Human Magazine | Interview with JoiStaRR.

“Questions for a STARR?”

Sunshine Anderson is  best known for her smash hit single, “Heard It All Before”.

Reflections with Angel & Chanelle: Trin-i-tee 5:7

GRAMMY^® Award nominated, Gospel Music Association’s Dove Award and Stellar Award winner Trin-i-tee 5:7 has been the Best Selling Female Gospel Trio in music history. After more than a decade on the music scene, the New Orleans natives and original group members, Chanelle Haynes and Angel Taylor have transitioned Trin-i-tee 5:7 from a trio to a duo.  They will debut their new sound in a new project titled, Angel and Chanelle scheduled for release May 3, 2011.

Check out their new single “Over & Over”, by using the media player below”

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In the past your lead singles have been very urban (i.e Holla & Get Away, Listen), what made you go with a more traditional sounding lead single this album?

Chanelle: We just wanted to honor our original sound, the beginnings of our group. Plus the single, made us feel good. “Over & Over” has a timeless message that is relevant to today.

One thing, I love you all for, is that your music and lyrics come from the heart and real life experiences. This is especially seen on your last project with, “I Need You” and “I Still Love You”. Can we expect the same on this new album?

Chanelle: Absolutely. You know it’s so easy to sing about the same thing, but we just want to be real. While being “real” and talking about “real things”, we want to lead people to God. The messages in this album are sung about in clever ways.

Angel: Example, we have one song in particular in which we talk about the criticism we endure from the industry.

Will you continue to pay tribute to New Orleans and Hurricane Katrina with this new album?

Angel: Everything is in reference to New Orleans. We kind of bring that with us everywhere we go. It really impacted our lives.

Can you explain this new style you all have been rockin’ lately? Its fresh but at the same time is like a classic throwback.

Angel: The look is Angel and Chanelle, we are just allowing ourselves to be who we are supposed to be.

Chanelle: Angel is very consistent with working out, and my gym is just too far!

Let’s give your fans an inside look at some of your favorite things. What kind of TV shows do you have to watch?

Chanelle: Golden Girls! I like to watch Dr. G (The Autopsy Show). To me, it’s cool how doctors can figure out how people died. I like 48 Hours and crime stories. And anyone who knows me, knows I love Spongebob and Tom & Jerry.

Angel: Sex and the City re-runs are my favorite. The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills and I am a fan of The Game on BET.

What music will we find on your iPods?

Chanelle: I listen to Billie Holiday and CeCe Winans. When I exercise, I like to listen to Prince.

Angel: The question is, what am I NOT listening to. But right now Brandy and Babyface.

I want to give you both a chance to clarify the biggest misconception about Trin-i-tee 5:7.

Chanelle: We have heard that we are princesses and divas. But the truth is Angel and I are both tom-bois. Angel is probably more of the girly-girl.

Angel: We are both adventurous and down to earth.

What is a piece of advice you live by each and every day?

Chanelle: You know in the beginnings of our career, we weren’t happy. We spent alot of time trying to please other people. Whom the son sets free is free indeed and there is certain peace you can carry when you are free and don’t carry the burden of trying to please others.

What types of things do you do everyday to maintain your happiness?

Chanelle: I journal. Journaling keeps me motivated. I can say things in my journal that I can’t say to people. I recommend that to everyone.

Hailing from the deep south country of Alabama, is a legendary beauty named Cynthia Bailey. Cynthia recently tied the knot with business entrepreneur, Peter Thomas, at a private ceremony held at the Fernbank Museum Natural Museum of History. Mr. Peter Thomas is the owner of Atlanta’s Uptown Restaurant and Lounge.

Currently, Cynthia Bailey, can be seen every Sunday night on the Bravo network, as one-sixth of the Atlanta franchise of “Real Housewives”.

I, Vaughn Alvarez, recently sat down with the newly-wed, Cynthia (Bailey) Thomas, for an up-close and personal candid discussion, about her life, love, friendships/relationships and of course, “The Real Housewives of Atlanta”. Keep reading to find out why Cynthia Thomas is a “HUMAN” worth getting to know.

Vaughn: How Are You?

Cynthia: I’m Great.

You and Peter got married over the summer?

Yes we did, and you will see some of that coming up on the show.

Are you still modeling?

Yes I am. I have my regular clients like Nordstrom.

For the readers, who are not familiar with your previous work, but remember your face, where would we know you from?

Maybe my ad campaigns with Oil Olay or Fashion Fair?

Yes! You were flawless in those! Do you have any exciting ad campaigns coming up?

Well, I just shot a commercial for Macys and I can’t really talk about the other stuff, but its big! (smiles)

Let’s talk about, who Cynthia is?

I am rational, laid back and fun to be around. People always tell me I am a sweetheart and I like to think I’m pretty funny.

Do you feel like, “The Real Housewives of Atlanta,” is an accurate depiction of who you are?

No, I feel like you only get a snippet of who Cynthia is. You know, depending on the way the show is edited, you may only get to see my response to a situation. You don’t really get to see the essence of who I am.

On the show, you touched on your past briefly. You said you’ve been engaged several times but never made it down the alter. What made this time different? Why Peter?

I have been lucky enough to meet men in my life who wanted to marry me. In almost every relationship I have had, the man has asked to marry me. Growing up I thought I’d be married by 25 or 30, but my career became a priority. I basically left Alabama after high school and relocated to New York. I’m 43 years old now and I decided, Peter is the man I want to grow old with.

Speaking of growing up, what kind of child hood did you have?

Honestly, I was a regular kid. I got good grades, I listened to my parents and I went to church.

With you growing up in the south and in the church, you know that down south saints…at the name of “Jesus” run, shout and dance! How did you/do you balance your faith and career?

None of that really became an issue till I moved to New York. Although, I wasn’t active in a church in New York, I didn’t loose my faith in God. I am very spiritual. I pray every day and I recognize where my blessings come from. When I joined the cast of “Real Housewives”, I promised myself I would represent myself well. I wanted to be me and keep my faith. That’s why you wont see me do things like cuss or get involved in some of the ladies drama. That’s not me.

Speaking of drama, let’s talk about the “Friendship Contract”.

(laughs). Oh my, I had no idea it would be such a big deal. You know all my friends know I like to joke. In my life, I have really good friends. The contract with NeNe was just a joke. I take my friendships very seriously. I have a great relationship with NeNe on and off the show. I just wanted to let her know I care about her.

Did it hurt your feelings when the other ladies made fun of you and talked about you?

Yes, my feelings were hurt. I felt like the other ladies took something that was meant to be positive and turned it into something negative.

I am sorry they did that to you, but for the record, I liked it, and if my friend’s don’t get it together, I’m gonna start handing them out! (laughs)

Before we wrap up, what would you say to your fans who are going through rough times financially? Unfortunately, our country is in a recession and people just don’t have the inner strength to pull themselves through. Speak to that please.

Thats a great question, and actually without spoiling it, you will see me go though some things on the show. I don’t mind shopping at Target or H&M. Believe it or not, I am very frugal. Yes, I like nice things and if I have it, I will buy a Prada bag or nice dress. I don’t feel validated by the material things in my life. I never thought before the recession that I would have problems I am very humble and grateful for the blessings in my life.

Personally, I pray 3 or more times a day. Sometimes it’s simple like “Thank You Jesus!”.

Well, Cynthia, you know there is power in that name. That’s really all you need to say. Amen?…. Lastly, how can we follow you on Twitter?

My Twitter name is: @CynthiaBailey10.

Kandi Burruss, who is notoriously known for her signature vocals singing with the 90′s music group “Xscape”, took time to call HUMAN Magazine, to discuss her new album, family, faith and love. Currently Kandi can be seen on the TV network, BRAVO,  starring in the “Real Housewives of Atlanta”. Her new album “Kandi Koated” is in stores now. She has a new look, a new sound and a new story. Keep reading to find out the inspiration that makes Kandi, the awesome HUMAN she is.

A few years ago, you’d did a song entitled “I Love Me.” The song soon after leaked online, circulated heavily, and was talked about on Message Boards and Blogs. It was very powerful with a timeless message. Tell me how that song came about.

Well, “I Love Me”, was never officially released. I didn’t know that the blogs and message boards had even knew about it. I’m pretty much a strong woman. I’m very opinionated and I never tolerate any B.S. However, I have had some friends who have. When they tell me about their relationships, I’m always like, “It couldn’t be me, cause I Love Me”. So essentially, it was a song that was about a friend’s situation and not my own.

Oh ok, well would that be the same for the song “Sucka For Love” from your debut project, “Hey Kandi”?

Wow you’re taking it way back. (laughs). I haven’t sang or seen that song in years. (begins to sing the lyrics…) Yes, I would have to say so.

You got really emotional on last night’s episode of “Real Housewives” when you were recording the song, “Haven’t Loved Right”. How were you able to persevere through that season of your life?

I’m not a person who really stays sad after a break-up. Again, I’ve always been very strong. That particular song was actually written last year. (before AJ’s death). It just so happened to fit what I was going through and I was able to refer back to it. Moving forward since AJ’s death, it was really hard for me to find someone. I felt like with the men I was dating, there wasn’t really a “click.”

How has the transitional process been for you, since AJ’s death?

I’m still learning how to heal. I focus on my work, my daughter and my family. I’m focusing on the things that make me happy.

Well, what makes Kandi happy?

Riley, my daughter. Being around her makes me happy. You know, seeing ideas I have come to pass makes me happy. Seeing her grow up and listening to her sing and write songs.

What do you think is the biggest misconception about you?

For someone to say that I’m a home wrecker. That hurts. I haven’t knowingly dated anyone who is in a relationship. Well, when I was 22, I did, but I only cheated because he cheated. And even still then, I was young.

Do you feel like “Real Housewives” shows an accurate depiction of you?

Yes, I come from a family who is strong and filled with opinionated women. My mother is very funny. I am so honest, probably more honest than I really should be. I know people are probably shocked at some of the things my mother and I talk about on TV or even some of things I say. But, as long as it’s okay with my mamma, it’s okay with me.

Do you feel as thought you’re underrated?

Well, I just want to work hard and work harder at what I do. I don’t feel it’s a given that people should love me. People are always going to talk about you, whether it’s good or bad. I just want to give my fans what they want, and not worry about other peoples opinions. So, yes and no.

What would you say to the people who are experiencing hard times right now in this recession? How do you deal with the storms of life and your own personal internal conflicts?

Don’t try to keep up with ‘the Joneses‘. This is the year of getting your finances together. Work out a plan to get yourself together. I know it’s the Holidays and everyone is buying gifts. But I like to think outside the box and be resourceful. Oh, like one year for Christmas I made a collage with family photos as a gift, you know. Oh and you can get “Kandi Koated” (laughs).

Well of course, that always works! Thank You so much Kandi, It’s been great speaking with you. Merry Christmas!

Interviewer: Vaughn Alvarez
Co-Editor: Brandan Bailey

Purchase Kandi’s NEW Album “Kandi Koated”

Many of you follow television host, rapper and socialite, Young Platinum on Twitter, unfortunately many of us don’t really know who he is. Get ready to meet the man behind  the computer and blackberry.

How Are You?

I’m great it’s cold though, I think I wanna run into H&M first.

OK, let’s go, I wanted to go there too.

(Off to the store we walk, well run!) So tell me where your originally from? I hear an accent all in your voice.

I’m from Rhode Island.

You have reached over 30 thousand followers on Twitter, how did you do that?

I don’t know, I guess I got alot of re-tweets and shout outs.

I want my readers to really understand who you are. Many of us follow you, but we don’t know exactly who you are. Who are you?

Man, I’m a different character. Are you asking about Shaun or Platinum?

Both.

Well Shaun is different from Young Platinum. Shaun is just a cool dude. Platinum is a comedian, kinda crazy, rapper, host and role model.

Really?

Yea, I want to inspire kids and make a difference.

Wow, so you know I have to press pause there. Speaking of make a difference…How do you expect to make a difference and be a role model when you Tweet alot of negative things?

What do you mean?

Platinum come on, you know you Tweet alot of homophopic comments and say many things that are degrading to women.

No, I might re-tweet, shit is funny sometimes.

Yea Platinum, but people see that and they don’t understand. Some get it, but some don’t. I have seen countless Tweet directed toward you in which people are upset and hurt.

Man, its simple. I don’t feel like I degrade people. It’s all fun and games, and if people don’t like it, then don’t follow me.

Wow – that’s bold. So your really not willing to take responsibility for what you do or say are you?

I’m not gay and I have alot of gay friends in the music industry. Living in Atlanta, has made me more open-minded. I don’t feel like I degrade women, and if I do, it’s a joke. I think people take what I say and blow it out of proportion.

Yes and No. You have to remember that there is life and death in the power of your tongue. Platinum once you say something and release it from your tongue, it begins to take form and can affect someone’s life, if not your own. What we say, and what we do, is a representation of who we are. But, HEY! It is what it is. If you don’t get it, I can’t make you get it.

What is the biggest mixed conception about you that you want to clarify?

That I’m not just a socialite who feeds off the internet craze and that I’m not an attention whore. I’ve taken a break to got to school, so I understand why people can call me the things they do. My name has consistently been in the media without me having any music out or really doing anything in the entertainment field.

Whether it be about Kat Stacks or Tila Tequila, or me hanging out with someone. I’m not out to get anyone. If that were the case, I would have been in a video with Kat talking about someone.

I don’t want people to think that I’m homophobic or anything, because I’m not. I have many friends in the industry that have alternative lifestyles.

What is your response to the people who have argued about your biography or lack there of?

I don’t care what they think. I know what I’ve done. I’m not saying I’ve done alot or that I’m a superstar. You know how people are, just want somthing to talk about. When I was younger I hosted a show on the local access channel in my hometown. I have people ask me all the time, if that’s me on the title introduction to the Monique Show. The same people who are making fun of me, haven’t really done anything themselves.

What can we expect next from you?

I am working on some new music for the year 2011. I am moving to Los Angeles and gonna make some things happen! I have a few TV projects in the works. You can catch me on the new BET sitcom, “Let’s Stay Together,” and you know I’ll keep my fans posted on future projects.

How can you fans keep on touch with you?

My Facebook is “Young Platinum” and my Twitter is @YoungPlatinum.

Get Ready to Ride the “Pony”!

Interview by: Vaughn Alvarez (vaughn@go-vaughn.com)

Human Magazine had the opportunity to have a one-on-one chat with famed choreographer Devon Webster, noted more famously as, Pony Zion. Mr. Webster is part of the dance group “Vogue Evolution”. The group was catapulted onto a mainstream platform after participating in a past season of the MTV show “America’s Best Dance Crew”. Check out our conversation as we give you an intimate look at the man behind the dance.

How Are You?

I’m O.K. I am in New York City visiting my mom.

How is it living in Harlem?

Harlem is my “sanctuary”. It is very therapeutic for me to walk the streets and reflect on life. I draw inspiration from my home.

Did you deal with any bullying growing up living in Harlem and do you experience bullying now?

No I really didn’t. I believe people are reacting to homosexuals different now.

How long have you been dancing and when did it become your passion?

I’ve been dancing since the second grade. (laughs). I used to teach dance in school recess. (laughs) I kinda always knew in my heart I wanted to dance. I was raised by my Uncle, and being rather deprived as a child – I didn’t get out much. My uncle would teach me dance moves from the current music videos on television.

When did you get your “big break” in the dance industry?

In junior high, I auditioned for a music video featuring R&B group 702. Choreographer, Laurie Ann Gibson hired me and not to long thereafter, I was introduced to a man named Darryl Brown and he began to mentor me.

Who inspires you?

Janet Jackson! (laughs) Unfortunately, I haven’t met her face to face. I have been close to her and I know people who know her. In all honesty, I consider myself (laughs) the “incest” child of Michael Jackson and Janet Jackson.

Being that you are a legend in the LGBT community please speak to the current issue of bullying.

To the people out there who are dealing with issues as it relates to being bullied because of their sexuality, I encourage you to know that you matter. Know who you are and whose you are. Don’t allow people to hurt your feelings. Somebody loves you and needs you in their life. You can make a difference.

Human Magazine has a faith based foundation. Talk about your relationship with God and the role God plays in your life.

Everyday I am learning more about me and the God in me. I don’t do the “normal practices” of your every day Christian. Yes, I listen to gospel music and have some form of worship. However, I grew up in the church and I am very much God conscious. I have drawn my theology and spirituality from simple things like watching a movie, dancing, or others teachings. I went to see, “For Colored Girls” and learned more of what God means to me. I believe, that though the Bible says certain things – people are believing the wrong things. So yes, I am a christian but not in and I quote “normal way”.

So, what is your take on the latest season of ABC’s TV series Dancing With the Stars? I know that you like Brandy, and she is on the latest season.

I don’t watch television. (laughs). I know, bad right? I try to, but I’m so busy! My ADD really keeps me from sitting in one spot too long. I get bored. I don’t watch dance shows, or go to concerts. I’m really not connected to dance outside of myself and my endeavors. However, I want to start expanding my knowledge and get better. With all that said, I am definitely supporting Brandy on Dancing With the Stars. I hear she is doing quite well.

The most common question on Twitter that you get is: Are you single?

Yes, I’m single and the last relationship I was in was about two and half months ago. It ended due to irresponsibility on both of our ends.

Do you date long distance?

Yes, I have and I will, as long as the distance isn’t a handicap in the relationship.

Do you want to be in a relationship and what are you looking for?

I want to experience love. I want love and if it comes in the form of a relationship then I’m open to it. I’m not looking for anything, I’m open to creating the atmosphere of love.

From a physical stand point what are you attracted to?

I like masculinity, but not all masculinity. When I say masculine, I’m not talking about ‘trade” or ‘thug”. There is a certain power behind the word that a person can carry. I like natural sex appeal and confidence.

What would you say to someone who is lonely and single?

Get online and wait your turn! (laughs) Whatever works. No really, my thing is get your life!

Ok, so what about the person who has been hurt and been there and done that?

We’ve all been hurt. Stop playing the victim! Your no more hurt than the next. Just because someone doesn’t want you, doesn’t mean your not valuable. Stop your shit & stop getting in your own way.

Wow that’s so real and raw and honest. And everybody who is looking for love needs to know that. Let’s talk about what’s on your ipod?

Recently, I been playing alot of gospel music. I love classic R&B. I’m really big on house music. Oh and currently I love Rihanna’s, “What’s My Name” and “Only Girl”.

Before you go, tell your fans when they can expect to see you on TV again and what you have in the works.

I’m working a big commercial, I can’t give out the details yet. I’m also working with a new artist named, Talia Coles. I want to continue to make a difference in whatever way.

How can your fans stay connected to you?

My twitter is @ponyzion.

For more information on Pony Zion, visit: http://myspace.com/ponyzion

The brand new video for Willow Smith’s debut single ‘Whip My Hair’ premièred today online. Check out the Ray Kay directed video below…

Check out Jim Brickman’s “Welcome Home” featuring HLN news anchor Robin Meade. “Welcome Home” is a special song dedicated to the families across the world who all have loved ones in the military.

“Welcome Home” is available on Brickman’s album HOME available in Target stores starting Tuesday October 12th, 2010. For more information, please visit JimBrickman.com.

Click the “play button” on the media player below, to hear the song.

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Click here to watch & listen!