Off the Record with Georgette Pierre

It's that time of year again and this year is a little more special. Off the Record is celebrating its five year anniversary and what better way to do it then to have our yearly roundtable discussion on what set 2014 off in music and social media (i.e. Rihanna back on IG, Elevatorgate with Solange and Jay Z, Mike Brown and Eric Garner protests throughout the country). We'll also be making our 2015 projections. My guests are feisty and know their sh*t. Tune in and I'll let you be the judge.  Past guests have included comedian and ThisIs50 host Jack Thriller, past VIBE Vixen editor, Nicole McGloster, producer Statik Selektah, rapper and songwriter Skillz, and more.  Follow all things Off the Record (OTR) and join the conversation on Twitter and Facebook by using the hashtag #OTRWithGP.  Subscribe to our free podcast on iTunes, tunein, and Stitcher.

With roots from the streets of Colombia all the way to the state of Virginia, my next guest is an artist you didn’t see coming and she likes it that way. Doing whatever she wants, 19 year old singer, rapper, and director, Kali Uchis, gives off a fearless yet rebellious IDGAF approach to her style and we like it. Currently working on new music under the Hollafame label imprint, Kali’s buzz continues to grow as she readies a fall release. The singer stops by to chat her upcoming EP, major artist collaborations, and her "What They Say" single getting co-signed by Snoop Lion. Plus I run down the OTR (Off the Record) Report including personal tidbits and my backstage recap of the 2013 MTV VMAs. Use the hashtag #OffTheRecordWithGP on Twitter and Facebook to join in on the discussion. Email your comments and questions to info@georgettepierre.com. Subscribe to the free podcast on iTunes, tunein radio app, and now Stitcher radio app.

From Blue Ivy (Jay Z and Beyonce) and North (Kanye and Kim K) to Apple (Gwyneth Paltrow and Chris Martin) and Jermajesty (Jermaine Jackson), celebrities are taking baby names to a new level. But what about the children who aren’t born to wealthy and/or famous parents? How will their name affect them growing up and in the workforce? Studies show that racial bias still exists in hiring especially when it comes to “commonly used” African-American names. My guests, Jennifer Moss, author of “The One-in-a-Million Baby Name Book” and curator of babynames.com and Tami Cook, an aesthetician, who decided to shorten her name because of her profession, join me to discuss their take on the baby naming phenomenon and whether that can truly determine the success of a child.   Plus I also run down the OTR (Off the Record) Report including personal tidbits and pop culture news that will be sure to make you blush…maybe. Use the hashtag #OffTheRecordWithGP on Twitter and Facebook to join in on the discussion. Email your comments and questions to info@georgettepierre.com. Subscribe to the free podcast on iTunes, tunein radio app, and now Stitcher radio app.

Bobby V is currently promoting his upcoming EP, Peach Moon. During our interview, Bobby dished on the recording process, learning to play the piano, and if he's recently been bit by the love bug. I also run down the Off the Record (OTR) Report with the latest pop culture headlines and personal tidbits.

Entering the Julliard School of Music at the age of 9, violinist Damien Escobar has already received critical acclaim alongside his brother Tourie, for their work, collecting two Emmy awards, selling over a million copies of their album, performing for two past Presidents, and even placing third on season three of America's Got Talent. So what does one do after they seemed to have accomplished it all? Keep rising to the top. With his solo mixtape out called Sensual Melodies, Damien Escobar, better known as Dame Esco, stops by to talk his journey to greatness, his philanthropic efforts, and his mixtape Sensual Meldoies. Plus I run down the OTR (Off the Record) Report including personal tidbits and pop culture news that will be sure to make you blush…maybe.

Bringing you two shows in one, I sit down with an upcoming artist from the DMV area then dig deep into the relationship trenches to break down what I call the concept of fade aways. From meeting a Rock N Roll Hall of Famer that changed one guest’s life to understanding why a guy or girl you once dated all of a sudden stopped calling you, my guests and I get into all. Plus I run down the OTR (Off the Record) Report including personal tidbits and pop culture-esque news that will make you blush…maybe. Subscribe to the free podcast on iTunes and now stream it for free on the TuneIn radio app.

In a generation of fleeting messages and drive by hellos, social media and phone apps are starting to replace some forms of intimacy and face time (no not the Apple product). In a span of a few years, millennials went from texting to sexting, late night creeping with a sexy trench coat on to an iPhone app called Snapchat. It’s as if convenience has replaced imagination. A note on your doorstep with the scent of Burberry perfume that you have to mail or a half naked picture that you can roll over and view in your bed…most of us have been there. The dichotomy is unreal so I’m choosing to go a little bit deeper. Pun intended. Join me as my guests break down their Intima-Tude (intimacy views) and the evolution of what I call pseudo-intimacy. Are you a sexter or a late night creeper? Email your questions and comments to info@georgettepierre.com for an opportunity of it being read on air.

In a previously recorded special edition of Off the Record with Georgette Pierre, I took my radio show on the road. While in LA, I met up with Grammy nominated producer, Mason Levy, known for his work on Justin Bieber's hit single "Boyfriend", Maroon 5's "Daylight", and much more…all at the age of 22. We met up in beautiful Pasadena and what was so inspiring about his story was his humility, having achieved his level of success at such a young age but his drive to tell his story through what he loves to do. Having signed a publishing deal at such a young age, his story is nowhere near over and our conversation was just the beginning.

Women have always known way before Beyonce’s song, “Girls (Run the World)”, that we possess a lot of power and can hold our own but it isn’t just enough to say that especially in male dominated industries like media and entertainment. The backbiting, the glass ceiling, challenges that women face opposed to men, and even what defines the characteristics of the New Age Woman are constantly being debated. In celebration of Women’s History Month, my guests join me tonight to discuss their views on powerhouse women in media, women that have inspired them in their fields, and how their experiences shaped their views on supporting other women. Plus I’ll run down the latest headlines in pop culture news with my friend/budding comedian @NormmyNorm. Subscribe to our free podcast on iTunes. 

Each year brings a new artist, a new song, a new album, and a crazy story to accompany it. 2012 has produced some epic moments in music history and my featured guests will deliberate on it. Young Jack Thriller, comedian and host of So Disrespectful on ThisIs50.com, Ryan, a Sony/Columbia label rep, plus Niki McGloster, editor of Vibe Vixen, musing about pop culture for a living, will join me to break down the hot and not moments of 2012 and cast their projections for 2013. Plus I have a special announcement for the New Year.  This show marks my three year anniversary so expect nothing short of interesting from my guests as well as our 2013 projections. Don't say I didn't warn you.

From fashion shows to discovering her love for music at a young age, Devyn Rose, formerly known by the moniker Tanya T6, was always a singer and songwriter at heart. Performing at different venues and showcases, particularly a BMI showcase, lead her to be discovered by multi-platinum producer, Dame Grease.  Receiving support from friends and family, she went on to release a mixtape that garnered radio support nationally and internationally. Having worked behind the scenes with various artists including French Montana, N.O.R.E., Jae Millz, and more, the songstress is no stranger to the industry. Gearing up for her new EP, the songstress stops by to discuss her fashion edgy style, visions for her new EP, and how she sees it all coming together. Check out the video for her new single, ‘Pieces’.

  With a powerhouse uncle named Shawn Carter a.k.a. Jay-Z, one can assume that the pursuit of music was in his blood due to his family connection; but he refuses to stand in his shadow. Holding his own at a young age, Mel Carter was inspired to turn his poetry into rhymes, thus spawning his first release back in 2009 called Certified. Gearing up for his sophomore project, he recently released the first single titled Dark Shades, inspired by the experience and obstacles he’s faced as an emerging artist.  With a strong team behind him, Mel stops by to discuss his work ethic, being a popular stranger, and his personal goals for his music and his life.

  Considered a living legend in hip hop history and being part of a staple rap duo that ignited a path on the Southern rap scene, 8 Ball has earned more than his fair share of respect in the music industry. Known as the other half of rap group 8 Ball and MJG, his music credits span nearly two decades.  With his new single out called Good Girl, Bad Girl, 8 Ball is back with his first solo album since 1998.  Enlisting artists for his new LP from hip hop, reggae, and R&B genres, 8 Ball drops by to discuss his Life’s Quest, being legendary, and the future of the Southern rap scene. Subscribe to our free podcast on iTunes. 

  First stepping out on the scene as a member of 90s R&B group, Mista, Bobby V’s solo career kicked off when he released his first single “Slow Down”. Having received a lot of radio and television airplay, it reached number 10 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart, thus solidifying his music career as a successful solo artist. His signature sound has been heard on hit singles with artists including Ludacris, Lil’ Wayne, Nicki Minaj, and more. Back with his fifth studio album, he released the first single titled Mirror, featuring Lil Wayne, that’s sure to heat up the summer. With his own label imprint, Blu Kolla Dreams, and a charitable foundation for the youth, he continues to create opportunities for those to live their dreams as well. Bobby V stops by to discuss his new album, his charitable foundation, and releasing music on his terms.

With acting credits that span performance theatre, television dramas and soap operas, such as Law & Order and One Life to Live, along with major box office films, Nicoye Banks continues to showcase his diversity. With an upcoming role in T.D. Jakes new film, Woman Art Thou Loosed: On the 7th Day, Nicoye joins me to dish details on his new role, his experience working with T.D. Jakes, and his community based projects in his hometown of New Orleans.

50,000 women strong, non-profit organization, GirlTrek has been inspiring and influencing women and young girls throughout the country to take strides in the right direction for their health. What started off as a routine phone conversation between Vanessa Garrison and Tanya Morgan Dixon, later evolved into women feeling empowered and living more a fulfilled life, yearly fitness training programs, a national walking campaign, and much more.   Taking steps towards social activism by focusing on public health, Vanessa joins me to discuss how her life has changed since GirlTrek, the goals and vision for the organization, and how you can get involved including their annual national walking campaign taking place nationwide.

  With the younger generation being ushered in and traditional ways seemingly being ushered out, it’s hard to think that one would expect being talked to or treated a certain way until now. The topic of chivalry and societal expectations of how men should treat women has been distortions and the lack thereof has become all too commonplace. With contradicting images of women being disrespected and misogynistic lyrics ringing loud in speaker boxes everywhere, is it a surprise that some women may accept less than what they deserves? Or men treating women less than what they want to put effort into? From various conversations with guy and girl friends, I would hear a range of views on what happened to chivalry in our day and age.  Most women think chivalry is dead. Some men may beg to differ citing women are partially to blame for that. But are they? Having experienced both the disrespect and the utmost respect, I thought this conversation would be interesting to say the least. Ranging from the super, chivalrous gentleman to the man who does it sometimes, to the woman who has her expectations already set, my guests weigh in on their individual experiences and current societal views of chivalry, as they seek to answer the often debatable question, "is chivalry dead?" Join the conversation and send us your comments and questions to info@brnskn.com.  

  For my cooking enthusiasts and foodies alike, you may have seen him as the winner of the first season of Bravo TV’s Rocco’s Dinner Party. Inspired at a young age to become a chef, Joe Johnson lends his talents as executive sous chef of a dining institute among other things. Creating menus for underground super-club events, he’s also the co-founder of culinary social networking site, http://urpalate.com, with plans to launch his own lifestyle drink the early part of this year. Deemed The Golden Chef by some of his friends and closest peers, Chef JJ joins me to discuss his success after winning on Bravo TV, the launch of his new lifestyle drink, and what separates his cooking style from the rest. Subscribe to our free podcast on iTunes.

  Working for any national sports organization seems like a dream job for any sports enthusiast including the perceived perks. But what about women who work for these all male organizations? How are they treated? Are the barriers to entry different for women than men? Well my guests, Saudia Mitchell and Jamere McKnight, join me to discuss their experiences on working in sports entertainment and the New Orleans Hornets respectively, their career goals, and if that still includes a future in the sports world.

  Producer, writer, and director with credits that span various major box office films, music videos, documentaries, and more, are just a few titles that describe TV/film/music industry veteran Tee Smith. With over 10 years in the game, Tee has worked with many notable directors and artists including Spike Lee, John Singleton, Hype Williams, Jay-Z, and Nas to name a few. Tee’s dynamic storytelling is heavily sought after and highly regarded by many in the industry. From in front of the camera to behind the camera, Tee Smith joins me to discuss his expertise in film, television, and music, why it’s important to see more young men and women of color behind the camera, and his insight on breaking into the most coveted industry.

California native and veteran casting director, Yolanda Hunt, has made her mark on the casting world since first working with John Singleton on the music video “Remember the Time” for the late, legendary icon, Michael Jackson. With over 20 years experience and casting credits for some of the industry’s notable films, music videos, and TV shows, Yolanda’s work can be seen for years to come. Having seen it all and almost done it all, she shares her insight on some of the trends in the casting industry, wise words for aspiring talent, and what she foresees in her casting future.

What is the Killer Boombox life you say?  Based on the content, it’s more than music, it’s a lifestyle. Fresh perspectives on news and entertainment, brash and bold writing, and just a different way to document urban music culture outside of the gossip rags and salacious stories. The mastermind of business operations, Brandon Matthews, and the editor-in-chief, G Valentino Ball, stop by to discuss the concept behind Killer Boombox, why he needed to create this outlet, and how they plan on running the digital space.

Newark, New Jersey native, Pure, has been buzzing since first releasing his mixtape in 2010, titled I Am Pure.  Not confining himself to any genre, his diverse musical influences can be heard his latest singles The Stars and club banger Touch It, Bring It. Both have been well received from major NYC radio stations including Hot 97, Power 105, and Kiss 98.7.  Growing up in the Brick City, dominated by gangs, drugs, and gun violence, music was Pure’s outlet and motivation to stay above that. He joins me to discuss the movement behind his buzzing single Touch It, Bring It, his latest music project, and why his sound is a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. Listen to the singles at the links provided The Stars and Touch It, Bring It. Learn more about him here.

Due to social media, our attention spans have become shorter and communication reduced to 140 characters, facebook wall posts, emails, and text messages. It makes me wonder does anyone crave human interaction anymore? Has talking on the phone or seeing someone in person become obsolete? Are these new forms here to stay? Hear what my guests have to say about the evolution of communication, how it affects our personal/romantic relationships, and the privacy issues associated with it.  Check out the link to the Huffington Post article I referenced in the show.

  With Grammy award winning producer 9th Wonder as her mentor along with being the first lady of North Carolina hip hop group, Kooley High, Rapsody has more than paid her dues as an MC. Respecting her work since first speaking with her back in late 2010, she hasn't let up since her first solo digital release. Already three mixtapes in from Return of the B-Girl, to Thank H.E.R. Now, and most recently For Everything, Rapsody deserves her fair share of credit. On our part 3 conversation, she joins me to discuss how she's evolved lyrically since her first release, how she met her rap hero Jay-Z, and what's it like to blaze the internet waves with 9th Wonder as her mentor.

  From slight addiction to neutral and conservative views, the act of masturbation [even the word] has become such a taboo discussion.  Judged as filthy, immoral, and even lewd, the social stigmas that have been created are attached to “A” subjective point of view of how people should be pleased and not necessarily “our” (generally speaking) own personal views. My expert guest, Gracie Landes, licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and licensed sex counselor in New York City, joins me to demystify masturbation, discussing pros and cons (if any), the health benefits, and ways to live a healthy sex life, free of judgment. 

Coined the title, Organic Soul Chef, Madea pursued her passion in food, health, and healing.  Providing education through empowerment, she teaches culinary instruction in the public and private sectors. She cooks cuisines heavily influenced by the African Diaspora and creates an integrative nutritional plan for her clients. She joins us to offer her personalized roadmap to health according to our unique needs, lifestyle, and goals.

There are more black men in jail than in colleges. Statistics show that 50% of black men would've served time in prison or a juvenile detention center by the age of 30. The incarceration rates of black men are higher compared to their white male counterparts. Why the disproportionate rate of black men in prison? What about effective programs that help them re-enter society? My guest Reverend Henry Price, a once convicted felon turned social activist and pastor, joins me to discuss his take on the prison industrial complex, what lead him to activism, and why he feels like black men keep going to prison.

DJ and rapper, Jasmine Solano continues to rep strong for the ladies. Having interviewed her on tour as Wiz Khalifa's DJ, she's been working on her own music too. The video for her single "That's Not It" (produced by DJ Wonder and directed by Vashtie Cola) can be seen on mtvU. Still touring, rhyming, deejaying, and such, Jasmine Solano stops by to get up close and personal with her life as an artist, DJ, and MC in this male dominated industry.

Would you date someone living with a STD (sexually transmitted disease)? What if you didn't know they had one? A man or woman close to you is probably living with one of these dis-eases, herpes, HIV/AIDS, or HPV. Unfortunately, these STDs are very common amongst African Americans. Two of my guests are living with two of the three STDs mentioned above. They join me to share their stories, how they're educating others on breaking down the stigma, and why you shouldn't be so quick to judge. Do you know your status? Email any questions or comments to info@brnskn.com. Listen all February as I continue to celebrate Black History Month bringing awareness to issues in the black community as well as spotlighting men/women of color in the arts, media, and entertainment industries to name a few.

Mental health issues in the black community are often times ignored and seen as taboo. According to data from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Adminstration (SAMHSA), "in 2008, six percent of African Americans aged 18-25 had a mental health illness in the past year." Most of these cases go undiagnosed and untreated due to various reasons including "mistrust of health professionals, cultural barriers, and socioeconomic differences (via Mental Health America [MHA])." My guests join me to discuss ways of recognizing "the signs", breaking down the stigma of mental illness, and access to care including holistic alternatives. Listen all February as I continue to celebrate Black History Month bringing awareness to issues in the black community as well as spotlighting men/women of color in the arts, media, and entertainment industries to name a few.

Becoming a comedian in this male dominated profession has proved challenging but not discouraging for budding comedians, Aminah Imani and Khellie B. With a passion for laughter and good fun, these ladies are taking the comedy circuit by force, showing you who's boss. They join me to discuss their comedic influence, a breakdown of this industry, and what made them choose this profession. Listen all February as I continue to celebrate Black History Month bringing awareness to issues in the black community as well as spotlighting men/women of color in the arts, media, and entertainment industries to name a few.

Sophia Dawson's passion for art started off as a passion for music. Being recognized for her artistic ability instead of musical talent, she attended LaGuardia's High School of Music and Performing Arts. Two years later, Sophia's work has been showcased at the Black Panther Party Film Festival, Prospect Park, to name a few. She continues to develop her style, building her clientele by painting portraits of family, friends, celebrities, and more. Experience art through her world. Listen all February as I celebrate Black History Month, spotlighting men and women of color in the media, entertainment, and arts industries as well as highlighting issues going in the black community.

Ever wondered who was responsible for discovering new acts or signing an obscure artist you only knew about? Well tonight the artist and repertoire rep (A&R) responsible for signing Diggy Simmons (son of Reverend Run of Run DMC) to Atlantic Records stops by to talk about his life as an A&R, what he looks for, and new artists on his radar.

Last time we spoke we were awaiting the release of her first solo project. Seven months later, Return of the B-Girl hits the net, featuring Jamla label mates, Big Remo, Heather Victoria, and more. She checks in to discuss her new mixtape, working with some of her favorite artists, and plans for 2011.

First hearing her DJ at Fashion's Night Out 2010 event in NYC, Tyger Lilly's name has picked up speed amongst fashion and music aficionados alike. Having graced the runways for several high-end designers, she stops by to discuss her life as a DJ and a model, how she keeps the balance in this male-dominated industry, and how other women can show and prove.

Have you ever dealt with cat-calls, whistling, sexist and sexual epithets being yelled out the street and car windows, being grabbed or followed, while walking home? This conversation is our space to address street harassment openly. Author of Stop Street Harassment, Holly Kearl, and Salamishah Tillet, co-founder of A Long Walk Home, organization that educates and brings about social change through visual/performing arts and art therapy, join me to sound off on ways to make women safer in the streets. Email me with your questions and/or experiences at info@brnskn.com

After releasing her first worldwide album Exit E, Esnavi is making her presence known. Working wonders with her eclectic vibes and soulful voice, Exit E proves to be a solid album for this independent artist. Although this isn't her first project, she stops by to discuss the vision behind her latest release, what she's currently working on, and how she plans on reviving the music industry. Email questions to info@brnskn.com.

In a society where media perpetuates self-loathing, patriarchy, and negative stereotypes of women of color, I wonder where one begins to define their foundation of self-love (if it didn't start at home). Based on personal experiences, learning to love my self has served to be challenging yet liberating. In this episode, I look to writer Jo Nubian (www.jonubian.com) and Valeisha Butterfield, co-founder of WEEN Women in Entertainment Empowerment Network (www.weenonline.org) as they share their views, experiences, and personal insight on building and preserving a strong self-love foundation. I dedicate this to all my ladies on the same journey with me. Email any questions to info@brnskn.com.

To "wax poetic" is to become increasingly verbose and romantic in speech; very eclectic and poetic in manner. But the Wax Poetics we speak of is the bi-monthly American music magazine dedicated to vintage and contemporary music including jazz, funk, soul, hip-hop, reggae, Latin, blues, and R&B. Editor-in-chief, Andre Torres, stops by to chat with us about the history/vision behind WAX POETICS, the success of the vintage magazine, and future plans/ventures. Tune in for this special episode co-hosted by the ladies of The R'ebel Mag, Miss Ishshah, Lady Spyce, and myself.

According to statistics, about 87% of children can not read. What is or who is to blame for this high number? How do we close the achievement gap and have our kids operating at higher reading levels? My guest co-host, Lady Spyce, and I tackle these questions one by one with educator and organization leader, Ms. Shanda. Bring your questions and concerns.

Rapsody, first lady of Jamla (producer 9th Wonder's label imprint) and Kooley High, has been repping for the ladies since day one. If you haven't heard her yet, go to her Myspace page immediately (rapsodymusic). She joins me to discuss her lyrical prowess, "a man's world", and Return of the B-Girl.

Tab One, who is also part of the hip-hop group Kooley High, stops by to talk about his mixtape "The Tabloids", his music video dropping, and the future of hip-hop in his eyes.

Busting on the scene with his latest single "Champagne Spillin", Carlos St. John catches up with me to discuss his "story", his lyrical attitude, and why he's the future of music.

Charlie Smarts, of NC-bred hip-hop group Kooley High, joins me to discuss his mixtape F'alex, how it feels to "put on for his city", and why he's here to stay.

Renaissance musician, singer, and songwriter Georgia Anne Muldrow stops by Brn Skn Speaks radio on her tour. Tune in to hear what she's currently working on and why she continues to challenge the norm as an artist. Listen to the edited interview at www.soundcloud.com/brnskn.

Dr.Marco Clark, from Broken Promise Schools, joins me to discuss the "troubled" educational system, how it affects the black community, and solutions to challenge the status quo results in the public school system

Author, social-political activist, entertainment entrepreneur, Janks Morton, will join me to discuss his new book "Why He Hates You" and his views on black men in America

Tune into the first series of my artist spotlight segment when I catch up with Sonny Cheeba and Geechi Suede of Camp Lo as we talk music, album, tours, and life. 

Snapshot view of the current and future state of music. Hear Skillz sound off along with DJ/Producer Statik Selektah, Gazelle from E1 (formerly Koch Records), Producer Baby Paul (CEO of Divine Order Ent).

discussing ways to build your brand in the entertainment industry by creating your own opportunity. Special guests will discuss their experiences with starting their own company/building their brand.