BKS1 Radio Network

Artist Review: Alicia Keys

Alicia Keys’ artistic light is so bright it could illuminate a pitch-black room. A true musical prodigy whose multi-dimensional gifts emerged at age five, the beautiful Alicia will soon take modern R&B soul to a whole new level at the tender age of nineteen.

Born aware of her old soul yet living in New York’s inner city amidst the dominance of Biggie and Jay Z, Alicia’s natural talents blossomed into a rare mix of hip-hop flavor and insightful, wise-beyond-her-years songwriting. Coupling this with the singer’s spine-tingling vocal power, positively stirring live performances and expertise as a classically trained pianist, Alicia Keys could be this generation’s Roberta Flack.

Highly sought-after by record labels that held good, old-fashioned bidding wars in her honor, Alicia signed to Arista Records in 1998. There, in the spirit of a genius like D’Angelo or Prince, she continued the process of writing, producing and recording the debut she’d begun penning at age 14.

In late 1999, Alicia followed Clive Davis to his new J Records where she continues to chart her arrival to the music world. Creations now rising out of the studio show signs of both a critical and commercial monster - a deep, melodic, soulful gem of an album that showcases Alicia in all her universal glory. Though most of the album- including the luminous "Fallin'" and the moving "Troubles" - was written and produced by Alicia Keys, the artist collaborates with Jermaine Dupri on "Girlfriend" and with Isaac Hayes on "Rock Wit U" from the Shaft soundtrack. Her debut album, Songs in A Minor, is set for release on J Records in late June.

Born and raised in Manhattan, the stunning, bi-racial Alicia Keys recognizes a number of influences including her ultra-supportive mother who told her "You can quit anything else but you can never give up on your piano lessons." Alicia also sites a teacher at the Professional Performance Arts School in Manhattan who, while she was majoring in Choir, gave her valuable instruction on her voice. "This teacher spent so much time with me, she became the closest thing to vocal training I received," Alicia recalls.

Read more Alicia Keys Bio: www.sing365.com/aliciakeys

Tonight’s Topic: "IT TAKES 2 TO TANGO, BUT WHAT IF.....1 DOESN'T WANT TO DANCE?"

You think all is well, come home from work and your spouse says they want a divorce. How do you handle it? What do you do? What about the kids? What happened to "for better or worse" What do you do if you are the spouse that still is in love like you were the first time you met your better half? It's so easy to fall out of love but to have it leave you isn't so easy.

Tonight the Vocal Booth team tackles the topic of divorce from the person who never saw it coming, also we have in studio the actors and actresses of the independent film "NO SURRENDER" Join us in the chat or call in at 646 233 1302 to share your feeling about divorce or share your story whether good or bad tonight at 10 pm est LIVE IN THE VOCAL BOOTH!

Special Guests: Cast of Independent Film No Surrender

This is a story about a man(Jay) and his wife (Simone)and how even before they got married there were signs of a selfish mentally, but blinded by their love they proceeded to get married and hopes things would change, but as time went on things got worse. Consulting with their family and friends every time a situation occurs didn’t make things any better. Jay best friend is (Terrance aka T) and Simone best friend is her (mother) struggling the first couple of years of marriage they realize they had to make a change and with them having no real example of how a happy marriage looked.

They took it upon themselves to find a church home that would help them replenish there marriage! Finally after hopping from one church to another they found a church they both agree on, now the journey really starts as they are being taught how to love, respect, honor one another like never before.

Check out the movie trailer:

Ciarah Hayes

Kashanie Lagrotta

This is Kashanie's first future film. She hopes the beginning of many more to come. Kashanie was born in Brooklyn NY. However she was raised in Panama City, Panama. Since she can remember she has been in love with the performing arts. She expressed her love by taking part of any and all plays, talent show and dance show cases in school. At home she didn't let the acting bug die, she weirded-out her family by dressing up in different outfits and costumes and playing out different characters. After graduating from high school she could not have made her way back to New York any faster to focus on acting.

She is a recent graduate of the The New School University. Although she is an avid music listener (if you shuffle through her IPod you will find many genres of music as well as music from many countries around the world) and she loves to dance, she doesn't consider herself a singer (the exception being in the intimate privacy of her own apartment). She is probably the only one out of the cast without afore mentioned talent and therefore feels very fortunate to have been cast for the part of "Simone" and to be surrounded by many multi-talented actors. She looks forward to the premiere of "No Surrender" and she asks that all have who come have an open mind and heart when viewing the film.

Takiyah Diamond

Something about that “Shinning Diamond” that has all eyes on her. Her love for theater & music contributes to her captivating reality-check approach leaving audiences on the edge. Takiyah was born in Newark NJ and grew up singing in church. It's no wonder she'd fit right in her latest Role as " The preachers wife" in the film "NO SURRENDER by Jameel Hayes. She was well know amongst her peers as "Most likely to succeed" & "Most Gifted".

The singer/songwriter/actress has shared her talents in plays such as I know Im Somebody by Sheba Jordon, Mama I wanna sing, Greece & More. She is recently know for playing in films such as "You Already Know" by Hykine Johnson, Brick City Boys by Tony James, Notorious and others. Takiyah has performed long side many main stream artist such as Mary J Blige, Jennifer Hudson, even hip hop pioneer Lil Kim. So if you ask anyone who’s “Shinning” in the Garden State, Takiyah T. K. Diamond is surly planting the seeds to her "Rise"!.

Samantha Braham

Samantha Braham is a British/Jamaican entrepreneur, radio personality, and fashion designer. Samantha previously worked for Sirius/XM and local NJ radio stations. Samantha discovered her passion for radio when she was 13 years old and embarked her career on Seton Hall University’s radio station 89.5FM WSOU.

Following high school Samantha attended and successfully graduated from The Institute of Audio Research, an audio engineering program. Samantha joined Sirius/XM Shade 45 in 2007 and launched the financial empowerment segment, Get Money in 50 Seconds.

She is most notable for her appearance on The Wendy Williams show and award winning BET Wrap It Up campaign commercial. Currently Samantha is preparing for law school and building her fashion company, Heavenly Things Boutique ww.heavenlythingsboutique.com, which is based in South Orange, New Jersey. Samantha is also a Communications graduate from St. John's University and licensed real estate agent in New Jersey.

In the independent film, No Surrender, Samantha plays the role as Alicia. The protagonist Alicia is engaged to her long time boyfriend. Alicia is supportive to her sister’s, Simone marriage.

Topic 1: Can you be in love with TWO people at the same time?

Can REAL LOVE  be divided between two people? Have you ever been in this situation where you were caught up between two people emotionally as well as physically and you just didn't know which way to turn. Can this be a slippery slope leading to disastrous ending? How do you handle this situation?

Topic 2: Have You Ever Been A Victim Of Rumors?

Have you ever been the victim of rumors spread about you? Do you combat the rumors head on and fight to make sure the truth is known? or Do you remain quiet, ignore the rumor and hope it goes away?

Let's talk about it!

Special Guest: Actress Erica Scott

Erica N Scott, a young flourishing thespian from New Jersey started her acting career at West Orange High School with the help of her outstanding mentor Mrs. Sandra Vandyke. Now an alumni, Erica has studied at several acting programs such as Act Teen, Luna Stage, and The NJ School of Dramatic Arts.

She has worked with Playwrights Theatre as well as the NJ Incubators on community theatre projects. A big thank you to David and Doni for seeing something in me, this opportunity has truly been a blessing. – www.twitter.com/ActressEricaN

Special Guest:  Singer Earl Evens

Earl Evens, better known as (Early), Born In Peekskill NY, Singer, Songwriter, composer, arranger, music producer, who been writing songs since he was five. Worked with a few artist in the game such as  Styles P, dragon On, Jae Hood, Dj Honda Lou Willaims of the Atlanta Hawks, Jamie fox Kindred, Elton Brand, Rahiim Grant- Grant Money Ent Owner and good friend.

Special Guest: Producer Rahiim Grant

Rahiim started his career working at “Chung King Recording Studios” in New York City, home of the beastie boys, Lauren Hill, LL Cool J, Lenny Kravitz & Run-Dmc. After interning for a few months working behind the mixing boards where the magic happens, he recieved a job as Assistant Engineer and got the opportunity to work with Mario Winans, Bad Boy sessions, Angie Stone, Run Dmc, Tamia, Sum 41.

He also worked in the business side of the music business, scouting talent, doing PR/artist management/A&R Work At Tommyboy Entertainment, and MCA Rawkus Records, home of Mos Def Rapper/Actor, Talib Kweli. He is also working with Peekskill Artist, Pryme- Matthew Johnson, Earl Evens-Early, and Aris Devon,  who is a young singer songwriter, and a  phenomenal keyboard player with a style of pop, R&B and neo-soul.

Topic: Verbal abuse: Why does it have to hurt so much?

Have you ever met someone that appeared perfect? Surprised you with little things like flowers, a card, or your favorite candy? This person always made you smile, laugh and made you feel very special, but after awhile the relationship started to change. The beautiful romance started to fade away and what appeared to be a sweet love story is now a horrible nightmare. Are you constantly being blame for everything? Do you constantly try to explain yourself? Are your personal needs no longer important? Do you feel afraid, threaten, or harassed? Are you always sad? Did you know that words can be used to punish someone and that verbal abuse can be used as an attempt to control the actions of another?

Verbal abuse can affect both men and women. Often it is unpredictable and can lead to mental anguish. But, why does verbal abuse hurt so much? Is it true that negative words can cause emotional pain? Break the cycle and join the ladies of O.W.W.H.H Friday night at 11:00 pm est. on Bks1radio.com.

Special Guest: Dedra Tate

Dedra N. Tate, a Howard University graduate, has been a thriving contributor to the entertainment industry for over twenty-five years.  After thirteen years as president and general manager of Queen Latifah’s Flavor Unit Entertainment, Tate stepped into the entrepreneurial arena with her company Unlimited Contacts, Inc.  Under the UCI banner, Tate has successfully leveraged her years of experience and contacts to segue into TV/Film production, event planning, career management, promotion/marketing consulting and public speaking.

Tate started her career in 1984 as advertising sales assistant at MTV Networks, Inc. and in no time progressed to talent relations.  Tate transitioned to the music industry as National Promotion Coordinator for UNI Records followed by executive positions in Radio & Video Promotions at MCA, Motown & BIV 10 Records.

Tate is the Associate Producer of the independent Platinum successes later…Flavor Unit Entertainment partners, Queen Latifah and Sha-Kim, offered Tate the position of president and general manager where she handled the daily operations of three record labels, a management company and a burgeoning television and film production division.  Tate was the Supervising Producer for UPN’s VIBE AWARDS and produced projects for Flavor Unit Television and Films, including "KIDNAPPED," a family comedy developed with Lions Gate Entertainment and “WIFEY’S” a cutting edge, one hour scripted series pilot, produced in conjunction with VH-1 & BET Networks.

Tate is the associate producer of the independent film “Blackout,” with an ensemble cast enhanced by the performances of Jeffrey Wright, Saul Rubinek, Latanya Richardson-Jackson and Melvin Van Peebles.   “Blackout” was written, directed and produced by Tate’s Unlimited Contacts, Inc. client, Jerry Lamothe and was an instant audience hit at the 2007 Tribeca Film Festival and the Urbanworld/VIBE Film Festival.   Tate also co-Produced Lamothe’s latest creative venture, “The Tombs,” a short film starring Nashawn Kearse that chronicles the journey of an African American man processed into NYC’s central booking system.

Tate has now added the moniker of casting director to her credits with her latest independent film “Life, Love, Soul.”   Tate wore multiple hats to bring LLS to fruition including Producer, Casting Director, Music Supervisor and also played a key role in securing private investors to fund the production.   LLS stars Jamie Hector and Chad Coleman from HBO’s “The Wire,” Terri J. Vaughn (“The Steve Harvey Show”/”All of Us”), Tami Roman  (CBS’s “Moonlight”/”Wifey’s) and Ashford & Simpson’s Valerie Simpson, in her acting debut.

Life, Love, Soul secured a limited theatrical release at select AMC Theaters and a DVD distribution agreement with Melee Entertainment.  LLS was the winner of the prestigious “Audience Award” at the 2011 BET Urbanworld Film Festival and was also an HBO Finalist at the 2011 Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival.  The Links, Incorporated and the National Coalition of 100 Black Women also unanimously selected Life, Love, Soul as the opening night red carpet premiere for the Teaneck International Film Festival in November, 2011, with all proceeds benefiting their charitable work in Bergen County, NJ.   Tate is busy working on her latest project titled “ZOO,” serving as the films Associate Producer.

The list of artists Tate has worked with, and helped guide the careers of, reads like a who’s who of the record industry:  Queen Latifah, Boyz II Men, Bobby Brown, Johnny Gill, New Edition, GUY, Shanice, Aaron Hall and The Boys, to name a few.   Tate is currently focused on utilizing her years of knowledge and "unlimited contacts" to guide the careers of burgeoning independent artists and labels.

Tate is a jury member for the International Emmy Awards and serves on the Board of Directors for A Better Bronx For Youth and Support Network, Inc., honored by both organizations for her work in the community.   Tate has received numerous awards and honors, including the prestigious National Urban League "Building Brick Award", Ebony Magazine’s “Outstanding Women In Marketing & Communications,” National Action Network’s "Women of Excellence Award,” 98.7 KISS-FM “Phenomenal Woman” Award and was part of the first group of “40 Under 40 Achievement Award” recipients.

Tate attributes her success to the love, strength and support she gets from her family, each specializing in their own area of expertise for her development.  Business savvy and hard work from her mother Sandra; ambition, comedic style and vivacity from her father Bob, attitude and spirit from her older sister Jeannine, her youthful exuberance from her nephew Robbie and her love for life from her teenage son Jian.

Special Guest: Guyviaud Joseph

Check out the trailer for Thinner Blood

Special Guests: Kay Gee from Naughty By Nature and his new group Elite

Legendary hip hop producer and DJ Kay Gee of Naughty By Nature brings his new group Elite, members Boxie, KO, & Chaz Mack, to discuss their upcoming debut mixtape “WavyFlexinCool”

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DO YOU HAVE A KNOCK IT OFF? CALL 646 233 1302

Is there something that bothers you and you just want to tell the world to knock it off? If so, then call into the show at 11:59pm ET on any Friday from anywhere and tell us how you are feeling!!!!