Fantom DunDeal

In the music industry it’s important to have a unique name which sets you apart from your peers and Fantom DunDeal is fully aware of this. Explaining how he got his unique name he told us:
"Me and my people's was studying what name I would move with, I thought because I am gonna do this for the love of music and the people, why not call myself FANS"
After realizing that his name needed more Tom was then added then finally DunDeal.
Born Arlon Griffith, this musical 23 year old was initially a reggae artist but was introduced to rapping while staying in St James [Barbados], where he found himself surrounded by people who were obsessed with Hip Hop. Influenced by this Fantom quickly became hooked and started rapping and later formed a group with local talent; Dexter, Da Vinci and Don Carot called C Profits. But this was short lived as the group went their separate ways shortly after leaving secondary school.
While at college Fantom found himself increasingly distracted by music:
"I couldn't sleep unless music was playing, eat unless music was on, I couldn't even do my school work in college unless music was on" -Fantom DunDeal
After a bit of encouragement he finally decided to start taking his music career seriously and take that 1st big step and find a studio to record in. After working on a variety of projects it was a seasonal hip hop track called 'Bajan Christmas 'that made people aware of his arrival.
Having had numerous radio hits, including "the honour of holding the 98.1's hit of the day several times" and being number 1 on many internet music charts this determined young man is fast becoming a household name. With his debut album "Caught Up" already out worldwide success is just around the corner for Fantom DunDeal.

For more info on Fantom DunDeal go to:

www.myspace.com/fantomhitz

America's Next top Journalist

It's not often you find someone who could be Americas's next top journalist and is as passionate about writing as we are at FU, so we thought it would make sense to let 24 year old New Yorker Dazzanna Chic' Munford tell you about herself in her own words:

"I started writing poetry at the age of 9 and never stopped. My father is an amazing writer and my mother dabbles in poetry from time to time, so you can say it’s in my blood to write. I am a senior at Morgan State University, located in Baltimore, MD and my Major is English with a concentration in journalism. I write for the school yearbook as a managing editor, I also contribute to the school newspaper as a writer. In my spare time I like to write short stories but my passion is poetry. I also like to go out to the club with the girls and dance all night. Sundays are my relaxing day when I fantasize about becoming a video girl… LOL. No, but seriously the sky is the limit in my eyes.
I want to write for an urban (XXL, Vibe) magazine right out of undergrad. I am going to apply to grad school; however, I might take a semester off (I need a break). After all my schooling I would like to be an editor for a major magazine. I also want to freelance in Africa to expose ongoing sexual crimes against women and girls. My ultimate goal is to become a seasoned writer who writes for the love of writing not money or fame.
Life drives me to do what I do. My passion is life, everything about life motivates me to write. Right now is a struggle to get ahead and stay motivated but that’s what keeps me going. I love the struggle. I have had a lot of ups and downs but I always manage to get back to where I need to be. I know writing is my deliverance to a better life. Ironically words are my therapy, so either way I win. I have a little sister who means the world to me… So I pave the way… So she doesn’t have to choose a path… Just to follow me"

For more info on Dazzanna go to:

www.myspace.com/msjournalist8

Elsiebelle

Elsiebelle is a unique jewellery line based in Bristol UK, which has been established since 2005. The unique jewellery company uses a mixture of modern and vintage designs such as tea-pots, tatoo designs, vintage and brass knuckles to bring something new and innovative to the masses.
Always trying to keep ideas fresh and funky many of ElsieBelles items are limited edition bringing rare and irreplaceable designs to your jewellery box.

ElsieBelle jewellery with its availability worldwide has something for everyone.
With Christmas on the way go to elsiebelle.com and use the code MERRYXMAS in the web-store and claim 20% off of your order.

For more info on elsiebelle go to:

www.elsiebelle.com

Yummie Couture

Yummie Couture is a new and fresh brand started by 19yr old student Ilija. Originally from Bosnia Hercegovina the now Austrian resident intends to take the design world by storm.
Ilija’s passion for fashion started when he discovered he liked his own designs more than those he would see hanging in the shop windows. The bland black and white colours he would see used in High street stores were no match for the bright blue’s, neon pinks and yellows he uses in his designs.
Not afraid of taking risks “I refuse to look like all the people I see everyday.”-Ilija. This talented designer has already sold out a set of his limited addition T-shirts called BANANA INVASION. Following on from this success another line (STAH THUNDDAH) has been added along with 3 limited addition BANANA INVASION T-Shirts.
Using an array of colours Ilija has been attracting a range of clientele ranging from the UK and US.
A gifted designer and artist Ilija enjoys “Breathing life into my drawings, if I have the opportunity to present my vision to others why not. I want them to take a look into my brain.”-Ilija
Having his designs featured in photo shoots, taking part in fashion shows and having artists such as M.I.A and African Boy interested in his clothing, Ilija is guaranteed to become an international design sensation.
“Fashion for me is when you express yourself through your clothes without saying anything.”-Ilija

For more information on Yummie go to:
www.myspace.com/yummieclothing

Swifta

Swifta is already building a name for himself in the music industry. MCing from the young age of 13 he had his mindset on taking over the music scene. Not content with being just an MC this talented young man has also been producing music for the past 2 years and has “The ability to make a wide range of beats over varied tempos”
Originally from Hackney, this now North London based MC/Producer’s early introduction to the music scene has made him all the more hungry to succeed. Influenced by other London based rappers such as Dizzee Rascal and Kano who “Vary their style and have a lot of commercial success’" Swifta is working hard to ‘make something for the future’
Determined to get his name out there he has already worked with both major and up and coming artists and is still looking to do more collaborations in order to learn and grow as an artist.
Continuously working on new tracks, his second promo ‘Umbrella Vol 1’ which consists of instrumentals has been widely recognised, getting over 1000 hits and still counting.
Persistent, determined, creative, positive and hardworking, at just 16 Swifta has all the characteristics needed for a successful music career and although he knows he has a long way to go, he is well on his way to becoming a superstar.

For more info on Swifta go to:
www.myspace.com/swiftaofficial

™ І Я Đēē ™

FU interviewed music producer ™ І Я Đee ™ who told us how he combines his love of cricket with his love of IT and music.

Where you're from?
I’m from the beautiful Island of Barbados.

How long have you been producing ?
I’ve been doing it now for about 2-3 years

How did you get your start?
I’ve always had a love for music and I realized that I would be sitting there and come up with beats in my mind. So one day I just said I’ll take a shot at it so I did and never looked back after that.

Who are your musical influences?
Chaaaa that’s a hard one ‘cause there is so much people who have influenced me, but I would have to say people like Kanye West, Timbaland, Cool & Dre, Common, Nas, Pete Rock, DJ Premier, KRS-One, Run DMC…

What makes you so unique?
I would have to say the thing that makes me unique is; unlike other producers who are familiar with instruments etc, I’m not, I don’t know heads from tails on a piano. But when I sit and the beat comes to mind, my fingers find a way to make it work and to me that’s what makes me stand out.

Who have you worked with?
I’m doing some work with some up and coming artists from here in Barbados and also some from Canada/US. I haven’t worked with any known International artist as yet (BUT VERY SOON…lol)

Future plans/goals?
It would have to be becoming one of the best producers here and internationally. Other than the music I also play cricket and have a love for IT so furthering them are also very high on my list.

Also being from Barbados do you think it's harder to be taken seriously as a Hip Hop producer when everyone expect people from there to just do Soca all the time?
Yes 100% ! I believe it’s much harder. I honestly think it shouldn’t be hard because music is music no matter where you are from. Most people just think we can’t know anything about Hip Hop or R&B because we are from a different musical culture.

For more info on ™ І Я Đee ™ go to:
www.myspace.com/bajan_cricketer

Breana

FU interviewed 15 year old aspiring singer Breana, who told us about her inspirations and performing in Atlanta.

What made you wanna start?
Listening to the radio and watching celebrities on TV made me realize that was what I wanted to do. Then one day while listening to the radio in the car I realized I actually had a good voice.

What type of music do you do?
R&B

What inspires your songs?
My surroundings and things that affect my life like heart break, family and also world issues.

Who are your musical influences?
Beyonce and Cassie

What’s the best show you’ve done?
The show I did last summer at the Peacock in ATL

How are you different to other aspiring singers?
I’m not trying to be anyone else, I’m just doing me and I’m very determined and won’t let anyone stop me from achieving my dreams.

What’s more important to you, being successful or just being rich and famous?
Being successful

Who would you like to work with in the future?
Mary J Blige

What’s next for you?
I’m just gonna keep working hard to get what I want and further my singing career.

For more info on Breanna go to:
www.myspace.com/bre1014

Kasarenee

Kakra Safo is the name of the artist, designer and founder of Kasarenee. The name Kasarenee combines Kasaa which means "Talk" or "Speak" in Akan together with the name of Kakra’s sister who is also apart of this innovative artistic team.
Before Kasarenee began, it was a love of art that began in secondary school which lead Kakra into an eye-opening work placement with coca-cola. Whilst working there he was introduced to inventive and ground-breaking programmes, which helped to further develop his artistic skills.
Also during his studies Kakra, the driving force behind Kasarenee was also involved in such projects as "Emergency Exit Art" (EEA), which was held at the influential White Chapel Gallery.
Fusing all of this knowledge and experience together Kasarenee was born. Originally a final year college project, Kasarenee focused on producing images and T-shirts. Now the company has developed it has moved into business promotions and marketing drives. Also Kasarenee produces logos for major up and coming music groups as well as graphics for film productions.
With many exciting projects ahead, Kasarenee will continue to push the artistic boundaries in order to enhance and challenge visual concepts for their growing audience.
"I am an artist, an artist takes modern art into a direction that would broaden the meaning of what art was and could be."- Kakra Safo.

For more info on Kasarenee go to:
www.myspace.com/kasarenee

Gk - DESIGNz

FU interviewed Grita K the talented young lady behind Gk - DESIGNz who told us about her bright and colorful designs and schooled us on why all youths who wear hoodies are not thugs.

Where did you get the name for your label?
It’s made up of my initials

How long have you been designing?
For over a year

What made you want to start?
I have always been interested in fashion designing and when one of my friends suggested to do airbrushing I tried and liked it.

How did you get your start?
I started by designing for friends then moved on to various DJ's, music artists and dance groups. I haven’t had any formal work experience though, I just taught myself how to do it.

How would you describe your clothes?
Urban, street and unique

What inspires you?

Other young designers who are dedicated

Have you been involved in any big projects?
I have worked with Hoodies & Shadez where we did a photoshoot sending a message across that not all young people who wear hoodies are criminals. I also did a fashion show at the young designer awards where we had to make an avant garde outfit.

There's loads of designers out there fighting to get noticed what makes your designs so unique?

I pay a lot attention to detail and my clothes are very bright and detailed.

Who would you love to dress?
Gwen Steffani and Gym class heroes

What's next for you?
To keep on pushing and hopefully setting up my own business one day!

For more info on or to view/buy Gk - DESIGNz go to:
www.myspace.com/airbrushdesign

BALLERina

As well as talented artists we are also impressed by peoples style. We've seen a lot of people on myspace who have the most amazing sense of style, they dress so unique and are really setting trends and not following fashion. One of these people is 16 year old Cecile aka BALLERina. Known at school for playing basketball, doing hair, and being VERY fashionable, FU decided to ask this fashionista about her style, where she shops and how she stays so fly.

How would you describe your style?
My style continuously changes. You never know what to expect from me. Right now, I'm big on the 80's. I love Salt n Pepa, Big Daddy Kane, JJ Fad and Roxanne Shante. But at the same time my style is versatile. So today you may see me with my door knockers and my big chain and tomorrow you may see me in accessories.

Where do you shop?

My favorite places to shop all depend on the city I'm in, but some places are Old Navy, H & M, and Hot Topic.

Whats it like in your home town, is everyone dressing like this?

In Boston it seems like everyone is wearing the same thing. But I like to stand out so I don't dig that. That was one of the reasons why I picked up the 80s style in the first place.

So how do people react to how you dress?
When people look at my way of dressing, a lot of them stare, smile, and some even give dirty looks sometimes. But hey, I love the attention

For more on Cecile's aka BALLERinas style go to:
www.myspace.com/cecile876

KZ

Born in Kingston, Jamaica and raised in Queens, New York Kadez Tajari Marshall aka KZ “Mr. New York Money” Has been taking steps to become the next big thing in the rap game.
First introduced to rap in elementary school KZ would make beats and rap with his friends at the lunch table.
A young man who used to run the streets of South-side Jamaica, Queens has now chosen to learn from his mistakes and “make his next move the best move.”-KZ
Confident as a battle rapper KZ has continued to sculpt his craft by writing consistently and writing about things which are important to him. “My inspiration is my father, he always told me to be the best that I can be and be positive.”- KZ

For more information on KZ go to:
http://www.myspace.com/frontlineussr

Jay-D-Will

FU interviewed super photographer/image maker Jay-D-Will who talked exhibitions, photoshoots and how a Busta Rhymes CD cover inspired him.

How long have you been doing photography?
It's been about nine years now. Before that I was into music production, fine art painting and illustration / graphic design.

What made you wanna start doing photography?
It all started when I bought Busta Rhymes first album "The Coming" in 1996, the photography was dark but inspiring, I believe the photographer behind the work was Dean Karr... Similarly Nas’s "It Was Written" album cover and old Source magazines also played a part. But what really sparked the flame for me was when I first entered a darkroom and learnt how to process a negative and develop a picture. The darkroom captured my heart and has never let me go since, and that was in 1998.

Have you done any big projects or had any of your work published?
My work was exhibited in conjunction with my university, at the 2007 Free Range student exhibition in Brick Lane, and I had some work published in Touch Magazines July 07 issue. I also did a shoot with Stylist/Fashion Designer Denise Brown for her clothing launch "Don't Judge Me"... Ladies need check her out and buy her gear nuff said.

What would be your dream job?
One which would help me get David LaChappelle status and beyond. I have huge ideas, but, without the funds and the means…[this makes it hard to do anything] I’m sure that will change through the will of God, if that's my destiny I guess. We’ll just have to wait and see.

When you are taking pics of people all the time don't you ever feel the urge to be on the other end of the lens too?
Not at all lol...

Have you ever had any bad photography experiences?
Not really! I believe taking negative and making it into positive, this relates to a humbling system which I have created for myself. I feel part of success is being able work around obstacles which are placed in front of you.

Who (or what) is the worst (or hardest) thing to photograph and why?
Photographing my mother... She has a rare form of lymphoma cancer which makes her body swell up to a extreme rate. I wanted to document how she dealt with her illness; the good and the bad days and it would have been exhibited. But in the end I choose not to go through with, mainly because it's hard being the photographer behind the camera when you first reaction is to be a caring son. It is what it is I guess.

Have you ever thought of becoming paparazzi, I heard that could be quite lucrative?
Hey if all else fails, why not? Hmm.. maybe not, I think my heart is to warm for that sort of work lol. I would rather work with the famous instead of chasing or should I say hounding them for a picture!

How hard has it been for you to get noticed and get your work out there and be taken seriously as a professional photographer?

It's been really hard to get myself noticed, but good things never come easy, all I can do is enjoy the ride with all it's high's and low's. I have a huge faith in god and I know he will provide a path way for me to get to where I need to be...

What makes you so unique/different to other photographers?
I would say possibly my eye for detail, I view the world in my own personal way, and the fun thing for me is being able to capture it with a camera.

Who/what inspires your pictures?
I watch a lot of Anime/Japananese/Korean films and am inspired by pop artist's such as Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein. Hip Hop from the 90 has also played a huge role, coupled with the culture which come with it. Music is my source of creative energy.

Do you have a favourite photographer?
I would say British documentary Photographer Tom Stoddart and the late great American Photojournalist W.Eugene Smith

What’s next for you, any projects in the pipeline?
I’m working on some fine art pieces which I hope to get exhibited, all I can say is that it’s going to blow viewers minds away. Those who are fans of Super Heroes will love it.

For more info on Jay-D-Will go to:
www.myspace.com/jaydwillphotography

L-Dot

Spending his early childhood years listening to many types of music helped to shape Denver, Colorado based rapper/producer L-Dot:
“His rhymes reflect hunger, lyrical wit, and both the reality of the good and bad things he has been through along with insight to where he's going in life” -L-Dot
Originally in a group called the DON KRONICALS, L-Dot decided to go solo in 2000 and has been producing and writing rhymes since the early 90s for his Connectdot Entertainment production company. In addition to all of this he has still found time to be featured on the mixtapes and produce songs for various artists in the music industry.
Already considered as one of the most creative and influential rapper/producers out of Colorado, L-Dot always puts his best work into his music to “create critically acclaimed songs.” L-Dots first two albums L’S Spotlight and Connect the Dots are available now on iTunes and his latest CD THE UNION Presents...The Hall of Fame is available from Cdbaby . With L-Dot and Surgon on the production the CD features a variety of talented rappers and singer from New York, Atlanta and Colorado including Lenny Lenn, Proof The Truth and Razor Bumpy. The CD “Is full of lyricism and bangin’ beats” which explains why it has been so highly rated and regarded as “The best rap CD that has came out in a long time”.

For more info on L-Dot go to:
www.connectdotent.com
www.myspace.com/ldott

KelliSmith

FU interviewed new model KelliSmith who told us about her future plans and her desire to work with Jackie Degg.

How long have you been modelling for?
2years

Who/What made you want to model? (i.e.: was you attracted to the money, free clothes, glamorous lifestyle etc)
Money is not an issue I don’t do it for that as I’ve only been paid once anyway! My friend got me to join net-model to get the ball rolling!

Have you always been one of those people who just loves to be in front of the camera (or mirror) posing?
Yes definitely

What’s the best job you’ve been on?
Erm… I have a few

What’s the worst modelling experience you’ve had?
Being with a so called ‘professional photographer’ and he was boring. He made me do the same poses in different crappy clothes and the pics were awful!

What is it like on set/shoots, there’s a lot of girls, is there any bitchiness?
There’s no bitchiness we all get on well! We always compliment each other.

What do you do when you’re not modelling?
I work part time as admin assistant at carphone warehouse

Who is your favourite model, do you aspire to be like any model in particular?
Jordan and Lucy James

What is your best feature?
My bum

What type of modelling would you never do?
Nude!!!

Obviously models have to have a tight body, what do you do to keep in shape?
Nothing. I eat junk food and I’ve never been to a gym. Seriously!!

Most people think that being a model is an easy job, they don’t realize that it’s a lot of hard work and new models face a lot of criticism and rejection are you ready for that?
I’m ready, definitely!

There’s loads of girls who want to be the next top model how do you stand out, obviously your Fabulous and Undiscovered but what makes you so different?
Because I’m not big headed and I don’t work round and show off like I’m gods gift. I’m just lil old me!

Who would you like to work with in the future?
Jakki Degg

What’s next for you?
I'm not sure yet, I’d love to be published in a lads mag!

For more info on KelliSmith go to:
www.myspace.com/urboyfriendfanciesme

Miss Wax

Beginning as just as a garage based hobby Miss Wax Jewelry has come a long way:
“In less than a year Miss wax has created an international buzz, testing street style accessories with her cutting edge concepts” - Miss Wax
Using her life as inspiration for her 'Street Style' creations, this talented “5,5" bleach blonde little lady” prides herself on rebelling against contemporary trends:
“Reinventive and always fresh, Miss Wax aims to break away from the norm and incorporate a new level of accessories into the market. Art into outerwear” -Miss Wax
Hitting the market in 2006, Miss Wax began by selling to her local boutique UNIV in Encinitas. It was here where she that she got the name Miss Wax as in the beginning she was primarily using old vinyl to make her products.
Due to her popularity Miss Wax has been featured in a variety on online magazines and blogs:
“If you Google her name you will see the words, "Fresh, Urban, one of a kind..etc" pop up in urban, fashion and culture blogs from all over the map” -Miss Wax
In addition to this she has collaborated with ladies street wear company HELLZ BELLZ, and also participated in the Keep-A-Breast movement where she received such an overwhelming response that she decided to introduce a new jewellery line for spring/summer 08 called ‘Throwback’
With her innovative and fresh designs Miss Wax Jewelry is filling a huge gap in the market. And with plans to release a full accessory line in the future Miss Wax is sure to be one of the most sought after independent designers.

For more info on Miss Wax go to:
www.myspace/misswaxjewelry
www.miswax.com

Live Manikins

Self, Linguistics, Flavius, Rated R and Runt Rock are the 5 members who make up the band Live Manikins.
Formed in Sacramento, California and coming together for one common cause of making ‘true music,’ Live Manikins who cite all genres of music as their musical influences have accumulated many achievements to date.
Releasing 3 CD‘s, semi-finalists in a nationwide battle of the bands and took 1st place in the Northern California Hip Hop category. The band has featured on radio and was 1 of 5 groups to be featured on MP3’s worldwide "Get Exposed" contest.
The Live Manikins have also taken part in many live performances keep pushing the boundaries of music to ensure their sound is received and enjoyed by the masses.
With an innovative sound the band, which "Has taken years of solo work to create one voice," will continue to influence, stand out and create quality music for not just Hip Hop heads but music fans on a whole.

For more info on Live Manikins go to:

www.myspace.com/livemanikins

Re:Phlexx

Designer Marsha aka Phlexx told FU about her clothing label Re:Phlexx designs and her forthcoming fashion show.

What is your clothing label called?
Re:Phlexx Designs

Where did you get that name?
I’ve had ‘Phlexx’ as a nickname for a while and when I began customising I just simply added the ‘Re’ as with each garment I aim to redesign and recreate garments with my personal flavour.

How long have you been designing?
I’ve been customising for about a year now.

What made you want to start?
I’ve always been interested in fashion and design from a young age and customising came along as a progression.


How did you get your start i.e.did you do work experience and work your way up?
My customising developed out of a free period at college one day and a plain t-shirt in the art room.

How would you describe your clothes [that you design]?
Original…Re:Phlexxed!

Do you think your personal style influences your clothing line?
Yes it does I wouldn’t put out anything I didn’t like personally.

Who are your clothes aimed at?
I design for both male and females, so it’s basically anyone that feels they can relate to the style and like it.

Have you been involved in any big projects i.e. Fashion shows etc?
Not yet, however I have a fashion show lined up for November.

Who would you love to dress?
Kanye West, Pharell Williams and Justin Timberlake

Future plans/What's next for you?
The next steps are gaining more exposure and awareness developing Re:Phlexx Designs as much as possible.

For more info on Re:Phlexx designs or to view more designs, including baseballcaps go to:

www.myspace.com/rephlexxdesigns