th on FXX and will follow the adventures of Sterling Archer after he awakens from a 3 year coma.
-Will star in the upcoming indie comedy film How to Ruin the Holidays alongside Colin Mochrie. The film will be directed by Amber’s husband, Kevin Gillese.
– Is a board member for Project Chimps, a chimpanzee sanctuary in Georgia, alongside Billie Joe Armstrong.
Solving Kids Cancer (SKC) continues its Lace Up For Kids annual campaign for the fourth year to bring attention to Childhood Cancer Awareness Month this September. SKC will gift and distribute 60,000 shoelaces in gold, the colour used to symbolize the occasion, to schools and kids organizations both nationally and internationally. Thousands of children along with parents will be swapping their shoelaces for gold ones in recognition of Childhood Cancer.
Gold shoelaces are a bold fashion statement that everyone can partake in by swapping out their normal laces for the month of September for gold metallic laces, to help raise awareness to fight childhood cancers and advance science for treatments and cures.
To support the Lace Up For Kids campaign it is simple, swap out your laces and share images of your gold laces on social media using the hashtags #LaceUpForKids #CareWearShare #SolvingKidsCancer
Please click here to order free gold laces in support of raising social media awareness of childhood cancer.
ABOUT SOLVING KIDS’ CANCER
Founded in 2007 by two fathers who lost their children to cancer, Solving Kids’ Cancer (SKC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to significantly improving survivorship of the deadliest childhood cancers by finding, funding, and advocating for breakthrough treatment options. Headquartered in New York City, SKC’s impact in now worldwide with clinical trials launched across the US and throughout Europe. Over the last decade, SKC has funded 34 scientific projects specifically targeted at developing new treatment options for kids. SKC – independent of any single researcher, institution, or consortium – objectively invests in only the most impactful research projects.
ET–Who was the person that you made your first wedding gown for?
GL-One of the first wedding gowns I designed almost 30 years ago belonged to a client, who wanted a gown that was advanced for its time. She wanted a sheer illusion gown covered entirely with Swarovski crystals. Today it might not sound rare or different, but at that time it was very bold, sexy, and unique. I will never forget that gown.
ET–Was it your decision to create a family business, or was it your son who offered to help, and he organically became part of the business?
GL-I started my business when my youngest son Idan was born. Back then, I didn’t plan or know it would grow to be as big and successful as it is today. It’s not something you can anticipate. My children were very young when I started so it didn’t even occur to me it will one day become a family business. I was simply following my personal dream. But as the years went by and the business started growing, we had more and more opportunities coming our way. At one point I think both of my children, Osnat and Idan, realized they could see themselves fitting into my business due to the everyday challenges and adventures we experience. Both of them get to work on the things that interest them the most in the business, whether it’s the Marketing, Sales, and Business development for Idan or the Design, Manufacturing, and Production process for Osnat At the end of the day, they both feel challenged and work in a place that allows them to live to their full potential.
Beyonce
ET–What is your source of inspiration?
GL-I get inspired by women. I think women are God’s greatest creation. There’s nothing we can’t do. We are mothers, wives, girlfriends, business owners, artists, scientists, and so much more. We do it all with so much grace and elegance. The women I meet every day are my motivating force. They are what I see in mind when I create, and from them, I draw my inspiration.
ET-What part of the day is your most creative time?
GL-I’m lucky enough to be working in an environment that keeps me creative all day long. It’s not just one part of the day. Sometimes we’ll get a new fabric that will spark something for me. Another time, we’ll get in a new request for a custom piece for a VIP or a celebrity client. The way I see it, if you’re a creative person, it’s just something you have in you, and it’s triggered by different outside forces.
Beyonce wedding
ET–Your international locations – the flagship stores. How were they chosen and why?
GL-Choosing a location for a flagship is, above all, a business decision. You want to make sure there’s a market where you open, whether because there is already a demand for your product or because you want to penetrate a certain market in which you identify potential. In our case, we started getting more and more requests and inquiries from brides worldwide. Being located in Israel, technology, and social media has made it possible to interact easily with brides that live abroad. We started realizing people want to try on our products. They are interested in what we have to offer. We quickly recognized our strongest areas and, based on that, decided where we wanted to open. Today it’s not just about having a presence where we are most wanted but also about pushing boundaries and staying ahead of the market. For example, we only recently opened our 1st Flagship in Shanghai being the first Israeli Bridal Brand to have opened a Flagship store in Shanghai. We also just opened our newest flagship in Miami, which is predicted to become one of the largest fashion capitals within the next few years.
ET-What is your routine to rejuvenate and rest?
GL-I love to travel and try to do it as often as I can. I’m very busy but whenever I travel for work, I will try to squeeze in a few extra days too. I always get inspired by different cultures and I enjoy exploring new places.
ET-What are your favourite foods?
GL-I love eating fish. Cooked or raw, I don’t really mind.
Ava Du Vernay
ET-Do you have a favourite time of the year?
GL-I love Spring. when everything blooms and the weather is just perfect. I always feel more relaxed and calm during this time of the year.
Ivanka Trump
ET-If you could do anything differently, knowing what you know now, what would it be?
GL-I would tell my younger self to trust my instinct more. It’s so easy to get distracted and carried away by what other people think and say. Although it’s important to listen at the end of the day, you need to trust yourself and remember that it is your instincts that got you to where you are today.
Ashley Simpson
ET–Any advice to other creative designers that are just starting out?
GL-I would advise younger designers who are just starting out to really try and find what makes them special. There are many talented designers out there, but people don’t just buy products. They buy a story and an experience. You need to know who you are and what your strengths are in order to tell it in the most magnificent way possible. Don’t just trust your talent, you also need to know your unique selling point and how to present it to the world. https://www.galialahav.com/
When we speak about Reggae music royalty two names immediately come to mind, Bob Markey and The Wailers. Founded in the 60’s Bob Marley and The Wailers brought reggae music to the World and mainstream through countless hits. To say it lightly, The Wailers are true living legends. To see them, to be there in the room with them, is to take a real slice of music history and heritage. When Bob Marley, the man himself, instructs you to ‘keep The Wailers together’, musicians and music fans alike take note. Not many bands can claim genuine legend status. The Wailers, however, can comfortably claim their place in essential music history. Culture gemstones; rebel hearts with brave souls embodying the spirit of 70s era-defining reggae. Aston Barrett Jr. himself reggae royalty carries the flame for The Wailers to this date.
Born in Kingston, Jamaica, Aston Barrett Jr. is the son of Aston “Familyman” Barrett, who was the bassist for Bob Marley & The Wailers. He is also the nephew of drummer Carlton “Carly” Barrett, and Grandson of the late Joe Higgs (mentor to Bob Marley). He grew up in a mixed family, which was part Rasta and Christian, with his mother encouraging him to study spirituality to learn a strong sense of right and wrong. Reflecting on how music was a central part of the household, he says: “I have an ear for music. Music is in my blood. I was born for music and I live for music.”
The first instrument that Aston decided to pick up was the bass, following in the footsteps of his father and trying to emulate his style. ‘Familyman’ quickly sensed his son’s potential and began teaching him how to play bass, a mentor- student relationship that would continue for years to come.
Bob Marley and the Wailers recorded, toured and made history together between 1972 and 1981. It was Bob Marley himself that requested the Wailers stayed together no matter what. Today, carrying on the mission and the torch are legitimate members, children-of-legends and a host of immensely talented musicians. The afore mentioned Aston Barrett Jr. delivers startling echoes of his uncle’s (Carlton ‘Carly’ Barrett) one drop drumming sound. Guitarist Donald Kinsey is joined by Wendel ‘Junior Jazz’ Ferraro, shaping that classic sonic identity. Josh David Barrett achieves the seemingly impossible by confidently stepping into Bob Marley’s shoes to provide truly excellent lead vocals. Owen ‘Dreadie’ Reid (Julian Marley’s Uprising Band and a former student of ‘Familyman’) and Andres Lopez (Albrosie, Lutan Fyah) add yet more quality to an incredible line up that also includes the youngest of the earliest formation of the Wailers, Tyrone Downie, saxophone player Glen Dacosta and Dennis Thompson, the engineer who was there from the very beginnings of the band. Shema McGregor, daughter of I Three singer Judy Mowatt and Reggae pioneer Freddie McGregor, is joined by Anne-Marie Thompson (a gospel singer of stunning ability), together bringing the smoothest backing vocals and contributing to this unique melting pot, both classic and excitingly fresh at the same time.
Barrett Jr. has used his experience to become the leader of the band, with his father urging him to take on the position so the band’s legacy could thrive into the next generation. With the help of their long time manager Lennie Chen who was also one of Bob Marley’s childhood friends, The Wailers dream became a reality and the rest is the history.
“Wailers music represents peace, love, and unity, that’s what I want to keep alive and through Roots, rock Reggae which defines our sound.” – Aston Barrett Jr.
Expanding on the importance of staying true to the style he states, “I understand the new generation sound, but I play bass more like my father did in the 70’s.” The essence of 70s rebellion, the true spirit of reggae performed by the people who helped forge the era-defining sound and by those raised under their tutelage. Living Legends, Reggae Royalty carrying the flame – now you can be a part of the legacy. When The Wailers come calling, you listen.
The Wailers recently released their first new album in 25 years appropriately entitled, “One World” and produced by 19x Grammy winner Emilio Esteban that was recorded in Crescent Moon Studios in Miami Florida. The idea was spawned by Miami music impresario Joe Risolia who at the time was good friends with The Wailers manager Lennie Chen and had good relations with Emilio Estefan and his family and through these connections the magic started. It’s an exciting new album that features 14 dazzling songs that take listeners on a rollercoaster of emotions and good vibes. The first single, “One World, One Prayer”, is a powerful peace anthem focused on unity, love, togetherness and inclusion beyond cultural differences. It calls for the coming together of “One World” through “One Prayer” and at a period when the World is battling a pandemic and racial unrest, this song could not be more on time. The iconic and legendary Wailers collide worlds with international titan “Farruko”, Jamaican superstar “Shaggy” and continue the “Bob Marley” legacy with Grandson Skip Marley, who sounds exactly like Bob, as well as Cedella Marley, in a song that mixes Jamaica’s reggae with the sounds of Latin urban genre. “One World, One Prayer” was produced and co-written by Emilio Estefan alongside Aston Barrett Jr. and Josh David Barrett.
“Aston Barrett is a true musical leader, in the footsteps of his father, continuing The Wailers musical legacy and in the spirit of Bob Marley, they are right on time with the new album.” – Lennie Chen, The Wailers Manager
The tracks on this project blend together generations of reggae music or as Aston Barrett Jr. calls it “Roots Rock Reggae”, to sound current and modern while still being familiar to fans. The album also features guest artists including Grammy-nominated Julian Marley with Latin-Grammy nominated Natiruts on “When Love is Right,” rising star Emily Estefan, daughter of Gloria and Emilio Estefan, performing lead vocals on “Destiny” and “Good Time”, Kush Gad with a featured verse for “When Love Is Right”, Urban Jazz harmonicist Frederic Yonnet on “When Love Is Right” and “Only in Jamaica”, a featured verse from Jesse Royal on “Good Time”, and from Brazil, the legendary, Carlinhos Brown on percussion for “When Love is Right”. Alongside “One World”, The Wailers also released their second single off the album, “Philosophy of Life.” Much like many songs on the album, the single was both produced and written by Emilio Estefan and is sure to spark more healing energy. Keep an eye out for the music video to be released on September 18.
Currently with the pandemic all live shows are on hiatus except a few live streams here and there, but be sure that when the World opens back up, The Wailers will be on a mission to deliver healing music, their new album and their good vibe sounds to the masses.
I recently had the opportunity to speak with Aston Barrett Jr. and talk about their legacy, their new album, Bob Marley, his father Aston “Familyman” Barrett and the current state of the World.
Sason Bishope Parry: How is life treating you brother?
Aston Barrett Jr.: I can’t complain, all I can do is live life to the fullest. Each day is a blessing.
SBP: It’s a crazy World were living in currently with the pandemic and racial unrest, how have you been passing the time?
AB: Meditating a lot, growing, manifesting and staying true to myself, and my roots and working on music.
SBP: The Wailers are reggae royalty and formed with the late great Bob Marley, tell us a bit about your journey and how it all started?
AB: As a young youth, I’ve grown to know my family roots.The appreciation I have for it is like no other. I’m proud and privileged to be the son of Aston “family man” Barrett and the Nephew of Carlton Barrett.I started out playing in an all girls band, school called Holy childhood high.After I moved to America and linked up with the Marley Family and started touring with Julian Marley in the 8th grade.The week I graduated from high school I went on tour with my father and been touring ever since.Then I got in the Berklee School of music, which I did online, as I was on tour. After I was invited to tour with Lauryn Hill for the Rock The Bell Tours in 2011 and 2012. Then I went back with my father and I’ve been with The Wailers since.My father trained me and I took over the band in late 2016.I’ve learned a lot and still learning!
SBP: Who’s currently part of The Wailers today?
AB: – Tyrone Downie one of the originals
– Donald Kinsey, original
– Glen Da Costa, original
– Dennis Thompson, original
– Owen Dreadie Reid who toured with the original Wailers in the 80s also known as my father’s student “Deeadie” Jazz – Lead guitar, who is also my vocal coach.
– Andreas Lopez- Keyboards-Tyrone Downie top Student
– Josh David Barrett- Lead singer also rhythm guitar
– Christian Cowlin- House Engineer
– Currently on Backing Vocals Yashemabeth McGregor- Daughter of the I- Three sister Judy Mowatt, we also have Ann- Marie Thompson and Tamara Barnes.
SBP: Is most of the band living in Jamaica or other areas?
AB: Most of the members are all over the place. I’m currently in Miami. But when it’s time to work, we all come together.
SBP: It’s been 25 years since you released an album tell us how that came together?
AB: Yes man, very exciting time for us. Our new album, “One World” produced by the great Emilio Estefan, a 19 times Grammy award winning producer, has been a blessing. It’s turned out really great with so many, talented artists on the album and lots of good people working to make this happen.
SBP: Tell us about your inspiring first single, “One World, One Prayer” which seems right on time and features Shaggy, Skip Marley, Faruko and Cedella Marley?
AB: Yes, “One World, One Love”, is co-written and produced by the great Emilio Estefan. He came to us with this song about 2 years ago, understanding the same message we stand for which is Love and Unity. The Wailers collaborated with Shaggy, Skip Marley, Cedella Marley and Farruko. It was a vibrant combination of togetherness, positivity and continuous movement of spreading One Love.
SBP: It sounds like your channeling your original sound with Bob on the first single, was that planned?
AB: Well you know, everything is spiritual and the message comes from the most high, the almighty.We are placed in this position to bring forth the message, continuing the path that brother Bob started.Giving this opportunity I can assure you that this music speaks through him.
SBP: Skip Marley sounds so much like his grandfather Bob Marley, that must have struck some emotions and good memories, how was it working with him?
AB: Working with Skip Marley is an honor. He’s very talented, with such powerful vocals. His sound is almost identical to his grandfather, so it’s a blessing to work with him now and more in the future.
SBP: Reggae music is considered healing music and your music is timeless to so many, do you think reggae is making a comeback for a new generation of fans?
AB: I wouldn’t say a come back, reggae has never left.We’ve been the healing method through all genres. Our music is a foundation that cannot be broken down, it touches the heart, soul and mind, and as brother Bob Said.“When it hits you, you feel no pain.”
SBP: Tell us about your last show before the Pandemic and when you think you might be playing live again?
AB: The last show was a blast. I was talking to my tour manager Rich Allis, telling him how much I enjoyed that last run on the road, so it’s funny you ask that question. My father told me to let the band practised Babylon by Bus album.
He wanted us to open up more and from what he thought me I understood what he was saying, and having some of the original members they also help and guide us on that Journey. When we started the tour, it was an amazing energy, we all gather from different places but when we get on that stage the unity is one. Being on the road is something I always look forward to, to see the people on their feet jamming and singing word for words. It makes me know we’re doing a good job.
SBP: Are there any new Reggae acts or artists today that you like?
AB: Yes, I support every artist and talents. Lately, I’m currently in tuned to
Chronixx, Koffee, Jesse Royal, Alborosie and Protoje, but I listen to them all still.
SBP: What was one secret about Bob Marley that people might not know?
AB: Well I guess that secret remains a secret, don’t think it’s my story to tell. Lol
SBP: Do you have any other dreams besides music?
AB: I dream about going back to school one day, to further my education with music and who knows, maybe acting one day the sky is the limit.
SBP: What’s one of your favorite memories of Bob Marley?
AB: Bob passed away before I was born. But from what I have grown to know he touches every soul around him to this day, a true legend and timeless.
SBP: If you could go back in time, what time period would you journey back to?
AB: 1977 I would say. That was an amazing year because it’s the year when the Exodus album came out and considered one the greatest reggae albums of all time. I would have loved to be there, to feel that vibration and to be part of that time.
SBP: What’s next for The Wailers?
The Wailers: Taking the reggae music to other levels, greater heights and reclaiming our foundation and make sure the meaning and our purpose for this music is not forgotten and of course serving the almighty.
For more info on The Wailers go to: www.thewailers.com
OUTSIDE LANDS ANNOUNCES ARTIST LINEUP AND PROGRAMMING DETAILS FOR INSIDE LANDS, A 2-DAY FREE VIRTUAL FESTIVAL CELEBRATION FEATURING A MIX OF LIVE AND ARCHIVED PERFORMANCES FROM GORILLAZ, LCD SOUNDSYSTEM, J. COLE, JACK WHITE, KEHLANI, ANDERSON .PAAK & THE FREE NATIONALS, DISCLOSURE, ABOVE & BEYOND, HAIM, MAJOR LAZER, BEACH HOUSE, LEON BRIDGES, CAGE THE ELEPHANT, ALT-J, ZHU & MANY MOREThe producers of Outside Lands, Another Planet Entertainment, Superfly, and Starr Hill Presents, announce the artist lineup and programming details for Inside Lands, a free virtual festival celebration taking place this August 28-29 on Twitch. The event will feature iconic archival sets, exclusive live musical performances, interviews with artists, plus features with the festival curators, producers, fans, small businesses and community that make Outside Lands truly one of a kind. Among the artists confirmed for Inside Lands performances are Gorillaz, LCD Soundsystem, J. Cole, Jack White, Anderson .Paak & The Free Nationals, Above & Beyond, Haim, Major Lazer, Leon Bridges, Louis the Child, alt-J and Cage The Elephant, as well as artists that are part of the Outside Lands 2021 festival lineup, including Kehlani, ZHU, Beach House, Brittany Howard, SOFI TUKKER and Sharon Van Etten. The virtual festival will be streamed exclusively on Twitch. Twitch’s live streaming service offers an unparalleled level of interaction and connection to enhance attendees’ experience at the virtual festival. With its massive, vibrant community and unique engagement features, Inside Lands on Twitch will bring the best parts of an in-person festival online. Fans can tune in to the streaming broadcast for free each day attwitch.tv/sfoutsidelands. “This is an opportunity for Outside Lands to relive and share some of our favorite festival moments with fans both old and new, in addition to showcasing some of the talented artists confirmed for our 2021 festival with exclusive live sets, interviews and past performances,” said Allen Scott, Head of Concerts and Festivals at Another Planet Entertainment and Co-Producer of Outside Lands. “By incorporating a live host as well as enabling direct communication between fans and festival producers plus surprise guests via our Twitch channel, we look forward to offering a free virtual festival experience that is both collaborative and compelling for our audience.” A specialty Inside Lands merch capsule collection will also be available as a limited run in celebration of the virtual festival weekend. The full festival stream schedule and additional programming details will be announced soon. For more details, visit www.SFInsideLands.com. Inside Lands Artist LineupAbove & Beyondalt-JAMO AMOAmy AllenAnderson .Paak & The Free NationalsBeach HouseBob MosesBrittany HowardCage The ElephantD’Angelo and The VanguardDisclosureDramaEvann McIntoshGorillazGryffinHaimHamilton LeithauserHindsJ. ColeJack WhiteJon ArmstrongKatey RedKehlaniKhruangbinLCD SoundsystemLeon BridgesLouis The ChildLyrics BornMadeline KenneyMajor Lazer mxmtoon Nap EyesNathaniel RateliffODIEPoolsidePuddles Pity PartyRexx Life RajScarypoolpartySharon Van EttenShiba SanSOFI TUKKERTOKiMONSTATychoYung BaeZHU
3-Day General Admission, VIP, Payment Plan and Golden Gate Club passes for Outside Lands 2021 are on sale now atwww.SFOutsideLands.com. The Payment Plan 3-Day pass starts at $99 down with no additional payments until 2021. The 2021 lineup features Tame Impala, Lizzo, The Strokes, Tyler, The Creator, Vampire Weekend, J Balvin, Kehlani, The 1975 and many more. As always, Outside Lands will be offering the best in cutting edge food, beer, wine and other cultural programming including the return of Grass Lands, the first curated cannabis experience at a major American music festival. For over a decade, Outside Lands has set new standards for festivals globally, revolutionizing how music, food, drink and now cannabis can be enjoyed side by side with some of the most exciting musical acts from around the world. The spectacular backdrop of Golden Gate Park round out the overall experience making Outside Lands a festival like none other. For info on Outsidelands go to: www.sfoutsidelands.comsfoutsidelands.cominstagram.com/outsidelandstwitter.com/sfoutsidelandsfacebook.com/sfoutsidelands
The producers of Outside Lands, Another Planet Entertainment, Superfly, and Starr Hill Presents, announce the artist lineup and programming details for Inside Lands, a free virtual festival celebration taking place this August 28-29 on Twitch. The event will feature iconic archival sets, exclusive live musical performances, interviews with artists, plus features with the festival curators, producers, fans, small businesses and community that make Outside Lands truly one of a kind.