T.I. New Single I'M FLEXIN. The King is Back

PAY ATTENTION TO V12 DA HITMAN!

                                                                                 

Welcome back to the goood liiiiiife. We got a chance to get an exclusive interview from a talented young brother from Grand Rapids (Gun Ru) Michigan. He goes by the name of V12 Da Hitman and is doing some big things in the game right now.  Being a part of the Aphilliate movement and working with DJ Drama this phenomenal producer has worked with names such as Lil Wayne, Willie the Kid, and Rick Ross just to name a few.  Lets see what V12 Da Hitman has to say to the goodlifecampaign.


GLC:  So V12, how did you first get into music, and what motivated you?

V12:  I first got into music at the age of 13. My family is very musical, my mom and my aunt sung,  my grandmother sings, so its always been in me, and even growing up I listened to a lot of music from my mother. What got me into music mainly was I was listening to Jay-Z album Vol. 3, I heard that track called Dope man, and i heard the beat, and the beat was just kind of like, i don't know, but i had to play it over and over again, and i told myself I can do that. So it began basically like that, and I just started working with Fruity Loops 4, that's how long ago it was. So I started with Fruity Loops 4 and after that I kind of started making music for myself, for self enjoyment, you know not to cater to anybody else, this was something I kept to myself, and I just kept making it and improving on it, Until I say around the age of 18 that's when I really came out with that I do this shit you know.

GLC:  Where are you from originally?

V12:  I'm from Grand Rapids Michigan you know Gun Ru whatever you want to call it. It's my home. I was born and raised their. That's home nothing more nothing less.

GLC:  How would you describe your style?

V12:  My style is MY STYLE. I say that I can take it anywhere, and my beats, when I make my music it's more full of emotion and passion rather than making a beat catering to someone, so whatever chord sound I hear, whatever chord I want to put in, drums I want, I just always mush them together, and I can cater to any genre of music, so I would say my style is my style you feel me.

                                                                                 
GLC:  Being from Grand Rapids, tell us something that you got from their that you put in your music?

V12:  Soul, pain. You know, struggle. Just the passion of it in all. Just from being around different people and absorbing the atmosphere. You know you get a lot of soul out of that, a lot of pain and a lot of struggle. A lot of different types of vibes out of that, some good some bad, but mainly I just got the soul from it, just the feeling of tapping into who i was musically, from being from Grand Rapids. I never really got into that circle of rappers and producers from Grand Rapids. Like seeing all that I was able to use that as leverage and bury the competition at the same time.

GLC:  What programs are you currently using now for your beat making, and which one is your favorite?

V12:  I still mess with the FL Studio 10. I also use Logic, Pro Tools, and those pretty much all my favorites. Those are my go to.

GLC:  What other producers and artist do you see as your inspirations?

V12:  I really look up to Just Blaze. You know he touched a lot of different avenues with his music, and his shit was so motherfucking soulful. I loved it. And I use to like Swizz Beats because his shit kind of reminded me of me. I feel like I have his essence because he was able to produce on albums, and go from this lane to that lane, and touch on different avenues, and I'm able to do that. Like I did half of the Gangsta Grillz 2 album, and I did half of Willie The Kid's album, you know so I'm able to be diverse. So I would say Just Blaze, Timbaland of course, Swizz Beats, and Kanye of course.

GLC:  What is your ultimate goal for your music?

V12:  My ultimate goal for my music is to be an immoral figure in the music industry. I say that and what I mean by that is just being able ten years from now actually have one of those songs that's always going to be playable everywhere, kind of like a couple songs Jay-Z has, you know kind of like Jiiiiigggaa you know you can play that shit today and still get the same vibe. Another thing is I want to be able to mentor the younger generation that's coming behind. I want to be on different channels and speak on how I got here, you know being successful to the point where I'm recognized as one of those producers where ten years from now you might be interviewing a producer and they say I look up to V12. So ultimately I want to touch lives, I want to touch people, I want to touch different avenues, I just want to be universal with my music because this is my passion this is my life.

                                                                                    
GLC:  How did you end up getting hooked up with the Aphilliates?

V12:  Well it was threw a couple of mutual homey's I new since back in the day, they introduced me to Drama, and like from that point on I was going back and fourth from Augusta to Atlanta because I got people in Augusta I moved down to Georgia. I would sleep in the studio from time to time, and did the engineering. I learned pro tools like that, and they offered me a job, and with that job I was able to purchase a place out here. I lived in the studio for about three months, so I was able to grind and make my money and get a place, and after that, that was the forefront to move my production into play and have my beats heard everyday. So I was able to establish a relationship with Drama, and a lot of other cats. It just became a situation where I'm in house now, and I proved myself threw my music.

                                                                            
GLC:  How is it working with the Aphilliates and being a part of that movement?

V12:  It is a major blessing, because I'm able to touch different things. I engineer every Gangsta Grillz mixtape from 2008 till today. As far as the radio show on Shade 45 Friday nights from 8 to 10 I produce that show. A lot of different opportunities where people coming threw the radio show and meeting me, and me being able to build with them. I just be like check this out and my music speaks for itself. So this whole situation is just a blessing, because its like my own little music house, and Drama brings different people threw all the time.

GLC:  What do you think about the state of hip hop right now?

V12:   I think its a great state of hip hop. First of all everything is going digital which is kind of a gift and a curse because you got people that can leak albums. At the same time you have twitter where you can broadcast to a million followers and a million people that follow you see that, you reached a million people in the blink of an eye. Opposed to back in the day where you had labels spending marketing dollars with shit we can do on our own. Its created a whole new grind, and as far as music its going back to lyricism in my opinion. You know you got your Kendrick Lamar's, you got your Emilio Rojas's, you got Rick Ross, you got Meek Millz, Wale, J. Cole, you got artist like that, that's making a statement right now. A couple years back everything was Gucci Mane this Gucci Mane that and everything was south music. Don't get me wrong I love south music. I'm not opposed to it I'm not against it, but I'm from the Midwest and I love lyricism. You got Jay-Z, Kanye come out, that album was straight boom bap hip hop. Its going back to that, and people are embracing it more. I like it because that is the era I was brought up in. It's coming back around, and I'm very proud to be a part of it.

GLC:  What is your proudest achievement so far in your career?

V12:  My proudest achievement right now is this Chris Brown song we just dropped. It's on Drama album featuring Chris Brown and J. Cole called Undercover. We started streaming it a couple days ago before the album dropped, and that's the quickest song that ever picked up for me ever. You know I worked with Lil Wayne before twice, I worked with Busta Rhymes, Ludacris, Rick Ross, Fabolous, but this song people are telling me I have a hit on my hands. I'm waiting on the numbers at the end of these couple weeks, but so far this is the biggest song I ever had that's a hit. Things like this change lives, and I feel big ass opportunities coming in.

                                                                                         
GLC:  Who are your top 5 MCs of all time?

V12:  Biggie because his voice was like an instrument with the beat, Jay-Z of course he has to be on the list, Eminem, I think Kanye is in that battle, and Bun B.

GLC:  Who have you previously worked with in the past, and who would you like to work with in the future?

V12:  In the past, Ludacris, Busta Rhymes, Rick Ross, Trick Daddy, Mike Jones, Bun B, Styles P, Willie The Kid, La The Darkman, Bobby Valentino, Lil Wayne, Lil Scrappy, Wyclef Jean, Flo Rida, Jay Rock, Cam'ron, Vado, Emilio Rojas, King Nez. Who I want to work with, of course Jay-Z, Kanye. Thats a dream of mine. I want to work with Jadakiss, The Game, Kendrick Lamar, Wiz Khalifa, Currensey, the whole Maybach Music Group, and as far as R&B, Alicia Keys, Melanie Fiona, Jason Derulo. Those are just a handful of artist I want to work with.
                                                                           


GLC:  What projects are you currently working on right now?

V12:  I'm currently working with Emilio Rojas who has an EP coming out with Billionaire Boys Club called Breaking Point. We're coming back with another album from Drama, so we're in the works with that. I'm working with an artist named Goapele. From what I can reveal that's it. But just know that its V2012.

GLC:  What are your goals for 2012?

V12:  My goals are to smash this music shit. My goal is to be everywhere. My goal is to get a couple of awards under my belt. A couple more credentials. In 2012 I plan to put my stamp on the game and build my empire.

GLC:  Do you ever think that you will stop producing?

V12:  No. I think I see a hiatus at a later point in my life, but music is a part of me. I'm always going to have my hands in something musical. Whether I be like Quincy Jones and compose shit, or whatever. I'm never gone stop this shit.

Wow GoodLifeCampaign we got us one with V12 The Hitman, and they call him that because he's the Hitman. Grand Rapids stand up. You should be honored and thankful to have a phenomenal talented genius like V12. He knows where he came from and he knows where he's going. We are on our way to get the DJ Drama Third Power Album right now, as you should. Google V12 look him up on twitter @v12thehitman, and if you haven't copped the Gangsta Grillz Albums, go get em.



                                                                                     

Nasty Nas Is Back

                                         Single from Nas's tenth Album Coming Soon

NBA LOCKOUT

                                                                                       

What up GoodLifers! Can it really be a good life without the NBA though. We here at GoodLifeCampaign say "Hell NO." If you're on of those people who absolutely loves the NBA you might hate the league after this season. Coming up on 100 days in the lockout and already cancelling the preseason, we see players on they re hustle, doing everything from playing overseas to music and acting. One superstar was even seen in football pads by the name of Lebron James. Carmelo Anthony had a suggestion that the players play for free this year. With most players coming from struggling situations growing up, and already having millions in there bank accounts, I could really see them playing for free for one year. There are other players who are not in the same situation as some of the superstars, such as Delonte West, who recently applied for employment at Home Depot, like Ron Artest in 2004 working at Circuit City when he was suspended. Tony Parker just took a deal to play in France for 2k a month, for the team he co-owns. Will we have a season this year? Lets take a look at what some of the other players are doing around the league.


 Stephen Jackson Kinda Hot! Be on the look out for his Mixtape called What's A Lockout

                                                                            

   Still gotta come out with the kicks. Check out D. Rose latest commercial for Adidas

                                                                               

                                                             Kobe to play in Italy

                                                                


             And some players are still playing right now to give back to they re communities

We hope there is a league this year because after football there is really no good sports to watch. Until next time we'll holla. GoodLifeCampaign.                                                                                                                                            

Take Care Dropping on Oct. 24th

Shoe of the Week!

 

Hello Good Lifers,
Winter is fast approaching and it is time to bring out the heavy coats and the warm boot. The shoe of the week is really a boot, but I think you  guys will let us slide this time. I will admit here at Good Life, a few people are obsessed with Polo so this week's shoe (boot) is from the Polo winter collection. The boots can be found on the Polo website, and may be in your local mall soon. 

Meet Kendra Lewis AKA Miss Kenge The Model!

What's the deal GoodLife fam??  You know what it is over here!  In no other way can we stress that we bring the ABSOLUTE best in everything we do, whether it be fashion, music, or in this case, The Model!!  Easily the best blend of looks and intelligence put in the same package that is ever so pleasing to look at.  Her beauty is only matched by her confidence and drive to be the best at whatever she is doing.  Only thing wrong is her last name isn't Thrash(LOL yet), it's Lewis.  Kendra Lewis AKA Miss Kenge, The Hustla in Heels!!  This Muskegon native can more than hold her own in any arena, and still sport the most unforgetable smile while doing so.  Whether it is video shoots with both local and nationally known acts, promoting the latest hotspot in the area, or just hanging out with the girlfriends, Miss Kenge's energy demands the spotlight.  We had the opportunity to sit down with her during the video shoot for La the Darkman and Willie the Kid's video shot at the Love Lounge in Grand Rapids, Michigan!!

GLC: So Miss Kenge, What is your definition of the GoodLife??

Miss Kenge: Being successful.  Being able to buy what you want, and being appreciative for what you already have.

GLC: So what made you start modeling??

Miss Kenge: I was brought into the game by Klass wit a K.  He seen a lot of the promotion work that I had already been doing, so I joined his team IDC.  I began to get a lot of attention while out promoting parties and events.  A lot of local artists were asking me to appear in their video and photo shoots.  This began to happen so frequently, the modeling avenue was the next logical step.  So basically off the strength of the people, and their love for me as a whole is what brings me here today.

GLC: So besides your obvious physical traits, what do you think it is about you that attracts people to you??

Miss Kenge: I feel that a lot of people can connect with me because I'm not stuck up or booshie.  I don't feel like I'm above anyone else.  I just stay true to being humble and I think a lot of people can relate to that.  In addition to that, I'm a hard worker.  I'm dedicated and passionate about whatever I'm doing.  I keep it real in everything I do.

GLC: Here at the GoodLifeCampaign we feel that music is a KEY component in achieve any sort of piece of the GoodLife.  So on your free time what do you like to listen to?

Miss Kenge: I love to listen to alot of local artists. When I'm given a CD and asked my opinion, I love to get into the entire album.  I love hip hop, but at the same time I'm an old soul.  I'm not afraid to bring out The Temptations or Earth, Wind , and Fire, and really just unwind and relax.

GLC: Now just paying a little attention to your various model and promotion pages, I seem like you are constantly on the grind.  So whenever you do have time to get away, where would be your ideal vacation spot?

Miss Kenge: When I'm not promoting or modeling I actually, believe it or not, have a regular 9 to 5.  I'm out here doing the best that I can to provide for my family.  I have a daughter that is almost 5 years old and is getting ready to start school.  If I'm not doing one of those two things, then I often volunteer on my free time.  I volunteer at the local food pantry, help coach soccer, and do some scrapbooking, which is my little nerdy passion!!  I really don't have a particular vacation spot, just anywhere with my daughter would be perfectly fine!

GLC: You only have $25 and you need to get something to eat, drink, and listen to.  What would they be?

Miss Kenge: Let's see, something to drink I'd probably go with a Bud Light, possibly two!  Something to eat I have to go with some fries because they are my weakness.  And the CD would have to be that Erykah Badu Live Album, the one with the song "Tyrone" on it! LOL! I think every woman can relate to that song.

GLC: So.. I know this is a question I know all the fellas would want me to ask, Are You Single??

Miss Kenge: I am Absolutely 100% Single.

GLC: Obviously by choice, so what type of man, if you were looking, would you be into?

Miss Kenge: I'm looking for the type of man that can, first and foremost, if we are out in public be able to let me get hit on.  I like the type of guy who is confident enough to let me do me and fend for myself while we are out, but at the same time still keep an eye on me.  If he sees that someone is overstepping and making me uncomfortable, be able to step in and take control of the situation.  I like a BOSS!!  A guy that can use his use his mouthpiece to get what he wants without being tacky.

GLC:  When I say West Michigan, Muskegon, what comes to mind.  What are some unique experiences you can share that makes you love this area?

Miss Kenge:  Family BBQs!!  My family isn't really big on the words, I Love You, we show it.  We show it mostly through food and music. I can remember the soul train lines, all the dancing and laughter.  A good BBQ always brought people together.  Summer Celebration as well!! I can remember going shopping to pick out the baddest outfit trying to be seen down at the Summer Celebration.  I still enjoy going to Summer Celebration to this day and seeing everybody at the carnival.  I love Muskegon.  I'm always excited and eager to get away, but I always find my way back.  It's home! S/O to good ole Katy's Discount.

GLC: You are seriously on the grind all the time!  Where do you see yourself in five years?  Whether modeling or any of your other hustles, what do you envision?

Miss Kenge: In five years I just hope to more established.  More established as a model, and that I continue to be taken seriously in whatever I'm doing.  My main goal outside of modeling is to start my own non profit organization for "Baby Daddies".  I feel like there are alot of good dads out there that are forced to pay amounts of child support that their situations don't allow them to.  I believe in putting special programs in place to help assist the man in paying, or assisting in helping find a way for them to help support.  When you have a baby as a man and you aren't married to the mother, you start out in about $10,000 in debt because of the child birth and they definitely come after the guys.  One reason the Muskegon County Jail is so overcrowded and they are releasing people early is the amount of people they are locking up over Child Support.  In today's economy I think it is unfair the way the system is set up for the males involved.  I have a "baby daddy," and personally I feel the time he spends with his daughter is more important that just financial support.

Videos to catch Miss Kenge In!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nUD2XejxkPQ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVjN5yNDRqQ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=92jhtr_t16Y
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ih1eFSaHlLk
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yYj58cqehFY&feature=share.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gY3jMcZwYV8Yung

Be Sure to Check Her Out on FB and Follow On Twitter!!

http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Miss-Kenge-The-Model/179912182029590

@MisssKENGE on Twitter!!

More Pics and Videos on the FB page!!  Super Hot!!

42-0!

Here at Good Life, we are all about local talent, and the biggest name from the city of Grand Rapids is Floyd "Money" Mayweather. Over the weekend, Money May proved again that he is the best pound for pound fighter. With a dominating performance against Viscous Victor Ortiz; finishing him off with a 4th round knockout. Some may say that it was a cheap shot, but any fighter will tell you otherwise. Good Life would just like to salute Floyd on another outstanding performance, and ALWAYS reppin the city of Grand Rapids.
Remember... Protect Yourself At All Times! GLC   

Neighborhood Watch!! GLC Sits Down with The Neighborhood Kid!!

What's the deal GoodLife fam?!  Yall know what it is over this way, we continue to bring you everything in our area that represents, well the GoodLife of course!!  This interview is no different!

We recently had the opportunity to sit down with David Cooper, AKA The Neighborhood Kid.  What stands out about this cat, besides his versatility on the mic, is the fact that he REALLY reps the city of Grand Rapids!  When he says The Neighborhood Kid he REALLY means it.  Look no further than the love he gets on stage, whether rocking the stage at BattleMania or the 36th Street Lounge, you can't deny he is the people's choice.  He certainly picked up a new fan with his new joint called, "Bacon and Eggs".  If you haven't heard it make sure you make that a priority!! All in All The Neighborhood Kid is a cat you can't help but like, musically and personally.  Come join us!

GLC: What is your definition of the GoodLife?

TNK: The GoodLife is prosperity, good health, good vision, a little bit of gwap in your pocket, you know cuz money does make the world go around.  Just waking up positive every single day, and just feeling good about everything in general.

GLC: So where does your music fall into the meaning of the GoodLife?

TNK: My music is for everybody.  I go by the name The Neighborhood Kid, and I'm not the only one.  You're a neighborhood kid, she(waitress walking past) is a neighborhood kid, they(people on the sidewalk) are all neighborhood kids.  I make songs for everyone.  I'm here to bring you back, help you remember your childhood and teenage years.  I also make music about all the adult situations that we can all relate to as well.

GLC: What neighborhood did you come from?

TNK: I was born and raised on the west side of Grand Rapids.  I moved around the city a little bit, the NE side, the SE side for a minute, but the west side of Grand Rapids, AKA Gun Ru, is home!  Been on the west side all through school.  All of my fam is one the west, my studio is on the west right off Broadway(S/O Sugar Shane and Broadway St.!).  But yeah it's the West side all day, Gun Ru, Grand Rapids, MI, it's all love!

GLC: We can tell you have love for your city, how does that resonate in your music?

TNK: Right now Grand Rapids is formulating a big local hip hop scene.  You see a lot more hip hop nights, more live performances popping up at several bars and nightclubs in the area.  A lot of hip hop love is being shown in the city right now.  As far as my music goes, I gotta say Gun Ru, I gotta say Grand Rapids, I gotta show love to my city.  That's just what it is!! I dont know any different. 

GLC: You have approximately $25 in your pocket, you have to get something to eat, drink and something to listen to.  What is it gonna be?

TNK: I gotta go with an Arizona Iced tea, either Wing Heaven or El Sombero's for something to eat.  El Sombero's is a spot on the west side where the burritos are banging!  If I had to pick up any album it would have to be Biggie Smalls, Ready to Die. 

GLC: Why the Ready to Die album?

TNK: Man that album just brings me back!  The memories.  Living life to that album, doin dirt to that album, getting down to that album, poppin off, getting drunk, getting high to that album! Just brings me back to that frame of time growing up, that mindstate.  Great memories!

GLC: So what are some of your favorite childhood memories growing up in Grand Rapids??

TNK: My memories kinda attach themselves to the seasons.  One of my favorite summer memories is just being in the front yard slap boxing with my dad.  Him just teaching me how to hold my own and be a man. I really miss that.  Fall time was about getting geared up!! Hoodies and Tims start to come out.  Great time for music too, a lot of classic third quarter releases!  In the winter is was bumper hitchin' with all the other neighborhood kids.  In the Spring I remember everybody getting that spring fever and just being excited to get out and breathe fresh air.

GLC: Name some local artists the really deal with, or keep an eye on in the city?

TNK: Big S/O to Sugar Shane, my producer who has been there from day one!  DJ Hunnid Grand AKA Jelani Akil Brown who is also one of my producers and has been doing his thing for a minute and has Eastown locked up.  S/O to A.N.T Anthony Lazar who has a serious movement going on with TTMG and the BattleMania series.  Big ups to AB and Coconut Brown, Martel Noir, Rod B Gutta, Michigan Militia, The Red Planet Boys who are up and coming, Ill Kontent and E Dub, who both have been killing the game for a minute.  Oh and Wille the Kid and La the Darkman really set a nice foundation for hip hop in the city.  It's great to see them comeback and show love to the city they came from.

GLC: Give us 5 words that describe you as an artist.

TNK: 1) Casually-Urban  2)Poverty-Stricken  3)Swagtastic(I try not to brag and boast much but Hip Hop makes you feel good!) 4) Real  5) Fortunate

GLC: So say you blow up, what will keep the Neighborhood Kid grounded??  What will keep you from being like the rest of these cats that can only rap about their newfound fame and money?

TNK: Hopefully sticking to my roots here in the city basically.  It's hard to imagine your life instantly filled with multi-millions of dollars.  That's kind of a question I'd have to ask myself again once I make it there. To be honest I think I would truly miss the day to day struggle, and that would help keep me focused also.  Keeping my mother and grandmother close, people I have seen work hard and stuggle every day of my life, would  keep me modest. I don't ever see myself  going Hollywood, or living outside of my means to impress anyone or prove a point.  A $100,000 house is perfectly fine with me. 

GLC: What about your brand of hip hop do you feel is unique and something everyone should hear??

TNK: I feel like I bring every type of feel to my audience.  A little bit of struggle, a little swag, a little something to make you reminince, everything basically.  There are some hardcore tracks, party tracks, reality tracks, a few sad "itchy eyed" tracks, something for every emotion is included.  It's real!!  Every flavor!  I'm trying to keep it like a suicide kool-aid, feel me??!! 


That's what's up fam!!  Be Sure to Friend Request on FB under David Cooper!!
Oh and if y'all don't know what a suicide kool-aid is, check out your nearest Wing Heaven!! 

                                                                             

Meet Singer/ Entrepreneur Christian Nelson

  


Whats up GoodLifer's! We want you to meet a young brotha who is not only doing his thing on the music side but who is killing em in the business world also. I guess you can say Christian Nelson is giving you the best of both worlds. Enough waisting time, lets meet Mr. Nelson.                                                                         

GLC: Christian tell us a little bit about where you're from and what got you started singing?

Christian: Basically I'm from Grand Rapids, MI, that's where I claim. That's where I grew up and that's where I remember most, but I was born in Alabama. Lived in Lansing for a short time when my dad was going to school at Michigan State University. My mother and father they're from Nigeria, but I'm American born so I really got a chance to live the quote on quote American way of life. So pretty much I grew up listening to everything my mom listened to a lot, my mother and father split when I was about nine, but she used to listen to a lot of Toni Braxton, Baby Face, Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson, so that's really what I came up on. I just grew up picking the pieces from that. I really studied Michael Jackson a lot and I can say he was one of my biggest inspirations. But basically I was singing in the house, had a little karaoke machine, then I took it to high school choir and the plays, and eventually that lead to singing national anthems at different events in my my city, and that really spread to more city opportunities more nation wide opportunities, and from there it's just been about me branding myself.

GLC: How is the music scene in Atlanta, and what made you make that move from Michigan to Atlanta?

Christian: The music scene in Atlanta has been poppin for a long time, you know way before I got here, but what ended up happening was I felt like I hit a brick wall where I was grinding at in Michigan, and I kind of felt like I did enough there, and I had to take it to another level. My sister was actually out in Atlanta grinding with her music, business and modeling thing, and she just recommended that I come out, so I ended up moving out here June 2009, and its just been two years of just grinding, linking up with some of the Aphiliates ( Big shout out to Willie the Kid, La the Darkman) just really kind of linking up with people that were already in positioned out here in Atlanta, and that's how I began to do it, not only in music but also just well rounding myself in the business aspect of things as well.

GLC: Tell us who you look up to in the industry?

Christian: Really right now to me the game is kind of polluted. I mean that's just my point of view, but I get into artist like Ryan Leslie, Babyface, Tank, Musiq Soulchild, Floetry, it goes all over. I think that when you do this music thing you have to appreciate every genre of it, so that's always been the approach that I've taken. Gospel all the way on up to rock, but as far as looking up to people, I've always tried to be a trendsetter, so everything that I do I try to make it my own. I listen to old school too, you know the Marvin Gaye's, Earth Wind and Fire, Teddy P. You just got to pick and choose from generation, but make sure you go back. Make sure that you're doing your research. A real broad approach is always been what I've taken.

                                                                                
GLC: We hear you are quite the entrepreneur. Tell us a little bit about that and what you have going on?

Christian: With the whole business its just been crazy because it was always a part of me, but I just never really applied it until I got out to Atlanta full force. Like I said I'm really into trendsetting, so me and my brother partnered up and started our own shoe line. Basically right now we have a tennis athletic basketball shoe but, we've also got a couture classic that's fitted for the more high end high priced fashion. But as far as business it was just understanding that I have product to bring to the table, and getting the attention of people that want to consume, and that was pretty much it. As far as like the stipulations of it you definitely want to make sure you do your research and make sure you got your paper work together.You know there is so many links that you want to make sure you cover. It definitely feels better to be on my own schedule most of the time. Were taking it to the next level. Entrepreneurs in the game!

GLC: If you could compare yourself to somebody in the game right now, who would it be?

Christian: If I could compare myself to anybody right now it would have to be Carl Thomas, as far as his style poetry. He just gives you a poetic feel. But I would also say John Legend, maybe a little Musiq Soulchild, just more modern, more belly, you know a little bit more grunge.  Which is just kind of a representation of what I grew up and saw, and experienced.

GLC: If you had 25 dollars and you had to get something to eat, drink and something to listen to what would they be?

Christian: Eat, I would probably go with a nice Nigerian dish. To drink, probably just some vitamin water, and to listen to I would have to go get the years best music at some CD store just so I can have a variety.
                                                                                  
GLC: How do you about the current state of r&b?


Christian: I feel its at a dying state. I think everything is always evolving. I think that it just has to be resurrected in a way. I knew there was going to be a struggle with this music thing, and for me taking a stand in the way that I do it, but I've accepted the challenge, and if its me independently putting my music out there, and my fans just going to it so be it. Like I said we still got big things going on though, I'm doing some gigs over seas September 30th I'm opening up for Wiz Kid, which is a big Nigerian artist. As long as you exhaust all your option in this music thing, you know don't just bank on the big label deal that's just going to sign you cause your so so hot, just grind and hustle and it'll happen.

GLC: Are you signed with anybody right now?

Christian: To be totally honest I do have distribution with UGF Entertainment but I don't know if we're going to continue the contract after this year, but I'm independently doing it. You can definitely check me on my website christiannelsonmusic.com we got some new things coming for the year 2012. All my fans have been riding with me this whole time threw the ups and the downs and the ins and the outs, we're still going to make things happen and I'm going to continue to represent for the people who held me down since day one.

GLC: Where can we go to check you out?

Christian: Check out pulsewearusa.com which is real real heavy, one of my sponsors. Also check out Young Syrus, he's a young boss in the game, managed by Ra Ra , Shout out to Ra Ra entertainment. Just shot a video called Mayweather. Be on the look out for it. Check out the Lansing Community College Newsletter. I was in there for making the voice cuts for the Voice, which is a show on NBC. Google me, and Facebook me also.

There you have it GoodLifers. A successful young entrepreneur who loves where he's from. Christian is what we here at GoodLifeCampaign call a role model for our youth. Make sure you support this phenomenally talented singer/entrepreneur by checking out his website and not only listening but purchasing his musical talent. Look out for those kicks he got also. Until next time y'all keep it 100.

                                                                            

Grand Rapids ArtPrize Is Back For The Third Time

                                                                                

It really is a good life in Grand Rapids Michigan. The famous ArtPrize is back for the third year in a row and we hear it is going to be better than last year.  If you are not familiar with the Art prize, it is a month long art gallery in downtown Grand Rapids. There are over 192 venues, 1,713 artists and 250,000 plus visitors come for this huge art event. This event kicks off two weeks after labor day which is Sept. 21st. Winner of the ArtPrize receives over $400,000, and is decided by a public vote. The ArtPrize is a platform on which artists can experiment, collaborate and explore new ideas. This event truly brings the whole city together with new life along with beautiful art, so if you are anywhere near the Grand Rapids area come out and support the local art. If u want to register for the ArtPrize got to artprize.org. See you there.

                                                                            

Shoe of the Week!

This past week, Nike unveiled the new Nike Mag shoe. If you are as old as I am, then these kicks should look familiar to you. Micheal J. Fox wore these in the classic Back to the Future movies. The Nike Mag's nicknamed "The Marty Mcfly's" will cost $5,000 and are now available on E bay. All the proceed will go to the Micheal J. Fox Foundation.

Tekh Togo ft Willie the Kid!! Special Feature

Ladies: YOU aren't married and it is YOUR fault!!

What's good fam??  Did I get your attention ladies??  I've been asking for a few ideas to help round out our entries.  So from time to time we will bring you something off our beaten path.  Again, we encompass EVERYTHING that is associated with living the GoodLife.  This entry will be designed hopefully to spark a healthy, thought provoking debate, and the opinions in this entry are that solely of  DeAndre Lee Thrash.  Feel free to leave comment and respond.

As my 29th Birthday approaches, just as any other birthday I began to reflect on the years I've been blessed to still be here.  I also think about where I'm at in life, along with where I thought I would be in life.  Not ever in any of these years has marriage been something I ever thought about as seriously as I am now.  Don't panic, not getting married anytime soon!!  But why not??  I'm about at that age right??  Either way I guess I'm kind of curious.

I then began to ask myself why are there so many single, sucessful, beautiful women around that are not only not married, but not in a relationship that could produce marriage anytime soon.  Always the bridesmaid and never the bride.  Why do you think that is??  I have an take on it, and I feel a lot of you can only blame yourself to an extent. 

Or you can blame Destiny's Child, Whitney Houston, Terry McMillian, and all those other "I'm Independent, I don't need a man" type of message senders.  Those songs, books, and movies I believe have set a lot of women up for failure.  Don't get me wrong, I love a woman that has got her own handled nicely, but I believe that the concept of "Independent Strong Woman" has gotten slightly out of hand.  There are certain arenas where this attitude can be acceptable, but your love life shouldn't be one of them. A man IS needed for comfort and companionship.  You both should be there to make the value of each other's lives better.  To posture like your life will be just fine without us is well...ridiculous!!

Truth is there are many, many men out here that you could share your life with. Men with plenty to bring to the table, and will equally share your vision of happiness.  The question is are you seeing them??  What are YOU really looking for in a man??  What makes him marriage material??  Dateable even??  I have a feeling that many of the things you are looking for has absolutely no value in the big scheme of things.  Money is important, but where is your cutoff point??  Attractiveness is important too, but I'm sorry everybody doesn't look like Morris Chestnut or Matthew McCantputashirton.  What do YOU look like???

Now by no means am I saying those things aren't important ladies.  I also don't want you to think that you need to take care of a dude that looks like Tracy Morgan and hasn't a penny to his name.  What I am saying is that I believe these lofty standards you put yourselves to and the "all or nothing cuz I'm independent" attitude really helps finding the RIGHT man difficult.  You wanting flawless is a bit illogical, seeing that you have flaws yourself.  Your unwillingness to bend from your futile formula has you in the position you find yourself in now.  Why can't you be ok with a man that is just as human as you are???

I'm wrong right?  Ok, you have a few male friends that have tried to holler, but you didn't really give them the time of day because they didn't fit into your criteria??  You still became good friends because you had so much in common. Over the years you guys have seen each other grow up and now he is a great father and partner to some other woman who doesn't appreciate him nor have the connection you guys used to have. You may have missed your blessing.

You could be the one who held out for that certain fit, and gave up.  Maybe got tricked by a guy into thinking he was the one and now you are the second baby mama for the year.  Not your fault, but what are you looking for??  Where are your standards??  Too High??  Too Low??  Are you accepting more than you thought you would ever deal with because you are now afraid of being alone??

This began as a random thought, and a conversation with a dear friend.  She then turned it on me and asked why I never got married, or why am I not in a relationship with potential??  Well that's a complex answer I had do give her.  I don't know why I wasn't married before, seeing how I was in a 8+ year relationship, what kept me from actually getting married.  Age possibly, the idea of losing my freedom eventhough I didn't quite have it anyway.  Something to think about I guess.  Why no relationship at this point yet??  Am I really as open to finding the RIGHT woman myself, I think so!!  Not really looking, but I'm open to it I think.  Still waiting on Alicia Keys to leave that lame so I can shoot my shot though!!

Truth is there is no right answer, just something to think about.  If you are a career driven woman and there isn't a scenario where marriage fits right now that's fine.  But if you have been looking, you are 27+, this is some things you should be thinking about.  Quit settling on being just the Baby Mama, demand more from the man you are seeing or find the right one.  If you are the so-called Five Star Chick that won't accept a man not pushing a Beamer, Benz, or Bentley, I suggest you quit trying to live a life you see on 106 and Park and realize that there is a little more to consider in the big scheme of things. 

Again, feel free to comment on FB or below right here.  Hope you enjoy, or hate, just be sure to let me know!!  Thank you for your time and continue living the GoodLife fam!!

Drey Thrash

 P.S. I know I opened a big can of worms, but nothing gets done if you are afraid to get your hands dirty!  Enjoy!!

J-Lyrical Is Michigan To The Fullest

We' re baaack with another artist who hails from South Haven Michigan. He goes by the name of J-Lyrical. Now this artist is what we call a lyrical monster. He brings passion to his music and you can hear it in every line when he spits. Raw is another word we can use to describe this talented artist, but I can go on all day using words to describe him, but lets see what he had to say to goodlifecampaign when we sat down with him for an exclusive interview.


GLC: So J-Lyrical tell us how you got your name?

J-Lyrical: I started rapping when I was about 8, my brothers use to call me young lyrical, and of course I didn't signed young or anything but as I progressed into a man it was no more being young about anything, so I converted it over to J-Lyrical, and the whole lyrical came from how young I was being able to put my words together. I had a consistent run on flow, not really a punch line rapper, so you know people was like lil dude lyrical right there, so you know it all just fell into place from there.

GLC: Tell us a little bit about your style and how you got it?

J-Lyrical: I took my style from my brother and i twisted it. You know my brother was real big on hitting off his words, so you know I was like I want to rap just like him but I want to be different, so I started off as a real good story teller. If y'all listen to some of my mixtapes you'll see i got some mean stories on there. Basically it was like a touch of pac but with my own Midwest twist to it, so i wouldn't have the same delivery as everybody else, and that's how that whole thing kicked off like that.

GLC: Who would you say are some of your influences in both the industry and in underground?

J-Lyrical: I have a lot of respect for Ludacris, his versatility is threw the roof. Andre 3000, and I have a huge, huge inspiration from Tupac, you know he didn't punch line rap he just talked straight to you. I got major respect for Diddy, his whole aspect of how he runs his business, cause you know a lot of these guys think that music is forever, its for you to hit it and take your turn and run with it, and then up your lifestyle from there. Underground a got a lot of respect for SelfMade records, and Relentless Way, Chi Boy, and he's a real hard underground rapper, he goes in. On the production side of things you know I got a lot of respect for Dr. Dre, if you ever watch his youtubes you know that he's a perfectionist and i pioneer in the game as well. And also Timbaland, his creativity is threw the roof.

GLC: Where do you see yourself going with your music?

J-Lyrical: What Ima do with my music is make feel good music for the world. I'm giving it two more years you know before I really start popping off on these charts. I got a lot of love in Germany right now. But I see myself  making a couple number one hit records and then I want to fade off into the movies , clothing, you know all the necessities people need to function in life.

GLC: If you could sign a deal with any label in the game, which label would it be and why?

J-Lyrical: Good Question. If I could sign a deal with anybody right now that would fit me best it would have to be with Luda and DTP. Reason being is he's gone let me hit every aspect that I want, cuz I'm a gangsta slash feel good slash story teller. Then second up I would have to say Kayne's label because those are the categories and the areas I would fit in best.

GLC: Tell us a little bit about your production team and how it is working so close with your family?

J-Lyrical: My production team is Straight Bang Entertainment. Pretty much what it is, is I got my brother Recognize, he does all my semi club tracks, and my feel good music. Then I got my brother Lugzi, he does all my story telling, he gets off into the keys, so we really got the best of both worlds. You know my brother is the bass line king, on top of that he is the hook master, so when we all come together on something its crazy. And then my brother John like the icing, he just lace the whole thing, but if you had to put it in categories you would see my brother Recognize like the bass line, my brother John is the drum and key, and then you know I come in with the lyrics.

GLC: Tell us your top 5 rappers?

J-Lyrical: Tupac, Lil Wayne, Jay-Z, T.I., Drake

                                                                                       
GLC: What can people get from and out of your music?

J-Lyrical: I give a little bit of everything. You know when you feeling like life is down you can bump that J-Lyrical, When you feel like everything going great you can bump that J-Lyrical. I started a mixtape and it was called Life, Music, and Lyrics, and i think my music is like life avenues, you know your everyday life things that happen on a everyday basis, you know the things that you thinking and won't say, but you feeling them.

GLC: If you had $25 and you had to get something to eat, drink, and something to listen to, what would they be?

J-Lyrical: You gotta use that 25 dollars for all those? GLC: Yea(lol) J-Lyrical: I mean if you go to the record store with that 25 dollars you know that's gone, but what ima do is go to the store and get that new Ace Hood, then I'ma go to McDonald's and hit up the dollar menu with a couple cheeseburgers, and a Hi C. And with the rest which is like only 4 dollars I'ma go ahead and give it to my lil nephews so they can go hit up the dollar menu too.

GLC: Here at goodlifecampaign we are all about positive energy. Tell us what your definition of a good life is?

J-Lyrical: Man a good life is this. When you doing something that you love to do and your getting paid for it. Its nothing greater than that. I mean is like if you love waking up and you wake up every morning and you get paid for it, who wouldn't love that. I don't feel like nobody should go threw life being miserable and especially without making money.

GLC: As far as underground hip hop is concerned in Michigan, where do you think it is going, and what do you think it needs to work on?

J-Lyrical: Michigan needs to work on originality. We was the originators back in the day you know with Motown and all that, so we really started it, but its like we following. Its not enough leaders, and if the game keep going like that we just gone keep following, and forever stay behind. But I know its some true pioneers out there, and its gone come up. Then another thing that needs to be worked on is SUPPORT, stop hating and show some love.

And another one goodlife. J-Lyrical is on his way y'all. Already having worked with some names in the industry such as Gillie the Kid, J-Lyrical can't and won't be stopped. This young mans drive and determination to make it is like no one we've seen before. Be on the look out for his next mixtape labeled Diamond in the Dirt dropping next month. Check out this video from him and here are some links to his music. Until next time stay in this Campaign for the Good Life.

Links; www.jlyricalmusic.com

Catch him on soundcloud, facebook, myspace, also catch him on itunes next month

                                                                                  

                                                                                   

CHECK OUT COMMON AND NAS. THEY'RE BAAAACCCKK!

DAMN YEEZY AND HOV

                                                                                  

Meet Lauren Delatorre

This Campaign that we are on is really Good.  Here at GLC we want to bring you the best of everything going on in the Midwest, but not only the Midwest but eventually the entire country.  Recently we got a chance to sit down with a beautiful model who's name you will be knowing really soon, because of her hard work and dedication to modeling. Get ready Good Life because we bring to you a supermodel in the making by the name of Lauren Delatorre.


GLC: So where are you from?

Lauren Delatorre: You can say I am from Grand Rapids, MI, but growing up, like four months out of the year I lived in Miami every year because i have family their, so I'm pretty familiar with the city of Miami, but for the most part I'm from Grand Rapids.

GLC: How long have you been modeling?

Lauren Delatorre: I started when i was 14, I was like a freshman in high school. That's when i got my first contract.

GLC: What made you want to pursue modeling?

Lauren Delatorre: I don't know. I get that question a lot, and its kind of hard for me to say. Its just always something i wanted to make a career out of, but just in case it didn't fall threw, that's what i am in college for, but It just appealed to me.

GLC:  Who would you say that you look up to, and who would you say is your favorite model?

Lauren Delatorre: Look up to, I would have to say my dad. I don't really have a favorite model, maybe ummm... it's kind of hard like as far as the urban stuff i would have to say Cubana West or Rosa Acosta, but as far as like fashion I would say Kim Kardashian. I like her style.

GLC: Are you single?

Lauren Delatorre: No I'm not.

                                                                                 
GLC: Do you get a lot of guys trying to talk to you all the time, and if you do how do you handle that?

Lauren Delatorre: I tell them I'm married. I actually have a ring that i bought just so people would leave me alone, but for awhile it was working but now its like guys don't even care, so i gotta come up with something new to say. But usually you tell somebody you're in a relationship or your married or happy and they don't even care, they think that you want to have somebody on the side, but I'm definitely not like that.

GLC: Lets just say you were single. What type of guy do you go for, like whats your type?

Lauren Delatorre: Well I like pretty boys I don't like hood guys at all, I'm just to old for those types now, so i like somebody that's in school and has a job.  I like guys that are really professional and well put together. Seems like only the hood guys try to holla at me.

GLC: Who's your favorite guy entertainer?

Lauren Delatorre: Well I have a couple, Johnnie Depp, Ryan Philipee, Paul Walker

GLC: As far as modeling goes, do you see yourself in the big magazines in the near future and if you could be in any magazine which one would it be?

Lauren Delatorre: Well the industry is really hard for people to get that big break and make it now, so its really hard to say, all i can do is keep trying and keep getting the exposure that i need to get, but right now i love to do it and have it be my career, but if i could be in any magazine, I would really like to be in any high fashion magazine. I tend to only get work for urban modeling. But anyone of the big  high fashion mags would work for me. Just to really get published on a bigger scale.

                                                                                     
GLC: Could you see yourself in the King Magazine?

Lauren Delatorre: I mean to start out yea. I mean i won't do anything degrading. A lot of times like i said im only getting contacted about the urban stuff such as King Magazine. I feel like i kind of have to do that stuff in order to get to where i want to be. Its not my mag of choice but I would do it.

GLC: If everything plays out the way you see it as far as your career, where do you see yourself with modeling at the end of it all?

Lauren Delatorre: I would love for it to be what i live off of, so hopefully that will happen, but outside of modeling I will have a degree shortly, so if it doesn't get to where i want it to go i would still like it to be a side hobby that i do for fun, so at that point Ill probably be more open to do whatever, but either way it goes I'm still going to be modeling whether it be the big stuff or the smaller things. I will definitely have a degree and doing something I like doing if modeling isn't my career. But either way it goes i come out winning.

GLC: If you had $25 and you needed something to drink, eat and listen too what would they be?

Lauren Delatorre: To eat it would have to be my chocolate chip ice cream. And to drink it would be Lambrusco its a red wine, and to listen to, any type of Latin or R&B music.

GLC: So are you Latin?

Lauren Delatorre: I'm half Latin. My dad is black and my mom is Cuban.

GLC: So where you and ya girls going out to, and what you sippin on, and whats your favorite city to party in?

Lauren Delatorre: I'm either going to be going to a Latin bar with my Latin friends, or an urban club a place that plays r&b. I'm drinking on corona when i go out, and the best city to party in would  have to be Miami.

GLC: So being a model and a mother how do you handle both?

Lauren Delatorre: Well its kind of a struggle because being a mom theres somethings that i will absolutely will not do, if i wasn't a mom i would probably be more open to do certain things, but i do have to maintain that image for my daughter so that when she gets older she wont question anything that I've done. Obviously being a mom is really important to me and modeling too, so i laid down my boundaries awhile ago as far as what i will and wont do, so its not really too much of an issue because ill just tell people up front i will or i wont do this. it works out.

GLC: Can we catch you in any fashion show here in the future, and where can the people go to see your pics?

Lauren Delatorre: I just did a shoot for a magazine for 2012 ill be the month of October so that's coming up.  Its for a motorcycle club in Grand Rapids. I'm probably going to be doing some music videos for La The Darkman soon. I might be doing a fashion shoot pretty soon too.

GLC: So do you see yourself as a walking business?

Lauren Delatorre: I do. I actually get a lot of referrals and job offers from my facebook and and my model mayhem page. I always get a lot of offers to do things I've never done before such as movies and videos and things like that, so yea I would call myself a walking business.

GLC: What is your definition of a Good Life?

Lauren Delatorre: Having a sense of accomplishment, self fulfillment. I feel like a lot of people just strive to satisfy people around them instead of focusing on what they want for themselves.  I feel like as long as you are satisfied with yourself and you accomplish things then that's the good life.

Good Lifers this beautiful woman is on a road to success. Thanks for checking out the campaign stay tuned for more of the GOOD LIFE CAMPAIGN, and stay tuned in to Ms. Delatorre. Hit her up on facebook and check her out on model mayhem.