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I AM ME Second Edition

Disco & The City Boyz, Dufflebag Duffie and others speaks on who they are. Special messages from our youth.

Disco & The City Boyz, Dufflebag Duffie and others speaks on who they are. Special messages from our youth.

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1 I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>


2 I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>


Hello everyone! I would like to take the time out to say” THANK YOU” to everyone who has<br />

supported my first issue of this magazine. My second issue took a while to come out because of<br />

the devastation of tornadoes that hit my city, Albany, GA, within two weeks of each other in<br />

January. I would love thank all the people who gave donations to help out my city. Thank you<br />

to every volunteer, emergency personal, neighbors helping neighbors, chainsaw crews and<br />

churches. God bless you!!! Special thanks to BJ Fletcher and Christopher Cohilas for your<br />

wonderful efforts and being on the ground helping the people of Albany and not hiding behind<br />

a desk giving orders. You have not only shown us that you are an outstanding officials, but you<br />

have shown us that you have a great heart. Prayers goes got to all the individuals who lost their<br />

love ones during these storms.<br />

Peace,<br />

Deona Freeman<br />

Editor<br />

3 I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>


Table of Content<br />

Youth Corner………………………………………………………………………… Page 6<br />

Community News…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Page 8<br />

Disco and The City Boy……………………………………………………………………………………………………….Page12<br />

Dufflebag Duffie………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….Page 18<br />

Author Wanda D. Hollis………………………………………………………………………………………………………..Page 24<br />

Street Sweepa………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………Page 30<br />

Dcp Tony B……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………Page34<br />

SwishaMan Slim…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….Page 36<br />

Unbreakable Bloodline………………………………………………………………………………………………………….Page 40<br />

T-Smuv……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………Page44<br />

4 I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>


5 I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>


I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong> has given the youth an opportunity to talk and express how they feel about different thing that are happening<br />

in their community and what needs to change in school as well. We, as adults, need to take the time out to listen to<br />

future leaders of tomorrow. Here are a few youth and young adults with their opinions about their community:<br />

David Freeman III, 7 th grader<br />

Radium Middle Magnet School<br />

Albany, GA<br />

“I wish our school was like<br />

Ron’s Academy so kids like<br />

me, with ADHD, can learn<br />

more and keep our attention<br />

on the learning process in<br />

class. I hate a boring<br />

classroom and a teacher that<br />

yells because my focus goes<br />

away. I am learning how to<br />

write more from a computer<br />

than a teacher and I think<br />

that is backwards. Teachers’<br />

supposed to make reading<br />

and writing fun.”<br />

“I think our community<br />

would be better if they had<br />

positive support. If kids had<br />

something positive to do it<br />

would be less problems. If<br />

the police department<br />

didn’t intervene with<br />

people trying to do better it<br />

would be different. “<br />

Micah Stallworth<br />

Business Administration Major<br />

Albany, GA<br />

“What can we do to make the community<br />

better? We can make our community better<br />

by getting parents involved with our<br />

children making sure there environment is<br />

safe. Having a safe environment can make<br />

us have and safe community.”<br />

Zasmine Cochran<br />

Criminal Justice/ Political Science Major<br />

Albany, GA<br />

6 I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>


Dear Albany,<br />

Different day a different death, I’m just tallying up the deaths to see<br />

how many brothers do we have left<br />

If you want something different you have to be a part of that change,<br />

Instead of hitting someone son close range<br />

You want respect it’s just another brother life that has been taken for<br />

your fame, but I see you’re not the blame<br />

Dear Albany, It’s your environment that has a repeated cycle, now you<br />

are a part of it<br />

Ramonica Olds<br />

Radiologic Technician, Major<br />

Associate Degree Program<br />

Albany, GA<br />

But you could have been the change, instead of using your life to<br />

bargain with<br />

Brothers need to come together instead of arguing, whatever happened<br />

to talking it out but now you’re in a line up<br />

I’m tired of looking at TV with grieving families and mothers, because at<br />

the end of the day all you have is each other<br />

Dear Albany, Stop counting on your little brother to look after your<br />

mother and your kids, its more out here than selling drugs and counting<br />

licks<br />

But why is my question? But I don’t want to hear an answer because an<br />

excuse will be a part of the discussion<br />

What is there else to talk about you stealing and robbing, you rather cop<br />

a new pair of J’s than stand in line for a job<br />

But that’s not your fault either there’s not many here, so you feel like<br />

that’s your only answer but its plenty of money out here.<br />

Violence is not the answer what happens in the dark comes to the light,<br />

but make your decisions wisely because tonight can be your last night<br />

Dear Albany<br />

7 I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>


By: Deona Freeman<br />

I had the pleasure to be a part of a wonderful celebration at Harvey’s<br />

Supermarket in Albany, Ga. The whole community was in disbelief that a<br />

wedding was actually going to take place in the grocery store. When I got the<br />

call, I really thought my friend was playing and the son of this beautiful couple<br />

wanted me to take a few pictures for him. So I went and sure enough a<br />

wedding was about to take place. The marketing team of Harvey’s had set the<br />

whole thing up. When you walk through the door, you can hear a live band actually playing music.<br />

You would not believe the look that a lot of the shoppers’ had on there face as<br />

they entered the store. As I learned what all needed to be done, I got a chance<br />

to talk with the groom and he told me how he met his beauitful bride, Mrs.<br />

Mary Tinson.<br />

Mr. Charles L. Tinson, stated “ He had just returned home from overseas four<br />

years ago and went to the store because he needed to pick up some cranberry<br />

sauce and that’s when he saw her and said Hey girl! Mrs. Tinson said “she had<br />

not seen his old friend over twenty years and it went on from there.”<br />

8 I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>


Four years later, on the same day they met, Mr. and Mrs. Tinson tied the<br />

knot and it was Mr. Tinson’s ideal. What a love story! Who said you can’t<br />

find love in the grocery store? Well, you can learn from this beautiful<br />

couple. You can really tell how much they really love each other. Both of<br />

them had the biggest small in the world. I wish you the best and many<br />

wonderful of years of marriage.<br />

All because of this one simple can of cranberry sauce, which was a<br />

gift from the bride and groom made a love story to remember.<br />

Big thanks to Harvey’s Supermarket of Albany, Ga for making<br />

thislovely couple dream’s come true.<br />

9 I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>


10 I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>


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12 I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>


Who is Big Disco of Disco and the City Boyz?<br />

By: Deona Freeman<br />

Disco and the City Boyz DJs is one of hottest and<br />

biggest group disc jockeys in Florida. Disco and<br />

the City Boyz originated in Ft. Lauderdale, FL.<br />

Disco and the City Boyz also were the first disco<br />

jockeys that recorded professionally out of<br />

Florida. There hit “Da Train” was number one for<br />

a few years among Florida and the southeast.<br />

Sometime later, Big Disco of the City Boyz Djs,<br />

moved to Orlando, FL. Big Disco not only got hot<br />

on the night club scene but raised roughly about<br />

twenty City Boyz Djs, which has moved onto<br />

bigger things in their lives. When talking with Big<br />

Disco, I asked him “What inspired him to be a<br />

disc jockey?” Big Disco replied,” My inspiration<br />

for being a Dj, came from my father and uncle<br />

fresh out of DILLARD HIGH SCHOOL IN Ft.<br />

Lauderdale. My uncle was in charge of the #1 radio station in Miami, WEDR 99J<strong>AM</strong>Z, for many years. BACK IN<br />

THE REAL DAYS WHEN MUSIC WAS REAL D<strong>AM</strong>N MUSIC! Also my pops worked there as well. Which is why I<br />

have the voice that I have now, (COMMANDING DEEP VOICE).” With all his wonderful talent and a people<br />

person as well, I asked Disco, “How do you think people view him?” Big Disco replied, “Real people view me in<br />

and out the of the entertainment world because I don’t know how to change. I’ll stay humble and give my<br />

outlook on life to everyone that knows me or needs advice. I WILL NEVER CHANGED ON MY PEOPLE FOSHO!”<br />

Since 1999, when I first met Disco, he has been the same way until this day and I hope you never change.<br />

13 I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>


Big Disco: The Community Man<br />

Big Disco is well loved and respected in his community and<br />

among his family and friends. Disco has been doing a lot of<br />

events around Orlando and surrounding cities. Every event<br />

that he has done, has helped the community in some type<br />

of way. Big Disco elaborated on some of the things that he<br />

do in the community. Big Disco said,<br />

“ My events, throughout the city, involved feeding the<br />

homeless during the holidays, going to speak at the<br />

women’s shelter and putting on a “UNITY IN THE<br />

COMMUNITY” event every year. There are so many too<br />

name but my main is that I always looked out for all my<br />

people in Orlando from day one. It’s nothing they can ask<br />

me and I won’t do. Now, that’s real community<br />

involvement.” Disco and the City Boyz will leave some big<br />

shoes to fill for future City Boyz.<br />

The Family Man<br />

Outside of being Disco, he is a father and a father figure too many. He prioritize his family first. I asked Disco<br />

“How can you jungle being a disc jockey and a father?” Disco replied,” Family life as a Dj is what it’s supposed<br />

to be. Music all through the house since my kids were born. I have three kids, two girls and my Jr .but I have<br />

raised damn near the whole city of Orlando, Fl. When you give respect, you will get it back ten times fold. Every<br />

day, in my house, is music but when it is family time, I shut it down to give my undivided attention to my<br />

family.” But on June 30, 2014, life for Big<br />

Disco took a turn. His son, Disco Jr. was<br />

murdered during Big Disco Birthday<br />

Weekend. Big Disco said, “My number one<br />

City Boy is my son, Disco Jr. Everyone knew<br />

him in his generation. He was killed in 2014<br />

on my birthday weekend but one thing<br />

FOSHO I keep two heads on my shoulder<br />

these days, his and mines. CITY BOYZ FOR<br />

LIFE!”<br />

14 I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>


Big Disco is still rocking the turntables and<br />

mic not alone but with his angel, Disco Jr.<br />

Even though it is a struggle, Big Disco still<br />

manages to rock the house everywhere he<br />

goes. I truly respect his strengthen and faith<br />

to still keep moving on. R. I. P. Disco Jr. keep<br />

turning up in heaven.<br />

As time goes by with, Disco Jr in his heart and on<br />

his shoulders, Big Disco has encounter some<br />

superstars and wonderful friends such as Cardi B,<br />

Big Tiger, and Dj Khali.<br />

15 I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>


Big Disco has so many off the younger generation that looks<br />

up to him and artists that love his guidance. Disco your name<br />

need to be Super Disco. LOL! But one thing that I love is the<br />

message that he has for the future City Boyz or disc jockeys.<br />

“DISCO IS A MAN TO BE LOVED, RESPECTED, AND LOOKED UP<br />

TOO FOR WHAT I HAVE TAUGHT, DONE, AND CONTINUE TO<br />

DO..... A QUOTE I GO BY…THERE IS NO RETIRING UNTIL<br />

DYING........ I <strong>AM</strong> THE DJS (DJ) IN THE SOUTH.... LOVE AND<br />

GET LOVE BACK. FOR ALL THE UP AND COMING DJS,<br />

FOLLOW HOW I WALK, WATCH HOW I TRAVEL AND MOVE<br />

LIKE I MOVE.... I GUARANTEE YOU WILL REACH YOUR GOAL<br />

AND DESTINATION..... IN THE WORDS OF OG (DISCO)<br />

ORLANDO FL. AND THE WORLD.<br />

If you are looking for this awesome disc jockey you can reach<br />

him on: INSTAGR<strong>AM</strong>---DISCODAG.....TWITTER---DISSCO....FACEBOOK----DISCO AND THE CITYBOYZ...ALSO BIGDISCO ON<br />

FACEBOOK....”<br />

-“Keep doing your thing Disco and the City Boyz. Keep reaching for the stars.”<br />

-I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong><br />

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17 I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>


Who is Dufflebag Duffie?<br />

Who is Duffie?<br />

By: Deona Freeman<br />

Dufflebag Duffie is a rap artist from Orlando, Fl. He has<br />

been making noise not only in Florida but Georgia<br />

airways as well. Dufflebag Duffie’s music has not only<br />

been showing up on the mainstream but blowing up on<br />

the underground scene as well. I asked Duffie “What<br />

inspired him to become an artist?” Duffie responded “I<br />

wanted to enlighten the people about life speaking from<br />

a stand point of my past experience.” Dufflebag Duffie<br />

has been doing exactly that he has been enlightening his<br />

fans with his experiences and his fans are loving it.<br />

Dufflebag Duffie spoke highly of his<br />

upcoming cd and others that he is<br />

collaborating with. Duffie said “I just<br />

dropped my freshman mixtape, “THE<br />

LAST MOHICAN”, available on Spinrilla,<br />

Datpiff and Live Mixtapes. I have a<br />

couple of collars that I've done with<br />

artist to name a Few 21 Savage , Bad<br />

Azz Becky, Rio 23rd, Preacher 407 and<br />

many more to come.”<br />

18 I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>


The Community Man<br />

paste,<br />

etc.” In<br />

gave a lot<br />

sure some<br />

have a<br />

Dufflebag Duffie is truly about his<br />

community. Duffie is the founder of<br />

Duffie Foundation which was start to<br />

help his community. Duffie said, “I'm<br />

all for the people I'm always in the<br />

community. I actually have a nonprofit<br />

organization where we go out<br />

monthly and provide toiletries to the<br />

homeless people in the community.<br />

The Duffie Foundation provides tooth<br />

soap, toilet paper and<br />

December 2016, Duffie<br />

of gifts out to his<br />

community. He made<br />

the kids who did not<br />

Christmas had one.<br />

19 I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>


Positive Message for the youth<br />

“Stay focused, don't give up and mostly importantly<br />

know how to accept no for an answer and let that<br />

motivate you to keep moving.”<br />

“I hope that every dream that you are trying to<br />

accomplish, comes true.”<br />

-I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong><br />

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Author Wanda D. Hollis<br />

By: Deona Freeman<br />

combined practical stories and uplifting affirmations<br />

hoping to deliver a strong sense of empowering and<br />

connecting with the reader. I also have a line of<br />

children books soon to be released, inspired by my<br />

relations with my grandchildren. And that too is<br />

centered on teaching self-worth and empowerment.”<br />

Ms. Hollis is absolutely right! In order to write or do<br />

anything that you dream of in life, you have to know<br />

your worth and empower yourself to do anything you<br />

want to do in life. Ask, MS. Hollis, “What was one of<br />

the most surprising things you learned in creating<br />

your books?” She replied,” It’s a very vulnerable and<br />

humbling experience. I shared some very person<br />

experiences that at one time in my life I would not<br />

Ms. Wanda D. Hollis was born in Jackson, MI but<br />

raised in Detroit. Ms. Hollis began in her teenage<br />

years to become a writer. She had some adversities<br />

becoming a writer but published her first book in<br />

2016 and her ideals from life experiences and the<br />

people that she meets. She explained, “There were<br />

many challenges in getting this first book published<br />

but the main one was procrastination and getting<br />

distracted. Then it shifted to wanting it to be<br />

perfect. Like most things, we are our own worst<br />

enemy, I finally had to say enough is enough and<br />

just get it done. I had a few situations with<br />

formatting and that led to the cover design being<br />

changed.” In my opinion, her genre that she chose<br />

not only fits her personality but the different titles<br />

that she holds. Ms. Hollis said,” I chose poetry,<br />

because this is my favorite writing style. I can tell a<br />

story fast with power and I like the freedom of<br />

poetic writing. The book title ‘I Am Enough” is a<br />

book of poetry, short stories and affirmations. I<br />

24 I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>


have had the courage to do so. Creating this book it really inspired me to believe more in my ability to touch<br />

more people and add value to the planet.”<br />

Speaker, Coach and Radio Personality<br />

Wanda D. Hollis is not only just an author<br />

but she is a motivational speaker,<br />

transformational coach and radio<br />

personality. Her radio show, The I Am<br />

Enough Talk Show, is a powerful show that<br />

helps others with dreams talk about it and<br />

inspire others. She said, “The name of our<br />

show is The I Am Enough Talk Show. Our<br />

platform is created to inspire and empower<br />

people to go after their dreams. We<br />

encourage artist, business owners, community activist with a positive message and a dreams to come on our<br />

show. As a motivational speaker, radio personality and writer my message is consistence with wanting to make<br />

our world a better place. I believe God provides everyone with greatness as long as we are willing to take<br />

action with our gifts and passions. I strongly feel it is my calling to help others in this process. Through these<br />

different platforms I encourage people to celebrate their own success each and every day!” I believe if our<br />

youth and others that are struggling with their dreams, need to take the time out a listen to her show and her<br />

book as well. It is way to help you find yourself and step out on faith with the motivation of others and<br />

listening to what they went through in order to achieve their success. You can listen to Ms. Hollis show on<br />

www.instinctradio.net. The I Am Enough Show airs the first Sunday of every month from 7pm to 9pm.<br />

25 I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>


Who Is Wanda D. Hollis?<br />

Wanda D. Hollis was raised in Detroit, MI by her<br />

grandparents and she is the woman that she is today<br />

because of them. She explained, “I was primarily raised by<br />

my grandparents. They were business owners and they<br />

worked for the automobile industry. They taught me a lot<br />

about being responsible, respecting people, teamwork,<br />

sacrifice and love. My mother wasn’t always there for me<br />

but she did instill some worthwhile teachings in me. She<br />

always told me I was smart, beautiful and I could do<br />

anything I wanted to do. As for as a father goes, well I<br />

never know mine. However, my granddad has always been<br />

that father figure to me. I believe the influences of my<br />

complicated family dynamics plays a major role in my life today. I have an outside the box<br />

thought process that drives and inspire me to always want to do things that are not popular and<br />

sometimes very unpractical. I believe wholeheartedly that, if I can think it and believe it, I can<br />

achieve it.” Ms. Hollis up bringing really shows through her work ethics and her everyday life. I<br />

asked her Do you recall any interesting stories related to you by any of your elder relatives that<br />

youhave never forgotten that helped you mold into the person you are today? She replied,<br />

“One day my Grandfather came home and said we were going out to buy some skis and off to<br />

the sporting goods store we went. He purchased two ski packages one for him and one for me,<br />

including ski suits and all the accessories that went along with it. Some of our family and friends<br />

thought he was insane to want to get on skis at age 50 but he did and we had a ball. This<br />

experience was one of the most valued lessons in not caring what other people have to say and<br />

not letting age dictate anything you want to do!” Ms. Wanda, your grandfather sounds just like<br />

my father. I hope you continue to tell that story to the younger generation. The lesson was not<br />

only valuable and positive message but powerful as well. Now, Ms. Hollis has a family of<br />

her own. She is a mother, grandmother, sister, daughter, friend and a business<br />

owner. I asked her, “how do you jungle being self-employed and family life?’ She<br />

replied, “Having a family that<br />

26 I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>


understands what<br />

the end goal is<br />

makes it easy to<br />

jungle work and<br />

family. I don’t really<br />

think it’s any<br />

different than<br />

people that have to<br />

go to work for<br />

someone else. You<br />

just do it! The<br />

advantage of<br />

working for myself<br />

is that I am building<br />

a legacy for my<br />

family unlike if I was<br />

working for<br />

someone else.” Ms. Hollis all I can say is” YOU GO GIRL! “LOL! Ms. Hollis is really a<br />

down to earth person. She enjoys<br />

being around her family, taking care<br />

of<br />

her grandkids, traveling and putting a<br />

smile on people faces. Even though<br />

her<br />

life looks busy, it is really pleasing to<br />

her.<br />

She has even found time to manage<br />

her<br />

grandson’s acting career and she<br />

takes her mother to chemotherapy a<br />

few<br />

times a week.<br />

27 I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>


Positive Message for Upcoming Writers<br />

“Find your tribe of other writers<br />

and stay connected and<br />

encouraged. Never stop and be<br />

excited about your journey of<br />

writing and telling the story.”<br />

-Wanda D. Hollis<br />

Dramatic Design<br />

626A Pine Ave<br />

Albany, GA 31707<br />

28 I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>


29 I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>


Street Sweepa<br />

Who is Street Sweepa?<br />

By Deona Freeman<br />

Dario Bullock aka Street Sweepa is a native of<br />

Albany, Ga. Sweepa has been doing music over<br />

fourteen years and he is still in the game. Street<br />

Sweepa was inspired at a young age about music<br />

he said, “I was inspired by artists like Prince,<br />

Michael Jackson, and 2Pac.” But the type of music<br />

that Sweepa is known for is called Booty music.<br />

You know the type of music you can drop it like<br />

it’s hot or twerk too. He said,” You can compare<br />

him to Uncle Luke.” LOL! As I travelled back and<br />

forth to, Atlanta, Ga, to be with the Street Sweepa<br />

and his team, the sound of his music is awesome.<br />

He has an awesome twerk team and an arsenal of artist that he is trying to help get out into the music industry<br />

Sweep has sold over 21,000 copies of his music. Sweepa said, “I had records like Motorcycle, Pacman, Sweepa<br />

da Flo and lap dance on radio.” Sweepa has been on tour with Jeezy, Chris Brown and Ciara .And he has won a<br />

best performer award. Street Sweepa also has a television show and he promotes talent shows such as Apollo<br />

Night at the Crowes Nest and B3<br />

Bar N Grill in Atlanta, Ga. Now, his<br />

empire has spreaded to<br />

Thomasville, Ga to San well.<br />

Sweepa Nation also have an award<br />

ceremonies, Indie Artist Awards,<br />

for indie artists that grind and<br />

trying to be recognized in the<br />

industry. Working beside Street Sweepa is his lovely wife, Mrs. CEO<br />

aka Victoria Bullock. She is his<br />

manager, foundation and support<br />

through all his adventures and they<br />

make a great team. Please believe<br />

ladies, Street Sweepa is not going<br />

anywhere. The love and the<br />

business relationship that they<br />

have for one another is<br />

unbreakable.<br />

30 I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>


Another awesome person that is helping Sweepa is Gas Can Sam of the<br />

Eastside Boyz. Sweepa considers him not just a friend but a brother as<br />

well. He helps Street Sweepa with a lot of different thing especially the<br />

talent show on Thursday nights at Club 112<br />

Family and Community<br />

Street Sweepa is not only an artist but he is a husband and father. Street<br />

Sweepa basically balanced his life out<br />

between the music industry and his<br />

family. He has a lot of support with his wife, Victoria, backing him up and<br />

making sure that every need and problem is taking care of. With the ventures<br />

in the music business<br />

and juggling family,<br />

Sweepa and his wife<br />

has done some<br />

awesome things in the<br />

community as well.<br />

On last year they<br />

teamed up with Big<br />

Tiger, Jeezy and Keisha<br />

Pullam to feed the<br />

homeless for<br />

Thanksgiving. Sweepa<br />

learned how to cut a<br />

lot of pies on that day. LOL! But they did everything<br />

from the heart as the do all community events and<br />

helping others. Watch out everyone! This is your next<br />

power couple!<br />

31 I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>


Positive Message for the Youth<br />

“Follow your own mind not no one else mind....If God tells u<br />

it's right then it's RIGHT! Artist just because you don't see<br />

your dream happening doesn't mean it's not going to and u<br />

can start giving up.. It's not for you to see it anyways! IF GOD<br />

LET U SEE IT, THEN IT WOULDN'T BE A SURPRISE WHEN HE<br />

PRESENTS YOU WITH IT....SHOW HIM THAT YOU DESERVE IT<br />

AND HE WILL GIVE IT TO U....JUST PUT IT ALL IN HIS HANDS HE<br />

GOT YOU.” – Street Sweepa<br />

- “Stay focus on your dreams and rocking<br />

the clubs. You have a lot of people looking<br />

up to you. Be Blessed!<br />

- I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>”<br />

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33 I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>


DCP TONY B<br />

Who is DCP Tony B?<br />

By Deona Freeman<br />

Dcp Tony B is an indie artist and Albany, Ga native who is<br />

currently residing in Atlanta, Ga. Growing up, Tony B<br />

wanted to be a disc jockey because he shadowed a lot of<br />

local disc jockeys and he learned the craft which lead him to<br />

pick up a microphone. Tony B said, “Once I realized that I<br />

could rhyme well and people actually listened to what I<br />

would say and I ran with it.” Everyone who does not know<br />

him, is always asking “What does DCP stand for in his<br />

name?” DCP stands for Durty County Playa and if you don’t<br />

live in Albany, Ga, you will never understand it. Tony<br />

explained, “I’ve been asked this question numerous times<br />

before and it’s the primary key to my latest release “Who<br />

the F@#k<br />

is Tony B?” Now, Dcp Tony B music has landed him<br />

with four awards such as 2015 GA Music Award Hip<br />

Hop artist of the year, 2016 Atlanta Music Award<br />

MVP Artist of The Year, 2016 Indie Hip Hop Awards<br />

People’s Camp and Community Award Winner of<br />

the year. I Asked Dcp Tony B about how does he<br />

juggle his music with family and he responded, “In<br />

my personal opinion the music industry isn’t much<br />

different from any other career choice. It varies by<br />

our vision of how high we choose to climb. There will<br />

always be sacrifices rather its family time and etc. I<br />

chose to use my gift to test every aspect of the<br />

entertainment business and what I’ve learned along<br />

the way to be successful is that you must understand<br />

how important building relationships is when it<br />

comes to business.”<br />

34 I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>


Besides the music industry and a studio junkie, Tony B is a proud<br />

father. He also spends some of his time being a wellness coach,<br />

club promotor, event host, model and an inspiring actor. He was<br />

featured in Exposure Magazine and a featured model for the 5 th<br />

Annual South Georgia Fashion Week. Dcp Tony B is pretty much<br />

a busy man and he put all his heart, mind and soul into anything<br />

that he touches. With all the different businesses that this<br />

young man is<br />

evolved in, he has<br />

a very bright<br />

future ahead of<br />

him. His work<br />

ethics is awesome.<br />

Sometimes, I have to fuss at him to chill out and take time for<br />

himself but he will not stop until he achieves what he really<br />

wants out of life not just for himself but his kids as well.<br />

Positive Message For Upcoming Artist<br />

I would tell any young future leader the same as I would tell my<br />

kids. “Proper planning prevents piss poor progress!” Avoid all<br />

negativity possible and enjoy the journey!<br />

-Keep pushing Dcp Tony B and keep enjoying your blessed<br />

journey.<br />

-I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong><br />

35 I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>


36 I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>


Swisha Man Slim<br />

Who is Swishaman Slim?<br />

By: Deona Freeman<br />

SwishaMan Slim aka Billy J. Hall Jr. is a native of<br />

Albany and Leary, Ga. He is an indie artist that has<br />

had a lot of success as an unsigned hip hop artist.<br />

Growing up, Swisha had a lot of influences that<br />

helped mold him to become the artist that he today.<br />

He said, “Hip Hop inspired me to be an artist. But the<br />

artists’ that I grow up on was Nas, Outkast, Goodie<br />

Mob, Dirty, Cotton Pikkaz, Suthern Klick, Therapy,<br />

Erykah Badu, Chamillionaire and more.” Swisha has<br />

had many struggles becoming an artist but he has not<br />

given up on his craft. He has overcome some barriers<br />

and he is being recognize more each day on the radio,<br />

YouTube and social media. Swisher explains, “Sacrificing time to prove that I was an artist! I wouldn’t say I’ve<br />

just been through “STRUGGLES” becoming an artist but other<br />

than just trying to prove to people that didn’t know me what I<br />

could do, LOL!” I’ve always felt that I had what it takes to be an<br />

artist though. It’s just my opinion.”<br />

Swisha has a new mixtape that you need to look out for<br />

called “Loud Muzik” featuring various artists and producers<br />

from Southwest Georgia and two new videos. Get Down<br />

featuring Dj Tremayne and off of his own album Lost Tribe. You<br />

can see these videos on YouTube. In my opinion, both of these<br />

videos are awesome. Swisha is also featured in BBK new video<br />

called BBkdaBusiness. BBK consist of six artists, SwishaMan<br />

Slim, YT Thugga, Quabo Shawty, Too Blyke, She, and May Day,<br />

all out of southwest Georgia.<br />

37 I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>


Family and Community<br />

SwishaMan Slim is not only an artist but he is a<br />

father and very active in his community. Swisha<br />

has always been a level minded young man. One<br />

of his biggest joys in his life is his beautiful<br />

daughter. When you see him, in public, nine<br />

times out of ten his daughter is with him. I salute<br />

him as a great father and an outstanding role<br />

model for her. Swisha said, “I’m the kind of<br />

family man who will get outside and fix on my<br />

daughter’s treehouse and get a kick out of<br />

watching her play on it. I put family first. I enjoy<br />

walking around the parks, watching movies,<br />

playing games and etc.” Swishaman has really change the game of<br />

stereotyping dads. He is a super dad in his child eyes. He wears the big SD<br />

on his chest. Great job, dad!<br />

Outside of the music and being a family man, Swisha is active in the<br />

community. He was a part of the Stop the Violence Movement: Family for<br />

Justice held in Albany, Ga on last year and motivates kids. One of his<br />

projects that I love dearly was called Rhythm and Poetry (R.A.P) at Albany<br />

State University and Calhoun County High School. Swisha explained,”<br />

Rhythm and Poetry segment for the youth is to teach them more about hip<br />

hop and their history. I continue to inspire them and upcoming artist to be<br />

themselves and build their culture up.” We need more young men in the<br />

community like Swisha to help get our youth on the right track and point<br />

them in the right direction.<br />

Positive Message for the Youth<br />

“Stay true to yourself. Always be creative, grind hard, stay humble, and<br />

NEVER SELL YOUR SOUL FOR F<strong>AM</strong>E AND FORTUNE!!!”<br />

- Stay driven and reaching for the stars and peace beyond to you.<br />

-I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong><br />

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39 I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>


Unbreakable Bloodline<br />

Who is Unbreakable Bloodline?<br />

By: Deona Freeman<br />

Unbreakable Blood is a hip hop band that was established in 2000. O’She Tyght stated, “The band was created<br />

in 2010 Ryan (our base guitarist) offered an opportunity to play with him, opening for The Godfather of Funk,<br />

George Clinton. He put together a band (lead guitar, drums and bass guitar) with a few calls. We had a month<br />

to transpose music, write lyrics and reimagine everything we knew to pull together a 20 minute performance<br />

set. Needless to say, after that show, we've been THE BAND Unbreakable Bloodline, ever since.” UBL has been<br />

performing next to some headliners such as Kid Rock, The Roots, Ludacris, Cypress hill and etc. UBL is very<br />

creative and each individual of this band has their own uniqueness so basically there is no need to change who<br />

they are. UBL co-writes and co-produce their own music, co-direct our own videos, create our own artwork,<br />

manufacture our own merchandise, handle our own management, bookings and marketing. Many labels has<br />

been making offers to this band but they decline their offers.<br />

UBL guitarist, Jon Smith stated, “We all come from different areas with different cultures and musical<br />

preferences. We are different ages, different races, different genders and just all around different from each<br />

other in many ways. When we walk into a public establishment together we definitely attract attention and<br />

turn heads. People are always asking us who we are because it's obvious that we are not of the norm .Our<br />

differences inspire each other and we are all willing to step outside of our personal boxes and into each other's.<br />

We listen to each other and share with each other. We are like family and despite our differences have a<br />

common bond which is Unbreakable.” They have been nominated three times for the Georgia Music Award<br />

40 I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>


and won twice. Last year, UBL performed at the South by<br />

Southwest which is one of the largest music, art and film<br />

festival in Austin, TX with the presence of our beloved 44 th<br />

President Obama. Jon Smith explained, “In 2016 was also<br />

the birth of new relationships which resulted in the<br />

collaboration of new studio material between<br />

Unbreakable Bloodline, the legendary Architect Beats and<br />

Producer Darrick Atwater”. UBL has been in an<br />

independent indie film called The Legend of Seven Toe<br />

Maggie, in which Unbreakable Bloodline members<br />

appeared along with two songs for the soundtrack. They<br />

are currently being played over the airways in Hawaii and<br />

Guam. UBL is also Albany, Ga favorite band. UBL has been in a lot of citywide functions in their community<br />

not just Albany, Ga but Leesburg, Ga as well. They have been given back to the pop warner teams and<br />

promote fire safety in the area schools. This band is truly unbreakable and they are more like family than just a<br />

band. UBL truly has a story to tell that would eventually need to be a great documentary.<br />

Meet the Band<br />

O’SHE Tyght<br />

She was born is Houston County, Ga but raised in Albany, Ga. She believes that music<br />

is a soundtrack to like. She likes to listen to music that is memorable. She likes all<br />

kinds of music especially hip hop and disco. Even though O’She Tyght is an awesome<br />

artist, she had her struggles. O’She said, “The struggle for me is keeping the faith. The<br />

fight of dream chasing. Believing in myself and the talent that God gave me. It's also<br />

hard when you can’t make the people you love believe what they can't see because<br />

they don't understand the art of dream chasing. I can tell you all day that I'm gonna<br />

make it, it’s coming, or everything's going well but when people don't see you<br />

bringing in big pay days after so many years, it's hard for them to see anything other than you still broke, it's<br />

time to stop chasing dreams. Grow up! I don't have any kids of my own so the only thing I know and want to<br />

do is chase dreams. My dreams are my children.”<br />

She has an awesome message for the upcoming young artist, “When you have a dream, nobody else has<br />

that dream but you. It is yours! You may share commonalities with other people and come together, but your<br />

position in it, is your position. Your view, is your view. Don't let what other people can't see, tell you that it's<br />

not possible. No matter how long it takes and no matter how old you are. No matter how many times you fall,<br />

GET BACK UP! Prayer is the most powerful gift that we have. Learn how to use it to protect you from<br />

negativity. Even your own.”<br />

41 I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>


Chief H (EMCEE)<br />

Chief H was born in Agana, Guam. He is a lover of the hip hop culture and writing.<br />

Chief H has struggles as well. He stated, “TI<strong>ME</strong>! I never seem to have enough time in<br />

the day to handle all my obligations. It's tough being a husband, father, band mate<br />

and business owner. But honestly I love the business. I love the grind!” But outside<br />

the music, Chief H is a married, family man and Catholic. Chief H left a positive<br />

message for our youth with dreams to become an artist. Chief H said,” I would tell any young person to not<br />

give in to what's easy. Following your dreams can be scary especially when you feel like you’re not pursuing the<br />

norm. And ultimately if following your dreams gives you a sense a fulfillment then why not! Just go for it with a<br />

relentless attack and don't let no one tell you that you can’t achieve your dream!”<br />

King O-Z ( EMCEE)<br />

King O-Z was born in Pittsburgh, PA. He King O-Z was inspired to be an artist at the<br />

age of eight. He listen to artist such as Public Enemy, LL Cool L, Kool Moe Dee,<br />

Heavy D, NWA, Rakim, KRS one and many others. He feel in love with the culture<br />

automatically. Even as artist, King O-Z has figured out how to balance family<br />

and music. King Oz said “Communication is the key.” Outside the music King OZ<br />

said, “He is a husband, a dad, brother, a son, a butcher baker and candle stick<br />

maker, LOL!” Well, King OZ, I’m going to add a comedian too, LOL! Even in the mist<br />

of his silliness, he still finds time to say something positive for our upcoming artist. King O -Z said, “Beware of<br />

dream stealers and time thieves. They come in all shapes and sizes and some are harder to spot than others,<br />

but the soon you can recognize them.”<br />

Ryan Myer (Bass)<br />

Ryan Myer reproduce and publishes UBL’s music. He is also the bass player and a<br />

father. Ryan started playing the bass guitar at the age of thirteen at The Spray. His<br />

was inspired by 311, Red Hot Chili Peppers, James Jamerson, Motown and many<br />

others. Ryan says, “The reason I make music is because music never lets me down I<br />

can always find something new something to grab onto when I'm feeling sad or<br />

happy or any other emotion that comes across. There are not enough hours in the<br />

day to master all of the music that I want to learn so in that sense. I am frustrated but it fills me with the hope<br />

to know that I can always turn to music to say what I'm really feeling.”<br />

42 I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>


Jon Smith (Guitarist)<br />

Jon Smith is the guitarist in the group. He really took the time out to speak about<br />

the group as a whole.<br />

“Our family is very supportive of our musical endeavors. We simply couldn't do this<br />

without their unconditional love and support of our dreams. Unbreakable Bloodline<br />

is more than a band, it's a way of life, a family unit which is Unbreakable. As a<br />

business, we have experienced many hurdles. Most of our business education<br />

comes from the school of hard Knox. As in life, we have learned the value of<br />

building healthy relationships and staying true ourselves as well as each other. We also realize the value of a<br />

team and utilize our various individual talents in collaboration towards a common goal. Outside of the music<br />

we are pretty much the same as you see us under the lights of the stage. The only real difference is that you're<br />

seeing the product of a well-oiled machine when you see us in rock star mode. Otherwise, we remain true to<br />

ourselves, our God, our families and to each other. We are very transparent and believe that we have been<br />

placed together to serve an inspirational purpose for the betterment of the kingdom .God has blessed each and<br />

every person on this earth with special talents and desires of their heart. Life is about the discovery and<br />

alignment of the two in fulfilling God's purpose over our lives. In order to come to this realization, one must be<br />

willing to listen to God speaking to us through our own intuition and trust him in creating opportunities for<br />

growth. Our job is to just keep moving forward in faith while utilizing the gifts and desires that he has pre<br />

blessed us with. Unbreakable Bloodline has been extremely fortunate in being blessed with opportunities for<br />

great things and we have taken pride in achieving these efforts to the best of our ability.”<br />

To know more about this awesome band and their tours dates, you can go to their official website<br />

www.unbreakablebloodline.com or follow them on Facebook, Instagram, Spotify, ITunes, CD Baby, Reverb<br />

nation and I Heart Radio.<br />

“Keep striving for your dreams and continue to be more<br />

than just a band. Why? Because you are F<strong>AM</strong>ILY!”<br />

- I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong><br />

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44 I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>


T- Smuv<br />

Who is T- Smuv?<br />

By Deona Freeman<br />

Tragarius “T-Smuv” Robinson is native of<br />

Warner Robins, Ga. He is a R & B singer and<br />

entrepreneur. T-Smuv came about his name<br />

when he was in the tenth grade. He was the<br />

new kid there and he be friended, Marquez<br />

Lawson. T-Smuv told us,” Marquez gave him<br />

that name because he was too smooth, great<br />

with the ladies and great at basketball”. T-<br />

Smuv was inspired to sing by his grandmother.<br />

He explained, “Growing up, I always watched<br />

her sing at church and how much people loved<br />

her voice. It amazed me how many people one<br />

person could move just by singing”. As we talk some more he is very passionate when he talks about<br />

his grandmother and his sisters. Not only that, he is not as close to his family because he is used to<br />

being alone while serving our country but he loves then dearly.<br />

The Artist<br />

It was very interesting that T-Smuv said that is viewed antisocial but seeing, talking to him, and<br />

watching him perform at the Albany Strong Festival, which is not the vibe I get from him as a person. T-<br />

Smuv elaborated on it a little more. Musically, people see me as antisocial. Not necessarily hard to<br />

work with but I work on my own a lot<br />

because I’m my team behind the music.<br />

Outside of music, people see me as an<br />

ambitious, outspoken, good dude.<br />

T-Smuv current label is F.R.A.T.HOUSE ENT<br />

LLC., which he started back in 2010. He is<br />

very proud of his label. T-Smuv said, “My<br />

current label is F.R.A.T.HOUSE Ent LLC which<br />

is an imprint I started back in 2010. My next<br />

project is Wile I Was Home is due to be<br />

release this January. Right now I have a 3 part blog series dropping every week on YouTube to promote<br />

the ep. I also have my lead single Pain on iTunes, Spotify, google play, and etc. My video is out on<br />

YouTube right now. Ladies, you really need to listen to his EP and watch the video. You will really enjoy<br />

it.<br />

45 I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>


Community<br />

T-Smuv is very active his community in Warner Robins, Ga.<br />

Outside of the music, he has a foundation call WE GOT US. The<br />

foundation tutors kids from second to twelfth grade in his<br />

neighborhood. T-Smuv that is an awesome thing that you are<br />

doing to support the next generation to reach the goals and<br />

succeed in school. If you are in the area, just ask him little bit<br />

more about his foundation and what can you do to help.<br />

Positive Message for the Youth<br />

“You can be everything they say you can't. I was<br />

kicked out of school and still managed to be in pretty<br />

good position in this music thing. And also, educate<br />

yourself on the business. It’s a lot of talent out here<br />

but the stability comes from being able to handle<br />

your business.”<br />

- Keep reaching for the stars and keep educating our next generation!<br />

- -I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong><br />

46 I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>


240 W. Broad Ave.<br />

Albany, GA 31701<br />

47 I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>


48 I <strong>AM</strong> <strong>ME</strong>

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