Posts tagged with "artistry"

NNENA PMTWGR - OFFICIAL via Garcia, Genesis, RCA Records by 360 Magazine

NNENA RETURNS WITH HER NEW SINGLE “PMTWGR”

ANNOUNCED AS THE OPENER FOR RINI’S “PAST THE NAKED EYE” TOUR 

  • LISTEN HERE “PMTWGR”
  • KICKS OFF WEDNESDAY, 11/30 – BUY TICKETS HERE

Nnena returns with her new single “PMTWGR” featuring Ncognita & KT via Loud Robot/RCA Records. Heavy on soul grooves courtesy of producer Ben Oyortey Jr, the song is confident and fun, using witty rhymes to address that PMTWGR. In addition to releasing her latest single, it’s also been announced that she’s joining Rini’s “Past The Naked Eye” tour as an opener. The tour kicks off tomorrow, 11/30, and will hit cities such as Atlanta, New York, Los Angeles, and more – buy tickets HERE.

  • Listen to “PMTWGR” HERE and watch the visualizer, directed by Deondrae Jones HERE.

Last year, Nnena showcased her range and versatility on her EP  …Just Cause. The four-track EP features Childish MajorDaVionne and WESTSIDE BOOGIE – the latter on the standout track “Come Again.” This new project follows the release of her debut EP Bipolar AF, the first release from the partnership between Loud Robot, the record label from JJ Abrams’ Bad Robot and RCA Records.

Additionally, Nnena was featured on Insecure: Music From The HBO Original Series, Season 5soundtrack with her memorable single “Fun,” which is currently the second highest streamed track on the album on Spotify. This week Nnena had her late night television debut performing the track on The Late Late Show with James Corden – watch it here

An incredible writer, lyricist, rapper and vocalist, bursting with effusive energy and a massive personality, the Cleveland native, born Nnena Adigwe to Nigerian parents, credits some of her robust, descriptive storytelling impulses to her past screenwriting experience. Nnena began writing comedic sketches during college and that soon led to working on more full-fledged projects—the kinds of works that needed sound tracking. Rather than pay licensing fees, she tried her hand at making her own music.  Her music reflects her eclectic influences ranging from Otis Redding to Millie Jackson, from Queen Latifah to Miriam Makeba to Kendrick Lamar and especially  “Lauryn Hill, she molded me the most,” along with other neo-soul genre artists Musiq Soulchild and Jill Scott, as well from Drake, J. Cole, to Tiwa Savage.

Nnena is currently working on her debut album; stay tuned for more music coming soon.

“Past The Naked Eye” tour dates:

11/30 – Atlanta, GA – Masquerade Purgatory Stage

12/1 – Washington, DC – Union Stage

12/4 – New York, NY – Bowery Ballroom

12/5 – New York, NY – Mercury Lounge

12/14 – Oakland, CA – The New Parish

12/15 – Santa Cruz, CA – The Catalyst

12/16 – Los Angeles, CA – The Echoplex

Buy/Stream/Watch “PMTWGR”:

  All Partners: http://smarturl.it/NnenaXJustCause 

YouTube: https://youtu.be/lwBOUGWKdEE 

Follow Nnena

Instagram | Facebook | Twitter

Francesco Yates inside 360 Magazine

Francesco Yates

Francesco Yates is a 26-year-old Canadian singer/songwriter. His music effortlessly blends the pop sound with nuances of R&B and soul. 360 Magazine’s Vaughn Lowery had the chance to sit down with Francesco and chat about his early beginnings in the music industry, and what’s to come for his career.

Listen to Francesco Yates on the 360 MAG Podcast HERE.

Originally from Toronto, Canada, Francesco draws his early inspiration from the iconic movie School of Rock. At age 11, the film felt like a dream to him, one that he knew he was going to chase after. Being surrounded by differing music that his parents would play throughout his childhood, too, influenced his artistry.

Francesco recalled hearing his dad listen to “Brown Sugar” by D’Angelo, and other artists like Bob Marley and Led Zeppelin. Being introduced to a diverse palette of performers gave Francesco the opportunity to play and experiment with his own music. “I never felt boxed in, y’know,” he stated.

Having a more classical musical background, Francesco also learned to play the piano at a young age. He still accredits his experience with the piano as a major shaping factor for his career. Incorporating his self-proclaimed “piano chops” into music production, this allowed Francesco to experiment with his sound. With the piano being the initial instrument, he was trained in, he loves to create music with the keys.

At just 16-years-old, Francesco landed a record deal with Atlantic Records, something that he never saw happening. He remembers the feelings that he felt when signing over, stating, “I felt like a deer in headlights.” He made sure to soak learn everything he could during the experience, asserting that “the lessons I learned are invaluable.”

Francesco’s debut EP was released in 2015 while being co-produced by Robin Hannibal and Pharrell Williams. The opportunity to work with such legendary artists is one that he surely did not take lightly. Francesco remembered Williams vision that he had for him, always offering up this one piece of advice. He recalled Williams stating, “the only thing you gotta do is play guitar and chew bubblegum and not look at the audience, that’s what you gotta do,” referring to Francesco’s effortless self-assurance.

Francesco’s latest track, entitled “JIMI” combines his natural imaginative flow with a seemingly pop/R&B/rock feel. He recollected on the writing process for the track, and how the lyrics nearly popped into his head instantly. Using the beloved piano to advance the writing process, “JIMI” hints to Francesco’s laid back, modern vibes

The track carries a feel-good, upbeat aura throughout. The chorus is met by Francesco’s uplifting, impressive voice when he sings out to a lover, “I think I love you, baby, like I love my guitar.”

Modernly as an independent artist, Francesco’s excited for what the future holds next. He hopes to continue to grow and build his own imprint, his own record label. When discussing his number one goal to achieve in the next few years, Francesco communicated that he would love to play theater tours consistently. He’s not driven by the metrics and streaming numbers that he could generate, but more motivated by his passion for his craft. Francesco simply wants to “just be happy and be living.”

We’ll see Francesco join the Backstreet Boys on their North American tour stops in Canada beginning July 24. Opening up for such an iconic group comes as nothing new to Francesco, as he’s opened up for other popular artists like Justin Timberlake in the past. Being able to have opportunities to open for incredible artists has ultimately shaped the way that Francesco works, always striving to learn from other musicians.

Listen to JIMI

Watch JIMI

Article by: McKinley Franklin x Vaughn Lowery

Kirsten Mikkelson, RCA Records, for use by 360 MAGAZINE

REZZ × MENACE

Electronic dance DJ/ producer Rezz released her new track “Menace” via Rezz Music/RCA Records on January 7, 2022.  The track serves as a bonus track on her latest album Spiral that hit the scene in November. Listen HERE.

The Canadian DJ/ producer is known for her original sound with gerne-altering electronic pieces. Released in 2019, Rezz’s first independent project Beyond the Senses EP attracted media from Alternative Press, SPIN and Billboard, who all referred to the EP as “her most impactful project to date.” The EP received The JUNO Award for Electronic Album of the Year in 2020. Accumulating tens of millions of streams, selling out major venues and headlining festivals around the world, Rezz is a force to be reckoned with, and “Menace” adds to the list of her groundbreaking works.

Rezz has been giving sneak peeks of the track “Menace” during live performances awaiting the official release of the track. Speaking about the new track, Rezz says, “this is one of my personal favorites ! Whenever I play it live it feels very climactic and like we’ve all achieved a victory of some sort lol”

Rezz’s fourth album Spiral was reviewed by EDM.com as “…REZZ’s most cohesive work yet. The album captures her signature sound beautifully while simultaneously showcasing her growth and versatility as a music producer.” The album includes popular songs like “Chemical Bond” with Deathpact, “Taste of You” with Dove Cameron and “Sacrificial” with PVRIS. Your EDM described “Taste of You” as “an absolute earworm,” while Alternative press regarded “Sacrificial” as “the perfect blend of both artists’ strengths and distinct artistry.”

Rezz begins her North American “Spiral Tour” on February 4, 2022, in Vancouver, BC. Tour dates will be listed below, and can be purchased HERE.

“Spiral Tour” Dates

Feb 4 – PNE Forum, Vancouver, BC

Feb 18 – Masonic Temple, Detroit, MI

Feb 19 – Navy Pier, Chicago, IL

Feb 25 – Armory, Minneapolis, MN

Feb 26 – Factory, St. Louis, MO

Mar 4 – Terminal 5, New York, NY

Mar 5 – Terminal 5, New York, NY

Mar 11 – The Met, Philadelphia, PA

Mar 12 – Echostage, Washington, DC

Mar 18 – Riverworks, Buffalo, NY

Mar 19 – Express Live!, Columbus, OH

Apr 1 – Bayou, Houston, TX

Apr 2 – South Side Ballroom, Dallas, TX

Apr 30 – Frost Amp, Stanford, CA

May 13 – WaMu Theatre, Seattle, WA

May 14 – Portland Expo Center, Portland, OR

June3rd Jemeni album image via Paul Thom at The Thom Brand for use by 360 Magazine

JUNE3RD – JEMENI

JUNE3RD UNLEASHES EAGERLY AWAITED DEBUT ALBUM JEMENI

ALBUM FEATURING RICK ROSS AND FRIDAYY

‘JEMENI’ AVAILABLE EVERYWHERE TODAY HERE

 JEMENI came together originally from my name being June3rd and everyone assuming that it’s my birthday and that I’m an actual Gemini. Then from there, JEMENI became much more than a title. It became a character and symbolic of a different side/personality of me. We all have those different sides to us. Throughout the album, you’ll hear a roller coaster of different emotions and mindsets that change throughout me being young and figuring out life and what I want out of it,” June shares.

June3rd’s music is a collection of luxuriously smooth, suave, and spirited pop rhythms. The Florida-born, Los Angeles-based rapper explores the world around him through his unfiltered rhymes, dexterous harmonies, and haunting hooks. His timbre makes for flawless vocals that don’t require autotune. Never off pitch or out of range, June3rd delivers powerful performances with perfect pitch. The R&B virtuoso shows off his passionate pipes in every track, never letting his vocals falter from maintaining the perfect mid-tempo. Today, he releases his eagerly anticipated album, JEMENI.

One of the young musician’s most recent, highly-anticipated releases, “Ruff Ryder” was produced in collaboration with Fridayy. The hazy combination of genre-bending soundscapes shows off June3rd’s ability to fluidly deliver complex bars with prodigal proficiency. “Ruff Ryder” reflects the intricacy of navigating relationships, making for a release that is especially resonant with many of the R&B artist’s fans.

Possessing elements from the “sad rap” genre, which has massively grown in popularity lately, June3rd’s tracks intertwine an innovative intermeshing of R&B and lo-fi. While some of his mellifluous melodies sound like sad rap from afar, his lyrical content does not reflect the nihilism inherent to the genre. While June3rd’s songs may be short, every punchy track packs in major power.

June3rd’s music stands out with his well-rounded, concise releases that are sure to be remembered for long to come. Each track is short and sweet, but certainly not understated or rushed. June3rd never disturbs his music with an unnecessary bridge, pre-chorus or auto-tuned adjustments–his music simply stands as an authentic reflection of his craft and musical artistry.

From a technical understanding of music, June3rd’s releases are simple and easy to understand operatically. However, the complexity of this artist’s dynamic vocal range and intricate vocals encourages fans to play June3rd on repeat. His poignant beats, combined with his striking vocals, produces melodious masterpieces. If you’re seeking music to relax your spirits, elevate your atmosphere or add to your newest Spotify playlist, you need to check out June3rd. The rapper’s infectious hits such as “1942”, “Wait 4 It”, and “POV” are sure to be your favorite new summer anthems!

Jemeni Tracklist

  1. JEMENI
  2. Ruff Ryder
  3. Ocean Drive
  4. 1942
  5. Wait 4 It
  6. POV
  7. Soldier
  8. Friends
  9. Voices
  10. Right Back
  11. Without You
  12. Turn The Page
  13. My Wave

June3rd Jemeni album image via Paul Thom at The Thom Brand for use by 360 Magazine

KBO Breeze illustration via Alex Bogdan for use by 360 Magazine

KBO Electric Bike

By: Emily Bunn × Vaughn Lowery

Photo Credit: Jeff Langlois

The KBO Breeze Commuter Electric Bike marries modest price with versatile e-bike functionality. This street-friendly model is the perfect everyday companion for professionals on the go and bike enthusiasts alike. 360 Magazine was fortunate enough to test ride their most popular models on the reopened, busy streets of Los Angeles.

Our LA adventure with KBO led us to Ballona Creek Bike Path. We mountain biked over six miles of trails, taking in Ballona Creek and the stunning California landscape. Comfortably seated on the KBO Breeze, our bike trip led us from Marina Del Rey to Culver City. While this e-bike is the ideal city cruiser, it also was great for riding along Santa Monica’s beach on the sunny afternoon. 

The KBO Breeze is perfect for comfortable city cruising and commuting. If you’re looking for more adventure, the KBO Breeze can handle rough terrain as well, thanks to its sturdy front suspension and mechanical disc brake system. For young people and professionals on the go–whether you’re going into the office, picking up groceries, or just getting some exercise–the KBO Breeze is the perfect electric bike option.

The recommended rider height for the e-bike is 5’4”–6’4”, so this electric commuter bike is ideal for adults on the go. It’s not often that an e-bike has this wide of a range of recommended rider heights, making this e-bike suitable for almost everyone.

KBO Bike was founded in 2018, and the company is driven by the principals of high-quality and affordability. KBO stands for “Keep Biking On.” The company believes in clean alternative transportation solutions and aims to reduce pollution. The company’s e-bikes from a green, sustainable, no-petrol alternative to cars and other public transportation. The KBO Breeze bike model was developed due to COVID-19 and the virus’ impact on increasing personal transportation. The KBO Breeze was the company’s first product and stands as a tested and true model of e-bike excellence.

Curb Appeal

The KBO Breeze comes in a sleek black or electrifying tangerine color. The black variant has a classy, streamlined appearance, whereas the orange model is sure to be the star of the streets. The fenders of the bike are painted to match the body color, showing KBO’s acute attention to aesthetically pleasing detailing. In addition, the lustrous paint job on the bike proved KBO’s dedication to both artistry and craftsmanship.

Design

The KBO Breeze is brawny and built to last, weighing in at 62 lbs. The stem diameter of the bike measures 31.8mm, and the handlebar diameter is 22mm on the sides and 31.8mm in the middle. Though this e-bike is compact, it packs in ferocious function and persistent power.

The 6061-aluminum bike frame is composed of a 170mm forged alloy crank, a KMC chain, front suspension fork, front light, sensitive cadence sensor, speed sensor, and rear light with an integrated taillight. The e-bike’s compact body has a unique, retro look to it. Unlike many minimalist modern e-bikes, the KBO Breeze maintains a vintage-looking appeal. Lower down on the bike’s body, stainless steel spokes encase the wide front and rear tires.

On the right handlebar, riders can gently twist the throttle to accelerate. The throttle is very responsive and is made from a different material than the rest of the grip, so riders can easily rev the engine. The Shimano Derailleur also helps riders find their optimal cruising speed while riding.

The seat of the KBO Breeze is cushioned and comfortable for all riders. The saddle-inspired seat reduces the feeling of turbulent riding and road bumps. The seat post has a diameter of 30.4mm and a length of 300mm.

Technology 

With an LCD Backlight display panel, riders can easily access information while driving the KBO Breeze. The panel shows your speed, power level, assist level, total miles, and more useful statistics. This display is especially functional, as it also starts and stops the bike with the push of a button. By using the “M” button on the left side of the display, users can toggle through different settings and turn the bike on and off.

Further, the KBO Breeze’s 0–5 pedal assist levels allow for users to customize the operating mode of the e-bike. Pedal assist makes for customizable cruises with a smooth cadence.

Customization

With our gifted KBO Breeze bike unit, we also received a KBO water bottle holder, full fender, rear rack and multi-function tool. Upon purchase, the e-bike comes with free aluminum full fenders and rear rack, both of which are essential for commuting. The rear rack also is helpful when it comes to transporting goods while cycling.

Upon purchase of the KBO Breeze, the company offers a second battery for purchase to double the effective range of the bike. This second battery allows for bikers to travel 60 to 110 miles without having to stop to charge the e-bike.

Durability 

The KBO Breeze is an extremely durable and reliable e-bike. Equipped with an aluminum alloy front suspension fork, the Breeze has 80mm of travel, preload adjustment, and lock out abilities. With a payload capacity of up to 300lbs and suspension damping, the KBO Breeze easily absorbs shock and impact force while riding.

The KBO Breeze is equipped with 27.5 x 2.4-inch Panasonic tires. These high-quality tires are resistant towards punctures. The wide width of the tires makes for improved traction and stability. Further strengthening the bike’s stability, the aluminum Wellgo pedals on this e-bike lets riders to rest their feet on a large platform with tenacious grip.

When you arrived at your destination, use the KBO Breeze’s heavy-duty, rust-resistant kickstand will prop up your e-bike securely.

Performance 

The KBO Breeze comes with a removable 4V, 16Ah lithium-ion Samsung battery that affords bikers 768 Wh. The KBO Breeze’s hub motor has a 750 peak. Provided with such a long-lasting battery, the KBO is perfect for both day bike trips and multi-day biking excursions. With an estimated range of 30-55 miles from a single charge, the 3.0-amp charger quickly recharges so you can get back on the road in no time. In only five hours, the quick and smart 48V charger keeps up with the rapid pace of busy commuters and speed demons. Fast, but not too furious, the KBO Breeze offers a ride to remember.

Bikers can ride through city blocks, light trails, and dirt roads breezily with the e-bike’s sustained 500W brushless geared hub motor. No matter how steep the hill, the KBO Breeze is able to climb to the top with energy and ferocity.

Installed with the reputable Shimano 7 Speed Derailleur gear shifter, the KBO Breeze lets users effortlessly switch between gears while driving. Further, the Shimano gear shift automatically adjusts to different terrains on-demand. That way, wherever your journey takes you, you’re ready for whatever road you embark on.

The Tektro Aries Mechanical Disc brake system has 180mm disc rotors in the front and rear of the bike, providing powerful braking force once arrived at your destination.

Safety

Safety features include a 48V LED headlight for safe nighttime cruises. By pressing and holding down the “+” button for three seconds, users can turn on the bright light. On dark nights, the bike’s integrated brake rear light will automatically light up upon braking, keeping cyclists safe and their paths illuminated.

Ergonomics x Additional Features

Compared to other bikes in its category, such as the Ride1Up 700 Series Bike, the KBO is competitively priced. Especially due to the large 48 V 16 Ah battery that it comes equipped with, the KBO Breeze stands with a larger and less expensive battery than most. Further, the e-bike’s two-year warranty is double the standard e-bike warranty offering. Additionally, compared to Rideal’s Arial Rider e-bike which only has a Shimano 6-speed drivetrain, the Breeze’s 7 Speed Derailleur make this e-bike stand out. In these ways, KBO Bike has gone above and beyond to provide for their customers.

The Commuter Electric Bike KBO Breeze comes modestly priced at $1,499.00. The KBO Breeze comes with $198 worth of free gifts upon purchase, including a water bottle holder, multi-function bicycle 16-in-1 kit, KBO Breeze rear rack, and the KBO Breeze aluminum full fenders. The full fenders are extremely durable and help protect riders from water and mud.

Further, free shipping and a two-year warranty are included.

PURCHASE NOW

KBO Breeze image via Jeff Langlois for use by 360 Magazine
KBO Breeze image via Jeff Langlois for use by 360 Magazine
KBO Breeze image via Jeff Langlois for use by 360 Magazine
Kaylynn Sanchez image for use by 360 Magazine

Kaylynn Sanchez Q×A

Kaylynn Sanchez, aka Kay Lindaa, is a talented tattoo artist based out of the Brooklyn, New York. 360 Magazine first had the pleasure of meeting Kay when she tattooed at the Bodega, our pop culture and design pop-up shop. At the event, Kay impressed all of the guests with her dazzling artistry. With over four thousand followers on her thriving Instagram, Kay is a Brooklyn tattoo artist who is quickly on the rise. She spoke with us about how she got into the tattoo industry, her participation in the Bodega, and her favorite parts of the profession.

When did you first start tattooing?

I first started professionally tattooing at the age of 19, about two years ago. But the first time I picked up a machine was about 14 years old. I always knew I wanted to be a tattoo artist at the age of 13, so ever since then I just stuck with it.

What styles do you predominantly tattoo?

I predominantly do Polynesian/tribal, anime, and black & grey realism.

Do you prefer working in black and white or color?

I prefer working in black & grey because I like the depth that it brings out in realism. It reminds me of drawing and sketching–which is something I always enjoyed doing– [I] use pencil and sketch out anything that comes to mind or inspires me.

What is your favorite part of being a tattoo artist?

The art, clientele, environment, and the satisfaction of seeing the final piece–all while making my customers happy. I would say my favorite part of being a tattoo artist is everything that it consists of.

Do you offer flash sheets of your work? Where is the best place for prospective clients to view your tattooing portfolio?

I don’t have any flash sheets made yet, but I do share all of my work on social media platforms, such as Instagram.

What was your favorite tattoo design you worked on at The Bodega?

My favorite tattoo design that I worked on at The Bodega was a 616 tattoo. It was my favorite because it was different to me and no one else had that style tattoo, so it was original.

If readers are interested in booking a tattoo appointment with you, how is the best way to do so?

The best way for anyone to book a tattoo appointment with me is to reach me through my Instagram and DM me. Or, contact me through my business card where my business phone can be reached at (332) 216-5256

Tattoo Illustration by Heather Skovlund for 360 Illustration

Do’s × Don’ts of Tattoo Aftercare

In honor of International Women’s Day, NYC based tattoo artist Monikka Velvet, and owner of the queer, female owned, High Hopes Tattoo shop, talked tattoo aftercare with 360 Magazine. She offered some of the best tips on healing tattoos that she’s learned throughout her successful tattooing career. While there is controversy in the tattooing world about the best aftercare for a new piece– suggestions ranging from using water, to petroleum jelly, to special creams and ointments– Monikka provides expertise on the subject. When it comes to caring for a new tat, it’s important to take precaution as to best handle your new, permanent ink. 

Do’s:

Keeping a new tattoo sanitary is of the utmost importance. Monikka suggests that clients always wash your hands before touching your tattoo. This way, you aren’t transferring bacteria and germs that your hands have come into contact with onto the area in which you’ve been tattooed. Since tattoos can be easily infected, Monikka also suggests cleaning your tattoo twice a day with antibacterial liquid soap. She continues, explaining that clients should apply a thin layer of Mad Rabbit tattoo after care gel twice a day after cleaning.

Don’ts:

After getting a tattoo, making sure it’s clean is just as important as letting to breathe. Avoiding tight clothing and vigorous exercise (such as going to the gym) allows for your tattoo to heal comfortably. Monikka cautions to not over-apply aftercare on a healing tattoo. This can clog your pores and slow down the healing process. There is a fine balance between caring for your new tattoo, and allowing for your new tattoo to just be. Do not use bar soap when cleaning, as bacteria sits on the surface of bar soap and can clog skin, too. Always use liquid soap.

Further, make sure not to pick or scratch at your fresh tattoo while it’s healing. While it’s likely that your skin will feel itchy and irritated, it’s important to not scratch as it could lead to scabbing and damaging your new ink. Monikka continues, adding some of the lesser known “don’ts” of tattoo aftercare. When you have new ink, don’t submerge your tattoo in water or expose it to direct sunlight. Sunlight can fade the ink away, and since your tattooed skin is more vulnerable, it can lead to skin burning and sun damage. Since the tattooed area of your body is essentially an open wound, it’s important to keep it out of water as well, which can contain chemicals, chlorine, and other irritants. Tattoos need to be able to breathe and stay air-dry to heal correctly.

 

 

 

Kaelen Felix Self Portrait for 360 Magazine

Artist Kaelen Felix

As a native of St. Louis, Missouri, Kaelen Felix is a graduate of Memphis College of Art with a Bachelor of Fine Art in Illustration (2018). When she was an undergraduate, she interned for Jabberblabber Earth Family Magazine, a monthly magazine with over 100,000 readers in the tri-state area. In October 2017, her illustration of their Jabberblabber character was featured on the front cover of the grandparent issue. That publication is an achievement for Kaelen as an undergraduate while looking back; she couldn’t be more thrilled to be a part of it. The experience allowed her to define her artistic skills and to pursue a career in publishing.

Ms. Felix began her career as an artist when she was two years old! Six months later, Kaelen discovered her calling is to pursue art in illustration for books. As a child, art came naturally to Kaelen. Her tenacious desire allowed Kaelen to use her artistic ability to create storytelling book scenes from her imagination. She would often pay attention to how the light was casting on dolls and toys. She would create still-life and draw from observation for hours. Kaelen’s desire to spend a whole day on art made her heart complete as it showed her passion for capturing the light source and balancing the shadows became evident she could do it! Her favorite artist from the impression period, Vincent Van Gogh, inspired her whimsical style. The intricate details in her woodwork and water show her forte for a whimsy pattern.

Kaelen’s illustration career officially started in 2018. After completing undergrad, Kaelen collaborated with a remote author to illustrate a 32-page children’s book, A Colorful Balloon Ride (2018). At 23, Kaelen became a published illustrator and then collaborated with another children’s book author and created a 60-page book, Freddy the Foster Frog: Finds a Friendly Family (2020).

Currently, Kaelen is working on several collaborative projects, illustrating book 2 of the Freddy the Foster Frog series and acting as an illustrative editor for a soon to be published children’s book. In December 2020, Kaelen became an award-winning Best Book Illustrator for Freddy the Foster Frog from the SABA (Sound Advice Book Awards) in England!

Kaelen is a current intern for 360 Magazine (remotely), which is an edgy and fashion-forward company located in downtown Los Angeles, California. She illustrates topics such as celebrities, food, culture, and present news topics that coincide with political and other climate-changing current news. She thrives on creative and innovative illustrations that create a stylized and pop-art feel similar to Andy Warhol. Kaelen loves taking on any new challenge while being an intern at 360 Magazine as she embraced their well-known publications, print magazine, and brand identity.

Kaelen has a wide range of experience from illustrating magazine work to illustrating and designing two children’s books. Ms. Felix strongly believes collaboration is the key to creating a cohesive portfolio of work illustration or design. When illustrating the books, she always has a process of starting with reading the manuscript story, then it becomes a matter of how many illustrations need to be done in a timely or monthly manner. Finally, it comes down to a deadline and meeting that goal to be proficient in the business world. The process for all her commissioned pieces starts with brainstorming an idea from imagination and putting that idea on paper. She converses back and forth with clients to ensure their goals and visions are met! If she gets the final approval then, she applies the small thumbnail sketch onto the larger paper or digital platform.

Her inspiration as a kid also came from animals living in eco-friendly environments and creating characters with child-like style in my whimsical way. As far as the digital designs go, those vary in terms of how the style and vision come about from the client. Especially for 360 magazine, it’s a matter of not overthinking the process and trusting her instincts to create a work the magazine’s audience would be attracted to.

Ms. Felix works in areas from traditional illustrative mediums to digital graphics and print production art materials. Her areas of expertise include production art, illustration, print production art, and graphic art/design; she has over a couple of years of experience in those fields as she continues to work on fine-tuning her craft. Ms. Felix hopes to continue her illustration work while learning more about graphic design, brand identity, and the print packaging experience in a creative field from five to ten years down the line. Someday, she too is hoping to publish her own children’s book from her animal illustrations on her website! It’s always been a long-term goal to become a published illustrator and designer, and the Memphis College of Art, coupled with 360 Magazine allows her to follow her dream since the day she knew it could happen.

For more information on her upcoming publications, illustration, designs, and more: check out her Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Jesse Palter’s Debut EP

Detroit-born, LA-based, prolific singer/songwriter Jesse Palter releases debut EP “The Paper Trail” October 22 on Artistry Music, featuring five tracks of aggressive, piano-pounding pop/rock in the vein of Carole King, Sarah McLachlan and Sara Bareilles. The first single going to radio is “Heavy Is The Crown,” an edgy, incisive pop-rocker examining narcisscism and victim-hood at is best.  Check it out here.

Comments Palter: “All of these songs are paving the way towards establishing myself as an artist and songwriter. My approach throughout this project was to find a way to capture a full snapshot of my life and what I’ve been going through. This is the beginning of what I hope will be a long, fulfilling journey.”

Palter, who launched her career in Detroit and Chicago before moving to Los Angeles to focus on her development as a pop artist, was supported in her sound and overall vision by producer Doug Petty, a veteran keyboardist who has worked with Celine Dion, Britney Spears, Nick Lachey and Lisa Loeb, among others. Petty kept the integrity of Palter’s songs from demo stage through the various layers and textures brought forth to compliment her unique artistry. A high caliber of studio musicians played on the project including bassists Tim Lefebvre and Alex Al and drummers Matt Chamberlain and Aaron Sterling.

With The Paper Trail EP, Palter has committed herself to the discipline of perfecting the craft of songwriting. She focused on strengthening her creative muscles to discover what melodies, lyrics and chord changes work best, allowing herself to be vulnerable, brave, and brutally honest at the same time. The songs are autobiographical, representing her life and what’s she’s been through.

Palter launched her jazz career as a teenager, performing oboe and trumpet in the school jazz band. She connected with singer/songwriter Andrew Gold (“Thank You For Being A Friend”), who brought her to Nashville to work on original material and record a demo, which generated interest with several major labels. At 15, she began working with the Grammy-winning production team the Bass Brothers (Eminem). Her skill for improvisational singing and a developing passion for legendary jazz vocalists, led to her shift towards jazz. She studied at the University Of Michigan as a jazz and contemplative studies major.

Her eclectic musical upbringing includes exposure to a wide array of music that inspired her to deeply respect the art of great songs and songwriters, from Carole King and Joni Mitchell, to Prince, Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Smokey Robinson and The Beatles. Music and singing was always in her blood. Her grandmother, Doris Raynor, was once an opera prodigy in NY.

In early 2019, Artistry Music will follow up The Paper Trail EP with the single “Sever The Ties” and a full-length debut album.

Follow Jesse Palter on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

Track By Track

Paper Trail

A passionate, all at once melancholy and exuberant reflection on a love left behind that was divinely channeled and written in almost no time.

Heavy Is The Crown

An incisive pop rocker exploring the sweet spot between inviting infectiousness and biting criticism of a narcissistic person who plays the victim.

Alright In Time

The first song written with an outpouring of emotion that drove the creation of the project. For any creative soul who has ever been put in a restrictive box.

TMI (Wouldn’t You Like To Know)

Irrepressibly funky, slyly self-deprecating jab at her knack for putting foot in mouth.

The Wrong Girl

A brooding, warning filled power ballad put forth by a true Detroit bad ass.

RIO DE JANEIRO × PERFORMANCES ON TRANSPORTATIONS

Rio de Janeiro approves cultural performances on trains, subways and ferry boats

Cariocas and tourists who use the Rio de Janeiro transportation systems daily are now able to enjoy cultural performances at the stations and inside the trains, subways and ferry boats. The performances, that help people kill time during the trips, are now approved. That is determined by an act approved by the state legislators, sanctioned by state governor Luiz Fernando Pezão and published in the Official Gazette on September 26th. In the coming days, the Department of Transportation, which regulates the concession holders that control the transport modals, will announce the regulation of the act.

The time approved for the performances will be from 6am to 11pm on weekdays and from 7am to 11pm on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays. The act states that the performer cannot charge the users of the public transports, who may spontaneously donate during the performances. Based on the wording, it will be up to the concession holders that provide these services to create a registry of interested persons to perform. However, the only purpose of this registry is to organize the time for the performances, though they are not allowed to prevent unregistered people from performing.

Currently, the subway concession holder is the only one keeping a cultural program in their stations, although they do not allow performances inside the wagons. According to MetrôRio, the Palco Carioca project allocates spaces in three stations – Carioca, Siqueira Campos and Maria da Graça – for musical performances on weekdays, from noon to 8pm. Registration to participate in the project is free and may be made online at www.metrorio.com.br/Cultura/PalcoCarioca.