The Big Man Zest - Who I Am

Big Man Zest is a 23 year old musician from South London. In January 2009 he released the funky anthem 'Jump in The Middle and Skank' which was a huge success for the UK music scene similar to Migraine Skank by Gracious K and Head Shoulders Knees and Toes by K.I.G. Since Zest departed from the Play Entertainment camp, he has been working hard on his current single titled 'Who I Am' which will be released 31st January 2011 . I thought I'd catch up with the Big Man Zest himself to find out where it all started.


When did your musical career start and why?
I broke into the music scene in January 2009 with a funky track entitled “Jump In The Middle & Skank”. We were in the studio one day having fun and the result was a UK funky underground smash.

How often do you make music and what messages to you aim to convey?

I like to create music in the studio as much as possible, any time that I get. The messages I like to convey in my music is just about people enjoying themselves and having fun.


Which artists do you currently like and why?

I currently like Tinie Tempah because his live performances are outstanding , he always puts in 100%. Skepta as he’s breaking down so many barriers for the UK music scene – ie Hello Good Morning remix. Kano because to me he will always be one or if
not the number one grime lyricist there is to date.

How far do you agree with artists commercialising their music and lyrics in order to make money?

I don’t necessarily think its just to make money I believe one thing about being an artist is about growth. One way of showing growth is by making music that appeals to everybody, therefore I only respect artists that cross over.


What would you say are the top three rules to making it in the industry and why?

Hard work, Determination and Patience! I believe you need these 3 key elements to make it in this industry as it builds your character to stand the test of time and helps you to stay focussed during the struggle to reach the top.

How has the music you've grown up with influenced your style as an artist?

The music I have grown up with has defiantely influenced me as it means im not fearful of tackling different genres.


Where would you like to see yourself perform and who with?

I would like to perform at ‘Sting’ a Christmas reggae dancehall show in Jamaica with Busy Signal .

What is your main aspiration for your career?

To cement myself as a worldwide representative of UK music and break into acting.

For more of Zest, you contact via his Myspace, Twitter or Official Website.

Clarity Defined - The Songwriter Herself

She started writing songs at the tender age of 11 and is now on her way to become a huge success. Clarity is a 23 year old musician from Liverpool who grew up listening Blues, Motown and Michael Jackson which influenced her to create her own style. Although she has been blessed with the talent of of singing, her passion lies in song writing. Her future aspirations include developing and expanding her skills as a musician alongside studying for her degree in Creative and Professional Writing at The University of East London. I thought i'd catch up with Clarity to find out more about her progress as an artist as well as he views on the current UK music industry.


What do you do and when did it start?

I am a songwriter/singer. I like to put the songwriter first because that is my ultimate aspiration. I started writing songs when I was 11 years old and I haven’t stopped since. I enjoy singing very much and feel blessed that I’m able to both. Although I intend to try to pursue a career in this too, I feel my truest talent lies in writing and I would be ecstatic for a career in just that. I take the singing aspect of things very seriously, but just don’t feel a lot of opportunity for personal growth currently exists in this. I mean, I can write as much and as many songs as I like, but having never had professional singing lessons, I’m not going to wake up tomorrow and have a better voice. I’m hoping the one day, It will be enough to take me to where I want to go and from there, I can progress.

When you where younger who where your music idols and have they influenced your style in any way?

I was brought up listening to a lot of different styles of music. I am very eclectic, just like my Dad. I loved Michael Jackson when I was younger, and so did my family. But my Dad listened to a lot Blues and Motown and I feel this very much influences my style and possibly even topic of writing. It wasn’t until I was a little bit older that I started taking the singing aspects of things more seriously so I would say more contemporary artists influences my style. This excludes most chart music. I struggle to find inspiring contemporary ‘popular’ music. It’s a shame because a lot of talent lies within ‘products of the industry.’


What would you say is different about the British Music scene?

I think the British music scene is brilliant because it’s not afraid to explore different kinds of music, fusing genres of music together to make brand new ones. I think the British music scene, given the chance, could set worldwide music trends. I think we’re slowly but surely putting our mark on the industry and gaining support from overseas. For example, the linkup between Skepta and Diddy, I mean, come on, that was something, right?

What was the hardest decision you've made in your career?
The hardest decision I have made in my career has been my decision to go to University. I could have very well continued to network and gain experience within music, but I decided that I had to have a plan B. I have no problem with ever needing to use my degree to get a 9-5 job, but it’s there just in case. It had nothing to do with a lack of faith or a pessimist view on my future; the music industry is just so fickle and even the greatest of talent gets overlooked. I finish University in May 2011. I do what I can in music in the mean time but being a student has ultimately had to come first. Once it’s over though, watch this space!

How often do you make music and who are your audience?

I write songs all the time. I have a tendency to just walk around making up new lyrics. The people I live with have got used to it, although it doesn’t go down too well when they’re watching their favourite TV programmes. You know when I’m in the house because you hear me before you see me. I don’t record songs that much anymore because, well, to be honest, producers don’t seem to be cutting it for me these days. I’m trying not to fall into a specific genre/scene, I want to branch out and start exploring who I am as an artist, making the kind of music I want to make, not the kind of music I’m making because I have no choice given the beats I’m being sent. A band would be ideal for me. I would say my audience in anyone enjoys good music, lol. Possibly more specifically women, solely for the fact that with me being a woman (incase you hadn’t noticed), I tend to write about relationships what I have been in with guys and obviously that is going to be more relatable to women.


Which female musician do you aspire to be like (if any) and who are your main influences?

I wouldn’t say that I aspire to be like any other female artist. I like to think that I’m just me, and that I aspire to stay true to whoever I am as artist throughout my career. I do adore and am heavily influenced by artists such as Jazmine Sullivan, Christette Michelle, Melanie Fiona, John Legend, Adele, Jessie J, ahh the list goes on. I pretty much appreciate any artists with any sort of uniqueness and those who write their own songs too.


Which artists have you collaborated with and who do you plan to in the future?

I have done the odd collaboration for underground MCs and what not, but to be honest, I’m not very big on collaborations at the moment. I think I need to spend time exploring my style of music, making it clear to the rest of the music world what kind of songs that I want to be writing and singing so they understand what kind of artists would match well with me and vice versa. I get a lot of people hollering to work together and although I appreciate all talent, I don’t intent to waste any time recording music that will portray me as being someone that I’m not.

Where do you see yourself in 2011?

I see myself continuing to invest as much time as I can in music in the first part of 2011, maybe do a bit more in regards to showing what I’m all about on YouTube and my social networking sites, and then once I’m finished at University to delve right in. I may possibly shoot a video at the beginning of 2011 too, providing I can decide on a good choice of song. The links are all there, I’m just waiting for the right moment to utilize them. And once I do, it’s onnnnn :-D

To get more from Clarity herself you can log onto her Facebook.

Roses - A Distinctive Anecdote

From idly typewriting as a youngster, to typing her very own novel. Naomi has completed her first publication titled, 'Roses: A Distinctive Anecdote'. She saw a gap in the market, one of which she thought to fill by giving urban adolescence's something to relate to, as well as enjoy to increase reading amongst the younger generation. Although the book will appeal to teens, it’s primary audience are young adults aged 18, to 24. The novel is cultivated in the fabulous backdrop of 21st century East London and told with the realest UK urban flavour, ROSES offers a light hearted insight into the flamboyant world of fiction’s cheekiest sweetheart Mz. Bumper Queen. The $1000000 question is: Will Marcia Burton’s love life ever be a harmonious bed of roses? I thought I'd catch up with the author herself to find out a bit more about the Novel.


What do you and when did it all start?

I’m an aspiring author and marketer. My love of writing started as soon I was able to read and write. I'm fortunate as I’ve always had a lot of support and encouragement from my family and friends. As a child I was over the moon when my Mum bought me a typewriter one Christmas and a word processor a couple of Christmases later. About five years ago, my Dad gave me a plastic folder of stories I’d written when I was around six. I was so surprised that he’d kept them all that time and well it reminded me of why I love writing. My keen interest in marketing began when I was studying media and sociology at college which led to me taking up a Media Studies degree at university. I’ve always been fascinated by the way we communicate with each other further more the way media conveys messages to its intended audience.

What does writing mean to you?

This might sound cheesier than a block of Edam, but honestly writing for me is like breathing. Nothing gives me greater satisfaction than entertaining the reader as well as fuelling their imaginations. No matter what kind of situation I’m in at any given time, I always find writing whether it’s on a personal level or for a story helps me to relax.

What is your book about and does it reflect anything specific?

ROSES: A Distinctive Anecdote: (synopsis)

A girly summer holiday to the raving capital of Ayia Napa ends with self confessed party animal Marcia taking a wallop from food poisoning and bumping into one hell of a chocolicious stranger, Marlon Reid.

Back in London, life for quick witted Marcia better known as Mz. Bumper Queen spins on the carousel of a corporate career, university, sparkly nights out on the town with the girls and those reoccurring kick ass superhero dreams.

Tossed into a blossoming haze of bouquets, slow jams and flirtatious dates with the ever scrumptious Marlon, Marcia’s anxious to bury the recent love traumas of her past but when fate makes a cameo appearance she’s left wondering if the chances of fresh love will bloom with a rosy ending or wilt with dreadful consequences…

Not only is ROSES 100% FREE DOWNLOAD but it also positively reflects modern UK urban culture. I think that this representation is crucial given the rise in gun and knife crime amongst British Urban teenagers and young adults. It’s also the realness of the characters that helps the reader to relate to this debut e-tale taken from THE URBAN TALES OF MZ. BUMPER QUEEN fiction series.


Which authors have influenced you and why?

I’ve been influenced by a number of different authors but my favourite have to be Eric Jerome Dickey, Andrea Levy, Sister Souljah, Leone Ross and Khaled Hosseni. I love the way Eric Jerome Dickey, Sister Souljah and Andrea Levy bring their characters to life in the following three books: Friends & Lovers (EJD), The Coldest Winter Ever (SS) and Small Island (AL). As for Leone Ross, it’s the gripping way in which she recounts researcher Laurie’s Gunst’s reportage on Jamaica’s political and gang history in Born Fi Dead . It’s so well written you actually feel like you are there as the events unfold. Khaled Hosseni’s The Kite Runner is also written in such a powerfully beautiful style, I was almost in tears by the time I’d finished reading it.

What are the do's and don't to making a good book?

I’m still learning the do’s and don’ts of writing a good book but I’ve found that having honest feedback (professional if possible) during the drafting process is fundamental. Letting someone else review my work gives me a chance to see it from an alternative perception. The feedback allows me to see what works within the story and amend what doesn’t, even if I have to revise it a million times over before I get the flow on point.

What problems have you faced and how have you overcome them?

It’s been shown that some of my intended target audience don’t enjoy reading and this has always been a big challenge. Feedback from market research so far has shown several reasons for this, ranging from reading being boring, not being able to picture the story in their head to the person not being able to relate to the story being told. The marketing team and I are keen to show that ‘ROSES’ furthermore ‘THE URBAN TALES OF MZ. BUMPER QUEEN’ is more than just another fiction series. This is because the stories cleverly epitomise a lifestyle in which our target audience British and international, male or female will very much be able to relate to as they experience it everyday. As a result of these findings, we are currently working on marketing strategies to help promote ROSES to that particular audience early next year.


How important is it for a writer to read and what books would you suggest?

I think that reading is paramount if you are a writer. I’ve found that reading all kinds of material from blogs, newspapers, leaflets, to different genres of books have helped me to develop my writing style so I’d definitely recommend it to others. As an aspiring author, one book that has been very helpful is Jack Bickham’s The 38 Most Common Fiction Writing Mistakes.

What is the weirdest story idea you've thought of?

Considering ROSES falls under the chick-lit genre category, I wanted to show versatility in my writing style so I featured the fantasy genre to add a twist to the story. This is seen when the main character Marcia leaves reality to find herself living in her own dreams. The reason why this happens, I can’t reveal but you can find out the answer by reading ROSES.

Where is the best place your writing has taken you?

Like most writers, I have a very active imagination, so depending on what it is that I am talking about, I can be taken all over the place. For anyone that has read ROSES, they’ll be familiar with the name Kingsley Levi Johnson better known as the Jamrock royality ‘King’. I’m currently working on his debut story ‘MR CHINN: KING OF THE HILL”. At the moment, the writing’s transporting me from South London’s Streatham Hill to Jamaica’s Portmore. This is more than appreciated considering all the snow and freezing weather conditions we’ve been experiencing lately.

If you would like more from Naomi, you can log on to her blog Namsta's Blog. For the latest info on the fiction series please check out 'THE URBAN TALES OF MZ. BUMPER QUEEN' blog.

Marcia also has her own Facebook page which can now add.

Down With Esstar

Esstar is an up and coming musician from East London, who is signed to the record label PDB Productions & Entice Records. He has been pursuing a music career since the tender age of 16 performing and perfecting his craft as well as experimenting with a multiple genres such as Grime, Dub-Step and Hip Hop. Esstar has shared the stage with artists such as Cypriot Vibez and Static and Smooth and is continuing to push his music career towards success. I thought I'd catch up with him to find out how he got into music as well as his views on the current industry as it stands.


When did you realise you wanted to be a musician?

Well I started making music when I was 14, but I didn't take it seriously. It wasn't until I left school and had to decide what I really wanted to do. I realised music was what I was interested in, so it was probably at around the age of 16.

What is the best memory of yourself in music?

I have a few good memories, mostly from performances, coming off stage to meet people who enjoyed the performance. Also numerous studio sessions when I've finished the song and know it's a hit.

Who are you main influences and why?

My influences change all the time, I'll go a week listening to a certain artist, and the next it will be a completely different genre of music, so I can't really name a certain artist as a main influence, I like all music.


How important is radio play for underground talents such as yourself and what stations do you listen to if any?

I think the game has changed and the best way to get yourself out there is through social networking sites and Youtube, so radio is not as important as it once was. But when your putting a single out you do need it on radio, it's what gets people familiar with your lyrics, thats where the songs come from that everyone knows the lyrics without even knowing what the song is! If you have a lot of radio play on one song everyone ends up subconciously knowing your song!

Can you remember your first ever lyrics, what where they?

I can't remember to be honest, but a friend of mine dug out a song of mine from 2005 the other day but I refused to listen to it, I remember how bad it was back then LOL. I had a lot of lyrics about nonsence as you do when your young.

Which artists do you currently like and why?

I like Ghetts, because of his lyrical skill and energy. Theres a singer called Ed Sheeran who I've been listening to a bit lately I think he's good, and I listen to a lot of different dubstep producers aswell.


What advice would you give to someone entering the music industry?

Please don't get involved if your not 100% serious, if your not willing to put time, effort, and even your own money into your music, then you might aswell stop now and go job centre. But, if you ARE serious, don't try and run before you can walk, start off small, build up an awareness and following in your local area first, and when you feel you have done what you can to achieve that then move on to bigger things.

Who have you previously performed with and who would you like to perform with in the future?

I've performed with Cypriot Vibez thats a guy I work with, I done a show the other night on the same stage as an act called 'Static and Smooth', few other names. I'd like to perform with anyone who's got a genuine talent, or anyone who's out there at the moment.

For more on Esstar you can contact via his Facebook , Twitter , Myspace or Youtube.

Kudzai Dyirakumunda - Black Jack Apparel

Kudzai Dyirakumunda is not only a 20 year old Graphic Designer from East London, but the mastermind behind the clothing label Black Jack Apparel. Since studying at the Arts University College in Bournemouth, he has freelanced with a variety of companies including Universal Republic who have major artists such as Lil John, Enrique Iglesias and Jay Sean signed their label. I thought I'd catch up with Kudzai himself to find out where it all started.


So, When did Black Jack Apparel start and why?

My interest in Graphic Design started when I was in my secondary school, I liked the fact that I could communicate with someone in a visual manner, not just verbally through my designs. It was before the start of my 2nd year at University and I wanted to draw something that I hadn't seen before so I decided to draw a skull wearing a top hat. I got the idea of adding the playing card theme after i played the game " Black Jack" the none gambling version with some friends. Initially the design was not intended for clothing and apparel it was just for my portfolio ,to show my drawing skills but it manifested to be a a t-shirt design.

What did you learn whilst working with Universal Republic?

It has taught me to be organised and that you necessarily don't have to be well connected to make it as long as your determined to do what you want you will achieve it.


What competition do you face from similar labels an how have to tried to combat this?

It is hard for me to say who my competitors are because this is the first time venturing into something that is outside 'Graphic Design' and I don't know where it will take me but i am aware there is alot of brands out there so I would have to design artwork that is different to others rather than try and compete with them.

What mediums do you use to promote your brand and who would be the ideal model for the label?

At the moment facebook is my main way of promoting my label as most people are using it. My University its not that big and everyone pretty much knows each other so word of mouth is a good way to spread the word.


What problems have you faced with your brand and how have you overcome this?

So far Im happy to say say I haven't had any major problems. I've only just started 'Black Jack Apparel' is not just a get money quick scheme its a way for me to expose myself as a Graphic Designer because at the end of my degree I want to open my own Graphic Design studio in a highly competitive career path you have to make the most of every opportunity.

What three pieces of advice would you give to someone about to start a label?

1. Do what you think is right even though people might not think it is.
2. Don't be afraid to step out of your boundaries or comfort zones
3. Be 100% behind your idea or vision.


Where do you see the label in 2011?

Hopefully for it to be recognised as a up and coming label that offers unique artwork for everyone.

To get in touch with Kudzai and get more from Black Jack Apparel you can contact him via Facebook.

The Champion - J Peace

J.Peace is a 21 year old musician from South London who has been working hard in the music industry and perfecting his craft for five years. During this time he has produced 4 CD's, over 200 songs both (released and unreleased) and several music videos. He has performed at various events such as youth conferences and churches and he has also been a head-liner for Europe's multi-cultural summer event The Notting Hill Carnival. Considering he has just released his new track 'Champion' I thought I'd catch up with him to find out his motives behind the making of the track as well as what the industry can expect from him in the future.


So J.P, when and how did your musical career start?

I was around 16 years old. In school a lot of people rapped, so I was influenced to start rapping as well. However my initial career began in Church when at a youth show. My mum forced me to participate, so i joined my brother, wrote some bars, that was the first time I rapped. I enjoyed it, and started to learn more about the craft of rapping. I then left church not long after I started rapping, and I decided to develop my own style. At the age of 19 I was writing continueously and doing anything I possibly could to develop my self as a rapper.

What do you focus on when making music?

Music is a very good way for me to express my self. I have been able to develop my self as an artist over the years, learning how to tailor my lyrics into songs, which are acceptable/enjoyable from different audiences. I write music every day, it usually just comes to me, and I will work on it, to turn it into a good song. However sometimes I will have a particular topic I have to focus on to write about, which I can also do. On top of this I also focus on the message that I am bringing out. Although I am absolutely free with my music, I refuse to negatively influence people, therefore I like to think my music brings about positive vibes.

Where is the best place you've performed and who would you like to perform with in the future?

Notting Hill Carnival, becuase of the size. However, I enjoy performing at clubs, as they bring the best vibes along. Youth Conferences are also enjoyable to perform at, because its a good opportunity to teach or leave behind a good word. I would love to perform with Alesha Dixon, or Kerri Hilson - because they are SEXY! I would enjoy working with Kings of Leon, Michael Bublay and any one that can bring a different vibe, and create somthing unique.



What would you say makes you different from other artists?

One thing I try my best to do is stand out from other artists. My album which I am releasing on the 27th December 2010, titled 'The Piece or Peace', has a lot of different vibes on it, from jazz fusions to rock fusions to club tracks, however keeping everything on the same wave lengh. I always look for new ways to inovate music. One of my goals as an artist is to bring rap music to a whole new level, where it can be appreciated more by an audience that does not yet appreciate it.

What influenced you to incorporate jazz to your music and how successful would you say this has been for you as an artist?

Music has a huge audience, however it is very categorised into different groups/genres. I enjoy playing around with different styles, and working with different musicians that bring a different vibe, and have a different ear for music.

What was the idea behind your latest track Champion?

Simply to create a different/unique vibe. Which I think worked. Yet, I realised it is a style that only a few people will respect and appreciate. For other people, it will literally fly over there head and not see the skill involved. I wanted to put in an uplifting message behind it, using my own past experiences. If you work hard, no matter how many times people put you down, you can show them your a champion.

What do you do in your spare time?

In the little time I get outside of making music, I enjoy watching films (not horror), eating lots of food, playing basketball, and going to talent shows.

How important is it for you to keep up with the current industry and who are your main competitors if any?

In music I have a lot of competitiors from all over the country and worldwide. Any one that does music is competition, but can also be an inspiration. My main competition comes from large record labels, as they are able to promote and market artists on a large scale with bigger budgets. As an independent artist it is difficult to break through that barrier with a much lower budget and be able to compete on the same scale.


What is your favourite part of your job?

Although I like almost all aspects of the tasks I do in music, if I had to choose a favourite it would be shooting the videos. If I had to choose a least favourite it would be spending the money.

What have you got in store for the industry and where do you see yourself in two years time?

I want a MOBO award in 2011. I will definetaly keep doing music every day, no matter what ( I am officially addicted). But I also want my music to be appreciated and respected, plus bring about a good message. I also want to be able to change some of the stereotypical views about rap music, and prove to people that it is not all bad. In two years I want to be known as the best artist about ;)

For more of J.Peace log on to his Facebook and check out his new track via Youtube Champion.