By: Damilare

In the pulsating heartbeat of California, United States, a rising star is igniting the music scene with her soul-stirring melodies. Angel Estes, famously known by her stage name Ming, is a force to be reckoned with. Born in 1999, Ming’s journey from the bustling streets of South Central in Los Angeles to the spotlight of the music industry has been nothing short of extraordinary.

From a tender age, Ming’s soulful voice resonated through the halls of a local church her dad preached, captivating audiences with a depth and emotion beyond her age. At just 10 years old, she discovered her passion for singing, marking the beginning of a remarkable musical odyssey.

Under the nurturing wings of BrightLife Music, a record label renowned for bringing Afrobeats to US, Ming’s talent found its platform to soar. The label recognized her raw authenticity and boundless potential, offering her an opportunity to weave her sonic tapestry in the industry. With its support, she would be embarking on a journey to transform her passion into an illustrious career.

Ming’s artistry is a fusion of her personal experiences and the vibrant culture of her upbringing. Her music transcends boundaries, seamlessly blending Urban music with Afro-fusion, and hip-hop influences, creating a unique sonic landscape that resonates with audiences worldwide. 

Drawing inspiration from the lyrical genius of legends like TuPac, Ming infuses her songs with poignant tales and raw emotions, inviting listeners into her world.

“I Feel Like I Sold my Soul,” Ming’s much-anticipated single, is set to unleash a wave of emotion and introspection. This upcoming release promises to be a poignant reflection of her journey—a melodic narrative that delves deep into the complexities of success, sacrifice, and self-discovery. With her evocative lyrics and soul-stirring vocals, Ming is no doubt set for the big stage.

Beyond her musical prowess, Ming embodies resilience and determination. Her journey from the streets of South Central to the cusp of stardom stands as a testament to her dedication and unrelenting passion for her craft. In an industry where authenticity is revered, Ming’s raw talent and commitment have positioned her as a rising star to watch out for in 2024.

Showering Ming encomiums, the Chief Executive of Bright Music, Bright Enabulele said the fast-rising lyricist recognizes the power of rhythmic sounds as a unifying force and strives to use her talent to inspire and entertain.

“As a label, we are incredibly proud to have Ming as part of our family. Her talent is undeniable, her passion is infectious, and her dedication to her craft is inspiring. Ming embodies the true essence of an artist –her ability to infuse raw emotion into her music is one of her unique selling proposition. With ‘I Feel Like I Sold my Soul,’ Ming showcases her artistic depth and authenticity, and we couldn’t be more excited to witness her meteoric rise in the music industry,’’ Enabulele stated.

As Ming’s star continues to ascend, the anticipation for her music grows fervently. Her authenticity, coupled with her ability to bare her soul through her music, has garnered her a dedicated following eagerly awaiting her next musical offerings. With each note, Ming etches her name deeper into the fabric of the music industry, leaving an indelible mark that resonates with fans worldwide.

By: Anne Davis

In the glitzy universe of Hollywood, where dazzling gowns and glamorous parties have long been the order of the day, a new era is dawning. Celebrities, once merely the faces of fashion, are now becoming the voices of change, using their influence to champion sustainability on and off the red carpet. The evolution of red carpet fashion is more than just a wardrobe overhaul; it’s a movement that transcends glitz and glamor.

Fashion with a Purpose

In an industry synonymous with excess, celebrities are steering the narrative towards conscious consumption. Emma Watson, a trailblazer in ethical fashion, has emerged as a beacon for sustainable style. Her red carpet appearances are not just fashion statements but declarations of a commitment to a planet-friendly wardrobe. From gowns made of recycled materials to accessories sourced from ethical brands, Watson’s choices underscore the power of fashion to convey meaningful messages beyond aesthetics.

The red carpet has become a runway for eco-conscious designers as celebrities increasingly opt for sustainable, cruelty-free, and ethically produced outfits. It’s not just about looking good; it’s about feeling good about the choices being made and encouraging fans to do the same.

Lights, Camera, Activism

Beyond the sequins and photo flashes, celebrities are stepping into the spotlight as advocates for sustainability. Leonardo DiCaprio, renowned for his environmental activism, has seamlessly integrated his passion into business ventures that echo his commitment to green living. His eco-resort, Blackadore Caye, is a testament to the transformative power of celebrity influence.

The red carpet is no longer just a stage for personal accolades; it’s a platform for raising awareness about pressing global issues. Celebrities are using their positions to amplify crucial messages, from climate change to conservation. It’s a synergy of stardom and advocacy that extends beyond mere performances on the screen.

From Hollywood to Your Home

The influence of celebrities extends far beyond the confines of Hollywood, reaching into the homes and hearts of fans worldwide. Social media has become the megaphone through which celebrities share their commitment to sustainability, offering glimpses into their eco-friendly lifestyles. From eco-conscious practices at home, like purchasing shampoo bars instead of bottled shampoo, to supporting environmentally responsible brands, celebrities are turning their fame into a catalyst for positive change.

The red carpet is now a bridge connecting Hollywood to the everyday lives of people globally. It’s a conduit for the democratization of sustainable living, where choices made by celebrities become blueprints for fans seeking to align their lifestyles with a greener ethos. The ripple effect is palpable as the red carpet transcends its glamorous facade to become a pathway for a more sustainable future.

As fans, it’s important to do your part when you see celebrities advocate for change. Whether it’s sharing a post or buying a star’s recommended shampoo bars for gray hair, it can make a world of difference. Although you may feel like your opinion or voice doesn’t have as much impact as the celebrities you idolize, you’d be surprised what you can do to advocate for change. The more people that adapt these practices, the better it is for the planet.

The red carpet revolution is not just a trend but a profound shift in the narrative of celebrity culture. Fashion choices, once merely a reflection of personal style, now bear the weight of social responsibility. Celebrities are using their influence to turn the red carpet into a symbol of change—a platform where fashion meets advocacy, and glamor aligns with a commitment to a greener planet. The red carpet has evolved not just as a runway for fashion but as a powerful channel for promoting sustainable living, with celebrities leading the way towards a more eco-conscious future.

By: Dani Morton

In the Limelight to Literary Insight: Stacey Jackson’s Riveting Debut Novel

The Stacey Jackson you know isn’t merely an award-winning singer, songwriter, TV presenter, and entrepreneur—she’s a maven of reinvention and relentless pursuit of her passions. Her narrative echoes the symphony of resilience, creativity, and unwavering determination that define her diverse career spanning music, television, and now, literature. Launching her music career at the age of 40, Stacey shattered the conventions of an ageist industry, swiftly becoming an inspiration for stay-at-home moms worldwide. With chart-topping singles and collaborations with legends like Snoop Dogg, her musical prowess knows no bounds. But her journey extends far beyond beats and melodies.

Photo Credit: Jane Owen

Amidst her whirlwind career, Stacey has dared to embark on a new chapter—novel writing. Inspired by her own life’s journey, she has penned “How A Gangsta Rapper Made Me A Better Mom,” weaving a tale of resilience, pursuit of dreams, and the delicate balancing act of family and fame. Transitioning from songwriting to novel writing isn’t just a leap; it’s an entirely new artistic landscape. For Stacey Jackson, the shift from creating melodies to crafting narratives was an invigorating challenge. “Transitioning to writing a novel was terrifying!” she confesses, acknowledging the structured demands of novel storytelling compared to the fluidity of music creation.

Photo Credit: Jane Owen

Her debut novel, set to be released in 2024, emerged from a wealth of experiences, capturing the essence of a life put on pause to nurture a family and later reignited to pursue a vibrant music career. “There were many people in the television industry asking me to be in various reality shows,” Stacey recalls. “But having cameras in my house following me around 24/7 wasn’t my family’s cup of tea! So, a friend suggested, ‘Why don’t you just write a book?’” This suggestion, just before the onset of COVID, ignited the spark for her literary journey. Collaborating with a former journalist and editor, she embarked on a fictionalized account of her life. The central themes of the book echo Stacey’s own life philosophy: it’s never too late to pursue dreams and never give up on passions or oneself. Drawing inspiration from her journey in the music industry, the characters mirror real-life encounters and the grueling nature of the entertainment world. 

Navigating the challenges of ensuring a work of fiction while drawing from real experiences was a delicate balance. “Making sure that it is a work of fiction! My kids were adamant about that,” she chuckles. But amid these challenges, the most rewarding aspect for Stacey was the creative freedom of fictionalizing characters and their personalities. “I love that the characters will also have music associated with them,” she shares. “In fact, each character has their own genre of music in which they sing.” Describing her book as a stylistic blend of “Hannah Montana meets Mrs. Maisel meets Modern Family with a bit of Sex in the City. The character is kind of like a grown-up Hannah Montana struggling to balance two very different sides to her life,” Stacey also relished exploring different writing styles.

And this venture isn’t a one-time affair. Stacey envisions a trilogy—each book delving deeper into the life of the protagonist, Stephanie Bloom, reflecting her own journey in various facets. As the book revolves around the entertainment industry and juggling fame and family, specifically within the music industry, it only seems fit that a soundtrack supports the story. The debut novel has been optioned for a TV series in the UK and will feature an original soundtrack accompanying the audiobook release slated for 2024. Additionally, because each of her characters focuses on different genres of music, the soundtrack will include many different styles!

The response from her fans, predominantly acquainted with her music, is something Stacey eagerly anticipates. “I hope my fans will love the story! It’s meant to be light-hearted, comedic, fun, and hopefully inspiring.” This journey into novel writing isn’t just about artistic exploration; it’s about personal growth and embracing new skills. Stacey’s advice to other artists contemplating a similar leap: seek support, collaborate, and be open to learning. “Two heads are better than one sometimes,” she wisely advises.

In a world where artists often find themselves pigeonholed into a single genre or medium, Stacey Jackson’s venture into the literary world is not just a bold move, but a refreshing reminder that art, in any form, is a continuum of self-expression and exploration. Her debut novel, “How A Gangsta Rapper Made Me A Better Mom,” promises to be as captivating and multifaceted as her illustrious career, and is eagerly awaited by fans and new readers alike. 

https://staceyjackson.com/staeabsorbed/

Kim Brogli has recently made her mark in the music industry with the release of her debut EP titled  The Fight. Hailing from the town of College Grove, TN, the singer-songwriter is based in Nashville. This EP goes beyond being a compilation of songs; it takes listeners on a relatable journey, through life challenges and victories. Released on November 10, 2023, “The Fight” showcases Kim Brogli’s unique perspective and talent.

The Fight showcases Kim’s diverse musical influences, ranging from Americana and Folk Rock to Alternative Country. Each track in the EP is a unique narrative, touching on themes like mental health awareness, the complexities of love and relationships, the challenges of parenting, and the struggles with self-doubt and addiction. Despite the seriousness of these topics, Kim ensures that her music retains an element of fun and light-heartedness.

The EP opens with its title track, “The Fight,” a poignant exploration of parenting and imparting life lessons to children. “Let Her Go” follows, a moving piece advocating self-acceptance among self-doubt and condemnation. “Crazy For You,” a cover song in the EP, shifts the focus to the dynamics of love and relationships. “What A Waste” provides a heartfelt look at addiction and its ripple effect on loved ones. Concluding the EP on a positive note, “It’s A Good Day” offers a lighthearted reflection on life’s blessings.

Kim’s vocal style blends sweetness and grit, reminiscent of artists like Patty Griffin, Lori McKenna, and Brandi Carlile, with a bluesy touch similar to Grace Potter or Susan Tedeschi. The EP offers a unique soundscape, featuring mid-tempo love songs with an R&B pop flair, demonstrating Kim’s ability to merge different musical styles seamlessly.

Kim Brogli’s journey to becoming a Nashville-based singer-songwriter is as unique as her music. With a French and International Business background from The University of Alabama, Brogli transitioned from a successful real estate career to music. Her entry into the world of songwriting was almost accidental, spurred by a gift of guitars to her twin boys and eventually her guitar. Voice lessons soon led to transforming her emotional words into songs.

Her collaboration with acclaimed producer Will Gawley and hit songwriter James Dean Hicks has been instrumental in shaping The Fight. The EP reflects Brogli’s life experiences and feelings on faith, love, life lessons, and more, resonating particularly with the Americana audience. Her ability to connect with her audience through humor, storytelling, and heartfelt music is evident in her growing popularity, especially in live performances around Nashville.

Brogli’s journey is an inspiration to anyone who has ever faced rejection. Overcoming an early setback of not being selected for a school choir at a young age, she has found her unique and compassionate voice. Her music videos for “What A Waste” and “Crazy For You” on her YouTube channel showcase her artistic vision and talent professionally.

In her words, Kim Brogli’s debut EP is a comprehensive mix of tempo, sound, and messages. From addressing the severe repercussions of addiction to offering perspectives on parenting and celebrating life’s blessings, The Fight captures a wide range of human experiences. For Brogli, this EP is a musical endeavor and a culmination of her life’s journey, shared with the world through her songs.