Feature of the Month

The Free Style Queen

Judy Torres

Interview with Judy Torres

 

 
 

SUPERSIZE SPANISHFLY: Tell us about your musical background and When did you realize that you wanted to become a singing artist?

 

JUDY TORRES:  My music background began at a very young age, when I sang on the table with a brush in my hand and sang to my parents.  By the age of 9, I knew I wanted to be a singer.  As a single parent, my mother could not afford singing lessons, so I just joined the church choir and the glee club in grammar school.  By fifth grade, I wrote my first song.  I then attended Aquinas High School, Bronx, NY, where I met my musical mentor, Mr. Frank Roman.  To this day I credit him for everything I have learned about performing.  While I was there, I was in the glee club and all the musical productions, focusing on musical theater.

 

 

SUPERSIZE SPANISHFLY: Have you ever had any formal music education?

 

Judy Torres:  I didn't have any formal musical education until I attended college:  Lehman College & Kingsborough Community College.  I was hungry to learn how to read music - I took music theory courses, chorus and finally got to study private voice for 2 1/2 years.  I studied opera and can say that to this day, it has helped my vocal stamina tremendously!

 

 

SUPERSIZE SPANISHFLY: Do you play any instruments?

 

Judy Torres: I studied piano for 2 years in college...but I've lost a lot of whatever skills I had acquired.  My voice is truly my instrument

 

 

SUPERSIZE SPANISHFLY: Were there any difficult challenges you faced concerning being a bbw and pursuing your career?

 

Judy Torres: The challenges I faced as a bbw came far before I began pursuing my career:  trying to find flattering clothes, feeling occasionally isolated, etc.  When I began pursuing my career, I found the same challenges; however, they were magnified one hundred times over. 

 

I once had a manager who had a problem with my "size."  Like I said, I HAD a manager like that! LOL. 

 

As I began singing professionally, the crowd would chant:  "go golda, go golda."  Sometimes I would leave the stage crying.  I couldn't understand how people could make fun of me while I was trying to entertain THEM.  One day after an outdoor show in Queens, a man was passing by, and he said, "Ooh, I like that!"  I thought, oh God, here we go, another stupid comment about my size."  He said to me, "You're chunky, but funky!"  At first I was offended, and then as I thought about it, I laughed.  Perhaps there was something to this; perhaps I was taking things too seriously.  I was booked to perform at the Palladium for the first time.  My parents were there, and it was an important night.  To my horror, the crowd began chanting:  Go golda!  That's it, I thought.

 

I asked for the dj to stop the music.  I addressed my audience:  "I look into the mirror everyday, and I know what I look like, it's no secret.  I know I'm not skinny.  But I have one thing to say:  I may be chunky, but I'm funky!"  They roared and applauded, and that was the last time they ever made fun of me.  That was the lesson:  People will accept you, when you accept yourself.  And that is the truth!

 

 

 

SUPERSIZE SPANISHFLY: Tell us about your personality on and off stage?

 

JUDY TORRES:  My personality is pretty much what you see on stage:  I want to create intimate and honest relationships with people.  I am outgoing, sociable, creative, spiritual, and compassionate. I am sensitive, and can be stubborn at times, but all these are why I am who I am today!

 

 

 

SUPERSIZE SPANISHFLY: What do you want to accomplish, what are your dreams?

 

JUDY TORRES:  I dream of crossing over into pop.  Career-wise, I dream of winning a Grammy award. On a personal note, I dream of owning a dream home, somewhere in a forest, with horses.  I want to be married, have a child or two.  Ultimately, I would love to have a performance school that would provide young people voice lessons & workshops that would help them love themselves and create their dreams!  I especially want to know that there is a cure for multiple sclerosis, which I was diagnosed with in 2005. 

 

 

SUPERSIZE SPANISHFLY: Have you had any collaboration and if so who were they?

 

JUDY TORRES:  I have collaborated with two artists previously:  Artie Rodriguez:  Man With a Dream and Collage:  The Air That I Breathe.

 

 

 

SUPERSIZE SPANISHFLY: Who do you admire in the Music field?

 

JUDY TORRES:  I admire those in the music field who have persevered and never accept being told "no."  I especially admire:  Lisa-Lisa, TKA, Liza Minnelli, and Linda Eder.

 

 

SUPERSIZE SPANISHFLY: Tell us which of your songs is your own favorite?

 

JUDY TORRES: My favorite song among those I've recorded is probably Come Into My Arms, because I had to fight to get it.  My producer at the time, Mickey Garcia, had written it for someone else, and I BEGGED him to give me a shot.  It was only half way written, so I completed it, and then auditioned for it!

 

 

SUPERSIZE SPANISHFLY: Have you had any media appearances yet?

 

JUDY TORRES:  I have been on the Joe Franklin Show, the Richard Bey Show, Urban Latino, CBS, the local news.  I have also been featured in articles in the Daily News, Jersey Journal, Billboard Magazine and others.  I was also a plus size model for Ashley Stewart and for Hanes.

 

 

 

SUPERSIZE SPANISHFLY: What is the Feedback you have received from the BBW community?

 

JUDY TORRES:  From the BBW community I have felt lots of love and support.  I especially have received emails over the years from women asking me where I purchase my clothing.  Every once in a while women have told me that just seeing me on stage inspires them to go out and live their lives!  That's a wonderful feeling and it makes it all worth it!

 

 

SUPERSIZE SPANISHFLY: Tell us what BBW entertainer do you admire?

 

JUDY TORRES: When it comes to BBW entertainers, I love Aretha Franklin & Jennifer Hudson!  They both work what they have, and they do it with passion!

 

 

SUPERSIZE SPANISHFLY: If you could who would you like to team up with?

 

JUDY TORRES:  If I could sing with someone, I'd love to sing with Barbara Streisand...it would be the most thrilling, intimidating and educational experiences I could ever thing of.

 

 

 

SUPERSIZE SPANISHFLY: Do you ever attend or ever perform at any of the BBW Club's or Bashes?

 

JUDY TORRES:  I have performed at a few BBW bashes and had a great time!  It was wonderful to celebrate who you/we are!

 

 

 

SUPERSIZE SPANISHFLY: Do you consider yourself a Plus Sized Person?

 

JUDY TORRES:  In the last year, I have lost 62 pounds, I am now a size 14, but yes, I consider myself a plus sized woman.  I have been a size 16, 18, 20 and 22 for the majority of my life.  When I was diagnosed with ms and both of my parents were diagnosed with diabetes and high blood pressure, I realized that my health would have to be a priority.  Even now, that I have lost some of the weight (I still weigh over 200 lbs) - in my mind I am always plus size:  I have plus size dreams, a plus size life and plus size love!!!

 

 

SUPERSIZE SPANISHFLY:  Are you totally comfortable with being a bbw?

 

JUDY TORRES:  I can say my comfort level goes back & forth.  When I'm on stage, I forget that I'm plus sized, because I feel most comfortable on stage.  I think I'm only uncomfortable when I'm trying to sit on an airplane seat!  Otherwise, I could just kiss myself!  Ha, ha ha!

 

SUPERSIZE SPANISHFLY:  Are you single married or its complicated?

 

JUDY TORRES:  I am in a long-term relationship of almost five years.  I love him, he is my lobster (the reference is from a FRIENDS episode where Phoebe says that Ross is Rachel's lobster - soul mate)  It can be complicated because sometimes it's hard to see each other, but we decided a long time ago, we would communicate and make it happen. 

 

SUPERSIZE SPANISHFLY: What can our “LargeInCharge” readers do to help support your career?

 

JUDY TORRES: If you'd like to support my career, I don't ask for much:  tell me how you feel about my music, what you would like to see me do, and it wouldn't hurt to purchase my new song called I Don't.  Thank you!  Stay Chunky but Funky!!!   

 

SUPERSIZE SPANISHFLY: Do you have a Website?

 

JUDY TORRES:  My website address is www.judytorres.com

 

SUPERSIZE SPANISHFLY:  What message would you like to give to our readers about living as a

BBW?

 

JUDY TORRES: I would like to tell my fellow bbw readers this:  Be the best person you can be:  look good as best as you can, smile when others wish you would cry!  Believe in yourself, be your biggest fan.  When you feel love for yourself, that will vibrate to others and your being a bbw will be a plus for them!Show them who you are!

 

 

Thank you so much for this special interview Judy and continue to represent us as well as you do.

 

 

Check out Judy's Website

www.judytorres.com

 

Also check out Judy’s my space page

http://www.myspace.com/judytorresfans

 

* For more information about Multiple Sclerosis please visit

Multiple Sclerosis Association of America (MSAA)

@ http://www.msaa.com

Thank you for Reading The LargeInCharge Feature

Please send thoughts and comments to

articles@largeincharge.com

Cover Model of the Month

Ashley Brown

Interview with Ashley Bronx

LargeInCharge.com: What is your name?

Ashley Brown

LargeInCharge.com: Where are you from and what is your current Location?

I am from Columbia, Sc currently in Addison, Texas

LargeInCharge.com: Can you give us some information about yourself (Age, Height, Size, Nationality, Marital Status, Children, etc.)?

I am 25, 5'9, size 16, Black, Single, one son

LargeInCharge.com: Were you a big child, or did you gain weight later in life?

I was a small child and gained weight after the birth of my son

LargeInCharge.com: (If you gained weight later in life) what caused you to gain weight and how did you feel about it?

Having my son, I was really uncomfortable about it at first, but the support and love of my friends and family helped me to realize nothing about me has changed, and I look even better than before.

LargeInCharge.com: What made you decide to enter the LargeInCharge model search?

Because I feel so large and in charge...I have been trying to break into modeling for some time now and thought this would be a great way to start.

LargeInCharge.com: Did you find it a hard journey to be accepted for your size?

Not at all...my friends and family think I look great as a plus size women.

LargeInCharge.com: Do you find acceptance among your family and friends?

Everyday

LargeInCharge.com: What would you say inspires you most in life?

My son...I would do anything for him

LargeInCharge.com: What is your primary job?

Office Manager and Insurance Sales

LargeInCharge.com: How did you get into this line of work?

Kinda fell into it, the Office Manager job is temporary until I can start investing in Real Estate.

LargeInCharge.com: Do you find acceptance in the work force?

Yes

LargeInCharge.com: What changes do you believe should take place for Large People in the work force?

I think everything is what you make it...if you come off as a weak person then that's how you will be treated. I have always held my heads up high and at least acted like I knew what I was doing and I have always been respected.

LargeInCharge.com: What do you think about the fashion industry for big sized clothing?

I think there are some great clothing lines like Torrid and Ashley Stewarts to name a few, but for the most part I hate that the clothes are so homely. Why can't we wear sexy clothes (tasteful of course)

LargeInCharge.com: What do you wish to see change with the fashion industry?

I want plus size fashion to be high fashion also...I want to see a plus size model on the cover of Elle and I also want to see plus size Victoria's Secret models.. you have plus size clothes just not plus size models, what since does that make.

LargeInCharge.com: What changes do you think will happen if plus sized modeling for men and women were to expand?

I think more clothing lines will have a plus sizes

LargeInCharge.com: Tell us some of the places you buy your clothing from.

Lane Bryant, Ashley Stewarts, Torrid and department stores like Dillards and Macy's

LargeInCharge.com: Tell us one of your secret beauty tips.

Tummy control under wear...they really do work, you look less lumpy.

LargeInCharge.com: Give us some tips on how to have a successful Photo shoot. What should models be prepared for?

Make sure you are comfortable...I like to practice in front of a mirror to see what I can pull off and what I can't. Example: I am top heavy so I have found that leaning forward is not a good pose for me.

LargeInCharge.com: Look at Size acceptance five years ago... look at size acceptance now. What changes do you see?

I have to say it is accepted more now.

LargeInCharge.com: What changes do you think will happen five years from now with size acceptance?

I think there will be much more acceptance...I think the plus size modeling industry will boom in the next few years.

LargeInCharge.com: Tell us about your goals as far as modeling and other interests.

I would love to model for big name designers, and I plan on being a huge real estate investor. Let me tell it I plan to be the first plus size Victoria's Secret model

LargeInCharge.com: Can you tell us about an inspirational moment in you life that made you feel good about your size.

When I let the words I look fat come out of my mouth in front of my son and he said "mama you are beautiful to me."

LargeInCharge.com: Is there a person in your life that makes you keep going?

My son and my boyfriend....I want my son to have a good life and my boyfriend refuses to let me give up, he slaps me on the ass and tells me to suck it up.

LargeInCharge.com: What advice would you give to other people of size who want to model?

Why not...always remember those words..."Why Not"

LargeInCharge.com: What plus size figure do you admire?

Mia Tyler

LargeInCharge.com: Describe yourself with one word.

Determined

Thank you for Finding out more about our Cover Model

Please send thoughts and comments to

articles@largeincharge.com

Raqui's Spot

     Raqui the Owner and Founder of LargeInCharge Magazine.  This spot is dedicated to her thoughts, vents, and observations of Plus Sized Life.  Raqui's  "Tell it like it is" style of writing has brought hundreds to her blogs and thousands to LargeInCharge.com.  There is so much behind the woman who has brought this magazine into existence.  Being Internationally known as a wrestler lead the way to modeling for companies and being featured in magazines and documentaries from all over the world.  She has made a career out of her size and personality.

 

     For the past 4 years moving into Size Acceptance and Empowerment.  She is a woman who doesn't let things get to her.  Knock her down for the moment but she will rise up stronger and better.  Being a speaker on behalf of many subjects and counseling Plus Sized people online her grace and style has made people love her.   Raqui continues to set an example of a powerful woman who will bend the world to fit her, her way.

Raqui Appears on The Christina Show                   Raqui Appears on The Maury Show

Becoming a Plus Sized Model - Open your Door


     Many plus sized women today are suddenly realizing, and aspiring to become models.

 

No more super skinny models" they say,

 

     We want to see women who look like us on the cover of magazines.

 

"No more fetish porn only work" they scream.

 

     I want to be taken seriously, I want to be seen for all that I am and not used for adult entertainment only.  Reduced to being called a fetish and valued for what is between my legs.

    This is a touchy subject, because we are ready to be seen but society is not ready to see us. We are slowly working our way into magazines, TV and other areas of public life. But we are not showcased the same way the super slim models are. We do not have the same status.

     But Raqui some of you may say. Many more companies are looking at us and we have some very famous plus sized models. I agree and what is begingin to happen is amazing and history making. The plus sized models out now are opening up the doors, but the doors are not OPEN WIDE YET. Notice I say yet.

    The label Plus sized in modeling. Really annoys me because they women who are being used as plus sized models are average size. When I look at what they call a plus sized model what I see some tall women who are a bit thick. I don't see any fat rolls on them in the pictures. I don't see a chubby double chin or the beginnings of one. I don't see a belly. I don't see any of the signs of plus sized in them. They shoot pictures and airbrush them  to make them look as close to slim models as possible. When I look at the Plus Sized Models I don't see plus sized. We haven't broken through yet but it is only a matter of time.

     The biggest question on this subject I get is, How do I become a model? People, Men and Women included, we have to look at ourselves objectively, and see what you can do as a model. I had to do that and I found my niche and have expand it often through the years.

 

You can read my story at my site. www.Raqui.com

     This month I have 5 tips for those who want to be models and are trying to find there way. I hope this will help some of you expand your minds in the world of modeling.

REALITY - This is the hardest part, sitting back and really looking at yourself to see if you are model material, this can help you to determine which avenue to go for in the modeling industry. You may not fit the bill for one but work perfectly in another.

     A model is not just a pretty face, there has to be a fire in the eyes that reaches out to people through the picture. You have to be versatile in your look and being able to be photographed from many angles. Everyone has a signature pose which they believe is the best.  But every picture cannot look the same with the same pose. Learning to be versatile is important

     Understanding in the beginning you will not make much money. While you are building up your portfolio and getting experience under your belt, most of the time you will not be paid much, if at all. Companies and individuals will tell you what you will be paid.  If you see that they are not offering payment you should ask.  Many times when your work on small projects you have to balance getting paid verse the exposure you may receive from doing the project. At the very least your expenses should be taken care of if you have to travel.  You have to remember every project you do should run in theme with your modeling career.  If you are determined and continue to build up your resume and portfolio you will see that after some time being paid is not an issue.


WHAT YOU CAN DO - You cant sit back and wait until someone like you is out there already being showcased.  Or you can be that  person that paves the way. The more areas of modeling Plus Sized people get involved in, the more accepted we become. There are many types of modeling and if you cant fit in with one, you can try another.

If you cant model for a clothing company because you don't fit the type (I couldn't because I am to large for the clothes) Why not model for other avenues

•  Try modeling for photographers

• How about commercials

• Local departments stores or online stores

• Art students and Professional artists

• amateur photographer's who want to expand there portfolios

• Make up companies local and large

• Local newspapers and magazines

• Hair dressers

• Make up artist

• Online Magazines

• Online photo contests, and more.

     You will have to open your mind to see the many possibilities.  You may not fit the bill for one type of modeling but another avenue might be perfect for you.  If your photogenic and are willing to commit yourself to Opening your own doors. You can start your modeling career in more than one field.

LEARN THE SKILL - You want to be a model you have to have the skills, only super models and models who are part of certain projects receive the hair and make up treatment. You must be able to be on set, on time and be ready with clothing options, shoes, make up and hair in place. Unless you are modeling someone's clothing or their skill in hair or make up you must come ready. Always ask the project manager in advance what they are expecting.

This may take some time but if your serious about your craft you will dedicate yourself to the following:

• All over body skin care - not just your face

• Learning to apply your make up properly

• Learning to take care of and style your hair.

• Nail care of the Hands and Feet.

• Some exercise to keep the heart pumping.

• Having a variety of clothing and shoe options.

• Walking in high heels.

• Posing properly - No dead fish eyes. Dead fish eyes is a flat look with no recognition in the eyes. When you model many times you will begin to give a flat dead fish eyes look.

There are many books and magazines that can help you determine what is best for you. Of course trial, error and practice are always the way to go.

PRESENTATION - It is all in the presentation. Here is an example (from the Cosby show)

     Ok take your favorite food, Lets say it is a steak, it is cooked just perfect, you got everything ready, salad, potatoes, mushrooms if you like. Everything is cooked to perfection and it is smelling wonderful. They are about to serve you this marvelous meal.  And you see the chef take the garbage can lid off the garbage can, and put the steak right on it with the potatoes and salad and all the fixings and bring it to you and put it in front of you to eat.

Do you want to eat it? I don't think so.

     How you present yourself is quite the same. You think about how you are showcasing yourself, to the people, you want, to pick you to represent them. Are you presenting yourself in the best light or on a garbage can lid? Because that is what you do as a model, you are the face and body that represents, the company. or person, who you modeled for.

     Do not use pictures of yourself in your portfolio that have a cluttered background. No one wants to see what kind of lotion you have in your bedroom, in fact no one wants to see your bedroom. No one wants to see you standing in your hallway or sitting on your couch. That is not professional and if you present your self as a mediocre wanna be model. You will not be taken seriously.

BIG TIP: If you want to do photo shoots at home. Invest in a good digital camera with auto picture taking options, some lights you can buy them at home depot for 10-20 bucks, and a tripod. You can use a large piece of material, buy it by the yard at a fabric store. I suggest to buy a few different kinds. It should be as wide as possible and should cover the whole wall from the top of ceiling down to the floor and cover some of the floor where you stand (about 8 - 12 feet of material). You can reuse it over and over for different shoots and to cover things when your shooting your photos

    Networking with other models and people in the industry can help you get  to know more about what you should and shouldn't do. You will also collect many contacts and get advice from those who know the ropes.



TRADE TRADE TRADE - I know many of you are thinking, this is a lot of work, time, and effort and I might not get paid ever! I would have to invest a lot of money into pictures, comp cards, and a website to help advertise myself.

Yes it is true this is an investment this is not some fly by night thought.  It is a dedication.  Still there are many ways to cut costs and make a bit more affordable. It is called trading.

SKILL TRADE - Search on and off line for photographers amateur or professional, hair stylists and make up artists in your area. Trade skills with them. Let the make up artist do your make up, the hair stylist your hair and let the photographer take your photos. You should all chip in to cover the costs of the film and developing and share the pictures (Using a digital camera will cut out this expense) all of you can use them for your portfolios. Make sure to write a contract you all sign saying you all have rights to use the photos for your own purposes.

CLOTHING TRADE - Many times you can trade for clothing from smaller online clothing companies if you agree to model the clothing and send in your professional pictures for their website. You can model for up and coming designers for all sorts of occasions and ask to keep the clothing you model.

This will also work with independent jewelry companies, make up companies, Nail, Hand and Hair online companies or distributors.

The sky's the limit if there is a service or something you can trade, it can work out wonderful for you and them. All these jobs regardless if they are trading or not can be added to your work portfolio.

WHAT NOT TO TRADE - This is one area that you don't want to trade because you want the best quality. Design of your website, webpage, and comp card are essential.

COMP CARD - You need to have a comp card made. When you present yourself to companies or people you should have a printed comp card with your resume and you should have a comp card you can send via email.

A comp card is a designed card (either a 4x6 or 8x10) featuring your modeling pictures. You will also have your contact information, measurements, age, race and other vital information on it.

Here is my comp card you can view as a sample:

 

Usually this cost is $75.00 to 150.00 dollars. You can try to find an up and coming designer though your comp card may not have the flair a professional can create. It also must be rendered properly for printing and sized accordingly for distribution over the web.

WEBSITE - Weather you have a webpage anywhere on the net. (IE. myspace, photo sites, yahoo, blackplanet, etc.) nothing will represent you like your own dedicated website that is updated with as much information as you want. Having your own email account through your server is the professional way to go.

You can view my site as an example (it is due for reconstruction soon) www.Raqui.com

Showcasing you and your work is an important step for all people in the industry. This makes you viewable and searchable on the internet and shows your experience. Many people have websites that are hard to navigate and are not compelling the person who visits to stay. Sites that are annoying and cumbersome will not make people want to stay and read about you. Never the less visit regularly for updates and information. You are selling yourself and your site should drawn people into you and want to stay.

Usually the cost for a website starts at 1,000.00 and up. Yes that is a big investment which is why so many people try to do one themselves but only a real designer can make a site that draws people in.

HOW DO I GET HELP - I am dedicated to helping those who are up and coming and want to take the right steps to presenting themselves properly. If your ready to take the step to getting your comp card and website done I will personally work on your site with my top designer and get you a super discounted price on all your design, printing, and online needs.

We can give you the below prices:

Comp Card design: $50.00 - $75.00
Website design: Basic design starting at 250.00 - 350.00 including hosting and domain
Printing for all your needs
Email for quotes or price list

Shoot me an email for price lists: webmaster@raqui.com

I hope you got some good information here and I wish you the best on discovering your potential.

Raqui

Contemporary Art Video "DOUGH" Staring "Raqui" is being shown @ The Guggenheim

NOW SHOWING @ The Guggenheim Museum in NYC. "DOUGH" Contemporary Art Video Staring Super Sized Model, Wrestler, Size Activist, "Raqui"

For more information and pictures  go to www.raqui.com

Raqui's Cool Links

www.raqui.com

Raqui's Blog-Spot Page 

Raqui's My Space Page

Raqui's Yahoo 360 Page

Raqui's BBWVibe Page

Thank you for Reading Raqui's Spot

Please send thoughts and comments to

articles@largeincharge.com

Super Sized Sounds

with

Lynx

     Super Sized Sounds will be a Music Column that will feature those who are in the industry or up and coming who are size positive. Giving recognition to the plus sized people who are out there and showcasing themselves.  Reviews, Interview, News and more from our new writer Super Sized Spanishfly Lynx.

 

      Lynx Garcia, also known as "SUPERSIZE SPANISHFLY", is a Latina BBW from Queens NYC.  Lynx is an activist speaking out against size discrimination and began performing back in 1996 at social events for big beautiful women and big handsome males and their admirers. Her special mixture of sound held true as she sang, spat, danced and performed spoken word, soon she was in demand by Big and Beautiful parties nationwide.  Lynx taking her "look" and sound mainstream was rejected because of her size. She did not let this break her spirit, hurt her confidence or minimize her drive. Instead she rose up and started a public access show (LYNX' LAIR) aired in Queens on TIME WARNER QPTV . Combination of comedy and sexy style, she showcased underground artists of all walks of life. The response to her show was PHENOMENAL....in less than a year she has showcased many artist, some who moved to bigger and better things.

 

     Currently Lynx has caught the attention of Joey Mekkah of BLACK SOLARIS ENTERTAINMENT and found herself on the Grandmaster MELLE MEL's SOLO ALBUM "MUSCLES" featured on the hot latin hip-hop track called 'DIMELO", she is the only collaboration on the album. Lynx recently has started her own radio show on EXTRAVAGANGSTARADIO.COM  called Ladies Night. EXTRAVAGANGSTARADIO is #1 on the itunes network.

 

     WANT TO SUBMIT YOUR VOICE FOR REVIEW? See Below

Artist of the Month

 

     My people, mi gente...I would like to thank all of you for checking out my review. I do what I love and I love what I do ,whether it’s writing music reviews for largeincharge or hosting my ladies night show on www.extravagngstaradio.com I enjoy coming across and embracing all kinds of people from all walks of life and having them embrace me.

     This month I give you two very different types of artists...one from the wild side with a gritty in your face kind of attitude with tremendous heart and one very calm come correct righteous artist with a romantic street savvy soul. One is a female and one is a male. Can you guess which the wild child is and which is the gentle soul?

     Allow me to introduce to you this month’s featured artists who are supporters of bbw’s and bhm’s..

Jah Jah and Kyle Rifkin  

JAH JAH

Album: The Attack

Genre: Hip-Hop/Reggae/Pop/Rock/Club

Jah Jah has been on the underground music scene for many years now and The Attack is her third album. Jah Jah’s claims of top rap artists such as Fifty Cent and Fergie stealing lyrics and ideas from some of her songs has caused quite a commotion on the internet.

Jah Jah is outspoken and not afraid to fight for what she believes is right. And looks like there’s plenty of fight in this tiny little blond headed Diva, she even came face to face with a 90lb pit-bull who chewed off a chunk of her leg. She may have even bit him back!

 Brooklyn’s own crazy wild in you face child, an unlikely Diva, sexy with a hint of grit and grime not the dirrrty kind but the kind you get from grinding and traveling the world and being attacked. Don’t sleep on this tiny white female… She attacks back!! Beware and definitely don’t cross her lyrical path for she will RRRip you down with a vengeance and and draw you in her web of highs and lows and her music will take you there. With some crazy European beats courtesy of Quickmix and Reggae/Rock influence and plenty of Hip-Hop flavor this album will have you bumping it up. Her hooks are Oh so catchy and her delivery is intense. Jah Jah has performed all over the world Paris, Brasil and at local clubs here in New York.

So my people, mi gente...

“Don’t Beat Around the Bush” go ahead and fulfill the desire to respond to her directness in “Do You Think I’m Sexy?” but whatever you do don’t be a “Copycat” (feat. Quickmix) or you will be forced to “Change Lanes” or Jah Jah will “Pop that” because if you want a “Senora” you just might find a “Gangsta Bitch” who will “Kiss Kiss”   like a “Pimptress” should in a “Play Pen” with a “Hot Boy” or a “Gangsta Gangsta” as long as he got “More Cheeba” for this “Crooklyn Queen”.

Oh yeah...it’s a hot ghetto mess and you will love it.

This album is available for purchase through her myspace page at

www.myspace.com/mcjahjah

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

KYLE RIFKIN

Album: Hell Up In Harlem

Genre: Hip-Hop/R&B

Kyle Rifkin has been in the music game for almost twenty years. You may recognize Kyle’s voice from some of Hip-Hops most memorable songs like Rob Base’s “Joy and Pain” and he has also worked alongside some of the biggest names in Hip-Hop and R&B such as Run DMC, New Edition, Mase, Camron , Smokey Robinson, Ice T to name a few.  When you meet Kyle Rifkin you automatically get the feeling that you are talking to your best friend or brother. He is humble, soft spoken and kind.

Despite his hectic schedule Kyle manages to dedicate time to various causes and charities.

He has tremendous stage presence and his voice is remarkably soulful and strikingly similar to some of the greatest R&B singers of our time.

Hell up In Harlem is a mixture of street savvy suffering and constant struggle to maintain a name in this game. He tells his story with raw edginess and manages to draw you in with his relevant lyrics. This hip-hop infused album will take you through his life’s ups and downs and we all love a good story, one of hard work, determination and perseverance. Songs of substance and songs of celebration and of love and loss will surely make an impressive addition to your collection and you will be sure to find a favorite track with producers such as Omen and DJ King Assassin, DJ Voodoo and Dark Child.

Bueno my people, if you want to know how hell came up in Harlem you have to be willing to “Raise It Up” (feat. Rob Base) and “Keep Talking” (Feat Reed Dollarz) in order to “Change The Game”, we need to indulge in “Ghetto Reflections” and go back to “Another Tyme” when songs like “When You Touch Me” made you reminisce about “The Best Days” you already know “What It Is” to stay connected to your streets even when you are “Far Away From Home”. It is a humble man’s story that you will want to hear over and over again.

Album is available for purchase at http://www.billboard.com/bbcom/discography/index.jsp?pid=772633&aid=952252

Also check out Kyle’s myspace page at www.myspace.com/officialkylerifkinfans

Kyle knows all to well the difficulties new artists face with obtaining a venue where their music can be heard the following is a petition that was written by Kyle.

This movement is to make radio stations play ONLY! New artist 2hours a month to allow new artist a fare chance for radio plays. NATIONAL ARTIST 4 FARE RADIO PLAY IS A COMPANY THAT SUPPORTS THE FARE MUSIC PLAY TO NEW ARTIST AND HOW NEW ARTIST WORK SO HARD TO REACH THERE GOAL ONLY TO BE CUT SHORT BUY UNFARE RADIO POLITICS. JUST ABOUT EVERY RADIO STATION HAS THE LISTENER THINKING WE HAVE NO SAY SO OVER WHAT WE HEAR BUT THAT IS A LIE WE CONTROL WHAT RADIO PLAYS AND WE WILL SHOW THEM NOW!!! The NATIONAL ARTIST 4 FARE RADIOPLAY Petition to U.S Congress was created by Myspace Member and written by KYLE RIFKIN (kylerifkin@yahoo.com). PLEASE CLICK LINK BELOW TO SIGN PETITION

http://www.petitiononline.com/RIFKIN/petition.html

You must be a Size Positive Artist, or a Plus Sized Supporter.

Thanks for reading

Super Sized Sounds with Lynx

articles@largeincharge.com

Lynx Cool Links

www.myspace.com/supersizespanishfly

www.myspace.com/somemorelynx

www.Extravagangstaradio.com

From the Plus Side

with

Emily Smiltneck

     From the Plus side will be column dedicated to short stories that deal with all aspects of Plus size Life.  Emily Smiltneck was chosen for this position because of her dedication, and realistic writing style. She captures the emotional and mental rollercoaster those who are Plus Sized go through.

 

     Emily Susanne Smiltneck lives in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan (pretty much dead center in the middle of nowhere). She is a substitute teacher, and has recently started a tutoring business. Emily is currently working on several writing projects, including a historical fiction novel and several collections of poetry.

The Cool Night

    

“Well, of course I don’t want you to be gone an extra day.  I miss you.  The kids miss you.  Yeah, I understand.  Not mad, just disappointed.  Love you, too.  Bye.”

 

            Lacie hung up the phone and fought back burning tears.  It seemed like all of his business trips lately had been extended for one reason or another.  Every phone call that started with “I’m sorry, baby, but—” sent pangs of self doubt through her.  He had never given her a reason not to trust him, though.  Not lately, anyway.  No man had hurt her in a very long time.  With effort, she hoisted herself from the chair in front of the phone.  On a whim, she hurried into her bedroom, the bedroom in which she would once again be sleeping alone, and took a plastic bag from the back of the closet.  She situated herself on the bed and regarded the bag.  It was tied tightly shut, hadn’t been opened in years, but the memories it held were slowly drifting out.

 

*****

 

            “Whoa!  No, wait.  Stop.”

 

            She pulled her lips away from his and looked up at him, confused. 

 

            “I mean, you are definitely the coolest chick I know, a really great friend.  Otherwise I never would have asked you to come with me tonight.  I just don’t think that things can be like that with us.”

 

            In the ten, maybe twenty, seconds it took her to close her eyes, draw in a deep breath, and open her eyes again, it seemed like millions of thoughts filled her head.  The first ones (is he gay? committed to being a virgin? trying not to get too serious too fast?) had nothing to do with her own possible shortcomings. 

 

The next fast-moving, cloudy, dark thunderstorm of thoughts that converged on her dealt much more with his shortcomings than her own: Was he really just a jerk after he had seemed so close to perfect for so long?  Was he so insecure that he had to reject her to feel powerful?  Was he just playing with her emotions? 

 

Finally came the darkest, deepest fears of all: Had she chosen the wrong prom dress?  Was her makeup not right?  Was she not thin enough, not beautiful enough, or popular enough, or prom-queen enough, for him?

 

            She swallowed her anger, her sadness, her insecurities, and carefully, guardedly, met his gaze. 

 

            “You don’t think things should be like what with us?”

 

            “Like more than friends.  I mean, it’s not—we’re buds.  Pals.  Things are good the way they are.”

 

            “I see.  Fair enough.  You wanna take me home?”

 

            “Home, already?”

 

            “Yeah.  You pretty much just brutally rejected me.  How did you think I would feel?”  Her eyes darted around his bedroom, searching for the place in which she had discarded her sweater.  This had always been a place where she felt safe before, not to mention the place in which she had always thought she would make, for the first time, to a man she really did love.  A few tears blurred her vision then, but when she faced him her dark eyes were flashing and she was smiling.

 

            “Just a test, anyway, really.  Wanted to see if you got into the spiked punch or not.  Guess not.”  Lacie laughed hollowly as she finally located her sweater.  She turned away from Jake and slid her arms into it.

 

            “Come on, babe.  Lacie, I didn’t mean—”

 

            “Yeah, I know exactly what you meant.  I just need to go home.  I need some time to myself.”

 

            At home, Lacie slipped silently into the house.  She didn’t want her parents to hear her and come ask all kinds of questions.  She didn’t feel like trying to come up with some stupid excuse for being home so early.  It didn’t matter, anyway, though.  Her parents were sitting side by side on the couch, holding hands and totally engrossed in whatever they were watching on TV.  It was easy enough for Lacie to go unnoticed.

 

            When she had safely closed her bedroom door behind her, she slipped her sweater over her shoulders and let it drop to the floor.  She fell back onto her bed and wondered how things had gone so horribly wrong.  The tears swam back into her field of vision.  This time, she let them fall.

 

            It was supposed to be the perfect, fairy tale night.  The night which held the very best moments of her high school years.  For months now, she and Jake had been seeing each other almost every day.  Nothing romantic, but you could feel the edges of romance dancing around them.  Lacie had wanted more than friendship right from the beginning, but she had been careful about it.  She usually had no trouble getting dates, seducing guys.  High school boys were easy.  All they thought about was sex, and if you were willing to give it to them, they would do anything for you, no matter who you were.

 

*****

 

            Lacie set the plastic bag aside, got up from her bed, and undressed.  She pulled on a robe and then went to open the window.  The May air rushed in around her, soothing her just a little.  Being all alone, her children sleeping and her husband away for so long, remembering—it was a melancholy sort of night.  Funny how the memories could still hurt after so long.  Some things, a girl just doesn’t forget.  The first time Lacie had seen Jake, for instance.  It was all still there.

 

*****

 

            He had appeared in her 11^th grade creative writing class toward the beginning of the year, a new student, very intellectual looking.  The kind of guy Lacie always noticed.  The kind of guy who never seemed to exist in such a small town, so far away from universities and any kind of sophistication.  But there he was.  His poetry blew her away.  His words, and the deep, smooth, jazzy voice that spread them through the room, were the most striking, beautiful, haunting things she had ever experienced.  By the end of that class period, Lacie was sure she couldn’t live without him in her life.

 

            So, when the teacher divided the class into pairs for their final project, Lacie had a quick after-class conference with her.  Lacie was one of the good kids, one of the smart ones, the student every teacher wanted in every class.  So as always, Lacie got her way.  She and Jake were a pair, at least in creative writing class.

 

            Lacie was pretty sure her little maneuver had broken poor Joey Madden’s heart.  Well, not his heart, because it wasn’t his heart he had given her.  It was his virginity, something that she knew was rarely tied to matters of the heart in high school boys.  That didn’t bother her too much.  She liked Joey well enough, but she was smart enough to know that it wasn’t she he loved; it was merely the very feminine attention she gave to the most masculine of his parts.  He would get over it, she knew, and in the meantime, she and Jake could produce an absolute masterpiece and maybe fall in love in the process.  That was her plan, her hope, her dream.