Greetings! I would like to welcome all our readers to Blue Steel Magazine. If this is your first time here, please feel free to review some of our previous articles. Enjoy.

I took a litte time away from the magazine to complete a very important work; Brooklyn Geisha. This is an in-depth story of Amaya Taoka. Although, she is revered as a business woman and entrepreneur, Taoka was also a high-ranking member of an obscure occult organization. Her life is like an open erotic poem. I was so inspired by the experience that I decided to dedicate a work about not only my personal experience with her, but her life and involvement in the Necronomicon Tradition, as well as, her work as a humanitarian and mentor.

http://www.lulu.com/product/paperback/brooklyn-geisha/18852967?productTrackingContext=search_results/search_shelf/center/2

Brooklyn Geisha is also available in ebook format at the following link:

http://www.lulu.com/product/ebook/brooklyn-geisha/18854029

Stay Blessed!

Warlock Asylum

Dwight Arrington Myers a.k.a. Heavy D. May 24, 1967 – November 8, 2011 (RIP)

It’s so unfortunate to see such a talented man pass away at such a young age. Dwight Arrington Myers, popularly known as Heavy D, was a Jamaican-born American actor, rapper, record producer, singer and former leader of Heavy D & the Boyz.

Heavy D & the Boyz were the group signed to Uptown Records. During the late-80’s and the early 1990’s, Heavy D’s music filled the airwaves. Heavy was always respected in the urban community because he brought a certain sort of sunshine into peoples’ lives. He kept things happy. His music was enjoyed by of all walks of life. He was the ladies man, and because of such, set an example of all that a man can be.

Another thing about Heavy D, which was sort of innovative, was that he was the first “overweight sex symbol.” Of course, we had the preceding legacy of the Fat Boys and what have you, but Heavy showed the urban world that you can be a little overweight and still be a ladies’ man.

Three of his albums – Big Tyme (1989), Peaceful Journey (1991) and Nuttin’ but Love (1994) – went platinum in the US.

In the early 1990s, he composed with the likes of Notorious BIG and Janet Jackson, cheekily branding the latter “a walking bank vault” on her hit single Alright.

His acting career took off, with appearances on TV shows such as Law & Order: SVU and Boston Public in the early 2000s. He also made select film appearances, with roles in The Cider House Rules and, most recently, alongside Ben Stiller and Eddie Murphy in the comedy Tower Heist.  However, he continued to create music and his last album, Love Opus, was considered a return to form when it was released in September this year.

Blue Steel Magazine would like to send our condolences to the Myers’ family. Any thought of Heavy D. have always been a happy one and we support and send the love that he gave us during his lifetime. Stay Blessed!

OutofaWhole: Heirs to the thrones of Rap Music

It is always good to hear something new and innovative when it comes to music. So I was more than delighted when I first heard the musical expertise of the innovative OutofaWhole. OutofaWhole consists of three members, the legendary Mike Bliss, M.C. Kilch, and D.J. Imergeandsee.

My meeting with the OutofaWhole sound almost seemed inevitable. It was only after doing this interview with founding member M.C. Kilch that I learned that we all group up in the same religion. Uhmm, family always has a way of finding each other even when we are strangers. In any event, I met M.C. Kilch through a fraternal organization that we are both members of. Kilch emailed me the group’s website and i was transported to an inter-dimensional world of Hip Hop. It is a place that is real. A place where you can be original. You can be what you want to be and feel good for being your self. I must admit that OutofaWhole has a certain rawness that reminds me of the days when I first heard 36 Chambers by the Wutang Clan. Needless to say, many people are catching on to the OutofaWhole sound. I recently attended a performance by the group and the reception was no less than Beatlemania. Here is a video clip below:

Not only does this trio express a raw sense of musical expression that is lacking in today’s music for the most part, they are also extremely intelligent. Their talents a best understood by people who are free to be who they are. I got a chance to talk with M.C. Kilch about OutofaWhole. i thought you might want to sit in on the conversation and learn a little about the group’s origins, future plans, and etc. Enjoy:

Messiah’el: I must say that it has been a pleasure sharing the same stage with a phenomenal group. It is deeply appreciated. Thank you for keeping us in mind, but for our readership who may not be aware of your history; how would define OutofaWhole?

M.C. Kilch: Much thanks for the kind words. We’ve enjoyed sharing the stage with a creative force like Warlock Asylum. OutofaWhole is mainly collaboration between Mike Bliss and myself (M.C. Kilch), with D.J. Imergeandsee helping us put the whole fiasco together live.  We make Hip-Hop music and mix it with several other music styles; Punk/Hardcore and Trip-Hop being examples, although what we have been putting out over the past year is essentially Hip-Hop. We enjoy using dark melodic beats and evocative lyrics. I like to call it “Dark-Hop”. Our material is bound to become more controversial.

Messiah’el: What made you decide to take music a career path?

M.C. Kilch: Bliss and I are old friends. We have been writing lyrics together since we were in our early teens, taking long bus and train rides to hang out with our friends throughout New York City. Music was our therapy growing up and still is, we just felt the need to experience it more directly which lead to us making our own.

We grew up listening to all brands of Rock, Hip-Hop and Electronica, respectfully appreciating artistry regardless of genre. We always had a boom box or portable music devices with us. I think after falling in love with music to the extent we did, you feel like there is nothing else you would rather do with your time. So being in a band, playing shows and making records came naturally.

OutofaWhole warming up before a groundbreaking performance

Messiah’el: Today you see a lot of emphasis placed on solo acts. It seems like the world of “me-ism” has even crept into modern artistic expression. In view of such, do you find it challenging working as a group at times?

M.C. Kilch: I’m not too sure how much I’ve noticed that trend, since I usually listen to Hard Rock music and it’s mostly groups, but I can see what you mean from the Hip-Hop perspective. I think Hip-Hop is a heavily ego-based art form, not that I see anything wrong with that, so that could be why we have so many solo acts on the scene right now.

Working with a group is something I have always enjoyed, I understand how this may not work for some people, but with us, we share a lot of values and we’re a family, so I don’t find it challenging. I find it inspiring. I think that people have enjoyed our group dynamic. Some artists feel like they are limiting their personal expression being in a group. For me, I only see that as the case when the group chemistry is wrong, when the energy is flowing properly, you validate each other.

Messiah’el: After having seen some of your live performances and listening to your music, it is easy to see that you guys really work well together. How do you guys come up with such innovative material?

M.C. Kilch: I am glad you feel that way about our material.  For much of what we have done, it begins with Instrumentals built from scratch by Mike Bliss, I am usually there helping with picking samples and overall song composition. We then sit there listening to the beats while making fun of each other for hours on end, iPhones in hand writing lyrics, generally writing 2 bars for every 100 derogatory statements thrown at one another. There seems to be quite a bit of Rum involved lately too, judging by all the empty bottles of Captain Morgan on my counter right now. Somehow it all comes together in a way that makes us smile.

Messiah’el: Who are some of the people who inspire you?

M.C. Kilch: For the most part we’ve been influenced by the people and artists around us to make our music. Meeting some random Puerto Rican guy at the corner Bodega who ends up playing Guitar for us, or stumbling upon people in the park with Congas leading us to freestyle there, as well as many other random musical happenings, have always influenced us more than any bands or established artists we could name.

The kids we know that come out to our shows are a big influence on us too. Personally, I have always been influenced by the ambient sounds of the city, the things you hear in between all of the usual noised you hear such as loud pedestrians or cars honking their horns. For Mike Bliss, I think The Captain who stands tall on bottles of Captain Morgan’s rum, is his biggest influence.

Messiah’el: Your sound is definitely different from what appears in the mainstream today. Is there an overall message that you are trying to convey in your music?

M.C. Kilch: Many of our songs are simply our encapsulated experiences, or concepts we want to explore. As far as a message, we can say that through our own unique sound and sometimes through actual messages in our lyrics, we encourage people to be individuals. In a society that many times sells us our own beliefs and revolutions through popular media, we advocate individual expression. We also endorse the use of technology to enhance human life.

Messiah’el:  Based on your experience in the music world thus far; what wisdom would you impart to those who are newly interested in pursuing a musical career?

M.C. Kilch: Well, being an underground band, all I feel I am qualified to say is that upcoming artist should be true to themselves. It is a popular belief that you have to “sound like everyone else” to make it, but it’s not necessarily true. If you want to move music forward and earn long-term fans, be yourself, because that what will get you noticed. Use empathy to feel out your audience. After all, if you sound just like everyone else, why should anyone choose you?

Messiah’el: Are there any other ventures that you are now engaged in other than music?

M.C. Kilch: We are starting our own Media Company, an idea masterminded by our D.J. There will be a music division for our own record label, but art and clothing departments will be a major focus. Our team “444” will be doing a lot of the upcoming artwork. We know many artists that do everything from comics to fantasy-type sculptures and graffiti who we would like to help reach urban audiences worldwide.

Messiah’el: Where do you see OutofaWhole five years from now?

M.C. Kilch: I see us coming up with more quality material, reaching a wider audience, strengthening our own record label, and buying out the Suicide Girls Company, thereby playing lots of shows in what will be call the “Suicide Girls Mansion”. *laughs*

Messiah’el: I get a sense from listening to your music that there is some sort of “spiritual” perspective that you approach your craft with. Is there?

M.C. Kilch: Mike Bliss and I are both Atheists, we we’re both raised as Jehovah’s Witnesses, but we never thought God was real.  We enjoy viewing ourselves as Gods of our own subjective universes, since it keeps us responsible for our own actions and making change for ourselves. We incorporate Myth and Theology into our lyrics for their emotional value, not because we believe in God or Devils.

Messiah’el: Any final thoughts?

M.C. Kilch: We are working with our friend F.L.E.E The Maestro on and Mixtape coming out in the next couple of months so check out our respective websites at www.outofawhole.bandcamp.com and www.fleethemaestro.bandcamp.com. The tape will be available as a free Download on both of these pages. Thank you very much for the opportunity to speak to you and your readership today. All the best to each of you!

Messiah’el: That you very much for taking the time out to answer a few questions. Many blessings to the OutofaWhole legacy!

The Legendary Kishore Kumar

Long before the rise of Bhangra music, soulful melodies and the legendary voice of Kishore Kumar enchanted millions globally. Born Abhas Kumar Ganguly, Kishore Kumar is most remembered for his contributions as a lyricist, composer, producer, director, screenwriter and scriptwriter. He won 8 Filmfare Award for Best Male Playback Singer and holds the record for most number of Filmfare Awards won for that category. Playback singers record songs for soundtracks, and actors or actresses lip-sync the songs for cameras, while the actual singer does not appear on screen.

Kishore Kumar was born into the Bengali Brahmin Ganguly family in Khandwa, Central Provinces and Berar (now in Madhya Pradesh) as Abhas Kumar Ganguly. His father Kunjalal Ganguly (Gangopadhya) was a lawyer. His mother Gouri Devi came from a wealthy Bengali family. Kishore was the youngest of four siblings, the other three being Ashok Kumar (the eldest), Sati Devi, and Anoop Kumar.

While Kishore was still a child, Ashok Kumar became a Bollywood actor. (Later, Anoop Kumar also ventured into cinema with the help of Ashok Kumar). Spending time with his brothers, Kishore also started to take a keen interest in movies and music. He became a fan of singer-actor Kundan Lal Saigal, whom he considered his guru, and tried to follow Saigal’s singing style.

After Ashok Kumar became a Bollywood star, the Ganguly family used to visit Bombay regularly. Abhas Kumar changed his name to Kishore Kumar and started his cinema career as a chorus singer at Bombay Talkies, where his brother worked. His first film as an actor was Shikari (1946), in which Ashok Kumar played the lead role. Music director Khemchand Prakash gave him a chance to sing Marne ki duayen kyon mangu for the film Ziddi (1948). After this, Kishore Kumar got many other assignments, but he was not very serious about a film career. In 1949, he decided to settle in Mumbai.

Kishore Kumar played hero in the Bombay Talkies film Andolan (1951), directed by Phani Majumdar. Although Kishore Kumar got some assignments as an actor with help of his brother, he was more interested in becoming a singer. He was not interested in acting, but his elder brother Ashok Kumar wanted him to be an actor like himself.

He starred in Bimal Roy‘s Naukri (1954) and Hrishikesh Mukherjee‘s directorial debut Musafir (1957). Salil Chowdhury, the music director for Naukri was initially dismissive of him as a singer, when he came to know that Kishore Kumar didn’t have any formal training in music. However, after hearing his voice, he gave him the song Chhota sa ghar hoga, which was supposed to be sung by Hemant Kumar.

Kishore Kumar starred in films New Delhi (1957), Aasha (1957), Chalti Ka Naam Gaadi (1958), Half Ticket (1962), and Padosan (1968). Chalti Ka Naam Gaadi, his home production, starred the three Ganguly brothers, and Madhubala. The film is about romance between a city girl (Madhubala) and a car mechanic (Kishore Kumar), with a subplot involving the brothers.

Music director S. D. Burman is credited with spotting Kishore Kumar’s talent as a singer, and advancing his singing career. During the making of Mashaal (1950), Burman visited Ashok Kumar’s house, where he heard Kishore imitating K. L. Saigal. He complimented Kishore, but also told him that he should develop a style of his own, instead of copying Saigal. Kishore Kumar did not have a formal training in music.  He kept Burman’s advice in mind, and eventually developed his own style of singing, which featured the yodeling that he had heard on some records of Jimmie Rodgers bought by his brother Anoop Kumar.

S. D. Burman recorded with Kishore for Dev Anand‘s Munimji (1954), Taxi Driver (1954), House No. 44 (1955), Funtoosh (1956), Nau Do Gyarah (1957), Paying Guest (1957), Guide (1965), Jewel Thief (1967), Prem Pujari (1970), and Tere Mere Sapne (1971). He also composed music for Kishore Kumar’s home production Chalti Ka Naam Gaadi (1958). Some of their initial films included the songs Maana Janaab Ne Pukara Nahin from Paying Guest, Hum Hain Rahi Pyar Ke from Nau Do Gyarah (1957), Ai Meri Topi Palat Ke Aa from Funtoosh, and Ek Ladki Bheegi Bhaagi Si and Haal Kaisa Hai Janaab Ka from Chalti Ka Naam Gaadi (1958). Asha Bhosle and Kishore Kumar performed duets composed by S. D. Burman including Chhod Do Aanchal from Paying Guest (1957), Ankhon Mein Kya Ji from Nau Do Gyarah (1957), Haal Kaisa Hai Janaab Ka and Paanch Rupaiya Baara Aana from Chalti Ka Naam Gaadi (1958), Chhedo Na Meri Zulfein from Ganga Ki Lahren (1964), and Arre Yaar Meri Tum Bhi Ho Gajab from [Teen Devian|Teen Deviyan] (1965).

C. Ramchandra was another music director who recognized Kishore Kumar’s talent as a singer. and their collaborations include Eena Meena Deeka from Aasha (1957). Kishore Kumar’s work includes, Nakhrewaali from New Delhi (1956) by Shankar Jaikishan, and C.A.T. Cat Maane Billi and Hum To Mohabbat Karega from Dilli Ka Thug (1958) by Ravi.

Kishore Kumar produced, directed, and acted in the film Jhumroo (1961). He wrote the lyrics for the title song, Main Hoon Jhumroo, and composed music for all the songs in the film. Later, he produced and directed the film Door Gagan Ki Chhaon Mein (1964). He also wrote the script and composed music for the film. The film is based on the relationship between a father (Kishore Kumar), and his deaf and mute son (played by his real-life son, Amit Kumar). He made another two films called Door Ka Rahi (1971) and Door Waadiyon Mein Kahin (1980).

In the 1960s, as an actor, Kishore Kumar built up a notoriety for coming late for the shootings, or bunking them altogether. His films flopped frequently, and he also landed in income tax trouble. As a singer, his work in this period includes Zaroorat Hai Zaroorat Hai from Manmauji (1961), Gaata Rahe Mera Dil from Guide (1965), and Yeh Dil Na Hota Bechara from Jewel Thief (1967).

In the late 1960s, Rahul Dev Burman worked together on the soundtrack of the film Padosan (1968), in which Kishore Kumar sang the songs Mere Saamne Wali Khidki Mein and Kehna Hai. Padosan was a comedy film starring Kishore Kumar as a dramatist-musician, Mehmood as a Carnatic music and dance teacher, and Sunil Dutt as a simpleton named Bhola. Kishore Kumar’s character in the film was inspired by the personality of Kishore’s own uncle, Dhananjay Bannerjee (a classical singer). The highlight of the film was a musical, comical duel between Kishore Kumar-Sunil Dutt and Mehmood, Ek Chatur Nar Karke Singaar.

Today, the music and life of this great artist is still praised by millions. One of my favorite songs by Kumar, Dewana Leke Aaya Hai, can be heard in the video below. Enjoy

The Reigning Queen Of Soul-NIKKOLE

Greetings! If you are trying to make it as an independent artist, you should definitely get familiar with Nikkole. She is a prime example of what a person with ambition and vision can accomplish on the music scene. Amazingly, Nikkole has set a new standard of what can be achieved in the world of music as an independent artist. She has been a GRAMMY nominee contender four years in a row in 2007, 2008, 2009, and 2010. Her talents have electrified millions!

While Nikkole is adored by many for her contribution to the world of music as an independent artist, she has also been revered by artists involved in the music industry. She has worked with such stars as Babyface, Boyz II Men, Macy Gray, Bobby Brown, Arturo Sandoval, Teena Marie, The Emotions, Ambrosia, Jon B, The Temptations, Lakeside, The Commodores, Midnight Star, Gregory Hines, DJ Quik, Melle Mel, Whoopi Goldberg, CASE, Cedric the Entertainer, Everette Harp, David T. Walker, Patrice Rushen, Blood Sweat and Tears, and Norman Brown. On Norman Brown’s #1 Billboard smash ”Stay With Me” (2007), more specifically the radio-friendly cut ”You Keep Lifting Me Higher”, Nikkole was not only the featured vocalist, but she also co-wrote and arranged the vocals. The project spent 8 weeks at #1 on Billboard’s Contemporary Jazz Charts. The album remained in Billboard’s Top 10 for over 4 months.

I met Nikkole around 2004, 2005. This was during the time that Steve Berson and myself formed Warlock Asylum. In many ways, she acted as a mentor during the formative stages of the Kiss of the Immortal album. I was in a dark place back then to say the least, and though Nikkole was becoming an accomplished musician of note during this time, she would always encourage me to keep pursuing my dream despite life’s adversity. Interestingly, our song Sleepless Nights In Havana was inspired , in part from our friendship, along with my connection to my sister Sylvia. From my personal and a professional level, I can say that Nikkole’s heart, her work for humanity, is just as big as the artistic abilities that the gods have blessed her with.

It had been some time since I had spoken with the “Genie of Soul.” We fell out of touch for some, but with the help of the vast array of online social networks and Starbucks cafe, we were able to talk during tea time and catch up despite busy schedules. I thought that our readership would find Nikkole’s words very inspirational and insightful. Maybe if you are an up and coming artist, you may want to take notes. Don’t be afraid! Step in the arena and meet the new reigning queen of R n’ B, Ms. Nikkole, and that’s with two “Ks.” Smiles.

Messiah-El: Thank you so much Nikkole. It is great to finally have you as a guest for Blue Steel Magazine. From my own personal experience, you have really inspired and helped keep my focus as an artist during a crucial life crisis to say the list. I am sure that you receive a lot of applause and appreciation for the art that you have shared with the world. However, for our readers who may not be familiar with who you are, how would you describe yourself?

Nikkole: Firstly, let me start off by saying how much I appreciate your kind words.  It truly warms my heart to know that I have helped you as an artist!  To describe myself, I would lead off by saying I am a very dedicated and focused individual who is driven, determined and resilient.  There are many layers to my personality, and in the music industry as a professional independent artist it is easy to find a place for each layer.

Messiah-El: Your life as a musician, singer, and songwriter seems like a marriage made in heaven, based on your work. What inspired you to pursue the musical arts?

Nikkole: As a young child I always enjoyed going to concerts and singing in church.  I would get such a high from watching performers sing, dance, act – simply captivating an audience with their talents. It was during those times that I knew that I would be a singer and a songwriter.  I wanted to move people with my words, voice and music, so I honed my skills and crafted my first song at 6 years old…entitled “Tragedies”.  My brother and cousins and I would hold our own concert events for family and friends.  We would build sets and sing our original songs in addition to Top 20 hits!

Messiah-El: Listening to your music and some of the themes that you cover, I can see that you present a package that is positive, as it is real. Is there an overall message in the work that you do?

Nikkole: My ambition is solely to be me, and so my music is a reflection of my life and things that I have experienced.  Lyrically, musically I feel songs have to touch the listener and evoke an emotion.  To achieve that, I think writing songs in a clever fashion as opposed to a lascivious manner is the best approach.  I wouldn’t want to record something that I would be embarrassed to sing in front of my Grandmother.  So writing a song poetically instead of graphically is my approach.

Messiah-El: There is a growing consensus among people of all walks of life concerning the direction of the music industry. Many people do not agree with the direction that some artists have taken. Do you find it challenging maintaining your ground as an artist and how you present yourself?

Nikkole: That is a really good question.  I genuinely feel that if you are true to what you believe in and stick to your goals you can achieve anything.  In every profession there are changes that happen, the key is learning how to make those changes work for you and your objective.  Since I started out as an indie artist, I have seen quite a few changes in the industry, as more independent musicians are able to release their own product to the masses. And now, it’s cool to be an indie artist (it wasn’t so much the case 10 years ago).  But, I feel that we still have a long way to go. I would like to see all qualified musicians (major and indie) on an even playing field when it comes radio airplay and promotions…and that is another story!!!

Messiah-El: Your music is appreciated by people from all walks of life. It sounds like it is in a genre of its own. What artists have influenced you musically?

Nikkole: Thank you very much.  Growing up in my house I heard all types of music, which is the best atmosphere to be in for a budding musician.  I gravitated towards artists such as; Natalie Cole, Donny Hathaway, Teddy Pendergrass, Teena Marie, Deniece Williams, Mariah Carey, Rod Stewart, Journey, BabyFace and Luther Vandross to name a few.

Nikkole with the legendary Billy Davis Jr.

Messiah-El: When I think of Nikkole, I think of a successful “independent” musician, one who has reached heights that some artists who are signed to major labels haven’t.  What are some of the reasons for maintaining your status as an independent artist? What are some of the ups and downs of this career choice?

Nikkole: My attitude is to keep going strong no matter what life throws my way.  I never get caught up in what people think I should do with my career or the (keeping up with the Jones’) syndrome – so to speak.  It is important to have your own clear path and stick to it without distraction.  I have always wanted a music career and with all of the choices that I have made, they somehow reflect how I feel about my career.  In saying that, I believe that I have laid a path of goals for myself; and all I want to do is obtain them.  Granted, I do spend a lot of time in my studio, on the road and writing – this does limit the time I have to spend with loved ones, but everyone understands and they are all very supportive.  

Messiah-El: I know that success in any craft requires hard work. If you don’t mind sharing with us, what is an average day like in Nikkole’s world?

Nikkole: I have never been afraid of hard work.  In any business in order to be successful one must be up for the challenges!  Depending upon my schedule, I wake up (normally early) – eat…MUST HAVE COFFFEE (LOL), workout, then prepare for my hectic day of either traveling to perform, or heading into the studio to craft new material, do radio interviews, take meetings for new projects, endorsements and strategize my next move.  I always have to be ahead of the game and be prepared with my next move.  Never waiting for it to happen…I have to make it happen!

Messiah-El: In your music video Amazing, we see people laughing, having a good time, and experiencing the joys of life and love. Is there any spiritual path that plays an instrumental part in your music?

Nikkole: I think faith plays an important role in everyone’s life.  I believe that GOD wants us to believe in ourselves and look inside for the strength to push to the top!  It is also important how we treat our friends, neighbors, family…respect and kindness is a must.  “Better than a thousand hollow words, is one word that brings peace”.

Messiah-El: Where do you see Nikkole in the next five years?

Nikkole: I see myself reaching a broader, more massive audience.  Continuing to write songs for and collaborate with world artists.

Nikkole with Natalie Cole and Holly Robinson Peete after performing at a benefit in Beverly Hills

Messiah-El: I noticed that you have spent some time in collaboration with other artists. You have shared the stage with artists such as, The Temptations, Blood, Sweat, and Tears, and Macy Gray, just to name a few. How do you pick and choose the artists that you would like to work with?

Nikkole: As for my collaborations on live performance dates.  I was chosen by those artists.  On my recording duets with artists that are on my projects such as; Everette Harp, Arturo Sandoval, The Emotions, Melle Mel, and David T. Walker…I always enjoyed their musical contributions and learned so much from their style and work ethic, etc. it was a must that I work with them and soak up their talents!  I also worked with Norman Brown on his “Stay With Me” cd.  I penned and sang on “You Keep Lifting Me Higher”.

Messiah-El: Do you think there will ever be a Nikkole and Warlock Asylum collaboration? (laughs)

Nikkole: I love that…Yes, I am always open to collaborate with wonderful artists like yourself!

Messiah-El: I met you a little bit before you released “Gon’ Bounce.” It’s one of my favorites.  Out of all the music that you have done, what is your favorite song in your own musical catalogue?

Nikkole: Right…I remember that…“Gon’ Bounce” was a huge success for me, it even debuted at #1 on American Idol Radio.  It’s always a crowd pleaser; I end my shows on this song.  WOW, that’s a great question – Hmmmm, I enjoy all of my songs for so many reasons as each song expresses a part of me or my experiences.  But since I must pick one song…today I’m going with “Love Was Made In Heaven”.

Messiah-El: Before pursuing a career in music, you spent some time modeling. What was it like transitioning from the world of modeling to the musical arena?

Nikkole: It wasn’t a hard transition at all, because while I was modeling I was saving money to release my first CD “Appearances”.  During that time I was honing my craft, singing backgrounds for various artists…music has always been in my life and it always will…it is my life!

Nikkole with her beau Ken Yasuda (Mr. Japan. professional Bodybuilder)

Messiah-El: How has your relationship with Ken Yasuda, a world-class bodybuilder, affected your artistic career?

Nikkole: I believe seeing Ken’s work ethic and dedication to becoming number 1 in his field has enhanced my thought process and vigor to be able to get through any situation and make it work to my satisfaction, no matter what!

Messiah-El: Now you have been a Grammy contender for quite some time. I know it must feel good for your music to be acknowledged by one of the most prestigious musical awards ceremonies in the world. What is your opinion in all of this?

Nikkole: It is indeed an honor to have been recognized by NARAS, it is especially a feat because I am an independent artist on my own independent label.  There is a lot of great music out there that is not being backed by a major label…so being able to get to this point shows me that the music business is changing…slowly but surely!

Messiah-El: Finally, what advice would you give to those who are interested in becoming a musical artist as a life path? Any final thoughts?

Nikkole: Firstly, you have to want it more than anything, have thick skin, and be smart about all of your choices.  It is not JUST about the desire to make music; you have to remember this is the business of music too.  Planning and order is key in your organization of having your own label.  Read and learn as much about the legal aspects of the business, and absorb what your associates may know (and by this I mean the people who are actually making a living from music).  Follow your heart and remain true to your own style.  Release quality music that is well produced, mixed and mastered with a clear sound quality. 

Messiah-El: I would like to personally thank Nikkole for being a good friend and for taking the time to answer a few questions. It is indeed a blessing having a soul as yourself in the world with us. We wish you continued success in being you for there is where your true talent dwells. Many blessings to you!  Reader wishing to contact Ms. Nikkole can do so by way of the following link: http://nikkole.com/index.asp