BKS1 Radio Network

Special Guest: Tenin Baba Ndanani

Tenin Baba Ndanani - born in Harlem, NY (to a gospel-singing mother and Nigerian father) and raised in Plainfield, NJ - is a rising star of her generation!

With a powerful voice, talent for producing inspiring music, fierce "do it yourself" business savvy and undeniable gift for connecting with people, Tenin boldly delivers messages of hope and empowerment as a dynamic multi-generational communicator.

Tenin's music and magnetic personality have been featured on FOX, TLC, Oxygen, NBC Universal, Amazon, Itunes, The Bitter End, PNC Arts Center and Live at Best Buy.

"Love it!" are the two words fans are using to describe new music from the inspirational R&B/Pop singer and songwriter. Tenin secluded herself in a NYC studio for three days with platinum-award winning Anthony “Rocky” Gallo to record 12 songs for her debut album. Written, arranged and performed by Tenin, the debut album shines with edgy girl power ballads and fun dance hits! With a whole lot of heart and a distinct hip hop swag, Tenin serves up positive messages of self-confidence and faith to substance-starved music lovers around the world.

Showcasing a master blend of R&B, Hip Hop, Pop, Gospel and Neo-Soul, the debut album is available everywhere now and provides a delightfully refreshing listening experience. Of its success, Tenin says "I am truly grateful to all the fans who support me. This album is a dream come true and I'm excited about the sound and message of it. I don’t keep a diary or journal. I write music to entertain and encourage us all."

Now since officially launching her recording career 24 months ago with the self-produced EP (including breakout hits “I Remember” and “More & More”), Tenin has performed nationwide and  parlayed her acting and vocal talents into television appearances on FOX , TLC and Oxygen networks.

Tenin has also graced the stages of PNC Arts Center, Best Buy, the Izod Center and NYC's historic Bitter End. For an artist with only a family owned and operated production company as support, such accomplishments speak to the keen business-savvy, unbridled ambition and pure entrepreneurial spirit of the team.

Tenin Baba Ndanani is one of the hottest up and coming stars!

Anthony Hamilton, born in Charlotte, North Carolina, was discovered at the age of 10 while singing in his church's choir.  Releasing his first studio composed album in 1996, Hamilton has been delivering music for over 15 years. After being introduced to the mainstream on the Grammy winning song by the Nappy Roots Po' Folks, Anthony has continued to deliver quality music to the masses. Back to Love is Hamilton's 7th album. Can he continue to deliver powerful soulful songs with a message that can be felt by all.

Read more of Anthony Hamilton's Bio Here

New Years Resolutions:

Is it really realistic to set New Years Resolutions? Do we set goals that are really obtainable? Do we shot for the stars with only a bottle rocket to get there? Tonight on Live In The Vocal Booth let talk about Resolutions and how to really fulfill our goals and setting realistic resolutions. How can we enlist other to help us obtain our goal? How many goals are too many Goals? Lets help set each other up for success in 2012. We want to know whats your goals and whats the craziest goals you have heard. Tonight rite here on Live In The Vocal Booth.

Tonight's Topic: Is Today's Workplace Legalized Slavery?

Is Today's Workplace a form of Legalized Slavery? With unemployment still at such a high rate today's employers seem to feel you should be grateful to have a job. Do you walk on eggshells wondering is today my last day? Are you asked to work longer hours with no regards to your family or personal life? Do they also ask you to do so without getting paid at times? Even with the current state of the employment market, we need to know we have right's as employees. If your employer is like a slave master you need to know you have rights. Let's talk about what you can do to get off of the "Plantation", on Bks1radio.com.  Call in 646-233-1302 or become a chat rebel. Join the BKS1 Radio experience!

Special Guest: Singer/Song Writer Tiffany Monique

Joining the live in the vocal booth show tonight is the very talented Singer and Song writer Tiffany Monique.  Who better to describe Tiffany than the Legendary Beyonce, with whom she has toured the world with and performed countless times:

"Tiffany's voice has effortless strength, sass, seduction, and heart with a tone that puts you at ease. I am very lucky to have worked with her for many years and I am proud that she now has such a wonderful piece of work to share with the world."

-Beyoncé

Best known to the general public for being one-third of Beyoncé’s background singers – famously known as “The Mamas”– vocalist/songwriter Tiffany Moníque stepped out of the shadows as a solo recording artist with her debut EP, Nemesis,  in 2010. The five-track gem not only highlighted Tiffany’s stylistic diversity, but solidified her place as a superstar on the rise. In less than two years since the launch of her debut, Tiffany Moníque has amassed an impressive international fan base of thousands, including none other than her former boss, Beyoncé:

"Tiffany's voice has effortless strength, sass, seduction, and heart with a tone that puts you at ease," said Beyoncé. "I am very lucky to have worked with her for many years and I am proud that she now has such a wonderful piece of work to share with the world."

A native of Nashville, Tennessee, Tiffany’s mom moved the family to Newark, New Jersey in 1983.  At the age of three, Tiffany became actively involved in church and began to lay the foundation of her musical career through the church choir. “I went with my grandmother every Sunday and was involved in every ministry,” she pleasantly recalls. By the time she was in high school, Tiffany was a director in the church’s music ministry. While she knew well the songs in her hymnbook, Tiffany also found joy listening to seasoned soul singers on the radio. Listening to artists like Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin, Donny Hathaway, Whitney Houston, Vesta and Chaka Khan, for whom her Aunt Beverly once sang backgrounds, Tiffany was inspired.

Read More About Tiffany Monique at www.tiffanymonique.com

I was born July 22 1980 in Elizabeth NJ, I am the 3rd oldest out of seven siblings, I have 3 younger brothers 1 younger sister and 2 older sisters. Growing up with so many brothers and sisters in a two bedroom apt was sometimes challenging but most times we were able to make the best of it and ultimately had a lot of fun with each other and made a lot of great memories. I have always loved music, of course growing up in the church I love gospel music but more than anything i have always loved old time classical music, soulful music like Billie Holiday and Etta James. I started singing when I was 9, maybe before then but only remember someone telling me i was any good when i was around 9 and just loved it even more since then. I would always annoy my brothers and sisters because i would always be singing, making up stupid songs around the house and humming constantly, i remember them telling me to shut up!

I never took singing seriously on a professional level, i honestly thought that my talent was small not to be recognized, only good to occasionally sing in church, around the house, or for family and friends. It wasn't until I turned 26 and my younger brother came to me and asked me why I wasn't even trying, he himself who happens to be a great singer said to me you have to at least try. That for me seemed to be the boost of confidence that I needed, so since then I have auditioned for American Idol twice, I have also auditioned for The Voice and have been fortunate to participate in local talent shows that have allowed me to express my love for music and singing. I don't have much experience in the Entertainment industry or should I say any at all, but what I do know is that music comes from my heart and thats only place I know to sing from.

A. Lyric is a multi-talented artist born and raised in The Bronx. This singer, songwriter, actor and poets work accepts, challenges & recreates the boundaries of love. Her recently released 1st album entitled 'A. Lyric, Your Ears Will Thank You Later' fuses Soul, R&B, Blues, Funk and a splash of Hip Hop to create a bold, vocally soothing, lyrically provocative sound. A. Lyric has appeared on African Vibes Radio 101.5FM, Legends Radio, BKS1radio.com and Bronxnet's Open (Artist Spotlight) with Rhina Valentin.

An active performer on the poetry scene, A. Lyric published her first poetry chapbook 'Love In All Its Shades, not your grandmother's LOVE poems' in 2011. She has featured all over the N.Y.C including; The Inspired Word, The Bronx Stories Series, Brooklyn Historical Society Bridgeing the Gap Series, The National Black Writers Conference Poetry Cafe & World Famous Nuyorican Poets Cafe. She's also appeared as a guest lecturer/performer @ Stony Brook University. Her acting credits include; I Lost My Heart In Haiti, The Blues According to Langston Hughes, Barn Razing, A Season in The Congo, The Vagina Monologues & Manhattan Plaza Suite.

Ebony “Onassis” Baker Mars was born on February 3rd 1992 in Elizabeth, NJ She is the middle child of four siblings. At the young age of three family and friends learned that Ebony was blessed with a silly and bubbly personality. Onassis grew up in a music oriented home, where both her father and her sister were performers. She easily learned songs knowing lyrics word by word without hesitation. At the tender of twelve Onassis performed in front of thousands at the famous Apollo Theater. She had been encouraged by her fathers motivating words, “Apollo will either make or break you!" The Apollo made her. She went on to sing at The Ritz Theater, as an opening act for rap star, "Lil Kim." Onassis has performed on several stages in New York City, such as: The Soul Shack, Iguanna and The Soul Cafe just to name a few. Onassis received vocal training at Cari Cole, one the best vocal schools in New York City. She has also received artist development from individuals who have industry experience.

Onassis is currently focused on building her brand, and making a name for herself. She spends her days and nights writing and recording for projects that she knows will one day climb the Billboard charts. When asked what she wants to accomplish her face brightens with excitement, as she answers with confidence; "I want to be an inspiration to all females...”!

Bri Luv was born April 21st 1990. She found her love for music at a very young age and started to mold her voice since the age of 7. She began singing in choirs, local events, numerous school and church events in and around her community. Bri Luv had won a $500 scholarship through her middle school so early in her career and was determined to use that money to invest into something productive to her musical growth. High school she had won several musical awards for Teen Arts choirs and Show Choirs, solos and ensemble for certain plays.

In April 2008 Bri Luv made a very special contact with the powerhouse team at Best Kept Secrets in Plainfield,NJ and performed at Capital Hill, Washington D.C for the very first female bust unveiling for Soujourner Truth. More recently Bri Luv has released to the world her very 1st written and recorded single "Bigger & Better Things". Also she has collabed with local Newark artists such as Kihla Kay,Big Lyric, & R.A.P Phenomal from 106 & Park Freestyle Fridays. She is currently working on some projects to push her career in the right direction so she can spread love and joy to all she encounters, through the same happiness music provides to her.

Tonight on the Live In The Vocal Booth team reviews Eddie Levert new release I Still Have It. Eddie Levert is a legendary figure in the music industry, from being the lead singer in the O'Jays and father of the late Gerald Levert and Sean Levert, as well as Eddie Levert Jr.. Lets see if Eddie Levert can continue to deliver the music that he has been known to deliver.

Read More Eddie Levert Bio: www.allmusic.com/artist/eddie-levert-p98018/biography

Tonight's Topic: Why is Life So Hard?

"In each life, some rain must fall".  These famous lyrics ring true for us all.  Although we know we will always experience ups and downs on our journeys, we don't question much while enjoying the "mountain top" experiences.  However, when those "valley" ordeals surface, there is one simple question that's not so easy to answer..."Why is life so hard?"

What gets you down in the dumps?  What steals your joy?  Tonight, let's peel back the layers of this complex topic.  With all that's happening in the world, most of us are dealing with some stressful and dark realities.  Let's have an open and honest discussion tonight that may help those who are struggling with life.  Why is life so hard?  The answer may not be as hard as you think.

Keep it locked, tonight, on "Live in the Vocal Booth".

Topic: Forever Single-Some People Aren't Meant To Be Married!

You have so many Bridesmaid dresses that you can start your own boutique.  Tired of being a Bridesmaid or the Groomsman catching the garter belt? That clock is ticking, everyone has done it once, twice or Hell third time is the charm and you haven't gotten there once!

Why? You wonder to yourself "am I marriage material" what is it about me that has me wondering if I will ever make it down that isle and have my King or Queen standing next to me....my forever, or will I forever just be a guest on the Wedding Roster?

Special Musical Guest: Debra Church

Debra Church, a talented singer and songwriter, is known for her soulful voice when performing in music lounges like Ashford & Simpson's "Sugar Bar" and "The Village Underground” in New York City. Born and raised in Alabama, Debra has been singing since a very young age and enjoys bringing out the powerful soul of her southern roots when she performs.  She enjoys hosting youth-inspired events whereby she merges her musical talent with the goal of educating youth on various topics going in their community and in the world.

Debra is a joint partner of Master Plan Productions with talented music producer Darin "PianoMan" Whittington. Darin has produced hits for Mary J. Blige, Toni Braxton,  Britney Spears, and more. Together, they teamed up to collaborate on various musical projects and create great music to perform as well as pitch to major artists. In 2011, Debra made an appearance on the national radio syndicated talk show (1190 WLIB in Harlem, NY) "Keeping It Real" with the Rev. Al Sharpton, where she performed a tribute song about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Debra currently teaches vocal students at a private school in NY and she continues to write, record, promote, and perform her R&B soul/pop music for people all over the world.

Special Guest: Author Julie Ojeda Nin

Author Julie Ojeda Nin is here to talk about her book series Friends 'Til The End.

Topic: I REALLY DIDN'T MEAN TO SAY THAT - MOVING PAST AN ARGUMENT

There are always 2 sides to every argument. Even the strongest relationships fall victim to a bad arguments and verbal wars. Have you ever said something to your significant other you wish you didn’t say because you know you don’t mean it but wanted to be on top in the argument. Sometimes it’s hard to recover from a terrible argument especially if the other party is not as forgiving as you.  How can you fix it or is it meant to be fix. Some even use an argument as a means to get out of a relationship. Let’s Talk About It.

Special Guest Host: Eye Candy Model Tana Allure

Brooklyn born Puerto Rican / Peruvian model sensation, Tana Allure hit the scene two years ago in 2009 by storm. Elite Promotions and Marketing also known as (E.P.E.M INC) was the start of it all when she was working as the Director of Promotions. The C.E.O of E.P.E.M Inc (Sheana Stokes) decided she wanted to do a photo-shoot of all staff for the site. Desi Adorn was the contracted photographer and since then has been managing and mentoring Tana Allure. Since 2009, she has graced the covers of Dream Magazine, HipHopWorld Magazine, Stiletto Talk Magazine and SoFine Magazine.

She has been in several music videos such as: guest starred in Nivlas "Reconsider" video directed by Vid Arroyo, main girl in Produk's "Bad Guy" video directed by Jynx Million, Don Omars "Hasta Abajo", Cam'ron & Vado "Hey Muma", J&S "Put Your Cape On" and more. She has hosted events for Vodkilla Liquor, Stiletto Talk Magazine, Archer Car Wash, G&G Wheels, and more. As well as co-hosted in radio talk shows such as Nite Line Radio hosted by Untouchables Entertainment group, In The Mixx Radio hosted by Soul Exchange and BKS1 Radio. She has walked the runway for N8KD clothing line, Dean John's fashion show, Yves Solution and was a model for Diamond Face Clothing line. Tana also showcases her freestyle choreography moves and did a 3 song live dance performance with upcoming reggaeton artist, Yoneiry at the Sky Marina Yacht in New York City.

Read More Tana Allure Bio: www.tanaallure.com

Special Musical Guest: Neicee White

Fresh off her performance at Union County Concert in the park where she shared the same stage as Grammy Award winning Howard Hewett and the Legendary Alicia Myers, Neicee White joins the Grown Sexy Situation team to showcase her amazing voice and talent.