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.

HBB is a standout DJ and producer, continuously pushing the frontiers of musical creativity. The name “HBB,” originating from the Arabic term “Habibi” meaning “my love” or “my dear,” mirrors his multicultural upbringing in Iraq and formative years in Africa and the US. HBB’s exceptional ability to attract crowds and light up dance floors is clear to see reflected by the blend of emotion and groove in his tunes, which delivers a remarkable musical experience for music lovers alike.

When HBB moved to the United States in 2009 to attend the University of Southern California to further his studies in civil engineering, he carried a lot of musical inspiration with him. He hadn’t realized he had a natural knack for creating songs that would stick in your memory until he borrowed a friend’s mixer in 2016. HBB started playing around with rhythms and atmosphere after being influenced by the unique performances of musicians like Solomun, little realizing that they were laying the groundwork for an incredible musical adventure.

HBB stands out in the DJing world for his refusal to follow genre conventions. His performances are energetic musical journeys that skillfully combine tracks from progressive, minimal/tech, and organic genres. Although the majority of his early releases were in the minimal and tech house genres, HBB has big intentions to incorporate his Middle Eastern background into the organic house scene. This move is expected to introduce a new cultural viewpoint to the international dance music market by 2024.  

HBB‘s capacity to establish a deep connection with his audience is what really makes him stand out. Every concert turns into a participatory event in which the crowd is a key player in creating the musical story. HBB’s concerts are elevated to new heights through collaborations with live musicians, such as drummers and violinists, who provide his audience an immersive and unique experience. The publication of four original tunes under various labels in 2023 marked a turning point in HBB’s career. 

Inclusion of “I Set Your Funk” and “The Handsomest Drowned Man” in Strictly Selected, the release of “How I Knew” through Strictly Records, and the unveiling of “Don’t Walk Away” under the HBB Records label collectively thrust HBB into the global spotlight. This showcased his versatility and mastery across various settings, spanning from festival stages like Lightning in a Bottle and Sunset 2 Sunrise in 2022 to immersive desert gatherings

Photo Credit: Alexey One Love

HBB has some fascinating projects in the works that should not be missed. His newest project, a two-track organic EP that explores the sounds of his early influences, is scheduled to be released in 2024. Partnerships with Los Angeles based musicians and a historic New Year’s Eve performance that serves as Jimi Jules’ opening act confirm HBB’s status as a rising star in the dance music industry. He promises to have a long-lasting influence on the worldwide electronic music scene with his commitment to pushing musical limits and investigating the intersections of culture through sound. 

The EP “I Set Your Funk” can draw listeners in with its lively drum rhythms and funky basslines, giving them a glimpse into the musical world and personal character of the artist. HBB revealed a link to a short story from his high school years in a recent interview when discussing the inspiration behind “The Handsomest Drowned Man,” one of the tunes. The song features funky vocals that are taken from the audiobook’s narrator, giving the song a unique and mysterious feel.  

The track “I Set Your Funk,” introduces HBB’s developing sound. “The most crucial thing for a DJ to do is to exchange energy with the audience and identify their funk or vibe, which is a responsibility that should be enjoyed and carefully considered,” says HBB.  

Photo Credit: Alexey One Love

The excitement among fans for HBB’s next releases and live appearances keeps growing as they savor the “I Set Your Funk” EP. One thing is clear: HBB will undoubtedly make a fascinating and culturally rich addition to the constantly changing field of electronic soundscapes as the tale of their musical journey unfolds. 

In the culturally rich landscape of Kazakhstan, the seed of a remarkable musical talent was sown. Christina Sofina, now a recognized singer in the United States, was born in this Central Asian locale. Her journey from Kazakhstan to Russia and eventually to the United States is a testament to the power of passion and resilience.

Christina spent her formative years immersed in the soothing enchantment of music. Her parents were her initial introductions to the world of rhythm and melody. Gary Moore, Ella Fitzgerald, and Seal records were played around the house. Queen’s iconic hits, particularly Freddie Mercury’s white tank top performance, left a profound influence on her. The legendary show stirred a longing within young Christina to someday grace a stage with millions swaying to her melody.

A peculiar musical endeavor known as The Rapsody Overture: Hip Hop Meets Classic (1997) further refined her musical inclinations. The unique blend of hip-hop and Russian opera piqued Christina’s fascination. The captivating incorporation of Prince Igor’s chorus, a renowned Russian opera, in one of the album’s songs spoke to her emerging artistic self, instigating her lifelong passion for singing and performing.

The chapters of Christina’s musical journey started unfolding in Russia, where she first lent her voice to school songs and children’s musicals. Much to her surprise, an audition, initially intended for a minor role of a butterfly, morphed into the lead role of the mayor, courtesy of the perceptive musical director who spotted the budding talent in her. Then, in 2010, she had her first international success performing with MTV VJs formed musical project “Yes!No!Maybe!” all over Russia, Cyprus, and Turkey.

Sourced photo

As the years passed, Christina’s musical fervor grew stronger, leading her to the United States in 2013. Choosing to settle in California, she found herself in Oceanside before eventually making her home in Orange County. The transition to a different cultural vibe, coupled with the intimidating task of making a living as a musician, clearly had its challenges. However, the unshakable determination and fervent love for music that defined Christina guided her through.

Christina’s unique sound attracted collaborations with various artists and producers in the industry, one of whom was Tyler Humphrey from Iconica Records. Together, they produced “Mezcal,” catapulting Christina to recognition in the American music industry.

Despite unexpected obstacles, Christina stays committed to ushering exceptional music into the world. A quote she holds dear encapsulates her mindset aptly, “A career in this industry is about what you allow yourself to be. People get intimidated easily, but I’ve been in situations where I’m doing my thing but see other people and have the urge to compare. They’re professional and work hard, they love what they do, and they’re consistent, but I am, too. I deserve that. It’s a big mindset thing.”

Sourced photo

Balancing her musical pursuits, Christina stresses the importance of self-reflection and self-care. She underscored that looking after her own well-being is paramount for success. Christina illustrates the virtue of self-care and ardently urges others to accord themselves the respect they deserve, for dreams are meant to be pursued and accomplishments celebrated.

Today, Christina’s steady dedication to honing her craft is evident in her vibrant performances and growing recognition in the industry, such as during LA Fashion Week. Her journey so far, a beacon of inspiration for many, underscores her ability to face adversity head-on and keep her spirit for music unwavering. As she prepares to bring more of her unique sound to the world, Christina Sofina is a living testament that dreams, chased with drive and positivity, indeed come true.

Website: www.christinasofine.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/christinasofine 

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/christinamfsofina 

Krueshef, an artist making significant strides in the dancehall and reggae scenes, embodies a fusion of traditional Caribbean vibes and contemporary rhythmic styles. His journey from St. Croix in the Virgin Islands to the global music stage is a story of passion, resilience, and relentless pursuit of musical innovation.

Born and raised in St. Croix, Krueshef’s early life was steeped in the rich musical heritage of the Caribbean. His exposure to iconic artists like Bounty Killer and Merciless ignited his passion for music, leading him to emulate their styles. Recognized for his talent early on, Krueshef began to carve a niche for himself in the local music scene.

The next phase of his career took him to New York City, a melting pot of diverse musical influences. Here, Krueshef embraced the city’s vibrant energy, refining his songwriting and performance skills. This period was pivotal in shaping his unique musical style, blending the Caribbean rhythms of his roots with the urban beats of New York.

Krueshef’s move to Colorado Springs marked another significant chapter in his journey. It was here that he expanded his network, collaborating with renowned artists like Jason Derulo, Bobby Brackins, and Natty King. His performances, including a memorable show at Colorado Springs’ Spring Spree 2011, further solidified his reputation as a dynamic performer.

The global scope of Krueshef’s work was highlighted through his collaboration with Ibru, resulting in the worldwide release of “Di Great I’AM.” This partnership not only showcased his talent but also his ability to connect with artists across different genres and cultures.

A landmark moment in Krueshef’s career was his signing with Kingmaker Music, a move that facilitated the distribution of his music through the Kingmaker Store. This deal is a testament to his growing influence in the music industry and his potential to reach a global audience.

The release of his album “RE-VIBES” marks a significant milestone for Krueshef. The album is a collection of tracks that showcase his artistic evolution, blending traditional and modern elements to create a unique sound. “RE-VIBES” resonates with fans of dancehall and reggae, while also appealing to a broader audience.

Krueshef’s collaboration with William Moseley of Kingmaker represents a synergy of creativity and industry expertise. This partnership is expected to bring fresh perspectives and innovative approaches to Krueshef’s music, enhancing his brand and broadening his artistic horizons.

His 2020 single “Ah Good Thing” is a notable highlight, reaching #16 on the Billboard charts as part of the Tropical House Cruises to Jamaica compilation. His “We Rise Up EP” further establishes him as a significant player in the music industry.

Krueshef maintains a strong connection with his fans through social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube. This engagement allows him to share updates, new music, and insights into his creative journey, fostering a close-knit community of supporters.

For bookings and inquiries, Krueshef can be contacted at Donhinesbookings@gmail.com or by phone at 412-980-3275. His approachability and engagement with his audience are key elements of his growing popularity.

In summary, Krueshef’s musical journey is a blend of cultural heritage, artistic exploration, and innovative collaborations. His work not only bridges the gap between traditional and modern music styles but also connects with audiences across the globe. With his latest release, “RE-VIBES,” and his partnership with Kingmaker, Krueshef is set to continue his ascent in the music world, promising more captivating music and a lasting impact on the dancehall and reggae genres.