Are You Dancing to the Beat of Your Own Drum?

I love music.

It's something about how you can always find a song that fits your attitude or what you are going through---and sometimes even something that can pick you up.  That's the power that music and recording artists have, and it is something that I respect a great deal.

My family and friends will tell you that though I love all types of music, singing and dancing are not gifts that have been given to me---but that doesn't mean I won't do both. Why? Because though I don't have the best voice or moves there is something about being able to try that makes me feel good.

That is what I wanted to share in this issue of Conversations Magazine. We won't all be able to do everything the best, but that should never stop us from giving it our best shot. I have always felt as though we do permanent damage to ourselves when we don't allow ourselves to forge ahead in life. We only have one shot to do something great, so even though others might not see the point or what could be the outcome, that doesn't mean you should just give up or not even try.

In this issue I want to introduce you to people who are not afraid to dance to the beat of their own drum. Regardless of the profession they are able to put their best foot forward, and that is what I hope you are encouraged to do as well. What, if anything, is stopping you today? Are you feeling "out of step" with where you want to be? Then start right now to fix it.

Want to share your thoughts with me about how you are paving your own way and becoming a new creature? Drop me a line at cawebb4@juno.com. I would love to hear from you.

Until next time, happy reading!



Cyrus Webb, Editor-In-Chief
Conversations Magazine
www.conversationsmag.com 

Authors Ashley & JaQuavis: Young, Successful & Ready For The World

by Cyrus Webb

The success of New York Times bestselling authors Ashley and JaQuavis is measured not just in their book sales and the loyalty of their fans. It's seen just as much in how they have been able to grow together, experience the roller coaster ride of the literary industry together and their willingness to share the journey together.

In less than half a decade the husband and wife team from Flint, Michigan has risen to the top of the urban genre and branched out to diversify their readership. Make no mistake: this was by no means an accident. It was part of their plan from the beginning. Confident in their abilities yet seemingly unaware of their influence, it is no doubt that they will be talked about for quite some time.


I had the opportunity to sit down with the power couple when they visited Mississippi in September 2011 promoting their novel MURDERVILLE and the anticipated MURDER MAMAS. After a day of watching them interact with their fans, it was obvious that they loved what they do and most importantly they love each other. It was that love that led them to be a literary team in the first place.

After experiencing a personal loss, JaQuavis suggested they have a friendly competition to see who could write the best story. For Ashley, who has always wanted to write and wanted to go into journalism, this was a great distraction. That was the beginning. Their literary career officially began in 2005, and now dozens of books later (written separately, together and some ghostwritten) these two have no intention of stopping or slowing down.

"It surprises me that something that comes so easy to us is loved by so many people," JaQuavis confesses. "It's fulfilling to know we have so many readers in such a little time." When talking about their influence especially among readers of what is considered urban or street lit, Ashley adds: "We are the CNN for the streets. We are writing a life that we and our readers can relate to. It's the journey of going from the gutter to the top."

Though they have their success as solo writers, JaQuavis knows that their ability to tell a great story together is appreciated by readers. "We tell both sides of the coin as a couple," he says. "We can tell you how the characters (both male and female) feel in a voice and style that is authentic." That relatability,though, is not just confined to a certain genre. "We are writers first," Ashley explains. "When people meet us we change opinions about the type of fiction we write. In a way we are telling everyone's story."


That cross-over ability is something I saw right away in their book MURDERVILLE, published by Cash Money Content this year. It is indicative of how the authors see themselves now and where they want to go. "We like to be the best at everything we attempt," Ashley told me. JaQuavis quickly agreed. "We want to be mentioned as one of the greatest," he says. And that greatness goes beyond just writing books. They have already set their sights on their next objective: films.

With the confidence that comes across from them in their books and in their conversation, I was surprised at their reaction to being called role models for aspiring authors and individuals going after their dreams. After giving it some thought their responses were tempered with both humility and appreciation. "Study what we do," JaQuavis advises, "but know that you have to mix up your own formula." This was mirrored by Ashley as well. "It's an honor to be considered a role model," she said to me, "but I hope people realize there is not just one blueprint for success. You have to find your own way."

For sure the way that these two have gone about their journey to success has worked and continues to inspire others and thrill their devoted fans. Here's wishing the same for all who dare to dream.

To find out more about Ashley and JaQuavis visit www.ashleyjaquavis.com and www.readordieonline.com.

1 on 1 with actress and model Ruth Reynolds

Actress and model Ruth Reynolds grew up in Austin, Texas.   She is one of eleven siblings.  She had a passion for performing since she entered Texas State University.  Back in 2007, Ruth decided to make her dream come true, and embarked upon her California adventure.  Eventually she started training with her present coach – Lewis Smith and by time Ruth earned many exciting opportunities.  Recently she received the Rising Star Award at the MIFF Festival for her performance in the movie ‘The Guest House’.

In this movie, we have seen Ruth Reynolds kissing another girl for a first time on screen.

Ramona Portelli managed to grab some time from Ruth Reynolds' busy life to conduct this interview with her for Conversations Magazine.

You’re both an actress and a model. How did you discover you had a talent for both?

I had an amazing opportunity to help out a friend on a project and fell in love. I started dabbling in both worlds. And haven't been able to stop sense.

 You have starred in many brilliant recent movies such as ‘The Guest House’, ‘Littlefield’, and recently in ‘The Art of Storytelling’.  Are you currently working on anything else?

I am!!!  I have recently wrapped up a few films that should be released in this coming year.  Most recently was ‘Cyril’. A brilliant short about helping my father escape from jail and reunite our family. Since then I have just returned from Idaho were we shot Kook - a film about two Idaho kids whose chance meeting changes each other lives.

Recently you have received the Rising Star Award at the MIFF Festival for your performance in ‘The Guest House’ in which you played an aspiring songwriter who had lost her way in life and rediscovered her passion through falling in love. When was this exactly & what are your comments about this achievement?

It was at this past years Melbourne Independent Film Festival. An amazing experience to revive an award that was voted on the by the judges and viewers at the film festival. I was honoured to learn our film was accepted in the festival. It was completely unexpected to walk away with the awards that we received.

We have seen you kissing another girl in the movie ‘The Guest House’. Was this something nervous for you to act, or have you kissed other girls in your real life?

This was not the first time I kissed a girl. Though it was still a little intimidating because it was my first on screen kiss with a girl.

Before ‘The Guest House’, have you ever played a part involving intimate scenes with a woman?

This was the first intimate scene I had shared on screen with another woman.

Are you still modeling? If not, where or for whom you used to model?

I have done modeling for clothing lines like SumoSurfer, 101110 Vestis, Shifty, Slashchic and a few others. It is not my main focus, but it is fun to do off and on.

What role does technology play in your life? Are there any gadgets that you prefer from others?

My IPAD is always on me. I absolutely love technology and gadgets, but the IPAD works for all my needs.

What do you think is your best asset?

My best asset I would say is being an optimistic person. No matter a situation, I feel like you should always find the best in it. Focus on the good and push forward.

What do you usually do in your spare time, if any?

If I am not sipping on a cup of joe (coffee) while reading, then I am most likely riding my motorcycle or playing on the beach.

Do your mother or father still give you advice?  If yes, What type of advices?

Of course, any chance they get. Mainly to live my life to the fullest. Never live in the past, never focus on the future, but live in the moment.

How do you describe your relationship with money?

I am a budgeter. I love to have fun and travel, try new foods, etc… I also like to live a stress and debt free life. So I budget.

In your opinion, do you think that because something is more expensive it is automatically better?

Not necessarily.  I do believe in quality over quantity. I don't believe because something is more expensive that it is necessarily better.

What are your plans for the rest of this year?

To live and to grow. I believe in the motto that you should try to be a better person then you were yesterday. I’m always wanting to grow.

Ruth Reynolds  – Thanks for your time for this interview with me. What are your comments for Conversations Magazine readers?

Thank you for the interview!  I would simply say no matter how big or small your dream may seem, do everything in your power to make it come true!

 

Ramona Portelli is a Maltese born freelance writer and journalist.  She has been a freelance writer for these last few years, during which she has interviewed various Maltese and international personalities. More information about her on www.ramonaportelli.com.

Tony Lindsay Presents... Julian Mayfield

Julian Mayfield wrote fiction about life in Harlem during the nineteen fifties. Two of his novels The Hit and The Long Night were compiled into a single book by The Northeastern Library of Black Literature.  Mayfield’s fiction skills lay in his almost abrasive talent of recording life as fiction. The streets of Harlem during the fifties walk the pages of his work. What one may turn away from in life is eagerly read in Mayfield’s work. Unexpectedly, community is the theme in both novels, and in each Mayfield’s creative talent allows the reader see the power of a cohesive community.

In The Hit, a main character, Hubert Cooley is portrayed as a man who places himself above all the occupants of Harlem including his wife. Although he works maintaining others’ apartments, he feels he is above those in his community and his family, but what the reader quickly summarizes is that the dream of hitting the “number” is just as big for him as it for every resident, if not bigger. Cooley’s life and dreams match his community but he doesn’t see it, and Mayfield writes this lack of vision as Cooley’s tragic flaw. Add to that his self-ostracizing statue, and that makes Mayfield’s Cooley an unforgettable character.  

 Mayfield displays this misguided belief in self by having Cooley arrested and thrown into the drunk tank while dressed in a business suit. Throughout the work the readers sees the insanity of self-ostracizing for an African American living in Harlem. Cooley foolishly puts himself above and outside of others in his community, “Hubert Cooley had but one obsession, and that was to leave family, home, and Harlem as far behind as possible, and create a new life for himself” (Mayfield 8).

When Cooley final does hit the number, and the community he so despises begins to respect him, he is beaten from his rewards by another who views himself above the community. Mayfield artfully juxtapose the two characters (a numbers runner and a maintenance man) to bring home his theme of community unity. In the second portion of the book, The Long Night, ten year old Fred Brown, Steely, takes the reader through a tortuous Harlem night.

Steely quickly learns that those who appear cool and popular in the Harlem community are not necessarily the dependable and responsible folks.  The leaders of the gang he so proud to be a member of are responsible for his long night on the streets of Harlem. Steely was given a task by his mother, after failing at the task he decides he can recoup his failure on the streets.

 His night with the dwellers of the dark streets of Harlem reduces Steely to petty crime attempts and to a decision no ten year old boy should have to make. Mayfield’s prose talent holds the reader through a night most would not witness, but the story holds and gracefully relieves with a surprises ending.   

In these two novels, The Hit and The Long Night, the theme of community is consistent, and Julian Mayfield skills as writer are apparent.  Harlem in the nineteen fifties comes to life in both works.   

Tony Lindsay is an award-winning author and adjunct professor at Chicago State University. His book ONE DEAD DOCTOR was chosen by Conversations Book Club as one of its Top 100 Books of 2012. Lindsay was named Conversations Author of the Year 2012-2013.  His new book EMOTIONAL DRIPPINGS is available now on Amazon.com. He can be reached at tonylinsay7045@sbcglobal.net or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/tony.linssay2.

Conversations Magazine Reveals the Cover of It's Oct./Nov. Issue

Conversations Media Group is excited to release the cover of its upcoming Oct./Nov. issue of Conversations Magazine.

 The new issue, out Mon. November 18, 2013 features Slip-N-Slide recording artist Sebastian Mikael, recording artist Matthew Schultz, Emmy award-winning author/talk show host Judge Jeanine Pirro as well as interviews with author Tonya Goring and FreedomInk authors Katandra Shanel Jackson, Phoenix and Kenny L. Mitchell and more!


 Single copies of the issue are available for only $6.99, shipping included at the button below:

You can also get a 1 year (12 month) subscription to Conversations Magazine at www.conversationsmag.com.

SPOTLIGHT: Masonaires - 45 Years of Excellence

by D. C. White

In the forty-five years of recording and performing, the Masonaires show no signs of slowing down.  

You can find them just about anywhere performing old gospel hymns and hosting benefit programs to help those who are sick, homeless or experiencing financial hardships in various communities.  September 14, 2013 will mark the 45th year anniversary of this dynamic group and what a remarkable 45 years it has been.  They have traveled to many cities over this 45 year span.  

I recently caught up with one of the original members Wesley McLin, Sr. (pictured: 2nd row, 2nd from left).  Mr. McLin has been with the group since its beginning and said that it's "better to give than to receive" and that they enjoy "being a blessing to others".  Based out of Florence, Mississippi, the Masonaires are also members of Mason Lodge 593.  They sponsor fund raisers throughout the year to help with their benevolent mission.  They are also highly requested to perform at funerals and various church and community activities.  They are known for singing those good ole time religion songs that take you back to your grandmother's church in the good ole days. 

We wish the Masonaires a happy 45th anniversary and continued success in the future!  Keep up the good work!

D. C. White is a contributor for Conversations Magazine and the founder of History Records and Entertainment. White also serves as a Producer for "Conversations with Cyrus Webb" television show. You can reach him atdwightcalhoun@yahoo.com and find out more information about him atwww.dchistoryrecords.com. 

Nov./Dec.'s Issue of Conversations Magazine encourages you to STAND YOUR GROUND

Conversations Media Group is excited to announce that for it's Nov./Dec. issue of Conversations Magazine the theme is a simple one: In a time of trouble and crisis you have to Stand Your Ground.

Jackie Carpenter, the author of THE BRIDGE and GEORGIA JUSTICE, knows this theme better than most. Her family's journey is chronicled in the upcoming film STAND YOUR GROUND that will be released in January 2014. She graces the cover of the upcoming issue.

To order your copy of the issue out Fri. Nov. 15th click the button below: