Titi and Miko Branch are carrying on the legacy of their legendary grandmother affectionately known as Miss Jessie. As a product of African American and Japanese ancestry, both the sisters faced a myriad of challenges in uncovering proper hair care techniques while growing up. Their grandma Jessie used her authentic yet practical sensibilities to personally develop products for their unique hair type. Today Titi and Miko have harnessed the very same love, care and innovation into a highly successful salon chain and super cult brand.

Clutch: There were some issues last year this time, and it seemed that Miss Jessie’s would longer be in New York. However time has worked miracles and you are back in NY to work your magic again! Is it safe to say, that our two favorite sisters have worked out their differences and we can all look forward to a long and hair-fabulous future with Miss Jessie’s?
Titi: Time has healed old wounds and my sister and I are back at it again. We are glad to be available to our clients again.

Clutch: Where is the new location and what appealed to you more about this area than BedStuy?
Titi: We have reopened the salon in the existing Bed Stuy location. We have not moved as of yet but plans are in the works …Stay tuned.

Clutch: What will happen to the salon in DC?
Titi: The DC Salon officially closed when Miko and I reunited. Amazingly many of the clients who traveled to DC now come to Brooklyn to get serviced.

Clutch: Let’s talk about pricing. That has been one of the biggest concerns with the Miss Jessie’s client and those considering your services. Can you tell us why your prices are significantly higher compared to most African-American hair salons? How do your services stand out from the rest?
Titi: We believe pricing is relative. Our pricing is priced at a rate where our staff feels compensated and appreciated for the work, dedication, love and care that we put into our work. Our client feels this every time they walk through Miss Jessie’s doors to get serviced. The level of work that we are providing is very labor intensive and requires expertise on a high level. Our pricing ensures that we continue to feel good about what we are doing and in turn the customer feels good too.

Clutch: There has been conflict in regards to what is considered “natural.” As a hair care professional and stylist, how do you define the term “natural” as it pertains to our hair?
Titi: “Natural” technically refers to hair that is not chemically processed in any way. However, this line has been blurred. Is someone considered “natural” when their hair has been exposed to permanent color? Or how about when it has been exposed to a Silkener? If we stuck to the strict definition the answer would be “no.” However “natural” hair has become synonomous with a look. And we find ourselves calling hair “natural” based on the look of it. So hair that is chemically processed with a Silkener can still look “natural” or hair that is processed with permanent color still looks natural.

Clutch: Is there a “right” kind of nappy? For example, the hair texture of Lauryn Hill vs. Tracee Ellis Ross.
Titi: Absolutely no “right” kind of nappy. “Nappy” is not our choice of language. We believe that “natural” hair comes in many different forms. All beautiful and diverse. In fact that’s the beauty of natural hair in that it comes in so many different forms and textures.

Clutch: You have created a hair treatment called the Silkener, can you explain what that is and what makes it different than a texturizer?
Titi: A Silkener is a chemical service that was created in Miss Jessie’s Salon by Miko. The purpose of a Silkener is to chemically stretch and smooth a curl, kink or wave. The thought process, the strategy and the end result of a Silkener is what makes it different from a Texturizer.

Clutch: Some of the ingredients in your products: lye and mineral oil are ingredients that the “natural” community has said is unhealthy for our hair. How do you reinforce that your products are not just about styling but are also healthy in terms of maintenance?
Titi: As far as lye goes, we have used lye effectively in our salon for years. Lye has a negative connotation in the “natural” community because for some being “natural” is all about not using a chemical in one’s hair. We get that. Our Silkener service is a chemical service. The reason that people choose the Silkener service range from wanting more manageability to more versatility. It is not an unhealthy option. It’s an option that promotes easier maintenance for natural looking hair.

When we formulated our products we were aiming for performance. Our experience with cosmetics-grade mineral oil and petrolatum is that it is considered the safest, most nonirritating moisturizing ingredients ever found (Sources: Cosmetics & Toiletries, January 2001, page 79; Cosmetic Dermatology, September 2000, pages 44–46). Yes, they can keep air off the skin to some extent, but that’s what a good antioxidant is supposed to do; they don’t suffocate skin! Moreover, petrolatum and mineral oil are known for being efficacious in wound healing, and are also considered to be among the most effective moisturizing ingredients available (Source: Cosmetics & Toiletries, February 1998, pages 33–40). Mineral oil is just one ingredient in our product. The product also has other natural oils such as sweet almond oil, avocado oil, macadamia seed oil, shea butter which are proven to be moisturizing to the hair.

Clutch: Tell us about some of the new products you’ve released this year.
Titi: We’ve released four new products this year including: Stretch Silkening Crème: a whipped soufflé lighter version of Curly Pudding, Quick Curls: a lightweight styler that’s great for looser textures and relaxed hair options, Crème de la Curl: a sulfate free non-sudsing cleansing crème formulated especially for us, dry, parched, tightly coiled, fragile, used and abused curly textures and Crème de la Crème: a luxurious daily conditioner and leave-in styler that’s excellent for dry parched hair.

Clutch: I’m also really excited about the new sizes you’ve released in the Curly Pudding and Curly Buttercreme. How has the response been for you?
Titi: It’s been great. Initially our products were offered in the sizes that were appropriate for the amount of product our client typically uses. The smaller sizes have been great because they give people an opportunity to try the products and actually travel with them.

For more information on Miss Jessie’s salons and products please visit www.curve-salon.com and www.missjessies.com.

Clutch: What inspired your new album, “Lessons in Love”?
Lloyd: I wanted to entertain and re-educate all the lovers out there. Allow them to understand that love has many different sides, has many colors, ethnic backgrounds, and offers many different lessons that we should all take the time to learn.

Clutch: For you, what has been the biggest lesson in love that you’ve learned so far?
Lloyd: Love takes time, experience takes time, you have to find it, understand it, not only how to make love- which everyone wants to know how to do well- but also what it means, what it’s all about, what it represents. There’s four things constant in this world: music, love, laughter and hate. I think we’ve seen enough hate lately, even in music. I think in the words of Mr. Obama, “this is a chance for change!” This is a year of change and I’m trying to live up to that. Not only change my approach to my own recordings like taking it back to the days of recording analogs with less editing. I want to really sing my songs.

Clutch: This will be third album to-date. What is different about this album? How have you evolved as an artist and how has your music evolved?
Lloyd: I think I’ve evolved into stability. As a young man I’m always thinking of the girls…and in having that girl she’d really expect stability. And that one girl that’s been down for me is my fans and I’m trying to give them stability in my music by having them rely on me as someone who helps them to forget about the everyday bullshit that we go through. Music for me has always been an escape, a rescue, and I think my fans deserve that as well.

Clutch: Who are some of the artists that you’ve collaborated with on your new album?
Lloyd: Nelly, Weezy, Natasha Bedingfield to name a few.

Clutch: I think this is always one of the most difficult questions that music artists are asked, but are there any tracks on the album that are standouts or favorites for you?
Lloyd: I like all of them! They all have different meanings, different characters, and they all have their own special place. One of my faves is the single, Girl Around the World. I love that song. I think that it’s a great song for the summer and even the fall. It’s like runway music so it makes you wanna walk that, talk that, and have attitude. That’s one of my favorite ones.

Clutch: What do you think it takes for an artist nowadays to sell a record? Is there a formula?
Lloyd: I think there is no formula, the old formula has been destroyed, it’s obsolete! I think that new age music is the future, online and video blogging. In a second I’m gonna be able to teleport, lol. You can now be much more personable with people. And I think you have to take that approach. You have to be personable and market the music. You have to touch people, let them know that they can be touched through music. Let them know you have love for them. My philosophy is just come hungry. It feels like my first album.

Clutch: Who are some of your musical inspirations, past and present?
Lloyd: Marvin Gaye, is definitely one, he was so smooth. Sammy Davis Jr, I like him because of what he couldn’t do- which was nothing! Jay-Z, Lil Wayne, Pharrell, and my grandfather, who wasn’t a musician himself, but played a lot of music.

Clutch: How has your mom influenced your musical career?
Lloyd: My mom has influenced me vicariously in a lot of ways. And in a lot of ways, she lives through me. There’s a special connection that we share. I’m named after my father, he was the first man she ever married and the only man she ever married. My mom used to sing in the church choir. She’s just very very cool. And she’s also one of those mom’s who wasn’t afraid to conquer the world on her own, that takes a lot of courage. She’s instilled an appreciation for women in me and I’ve tried to show that with this album.

Clutch: You represent Atlanta to the fullest. When you’re on the road and you think of Atlanta, what are some images that come to mind?
Lloyd: I think of Auburn Avenue. Martin Luther King Jr. I think about Five Points. People there dress crazy wild. I think about certain streets, certain neighborhoods, Kensington Road, I think about the Eastside. The music. I remember seeing Andre 3000 with these crazy furry boots on with football pads and cowboy pants, lol, but he’s the coolest dude ever. I think about swag. I think about my momma’s house, my house on a Sunday in the A. I think about the place where I had my first kiss. It was perfect. I think about performing arts school. The people, the energy. I love it here.

Clutch: You’ve launched your own music label, “Young Goldie Music”, what was that a result of?
Lloyd: I wanted to take a stand in my own life, my career…and I combined that with my knowledge of the business. There are so many talented individuals who deserve more for themselves, they work really hard, and because of the game and how it is and especially if you’re coming in young, you can easily get misguided. Also with my own label I’m able to be more free and comfortable. Lessons in Love is being released through this label and I think it will be bigger and much more successful. Plus, I get to make sure that it gets to my fans.

Clutch: What helps to keep you grounded?
Lloyd: The idea that I can be better.

For more information on Lloyd please visit www.younglloyd.com and www.myspace.com/lloyd

Jack Davey is one half of J*DaVeY, the Los Angeles based duo that seems to be en route to becoming superstars. Jack comes from a long line of strong female energy like Betty Davis, Grace Jones & Annie Lennox. She’s a fashion maven, truth sayer & a sex kitten who sings, emcees, DJs and plays a mean tambourine. Jack took some time off from promoting J*DaVeY’s independent release “The Beauty In Distortion/The Land Of The Lost” (Interdependent Media) to chat it up with Clutch.

Clutch: Your debut album is entitled Land of the Lost, tell us how you chose that name.
Jack: It’s just something that popped into my head. I kept imagining some sort of electronic teenage wasteland, some hybrid of Prince’s Sign O The Times stage and F. Scott Fitzgerald novel. At the same time it has something to do with the idea of Hollywood playing itself, therefore deeming it the land of the lost or the land of fake boobs, stars and flashing lights. We’re defending the city by giving people another perspective of what it’s like to live here. Also, we like to think that this album serves as a tool to navigate through the mundane state of the music business aka the land of the lost.

Clutch: Who are some of your musical influences?
Jack: Jim Morrison, Prince, Miles Davis, Dale Bozzio.

Clutch: Life is a constant inspiration to artists: love, birth, loss, heartbreak. How has your life inspired your music?
Jack: Music is my life. I’m personally invested in everything I write, it may not always be a direct reflection of my personal experience, but everything I can imagine is real.

Clutch: You’ve worked with several producers in the past. What is it about your union with Brook that makes J*Davey a force not to be reckon with?
Jack: Brook and I have a synergy that transcends fear and ego. We’re completely open and uninhibited when we work together, we also give each other enough space to do what we each do brilliantly. We balance each other out; I’m always crazy and over the top, he’s mellow and put together. Yin and yang.

Clutch: Are there any tracks on the album that are your personal favorites?
Jack: I love “Dancehall” and “Venus to Mars” puts me in a trance. I can listen to it over and over again.

Clutch: There is an incredible energy when you’re on stage performing for your fans. How is that experience for you?
Jack: It used to be draining and rather nerve racking; I’d be up there staring into people’s faces trying to gauge some sort of positive response and when I didn’t get exactly what I was looking for I let it affect my flow. Now I’m really just going for it, completely zoning out, borderline hallucinating. It’s an unexplainable high.

Clutch: Now that you are signed to Warner Bros, how has the transition been from independent artist to signed artist?
Jack: Nothing has really changed. We’re still working just as hard, actually harder than we were before. Being signed doesn’t mean you can just sit back and let the label do all the work, we’ve had to guide the entire process. It’s been a rollercoaster, but enjoyable nonetheless.

Clutch: There is a wonderful variety in your music. We don’t expect to hear just one sound from J*Davey. Do you find that most people are receptive to that or do they want to limit you to one sound, one musical genre?
Jack: Some people are receptive, others are not. People either love us or they don’t like us at all. I’d rather that than a lot of “on the fence” fans who could care either way. People are still getting used to us, so we still have some convincing to do and that’s cool.

Clutch: Will you be touring in the near future?
Jack: We’re actually trying to lock in tours as we speak. Possibly something in the late summer/early fall so stay tuned.

Clutch: What artists are currently in rotation in your CD player/iPod?
Jack: The Doors, Muhsinah, The Roots “Rising Down”, N.E.R.D “Seeing Sounds”, Reese 1 “Him 1979″, Black Morris mixtapes.

Clutch: You have an incredible fashion sense! How would you describe your style?
Jack: My style is anything goes. Each day I’m feeling something different and what I wear reflects that. Currently I’m wearing a lot of printed mini dresses, things that are easy to slip on and off. The higher the heel the better. Light accessories and messy hair because it’s summer sexy.

Clutch: Vintage boutique, thrift store or department store – which would you choose to shop at and why?
Jack: The vintage boutique. I’m all for classically old things.

Clutch: Who are some of your favorite designers?
Jack: Hedi Slimane, Rojas, Jeremy Scott.

Clutch: What item did you last splurge on?
Jack: My Guiseppe Zanotti patent leather wedges.

Clutch: What fashion trend needs to be on its way out?
Jack: None. Perhaps they just need to be reinvented. Out is always in.

Clutch: So it’s a night out on the town with the girls and you’re about to hit up the club. Your outfit is fabulous, hair is on point and to finish the look off you accessorize with a HOT clutch. Tell us, what are you carrying in it? What won’t you leave home without?
Jack: Pink Lemonade MAC lip glass, my Blackberry, I.D., cash, compact and an extra pair of panties. You never know what will happen . . .

A much needed break from the overly produced tracks we hear on the radio, Ayah’s Problem Woman has found an incredible balance of voice, instrumental, dope beats with influences of Hip Hop and R&B.

Clutch was able to catch up with our Canadian neighbor to find out more on Toronto’s music scene, what inspires her and her method to making great music.

Clutch: You’ve just released a mixtape/album called, Problem Woman. What is the concept behind the name?
Ayah: Problem Woman is inspired by Marvin Gaye’s Trouble Man album that was a soundtrack for the Trouble Man Blaxploitation film. Marvin Gaye was genius. A lot of the songs on that album are instrumentals, so I wrote new songs to a couple of them and then used the rest within the mixtape. The artwork was also heavily inspired by the original Trouble Man artwork.

Clutch: There is definitely a Hip Hop element in your music. Who are some of your musical influences?
Ayah: Marvin Gaye, Common, Nas, Kanye, Erykah Badu, Andre 3000, Jill Scott, The Roots, Teedra Moses, John Legend, Alicia Keys, older Mariah, Whitney, Celine, Anita Baker, Zaki, definitely the underground scene, as well some 90′s rock. So many more!

Clutch: Where are you originally from, and how has your culture influenced your music?
Ayah: I am originally Palestinian. I was born in Jordan. I’d say the biggest influence my culture has had on me, combined with being brought up between the UAE, Toronto and Washington, to be honest, was making me who I am: allowing me to have options; to be able to adapt to different people and cultures; to want to understand the world in a very open minded fashion; to test the boundaries and be the devil’s advocate. That translates into my music because that’s who I am and so I’m able to put that into my music!

Clutch: How old were you when you decided you wanted to make singing a career?
Ayah: Around 16 I knew that I had to pursue music on a more serious level. I went to college for a couple of years after high school while working on music, but the urge to give music a real full-time chance got strong. At that point, I left school and made this my full time!

Clutch: How did your parents influence you musically?
Ayah: My parents always allowed me to express myself. They never hindered my personal progression and growth. They always let me make my mistakes, and though I may have made a lot, I also learned from them. My parents have always worked hard consistently, and so I think my drive comes from that model. My biggest support are my parents.

Clutch: You currently live in Toronto. How is the Hip Hop and R&B scene there? Is it more difficult to get the exposure you need as an artist in Canada?
Ayah: The scene is beautiful! There is so much talent in Toronto. Like anywhere, it’s over saturated. A lot of us don’t get paid enough or exposed enough. There’s only one commercial urban radio station in Toronto and even that isn’t really urban anymore! However, I feel like it makes us better because we have to think outside the box, we have to take initiative. There are no major labels out here that are willing to support local artists or spend any money on them. Not many managers that are knowledgeable or that do it full time. They say there is no market for urban music here. I say there aren’t many outlets. Instead of complaining though, (and I can be good at complaining), I just have to be proactive, create and exploit what’s available, like the internet.

Clutch: Life is a constant inspiration for artists: love, birth, loss, heartbreak. How has your life inspired this album?
Ayah: Every song starts with a feeling. Life is feeling. Hanging up a phone call, meeting someone new, love, embarrassment, etc. I mean, every human feeling that is a reaction to this life inspires every song I have ever written and will ever write.

Clutch: What helps to keep you grounded?
Ayah: The people around me. I’ve always attracted critics into my life! I like to hear what the people who truly support and love me have to say. Please never mistake critics who “hate” on you and want to bring you down with the people that love you and give you the truth! There’s a big difference.

Also, I want to stay grounded. I’ve seen what happens to people who get caught up. All of us can get caught up, but to be able to step back and observe reality is necessary.

Clutch: I know that you also write your own songs. How does your creative process work? Do the words come first, the emotion or the music?
Ayah: Either or…Lately, usually, the emotion, then either the words or music. It’s really like a revolving circle. There’s no true beginning. No right or wrong way.

Clutch: Are there any artists you would like to collaborate with in the future?
Ayah: Everybody I mentioned above who has inspired me. Jazzy Jeff is very dope! Dilla — I would have loved to have collaborated with him. RIP Dilla. So many people, but definitely any one who I vibe well with and who is a true musician!

Clutch: I have to say that your music video, “Pusha Man”, was adorable, especially the ending! Why did you choose that concept for the video?
Ayah: Thank you! Problem Woman was inspired by Trouble Man, a Marvin Gaye composed album, for the Blaxploitation Film, Trouble Man. When deciding to bring picture to the song, “Pusha Man”, it made sense to go back and watch Blaxploitation movies! Obviously, when watching Blaxploitation movies, you got to watch Foxy Brown and Coffee! Pam Grier was hot, strong and a problem! A good problem! It only made sense. We explored a bunch of other concepts and couldn’t find one that fit as well as this one!

Clutch: Aside from singing, are there any other goals that you are pursuing outside of music?
Ayah: I feel passionately about social work. I’m not the most active person that I feel I could be, but I try my best to do the best I can. I have worked in the Behavior Science field (in college), and then with various organizations that offer youth arts programs, such as the Remix Project. I have mentored younger females, and I always try to share with them my experiences and what ever I can.

Clutch: So, it’s a night out on the town with the girls and you’re about to hit up the club. Your outfit is fabulous, hair is on point and to finish the look off you accessorize with a HOT clutch. Tell us, what are you carrying in it? What won’t you leave home without?
Ayah: To be honest, when I’m carrying a clutch, I got my I.D., my lip gloss, my money, gum, my car keys, and my phone! I guess those are the bare necessities, but I guess I’m that kind of girl!

For more information on Ayah please visit www.ayahmusic.com and www.myspace.com/ayahmusic.

Holding many titles, UBIQUITA has now transitioned into a lifestyle brand and production company that will be creating content for concert and tour production, theatre, TV and film in addition to consulting with major brands who wish to cater to multicultural markets. They are currently developing their first concert series in South Africa in addition to touring the party nationally and internationally.

In the very immediate future, UBIQUITA has teamed up with Clutch to bring you The Queen’s Daughters: Celebrating Women Who Rock with a Touch of Soul: Honoring the Musical Legacy of Labelle, MAY 10th at the Grand Ballroom, Manhattan Center, 311 West 34th Street, NY, NY. With live performances by Shelley Nicole’s blaKbüshe, Tamar-Kali, and JOI and sounds provided by THE LADIES OF UBIQUITA DJ’s Reborn, Selly & shErOck- this is a show not to be missed!

Clutch reached out to Kim Knox and the Ladies of UBIQUITA to get an inside peek at how they started and their love for music.

Q: What inspired you to start UBIQUITA?
KIM KNOX: UBIQUITA was actually one of those magical things that just organically came together. My business partner Deshawn Ward-Maxwell and I met on the spoken word circuit back when we both used to perform. He has always been a promoter in NYC (Baby Phat/ Low Profile)and we collaborated on an event that he was doing at the time featuring a new cute female DJ on the NY scene named DJ REBORN!! That event went really well and we then started to brainstorm on creating a party that would play around with the duality of gender roles featuring women in these key positions. In addition we wanted to create a space that was “the urban alternative for the soul” featuring the artists we love, the music we listen to and appealing to the taste-makers that we are. We chose the name Ubiquita which is latin for ubiquity…being global and omnipresent in the creation of environments that cater to the urban creative professional. We wanted the party to have a twist so we made it an all-female DJ residency…one of the first of it’s kind in NYC!

Q: You represent the hottest female DJ’s out of NY, in addition to throwing some of the hottest dance parties and events. Have you had any difficulty negotiating in a business that’s male dominated?
There are always those kinds of pitfalls in doing business as a woman. All you can do is make sure that you remain professional and consistent in your business relationships. My core team of people has been predominantly the same since the beginning which is now over seven years ago. I find that the game is not as male dominated as you might think, anymore. It’s a little more even in that women are popping up in all kinds of key positions throughout the entertainment industry.

Q: What advice can you give to entrepreneurs who’d like to break into event planning?
Maintain good contacts with people who can execute every possible aspect of an event. (PR, design, venue, photographers, caterers, production etc. …all the folks that can help to create a flawless image for an event.

Reborn:
Q: How does it feel to be one the top female DJ’s in New York?
Wow, thank you. It is an honor to be considered a DJ that folks seem to enjoy and support! I love being a woman doing this work because it is important to me to represent as a skilled DJ in such a competitive field.

Q: How difficult has it been coming up in a male dominated industry?
There have been some difficulties but honestly I have had more success and joy doing this than problems. Of course, I am critical of the sexism that I have experienced and that does exist but any woman that can prosper on her own terms in a male dominated industry is already something to celebrate.

Q: Are you working on any current projects? And what are your goals for the future in terms of DJing?
I am youth program director at a DJ/music production school called Dubspot, so I am there a lot. I also teach a workshop for teen girls that explores DJing, creative writing, lyric analysis and collage making. Also, I really want to spin a lot more overseas as well.

I have been working on some more sound design work as well as a play and I am really determined to compile a book and a documentary in the near future.

Selly:
Q: Why and when did you begin DJing?
It was by sheer accident. I put myself though college working in a record store many moons ago. The equipment and music purchases were very discounted for me. After collecting the toys, I used to play music for my family or at my house parties when they were away. I felt like a “legend in my living room.” My ex suggested playing music out. I laughed at the thought but later realized that perhaps he was right.

Q: Have you played anywhere abroad? And if so, where?
Sure. I have had the pleasure of playing in London, Zurich, Spain and Italy and would like to expand my repertoire of experiences abroad to Asia, Africa and anywhere else that is willing to take their hands off of the radio.

Q: If there were five pieces of vinyl that you couldn’t live without, what would they be?
1. Soul II Soul “Keep on moving”,
2. Rufus and Chaka Khan “Rufusized”
3. The Dubtribe Sound system 12” of “Do it Now”
4. Fela Kuti “Expensive Shit”
5. Mariah Carey “We Belong Together” (Just kidding )…. No really, Stevie Wonder, “Songs in the key of Life”

Moni:
Q: What genre of music do you most enjoy spinning?
I enjoy playing all kinds of soulful music, whether it’s jazz, Afro, Latin, funk, hip hop or house. The music has to evoke emotion and inspire at some level.

Q: What has been your best DJing experience so far?
My best DJing experiences happen when I’m playing in a different city or country because everything is unexpected: the crowd, the club, the sound. There is always a good amount of anticipation, which adds to the excitement. My best experiences include playing my London debut at Gilles Peterson residency, spinning in Japan at an MTV/Puma party with Doug E. Fresh, playing on a small island in the Philippines with a great group of people and DJing for an amazing, dancing crowd in Oakland.

Q: When you are not DJing, what do you do in your spare time?
I teach kids in an arts after-school program and I work on music with the production collective, GAEA. We work on original music and remixes. I also write and take photos for a couple of music columns.

ShErOck:
Q: How did you choose your DJ name?
My DJ name was supposed to be erOck* but someone in the universe has already been jamming to this title so i decided since my journey was a unique one along with numerical and personal meaning that DJ.shErOck* was the perfect fit.

Q: I’ve seen you spin on several occasions. Not only is the music HOT but your gear is fabulous. How would you describe your personal style?
Thank you! Basically I’m a post.punk.retro.rainbow.bright.shine.

Q: If you had to pick a record/song to be the soundtrack of your life so far, what would it be?
Wow, this might be the hardest question for any DJ/music lover. One song that forever lives with me is “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” by Michael Jackson, and the album that has really moved me these days is Charmed and Strange by Yoav!!!

To learn more about UBIQUITA NYC please visit www.ubiquitanyc.com and www.myspace.com/ubiquitanyc

To purchase tickets for The Queen’s Daughters: Celebrating Women Who Rock with a Touch of Soul please visit www.ticketmaster.com

S’aint Yacque jewels are a memory of Africa, of home, and its rare beauty. Designer Yacira Valdez, has combined this image with an urban edge, sometimes ravish and unpolished, but always with purpose. Clutch was able to sit down with Valdez to talk about energy, art and her inspirations.

Q: When did you start designing jewelry?
I started designing jewelry and accessories almost three years ago mainly because I couldn’t find accessories that fit my personal style. Through the encouragement of a close friend I worked up the courage to put them out into the universe. I was and still am shocked at how well received they have been.

Q: What elements do you incorporate into your designs?
My personal style is earthy yet edgy, a little grungy but clean…and I think that translates into my designs. I like to mix natural elements such as wood, natural stones, coral, camel bone, coyote teeth, raccoon and fox tails, leather with chain and metals.

Q: You proudly represent the Dominican Republic. How does your culture influence your design vision?
My earlier pieces manifested directly from my connection to DR….I used Asabaches which are the small black fists you see in a lot of my pieces. Asabaches are used to ward off evil spirits and are usually pinned to an infants clothing. Pieces like wood, shells and coral all take me back to the island…the chains represent America….LOL…I just made that up but that shit sound kinda dope…don’t let me get political on here!

Q: Who is the S’aint Yacque customer?
My first collection was a men’s line; I designed pins, tie clasps, big link chains and leather items that would appeal to not only men but a unisex market. When creating I was thinking Prince, Lenny Kravitz, Andre 3000. A man who rides that fine gender line and who takes risk in fashion…but that’s such a narrow market that I had to expand and create pieces for women….the same edginess translated into my women’s line and I think that is what appeals to my customers.

The S’aint Yacque customer is a person who likes unique pieces, not too much flash but likes to make a statement. A fashionista that always looks fresh but never looks like she tried to look fresh.

Q: Tell us about your Spring/Summer collection, Prey? And what inspired that name?
“In ecology, predation describes a biological interaction where a predator species kills and eats other organisms, known as prey.”

I had so much energy inside, both positive and negative and art has really allowed me to express myself and has helped me heal….Prey is the energy that I’m putting into everything I do right now…I’m preying AND I’m praying.

I’m passionately seeking success on many different levels and its like something as come over me…I feel like a predator ready to attack….I’m on a mission and I’ll stop at nothing. It’s almost scary how hard I’m working but it feels great. I’m really proud of myself. Ahem.

I studied designs of rosaries and Buddhist beads and flipped it.

Q: On your path to starting, were there any major challenges?
Time and Money….money and time….I’m thankful that I never run out of amazing ideas for my designs or art….unfortunately I don’t always have the money OR the time to develop all of them….that gets to be a bit frustrating. Jewelry making is expensive and my taste in fashion is waaaaaaay above my means….I have elaborate ideas using leathers, furs, silk, linen…thankfully I’ve sketched out quite a few of them…

In a few years I want to expand my accessories line to feature bags and shoes as well as small leather goods as well as a clothing collection. So!!! if any readers have a rich dad who wants to donate 100 Gs to get me started…holla!! (646)346-0511

Q: You have a beautiful son, how do you manage both career and family?
When I’m stuck on a design I run it by him…he has an amazing eye and it always catches me by surprise when he suggests changes. He’s always on point. He tells me I work too hard and demands me to put the supplies away sometimes. He tells me I need a vacation. I’m not ready for all that though. I’m so focused.

I’ve made a conscious decision to put aside, partying, dating, chillin’ and have really put all my time and energy into my family and my business. My “studio” is my coffee table so I’m able to spend time with him every night after I come home from work…we spend time together while I work.

Q: Who are some jewelry/ fashion designers that inspire you?
I’m inspired by the unknown jewelry designers in the bushes of Latin and South America, Africa, those that make jewelry with callused hands to preserve culture…make jewelry to feed their families. There is something organic and real about their art. They use natural elements from the earth, blood sweat and tears go into each piece and that they didn’t go to Parsons to learn technique. Realness.

Q: What void do you currently see out there when it comes to jewelry design?
Well for me it’s always difficult to find jewelry and fashion that is not overly feminine and men clothes that fit my womanly body :) There is definitely a void of pieces that are not gender specific but that are stylish and modern.

Q: You’re also an incredible stylist! What do you enjoy most about styling?
Definitely watching the transformation of a woman into a model…watching the layers, the makeup, hair, clothing and for it to manifest into a piece of art.

While styling I quickly realized I wanted and needed more control over the production. One of my future goals is to become an Art Director. I come up with amazing concepts and with the right team of photographer, makeup artist, hair stylist, set designer, it’d be over…my imagination is crazy. That’s all I’m going to say….time and money, money and time are all I need.

Q: Aside from your jewels, what other projects do you have in the works?
Aside from my jewelry and accessories I’m developing a t-shirt line using mix mediums, hand painted scarves and a line of greeting cards using my own artwork. I’m also launching a line of authentic vintage sunglasses this summer with my partner Carlos Cully the name is YakBlak…keep your eyes open for that.

An ecommerce website www.cocolah.com is also in the works, this will be a place where I will feature other designers, artists, musicians and much more. That’s due to launch June 2008. I’m also getting ready for the Dance Africa festival coming to Brooklyn this Memorial Day weekend at BAM….you’ll be able to catch me peddling my wares. In the meantime find me on www.yacquevaldez.com, or www.myspace.com/yacquevaldez

Thank you Summer! and thank you to all my customers and supporters.

Q: What inspired you to become a makeup artist? And how did you start in the business?
I was inspired to become a makeup artist when I was a model and the makeup artists couldn’t do my makeup properly. They couldn’t choose or mix the correct shade of foundation etc so I had to do it myself. After a while other models at the shoot or fashion show would ask which makeup artist did my makeup and I would say “I Did my own” and they would ask if I could make them look as good as me? That’s how I started doing makeup. I began in the business by assisting several top makeup artists at NO CHARGE so I worked for FREE…. and SEVERAL hours on the job training. I majored in fine arts in college which is why color and color theory comes so naturally for me.

Q: Tell us about your innovative cosmetic line, Color by Cynde Watson. What makes this collection so unique?
What makes my makeup collection unique is that all of my products: foundation, concealer, eye shadow, bronzer, highlighter, blush and lip color are all dual-ended pencils. I was inspired to create my makeup collection when I had my daughter Kennedy. When she was a baby (now four years old) she wouldn’t let me put her down in the morning so I could apply my makeup for work. She would start screaming if I put her down, so I had to put my makeup on with one hand. I didn’t have a live in nanny so I had to be ready to leave for work completely when the babysitter arrived at my door. The pencil concept came to me because I was only able to use eyeliner pencils as eye shadow and lip pencils as lip color and blush and concealer pencils as foundation etc. while getting ready for work with my daughter in on my left hip coloring my face with my right hand. What I knew I needed to do was to create a formula and a tool that would work in a pencil form to make life easier for multi-tasking women of all ages and nationalities.

Q: You are very much into health and nutrition, using only organic ingredients (the ingredients aren’t all organic). Will this consciousness eventually trickle down into creating a holistic skin care line?
I’ve always been health conscious however in the past year I have been eating 95 percent organic food and I’ve never looked or felt better. I am planning to add more natural ingredients to my products in the future, especially my skincare products.

Q: What are some obstacles and challenges that you’ve faced in your field since you began?
The major obstacle that I have faced in this industry has been people understanding that a creative makeup artist can also be powerful business women.

Q: You’ve worked with some amazing talents from Angela Bassett to Queen Latifah to Tyson Beckford. In addition, you’ve created runway looks for designers such as Badgley Mischka and Tracey Reese. Do you have a preference between working one-on-one with celebrity clients or working entire concepts for runway shows?
I enjoy working with both models and celebrities very much, however what I love the most is working with non-celebrity women to teach them the makeup techniques that will help them look and feel their best with more confidence.

Q: You have five minutes to glam the face of a client right before they walk onto the red carpet. What products do you pull out of your bag of tricks to give them a flawless look in only minutes?
I would pull out a few of my makeup pencils for face eyes and lips; they are the perfect makeup to give you flawless coverage, beautiful buildable color and precise application.

Q: What are some make-up mishaps that you often see?
The makeup mishaps that I often see are:
• Women using too much foundation (giving them the heavy mask look)
• Blotchy foundation
• Not using bronzer to warm and correct the skin
• Not knowing wear or how to apply blush
• Using lip liner that is too dark or applying a too thin line on the lips making the lips look tight and small
• Applying to much mascara giving them CLUMPY lashes
• Over tweezed eyebrows or eyebrows that are drawn on too dark

Q: What advice can you give to women when choosing the right? Foundation?
When choosing foundation make sure that you choose three shades on your jaw line blend them into the skin one at a time with clean fingers or use a sponge. The shade that disappears into the skin is the perfect shade. I also believe women should own at least two shades of foundation so they can consistently have the correct shade of foundation year long (summer months, winter months).

Q: What beauty product/treatment do you feel every woman should splurge on?
Women should splurge on skin treatment, foundation, concealer and professional eyebrow shaping.

Q: What is this Spring’s palette in terms of makeup?
Bright beautiful and vibrant shades of coral, lavender and green on the eyes and shimmery shades of plum, peach and nude on the lips.

Q: For women on a budget, what is the easiest thing they can do with make up that will have the biggest impact?
• Use dual purpose or dual ended makeup.
• Use a Foundation pencil or stick foundation that can double as a foundation and concealer.
• A bronzer with a highlighter in a dual-ended pencil or compact is great to use to give skin warmth and dimension.
• A blush that can also be used as a lip color.

Q: You have a beautiful daughter, how do you manage both career and family?
Thank you, she (Kennedy) is the most important person in my life. I manage my career and home life by being extremely organized, taking care of myself by eating healthy and exercising so I have the energy to entertain a four year old and I get great support from my husband Ken, my Mother Eleanor and sister-in-law Lanelle, and prayer always works.

Q: Aside from launching your fabulous makeup line, what can we expect in the near future from you?
I am working on a beauty book and an exciting TV project. Stay tuned.

For more information about Cynde Watson and Color by Cynde Watson please visit beauty.hsn.com .

Clutch was able to stand the heat in Garvin’s kitchen to bring you an inside look at his love for cooking and his goals for the new year.

Q: What made you decide to pursue a career in the culinary arts?
As a kid, I grew up in a household with four sisters and a mother who all cooked. It became one of my responsibilities as well. As I grew older, I would go to work with my mom at the Brewer Jewish Home helping her clean and make food delivery rounds after she and others prepared meals.

Later, I would help my mom peel potatoes, carrots and onions, stock and restock dry storage, wash dishes and anything else that would keep me busy. Ironically, I learned my way around the kitchen. When I turned 13, I began working as a part time dishwasher and prep guy at a local restaurant in Atlanta called The Gathering. This is where I developed my love for food.

Q: Is cooking a skill that you grew to love or a love that you perfected into a skill?
I would say that cooking was definitely a skill that I developed at a young age and I grew to not only love it, but also perfect it over the years.

Q: How did your mother and grandmother influence you with cooking?
My mother was a huge influence in my cooking career. I learned the basics watching and helping her prepare meals at the Brewer Jewish Home. More importantly, my mother managed to take care of an entire family based on that skill set.

Q: You blend an element of Hip-hop into your cooking. How has that helped you to relate to your audience?
Blending Hip-hop into my cooking was never my intention to relate to my audience. Hip-hop is just an element and one avenue I use to express myself. I think my audience relates more to me because I love what I do and my personality reflects that.

Q: There aren’t a lot of African Americans in the culinary world. Have you experienced any discrimination entering into the business? And if so, how do you overcome that without losing your cool?
There aren’t many African Americans in the mainstream culinary field, but I do believe because of my efforts from years ago, as well as today, to make a mark in the industry the possibilities and opportunities for us have increased.

Dealing with the issue of discrimination is much like any other less than positive issue. You must realize it for what it is, understand it, make your presence felt and under no circumstance do you allow any one to treat you like a lesser individual. Never let that issue handicap you. You just keep your cool and do your best because you have no choice but to handle it that way.

Q: What keeps you grounded?
My relationship with God keeps me grounded. My family and friends and their genuine belief and support of me in good times and/or bad times keep me grounded. The love I have for my beautiful little girl, Nola, keeps me grounded.

Q: At one point in your career did you step back and say, “I’ve made it!”?
I’m not sure you can ever truly step back and say, “I’ve made it.” You should always continue to achieve more, to do more than you did last month or last year. When you start to believe that you have somehow arrived, I think you lose the love, motivation and ambition to be the best in the culinary field, in any field. There is always someone waiting in the wings to take your place at the top. It’s when you pause to say, “I’ve made it,” that presents the perfect opportunity for he/she to move into your position.

Q: When you’re in your zone, creating a delicious meal, what kind of music do you like to listen to?
I would have to say Musiq Soulchild.

Q: You’re in the kitchen whipping up a delectable bite for your lady love. What’s one of your signature dishes that will have her begging for more?
Ahhh! A true gentleman never kisses and tells.

Q: What is your focus for the new year in terms of career?
My focus in the new year for my career is to continue to choose great opportunities to showcase my talent and build my brand to greater exposure. I have a new cookbook that was just released in February entitled, Make It Super Simple by G. Garvin. I plan to continue to promote that book and bring families together with delicious, healthy ways of eating. I’m also working on a third cookbook that will be out later this year/early next year.

Q: Are there any wonderful additions happening with your show? Will you have any guest features?
This year we will continue taping G. Garvin’s Road Tour where we go to various locations around the country to get a taste of great dishes. We will also tape new episodes of Turn Up The Heat with G. Garvin in which we will most definitely have some of the industry’s most talented guests preparing mouth watering dishes. You’ll have to stay tuned to TV One to find out who stops by my kitchen or who we may run into on the road.

Q: What advice would you give to our readers who are interested in becoming chefs and reaching your level of success?
If you can imagine it, then you can make it real. Work hard. Be strong. Trust in yourself, always be honest and true and don’t ever let anyone tell you that you can’t make it. Expect difficulty and stress, but don’t break under the pressure. Always, keep your heart pure and your head strong and always remember to put God first. Exercise your mind and your muscle . . . and super-size your hustle.

For more information about Chef G. Garvin please log-on to www.chefgarvin.com

Q: You originally went to school for acting, when did you decide to start singing professionally?
Acting and music have always gone together for me. Some of the first songwriters I fell in love with were musical theater writers like Irving Berlin, Rodgers & Hammerstein or Jerome Kern. I gravitated more towards the songs and the craft of writing them than I did the actual dancing around bit. In 2000 I started hitting the songwriting pretty hard.

Q: You’re co-lead singer of the band Nouveau Riche, how did you guys meet?
In 2005, I came up to Philly for a Roots barbecue, I was leaving town the next day and stopped by the studio to say good-bye. While I was there I started playing piano and Dice Raw heard me. He asked me to join the band on the spot, and I’ve been here ever since.

Q: Who are some of your musical influences?
Umm . . . I love this question. Joni Mitchell, Irving Berlin, Carole King, Prince, Sting, to name a few. I can’t stop listening to Bill Withers right now.

Q: You just got off The Cool tour with Lupe Fiasco. How did you meet and what has been your experience touring with him?
I was doing some work with Chris & Drop, a production team that is featured on The Cool. They played one of the songs we did together for Lupe, he liked it and called me up. A bit surreal to be honest to see some unfamiliar number on your phone, answer it and hear “Hi. This is Lupe Fiasco. Is this Nikki Jean?”

Q: Life is a constant inspiration to artists: love, birth, loss, heartbreak. How has your life inspired your music?
Before I started working with the band, 99 percent of my songs were about love and heartbreak. My own personal love and heartbreak, completely true stories all the time. Since I began co-writing with my band mates it’s really broke me out of that habit. Now only 85 percent of my songs are about love and heart ache but all the songs that are for ME (as opposed to writing for other people) are true . . . so far. I don’t want to box myself in.

Q: I know that you also write your own songs. How does your creative process work? Do the words come first or the music?
They come at the same time, and they’re both pretty flexible. The main thing I look for when I’m writing is a melody that sticks in my head and lyrics that sound and feel good when they come out of my mouth, as well as being meaningful. There are a lot of meaningful words out there that sound awful.

Q: If you had the opportunity to work with any musical artist, who would it be?
Ha! So I can say my number one and possibly mess up to the opportunity to work with my number two? They could read this article and feel jilted. No way!

Q: When can we expect an album from you?
2009 God-willing.

Q: What do you hope your listeners will get from your music?
Most recently my hope has been that it will not make their lives worse. I know that seems like a strange statement, but a while back one of our (Nouveau Riche’s) fans committed suicide. She only came to a few shows but her friend told me she knew our music well. I started thinking about how some of my words were embedded in her mind and wondered if my words made her feel worse or better. Most likely, they did neither but if there’s ever a chance for them to hurt or help, I would like for my music to help.

Q: How would you describe your fashion style? Who are some of your favorite brands/ designers?
Favorite Designers: Betsey Johnson, Diane Von Furstenburg, and I really enjoy rockin’ Hellz Bellz.

Q: Name one vice, one pleasure and one addiction.
Vice = Orbitz gum. I chew gum like a chain smoker smokes.

Pleasure = A cheeseburger from Standard Tap and a bottle of really good beer.

Addiction = I don’t know, I have a very addictive personality. So I typically try to destroy my addictions before they get very big. That’s why I don’t have cable or any game systems. But I think I’m going to get a Wii soon. I played Guitar Hero with my little cousins over the winter and yeah, I think I’m addicted.

Q: Lastly, what products do you carry in your clutch; what cosmetic items won’t you leave home without?
I WISH I was that together to carry a “clutch” all the time. I try not to leave the house without lip gloss. Other than that, if it ain’t on when I leave the house . . I do without.

For more information about Nikki Jean please visit www.nikki-jean.com and www.myspace.com/thenikkijeanproject

One half of the former singing group Zhane, Jean Baylor has returned with her solo debut album, Testimony: my life story. Combining the perfect blend of soul-soothing R&B and heartfelt lyrics, Jean delivers music that translates into the every day dealings of real life. And in turn, shows us that with incredible faith, anything can be achieved. Clutch caught up with Jean to talk about her life, love, and what we can expect from her new album.

Q: Zhane represented so many things to us: beautiful, black, natural, fashion forward, independent women with the gift of song. Your fan base was and continues to be strong. Why did you decide to separate from the group?
It was definitely my decision to walk away from the group. After two albums and seven years, my heart was no longer in it and I never wanted to approach music that way. We were in the middle of the third album for about a year and a half and it wasn’t coming together creatively. As a person, singer and songwriter, I wanted to be able to explore music as an individual again.

Q: How has your transition in these last few years influenced your music and the person you’ve evolved in to?
In the past seven years, I’ve been away from the music industry just living life normally. During that time, I’ve had some life changing experiences that are all a part of this album. I met the love of my life, my husband and also recommitted my life to the Lord. I’ve grown tremendously as a person, singer, songwriter and producer. It’s great to be able to tell a story that is truly a part of your life.

Q: You’ve mentioned that for a period of time, you put others first in your life, and finally you put God first. What was the catalyst that allowed you to adjust your focus?
After living life “my way” for a number of years and making a lot of mistakes, I wanted to do it God’s way. I came to a place where I just wanted a real connection with Him. It’s one thing to grow up in church with your father as the pastor, but it’s altogether a different thing to have your own relationship with God and learn how to hear His voice for yourself.

Q: I truly appreciate artists who write their own music. There is a quality to their songs, an intimate perspective that is so rare in black music today. As a songwriter, how do you hope your words/experiences will affect listeners?
I agree wholeheartedly that that aspect of music in missing in black music today. As a songwriter, I tend to write in a very conversational way, as if I’m talking directly to the listener. I think it’s important to understand what you’re trying to convey to the listener. In my music, I hope the words I write really mean something to people. I hope that my album enhances their everyday living experiences and inspires them to live life!

Q: Who are some of your musical influences? And what artists are you currently listening to?
I have so many musical influences over the years that it’s hard to keep up. I’ve learned from Anita Baker, Whitney Houston, Stevie Wonder, D’Angelo, CeCe Winans, Carmen McCrae, Shirley Horn and hundreds of others. And, of course my ex-partner-in-crime, Renee Neufville. I’ve taken from so many as well, little bits and pieces here and there: Lionel Richie, Sarah McGlaughlin, Kirk Franklin, and many others. Right now, I’m not listening to a lot of music, but one of my ultimate favorites is Sara Groves. She is an amazing songwriter and I’m learning a lot from her. I really dig John Mayer, Anthony Hamilton, Alicia Keys, John Legend, Tye Tribbett & GA, Alanis Morisette and of course my husband’s all-time favorite group, gospel legends, Commissioned.

Q: How has your husband, Marcus Baylor, influenced you throughout this journey?
Being around Marcus teaches me to listen and think more as a producer, not just as a singer. He has a way of hearing every little instrument, but also hearing the song as a whole, the overall sound. He also pushes me to work harder and grow in areas where I’m not that comfortable, but have the ability to do. Of course, that can be frustrating at times, but it helps me to develop into a more well-rounded and self-sufficient artist.

Q: What have been some of the highlights with working on your first solo album?
I would say that the most exciting and rewarding part is the creative control that I had on this album. When you can write and sing what you want, it’s not a manufactured sound, but a musical journey that you go on as well as the listeners. Producing the entire album with my husband has been wonderful. He has a great musical mind and he gets me, so we really work well together as a production team. Having a vision, creating it from scratch, seeing it all come together and of course owning it is an amazing process!

Q: This project is being done on you and your husband’s label, Be A Light Records. How difficult has it been to market, promote and distribute, while still being an artist and maintain your creative space?
That is definitely a challenge because there is so much work that goes into owning your own product and starting a business as a married couple. But, we are learning to organize our time and prioritize our tasks. And at the end of the day, if something doesn’t get done today, it’ll get done tomorrow. When I feel an overload of business responsibilities, sometimes, I’ll take a quick break and just go to the piano to remind myself of why I do what I do.

Q: When can we expect the release of your album, Testimony: my life story?
We are looking to release the album late spring, 2008. However, if anyone wants an advance copy, they can purchase a digital download only at www.dajams.com.

Q: Do you have any plans to tour?
Absolutely! I love to perform live and we are putting together some dates now in select cities.

Q: We are absolutely thrilled to have you back on the music scene, Jean! Are there any last words for your fans?
I’d love to tell everybody thank you so much for listening and supporting me in years past and I really look forward to you having the opportunity to get to know me and my music in a brand new way.

For more information about Jean Baylor please visit www.jeanbaylor.com or www.myspace.com/jeanbaylor and to purchase her latest project log-on to www.dajams.com