I came to the Toledo Free Press as a Star contributor along with
Lil D. I remember meeting with Mike Miller and after his honesty about the need
for urban music, specifically from Toledo to be represented, I knew I had found
a home. His love for real Hip-Hop was impressive and I loved remembering
the passion music once played in street culture. Major newspapers in Toledo
fail the urban community and seemingly save our contributions for the crime
blotter sections. It has been therapeutic and nostalgic being able to write
over 100 articles about the culture I grew up in during its most transitional
phase.
I have received priceless feedback from artists that could never imagine
gaining a mention in a paper as reputable across the city as the Toledo Free
Press. The dedication to finding talent to represent in article and musical CD
form has touched the hearts of many in the community. I have learned that with
this privileged power comes great responsibility. I started out writing mainly
about artists, but it was my “How to” articles on imagery and the
music business that garnered attention. Those articles have led to speaking
engagements from schools in Toledo to Detroit, MI. Helping aspiring artists/musicians
has been the greatest reward as a writer for the Toledo Free Press. Gaining a
broader audience beyond my radio listenership has allowed me to inform readers
of all backgrounds about urban music in their city.
One of my most memorable articles would have to be my interview with the
legendary Young MC. His business sense was phenomenal and I only wish I could
have written more about his advice on staying paid in the music business. The
main message in every article has been about teaching artists what it takes to
make it and to show them that they can achieve greatness. There is urban talent
from this city receiving award nominations like R&B singer Lyfe Jennings
and Grammy nominated producer Tubb Young. There have been many great artists
and interviews over the last 5 years and I challenge myself with articles that
cover entertainment beyond music artists such as my article with Christian Aziz
Bishop, a photographer from Toledo who resides in Atlanta and is “kind
of a big deal” in the entertainment industry, who knew? Locally, in my
opinion, every artist I have written about is a major musical standout.
Inspiring stories from artists like B.Wills, Falease Sophae, IndiSoul REY,
Chris Shutters, Blaq Smurph, Jameil Aossey, Krystal Monique, Clemmye B and
Tatiana Owens are just a few artists that represent the range of Toledo talent
gone worldwide. In terms of popularity, “My Favorite Things” gift
recommendations for music lovers during the holiday season is always fun to
write. The responsibility of seeking out quality performers with above average
content can be challenging but I owe it to my readers to be honest about the
music.
Happy 10th Birthday and Thank you Toledo Free Press! It has been
a privilege and an honor to serve the community in an informative way and I
will continue to do so as long as you will have me.
As we continue on…
