Jitney is not only a good play by playwright August Wilson, but it depicts a real-life story in African-American history. Jitney, the eighth in Wilson’s ‘Pittsburg Cycle’, tells the story of a community coming together when regular cab drivers will not travel to the Pittsburgh Hill District in the 1970s. The play dramatizes the lives of men hustling to make a living as “jitneys”, which are unofficial cab drivers. Directed by Ruben Santaigo-Hudson, this is an opportunity to see the fine work of August Wilson on display from Jan. 29-Feb. 19 at the Two River Theater in Red Bank, NJ.

Unheard Voices had the opportunity to chat with actor Brandon Dirden, about the play, life, and the character he depicts – Darnell Williams AKA Youngblood.

On his character Youngblood:
He’s your brother, he’s your cousin, and he’s your nephew. He’s has a big heart but doesn’t necessarily make the right decisions. But his heart is always in the right place. He’s quite mature. He’s dubbed Youngblood because he’s the youngest member in the crew.

On Wilson:
He’s documented this story on a living drama. So [people] can see in action how it’s going down. This is how real people are affected by these policies … It’s brilliant!

On Jitney
It is fantastic slice of life in this community of Pittsburgh in the 1970s .. with a lot soul.

Jitney is currently playing at the Two River Theater in Red Bank, NJ.

Harold Huff is an aspiring poet from Long Branch, NJ. Instead of channeling his energy into negative places, Harold focuses on writing. Unheard Voices chatted briefly with Harold on his love for writing and how he got started.

How long have you’ve been writing?
I’ve been writing poetry for the better par of 5 years and its been my outlet for things that are usually left unsaid.

What inspires you to write?
I write because so many people put on a mask and play the tough Guy role. Why show the tough Guy and hide the love? This is me not being that tough Guy but that loving person sharing what’s real

Who are some of your favorite authors/writers?
I absolutely can’t read enough books. I travel through many different genres of books, from history to fiction to political to fantasy and mystery and suspense. My favorite Poet would have to be Langston Hughes since I read Life ain’t no crystal stair I wanted to write like he did.

What is your style of poetry?
I don’t have a specific style of poetry I write about love I write about life. I write about God’s second most precious gift that is woman and how they should be treated. I also write about freedom and of course my faith in the Lord.

Our Storm
They way my mind moves
Is like a raging storm
With you lie the most important elements

As the rains shower
This beautiful sound
A heart so perfect
That my love has found
The thunder rolls as a reminder
That God made you for me
My queen loving, gentle
Caring and serene
Take me away to the awesome place
Every time I lay my head in your lap
Our storm begins to rage
Taking me away
Leaving me with one care
You my sweetest love
Holding and warming from the night air
Rain only magnifies your beauty
As it trickles down your face
Come closer babygurl
Come and give me a taste
Let me taste that passion
That lies in your soul
And you can taste my passion
Our love can be whole
I hear the rough waves
As they keep tearing away at the beach
I hear the cool sand crunch
With every step of our feet
Flowing with those winds
Lighting cracking in the sky
Kodak moments made for God’s eyes
Still loving our storm
The serenity it vibes
Because through every storm
True beauty lies…..

Michael Genet clad in a jazzy porkie pie hat and sporting a goatee coolly reminds you of the late great playwright, August Wilson. Wilson’s play Jitney, will run at the Two River Theater in Red Bank, NJ, Jan. 29, through Feb. 19. A seasoned actor and writer, Genet, just finished up his role as the turkey and bullfrog in the family show Honk. Genet refers to Wilson as his “mentor” and someone he knew personally. “I am a black man, but I am not a black writer,” said Genet. “August Wilson is one of the greatest playwrights of all time in comparison to the likes of Shakespeare, Ibsen and Eugene O’Neill. People came to see August Wilson the great playwright not the black playwright.” Genet’s long list of credits include Joe Turner’s Come and Gone and Seven Guitars, which were written by Wilson. He has appeared in both film and television: Wall Street, Money Never Sleeps, She Hate Me and Ugly Betty, Law & Order and Tyler Perry’s House of Payne. To his writing credit: Hallelujah and Talk to Me (which starred Don Cheadle, as the colorful Washington, D.C. radio DJ, Petey Green). Genet is a 35-year veteran in an industry that he says “embraces mediocrity.” He is elated to be back at Two River Theater and commends the theater for having a “high thresh-hold of quality.” Genet was introduced to Two River Theater when he appeared this past summer as one of the actors in the play reading Red Clay, about the Civil Rights icon, Rosa Parks. He played Parks’ husband. Taking pride in the craft of writing, his first love, Genet explains that when it comes to film and There you have it—writers are indeed some of the real job creators. WRITE ON! Jitney is set in 1977 Pittsburgh in a storefront depot for gypsy cab drivers– it’s men sharing their stories. Discount prices for groups of 10 or more. Tickets start at $37 and free parking Call (732) 345-1400 or www. trtc.org Call (732) 345-1400. Pulitzer Prizes. Wilson’s play Jitney is being directed by the Tony Award-winner Ruben Santiago-Hudson at TRTC.

written by Gilda Rodgers

Theater is no unfamiliar territory to seasoned actor Michael Genet, who starred in off-Broadway & Broadway plays such as A Solider’s Play, A Few Good Men; just to name a few. This writer & actor best known for She Hate Me & Talk To Me comes to the Jersey Shore co-starring in Honk at the Two River Theater in Red Bank, NJ.

Honk is a musical adaptation of the Hans Christian Story incorporating the understanding of tolerance. The play brilliantly portrays the story of the ugly (Paolo Montalban) duckling who is rejected by everyone but his mother, Ida (Kenita Miller), a sly tomcat who wants to eat Ugly, and barnyard creatures. With the help of new friends that he meets along the way his journey home becomes an adventure and an exuberant celebration of being different! This delightfully tuneful, witty retelling of Hans Christian Andersen’s “The Ugly Duckling” is an enchanting comic musical for the entire family.

Genet takes on the role of several characters including the Turkey, who is afraid of Thanksgiving, a bullfrog, who understands what it means to be different, father swan, and Barnacles.

Michael Genet talked candidly with Unheard Voices about his career in acting and what brought him to the Jersey Shore to perform in this musical production. Genet talked about the realities of the acting business and what it takes to succeed in this tough industry. Watch the video to see the full interview with Michael Genet.

Honk runs through until January 1st, at the Two River Theater in Red Bank, NJ. For more information, please click here.

Unheard Voices chops it up with Mista Encore before his performance at The Saint in Asbury Park, NJ.

Mista Encore is a rapper from Jersey. Last night he performed his latest EP for the first time. His EP, Victory is Mine, is available for free. Download here.

At the age of 25 his flow is concise and inspiring, with the head nod beats that any connoisseur of hip hop can devour. It talks real truth without being preachy. Whether hustler, mother, fiend or friend his talent cannot be denied. His latest videos “Never Stop” and “Vibe With It” both directed by John Edwards shows that hunger and drive that longevity is made of. His supporters are already saying this album is set to be a classic.

Victory League Music

On Oct 8, Unheard Voices had the opportunity to spend time with Steven McDuffie a prolific High School track star of Neptune High School NJ. Unheard Voices founder remembers Mr. Duffie during his high school days and how he destroyed his opponents on the track field. What made his victory so special was the fact that he was a long distance runner and an African American.  He was dominating in a race that had been virtually non existed by blacks.  You rarely saw a person of color excelled at this distance and he was name to be reckon with at the shore and in the state of New Jersey.

When first laying eyes on McDuffie he was brilliant has he lapsed most of his opponents. It was in 1973 at the Long Branch Relays. There were great runners at this event. The likes of Charley Walker from Lakewood and John Chambers from Neptune would be one of the main highlight for the day going head to head in the short distances. But nothing could compare watching McDuffie take charge in a cool fashion that day and absolutely where he ran a manifest race. Every one knew that he was Olympic material. There was no doubt in the mind of people and his shore opponents that he was a very special person.

Sit back and relax and enjoy the interview that Unheard Voices had with Mr. Steven McDuffie as he talks about his track career and what he has been doing after his glory days of track. He talks about his current involvement in track programs and how is currently working with the city youths. His involvement and commitment to the youth and his true dedication to pass on in knowledge of track.

Unheard Voices wants to thank you once again for leaving great track and field memories that will never be forgotten.

Who is Alcadio Laguer? Alcadio Laguer is the founder of Ultimate Rush Concepts, a site that shows his artistic talent and his love for painting and for the fine arts. The picture above is from his collection of paintings called, Mother and Child, where he captures the essence of a child getting nourishment from its parent. Alcadio says that the painting shows the child “having that special connection with mother earth, being in her womb for 9 months.” Alcadio Laguer who is a long time friend and high school classmate of the Founder of Unheard Voices Networks, Keith Covin, talks about how he first got started in the art world.

It was in 3rd grade at Garfield School in Long Branch NJ. We went to a school trip with Ms. Collins to The Daily Record (local newspaper) on Broadway between Johns Bargain store & JJ Newberrys. When we returned Ms. Collins ask us to draw what we saw. “They took my picture & hung it in the front office. They couldn’t believe the 3-D effect.”

Alcadio was surprised, because he was only doing what he loved to do and he said that he “didn’t see what the big deal was about.” ” But when teachers & friends actually came up to him & gave him kudos, that’s when he knew something good can come out of this.”

Alcadio is a self taught fine Artist and a Classic Auto Restorer, hoping to get a foot hold in the Charlotte area. He attended Brookdale Community in Lincroft NJ where he took several courses in their art department. He has served in the US Army, 2nd 9th Infantry Division Ft. Stewart, GA. While supporting The Rangers in Panama, he developed an appreciation for nature’s robust Rain Forest colors. You can say his style is a fascination with bright colors, shadows, fine details, and absorbing the essence of all what he sees. Alcadio says that each project “reveals it’s unique character.” Mr. Alcadio works mostly in “mixed media: air brush, pastels, oil pastels, acrylics and enamel.” His other ambition is “restoring Classic Muscle Cars; where he currently working on a ground up 1956 Chevy Bel-Air Custom-rod.” He is married to Denise Taylor Laguer, and is the father of four.”

Alcadio Laguer latest project has brought tears to many people eyes. His natural born ability to capture a picture and to bring it to life is amazing. This is evident in the portrait that he created for “Renee Covin’s Day” to be placed in the Neptune, NJ Public Library. At the ceremony you heard cries of “Oh My God”, “This is beautiful”. I knew then that Alcadio had captured the essence of Renee’s spirit and made Renee’ Covin’s Day a reality for the Covin family as seen in the video.

Husband, Keith Covin, and son Jamaal Covin holding Portrait by Alcadio Laguer

When Alcadio was first asked about doing a portrait for Renee’ Covin’s Day he did not hesitate at all to say yes. I knew that Alcadio was a fantastic artist from grade school and I was so happy that he had the time to take on this project. I was so excited when he said yes, because I knew that if anyone could capture the realness and essence of my wife I knew that he could. The Covin Family appreciates the love and thank you for all the hard work that you have put into this project to make Renee’ Covin’s Day a reality.

To find out more about Alcadio Laguer’s art work please visit:
http://www.ultimaterushconcepts.blogspot.com

Unheard Voices got a chance to candidly speak with upcoming actor and model from Neptune, NJ. Travis Whitaker speaks to Unheard Voices about what got him started in acting, his aspirations, goals for the future, and the projects he’s currently working on.

Mr. Whitaker although new to the acting scene has quickly developed into a seasoned actor. You can see the love and passion that he has for acting and the total commitment to it. His first ever production was called “Never, Never Stop Dreaming” where he played a street smart high school student drop out that eventually finds his way back to school. He realizes that an education is the only way for him to be successful in life.

Mr. Whitaker is currently working on a new sitcom called “Dirty Laundry” which is a joint effort between the workshop group directed by Mr. Kevin Cheatham of the Adam Bucky James Community Center of the Long Branch Housing Authority and Unheard Voices Networks. The Sitcom will be taped in front of a live audience that will be aired on Unheard Voices Networks. Come out and support Travis as he takes on several challenging roles in the sitcom.

Travis Whitaker on Twitter

Check out the video below:

From left to right: Balrog, Zeus, Alfa, Hemi, and Pharoah (White)

Gangs have always been looked at by many in a negative fashion. But the Get Right G.A.N.G. is not your typical gang you hear about. They don’t wear red or blue, or rep flags. What they represent? Going against negative guidance.

The Get Right G.A.N.G. of New Jersey was started by, Steven Anthony a.k.a Hemi, who wanted to create a group of young men that promoted unity, health, personal growth, guidance, and that is against all negative thoughts and destruction. They describe it as not just a movement but a way of life where all of its members changed their whole lifestyle around to be apart of the gang. Member Zeus, talked about how each of them doesn’t drink or smoke. Born, who later joined the Get Right Gang, talked about how he is a vegetarian.

They inspire the youth by being mentors showing you can be cool but also have your mind right as well. They emphasize knowledge and health is key to a successful life.
“Among every nation we’re the most unhealthy physically and mentally. We have to change that, starting with young men. We’re all average individuals and that’s what makes us the Get Right G.A.N.G.” - Zeus

Each respective member has their own unique characteristics they bring to the Get Right Gang. Some of the members teach karate, wrestling, boxing, cage fighting, and the major part is mentoring. Unheard Voices got to chat with members, Hemi, Alfa, Balrog, Pharaoh, and Zeus; where they candidly spoke about the Get Right G.A.N.G., what they represent, and the negative influences they are against. Check out the video below:

music by: We Are The Heroes
Special thanks to : Allen Covin

If you want to reach and get involved with the Get Right Gang, they can be contacted on their Facebook and Youtube accounts. They are currently working on a documentary about the group and each member.

email: getrightgang@aol.com

Asbury Park, NJ – Recently, there has been a spur of violence in the Asbury Park/Neptune, NJ community, inciting rage from community leaders and citizens for action. A long-time Asbury Park resident, and retired NPP Director of Asbury Park, re-counts just missing the gunfire. Edric Gordon, 21 was killed Friday May 27th on Dewitt Avenue in Asbury Park. Days before that, there was spree of gunfire on Heck Avenue in Neptune.

“Traveling down Springwood Avenue today on my way shopping I saw a car wrapped around a pole. I noticed bullet holes in rear windows seconds before I passed it happened. No one was outside except two neighbors calling police. I hear two people were shot inside car. I was stuck at light on Atkins Ave and Springwood Avenue when it happened. Thank God I was delayed I would had been caught up in crossfire!”

Unheard Voices Magazine
Ms Johnson there has been a wave of recent gunfire amongst the youths in the township of Asbury and Neptune.

Can you give me your thoughts on how you feel about the situation? And how it has affected you directly?

Rosetta Johnson
This has been the first wave of gunfire since the City of Asbury Park has layoff of policemen. Though it is common for crimes to occur it’s unusual for police response to be so slow. I was the first on the scene today between 2:20 and approximately 3:00 honestly I did not check the time. I just arrived seconds after the incident (meaning the shooting and car accident) had taken place.

It affects my quality of life because I was delayed at a stop sign. If I was not delayed I may had been injured. The incident took place at Atlantic and Springwood Avenue. I was at the traffic light at Atkins and Springwood Avenue. One block away I tell you, singing to a song on the radio. Just a few seconds more I would have been caught up in gunfire.

I want transparency and accountability. Our local leaders have to tell us what exactly they are going to do to keep us safe. What steps they are going to take. In addition, I spoke with police headquarters I left a message for Chief Kinmon, my question to him is going to be with the recent layoffs what is your department doing to substitute police power. They received a grant for $ 25,000 for cameras that can be used in police cars or on utility poles.

I want to know when they are going to put surveillance cameras up on utility poles to replace some of the police that were layoff. Second, summer is already here and so many children will be roaming the street what can they do and what are they planning to do as well? I will inquire whether an ordinance needs to be changed or amended as far as curfews to offset delinquency. Last does your department need help or find money to bring officers back! I have seen better response time then what I saw today.

Unheard Voices Magazine
You have proposed some good questions to the Asbury Park Police chief and thank God that you were not caught in the cross fire as you left your home today. It is a scary situation that is occurring in Asbury and Neptune and as we speak I was just told that there was another gun fire and taped off area near Emery Ave ridge court apartments in the Neptune area has just occurred.

What would say to the young people that seemly have no human conscious or remorse and are willing to take a life at the blink of an eye?

Rosetta Johnson
Once they join gangs their conscientious goes out the window and their allegiance is to their organization. However, they bleed like everybody. I saw on the news gang members calling a truce to dismantle.

Unheard Voices Magazine
Yes, you are so right about the gang’s commitment to an endless deadly organization. And yes they do bleed just like everyone else!

For those people who are concerned citizens like you can come out to the council meeting in Asbury Park on June 1 at 7pm and the Neptune’s council meeting on June 13th to have their voices heard!

Unheard Voices Magazine
Do you think that the parents and the lack of parental supervision have a lot to do with the problem?

Rosetta Johnson
Parent’s hands are tied one by the State of NJ DYFS some are afraid to raise their voice fearing being locked up for child cruelty. Second, the young men who have dropped out of school, unemployed, and have been in the system try to survive the best way that they can. Social learning theory applies; they are a product of their environment. Last, what’s a parent to do when their son or daughter gets caught up in membership? The influence is overwhelming and parents chance of getting their children back is hopeless. The first constitution of America gives them freedom of speech to discriminate against what they believe is unconstitutional. So, we hope that they age out of these phases and have families of their own and re-gain their senses!

Unheard Voices Magazine
Yes, you have hit it right on the nose! Back in the day this problem didn’t exist because the parent had more control. I just hope that with people like yourself that are concerned citizen can help make a difference and show the kids that there are other things out there beside gang banging and killing one another! And show them that God loves them no matter where and what their situations is…

Do you think that drugs in the community have totally broken down the Asbury Park and Neptune communities and others like them? What are you thoughts?

Rosetta Johnson
Drugs in our communities are their only means to support themselves with no chance of finding suitable work and with prior records they feel it’s their only chance of survival. Even though it’s a risky business!

Unheard Voices Magazine
Ms Johnson would you please leave Unheard Voices reader’s with your final thought on this situation?

Rosetta Johnson
I’m the president of United for the Community established in 1999 it has a federal and state tax identification numbers. The Primary role is to answer secondary issues in Asbury Park, such as these incidents. I became inactive when I went to work for City of Asbury Park. I was working with the City to address such issues. I have since retired due to an accident. I had spine fusion surgery but have enough energy to resurrect the organization. As a matter of fact many are interested in joining. It’s an old saying Keith, if you want something done do it yourself…

Unheard Voices Magazine
I personally would love to get involve with such a program. Once again Unheard Voices would like to thank you very much for your Voice! I agree with you 100% “If you want something done do it yourself”!

Rosetta Johnson
As always, thank you Unheard Voices for this interview!

Unheard Voices Magazine
Unheard Voices would like to thank you Ms Johnson very much for sharing your story and for providing your thoughts and for speaking out against violence in the community

Speak up and be heard!

God Bless you!

Unheard Voices had the pleasure to chopped it up with the aspiring rapper & producer before his radio show. The Englewood, NJ native just recently landed the show on WIFI 1460AM, which talks about various topics. But before the radio, Chris has been creating a buzz for himself in the music industry. The twenty-nine-year-old expressed his love for music started at the young age of ten growing up listening to Grover Washington and Brook Benton. But his hip-hop influences include Rakim, The Boot Camp Click, Kool G Rap, and Wu Tan Clan.

In a world where everyone wants to become a “rapper”, Chris, feels he sets himself apart from others because of his ability to produce and rap.  He has huge aspirations with motivations from life, dreams, and experiences. He explains that he wants see himself get better, grow, and explore. Although, many aspiring rappers cite other rappers as major inspirations, Chris looks up to his mother and father. “Mom and dad to me are the real American Dream”.  They both excelled academically in their chosen endeavors.

Clearly in focus mode before his show, Chris talked about how the show came about and where he plans on taking it.  Co-host, Donna Hunt and himself came up with idea and she the name “The Chris Morale Experience”. Chris meet Donna Hunt through his cousin, which found her on a music distribution website. Since then, Donna and Chris have collaborated on numerous projects including The Chris Morale Experience.

The show, which has been on for six weeks, talks about a variety of topics while showcasing his catalog of music and other aspiring artists. As his featured guest, ironically the topic of the night dealt with race and social issues. The topic was on the recent incident on Harvard Professor Henry Louis Gates Jr. The enthusiastic eager young man was ready to go in on the controversial topic and have a great show. And that he did. Even the founder of Unheard-Voices.com called, to chime in on the hot topic.

The sky is the limit for this aspring rapper, producer, and now radio host. Chris plans on dabbling into other endeavors to further his career in the entertainment industry. I was proud to be apart of the Chris Morale Experience that day. Check out this bright young man every Wednesday @ 9pm on 1460am which broadcasts in South Jersey, Philadelphia area, to the Jersey Shore, or live stream at 1460am.com

Check out this small clip of the radio show. To hear the full show and other episodes, please visit Official Podcast of The Chris Morale Experience or Chris Morale Online

Not many can say they rank amongst President Barack Obama, Oprah Winfrey, with top best sellers but literary author Larry Wilson Jr. can. The Goulds, FL native chopped it up with Unheard-Voices about his literary work, his role as & meaning of “King of Erotica”, his plights, being an advocate for HIV/AIDS, and future endeavors.

“Larry Wilson, Jr is living proof that just because you wind up in jail doesn’t mean you have to fall prey to its darkness. He is an enigma, a success, and the year 2009 will promise to bring him unparalleled success and make him a house hold name. Four years of childhood abuse molded him into the writer he has become.”

unheardvoicesmag: First of all Unheard Voices would like to thank you Mr. Larry Wilson “The King of Erotica” for giving your time to interview with Unheard-Voices magazine

Larry Wilson: Although I appreciate the love, it is I who should thank you for your time and for allowing me to use your venue to promote what I worked so hard for.

unheardvoicesmag: You are very kind!

Larry Wilson: I treat people the way I want to be treated.

unheardvoicesmag: Larry can you tell the Unheard Voices community who you are and where you are from?

Larry Wilson: Well, I’m Larry Wilson. I was born in Salinas, California in June of 1977 and was raised in Goulds, Florida since I was about 15, 16 months old.

Larry Wilson: To the literary world I am Dapharoah69, The one and only The King of Erotica and the first EVER successful The King of Erotica

unheardvoicesmag: How long have you been writing?

Larry Wilson: I have been writing since I was 6 years old. At the behest of my elementary school teacher, Mrs. Mike, who gave me a journal and a Robert Frost Poem called the Road Less taken. I was the only kid in the class she gave that poem to. I was being raped in my home at the time, and part of her knew it but I never confirmed it and tried my best to hide it. That day shaped me for the rest of my life, leading to this moment.

unheardvoicesmag: I see that you’ve had experiences in your life that most people can only imagine. Do you think that your life experiences have played a key role in writing about gay/bisexual stories?

Larry Wilson: Yes, it has. But I write for the transgender and the straight folks as well. It allowed me to be eclectic and universal and not just stuck in a box labeled gay/bisexual. Writing as a kid was therapy for me, since I suffered in silence. I gave my journals names, like Patience, Endurance, Barbara (my mom). I had a lot of anger, again I kept inside. I was playful and the class clown to mask that anger, and when people used to ask me why I joked so much, or why am I always dancing, or why am I always writing I told them because I enjoyed it. But what I didn’t tell them was if I stopped writing, dancing or laughing I would kill the man who raped me for four years. So all of that shaped my writing and gives it that emotional and personal edge to show my readers I know what I’m talking about.

unheardvoicesmag: I must say that you have channeled your experiences into some great pieces of work. Your short story called “The basketball Court” was excellent. I found your characters to be alive and you could really relate to them. Your use of words, metaphors and prose are excellent. What inspired you to write this piece of work?

Larry Wilson: I don’t know, really. Just trying something different, I guess. It turned out good but I don’t see myself writing something like that again.

unheardvoicesmag: I have read several books by the late E. Lynn Harris and really enjoyed his work. I compare you to E. Lynn because it takes a special talent and writer to capture people’s attention and I think that you do this just as well if not better than the late E. Lynn Harris. How do you feel to have been blessed with this special talent?

Larry Wilson: I thank God for it. I know he gave me the talent to be used as a muse and an instrument to help others who are going through what I went through. It offers a blunt look at my own life through my characters and offers solutions or consequences for their actions. E Lynn Harris and I were dear friends. He was my mentor and my coach. When he selected my books for his literary Cafe I knew I had arrived, my artistry came full circle. He held up my books in a picture and smiled for a camera, passing me the torch. The picture represents that. It’s symbolic. He was even writing a letter of recommendation for my books to be in the stores. I still have the email. 2 days later he died.

unheardvoicesmag: That must have been a wonderful experience for you. I would love for you to share that photo with the Unheard Voices community. Yes, he was great and we here at Unheard Voices knows that you will carry the torch very well.

unheardvoicesmag: I know that you have also worked with the J.L King the author of “The downlow”, who was on the Oprah Winfrey show. What was it like working with this successful writer? Can you tell Unheard Voices a little more about the project that you worked on with him and how the project outcome?

Larry Wilson: Sure, I will email the picture to you or however you want em to get it to you. It’s framed on my dresser. I look at it whenever I need inspiration or I have thought of giving up, I still have those thoughts, even after all the success.

Larry Wilson: JL King. He found me on Myspace back in January of 2009. Some women fan of mine hit him up and told him about me and he sought me out, I was so excited. He pitched the idea to write the book and I did. I also wrote a monologue for him being used in a broadway play, so I have writing credits now in the theatre. I wrote SMWPanties in 3 days, The Basketball Court is included in the book and was supposed to drop in march of ’09, but it didn’t because of all his prior engagements

Larry Wilson: But what devastated me was when he started making sexual advances at me, wanting to see the porn video I made 5 years ago, insisting on it. It grew from that to sending me text messages asking when can he have sex with me and I turned him down flat every time because I didn’t want to sleep with him to get ahead so I kept it professional

Larry Wilson: He didn’t give me my writing credit for the theatre monologue I wrote for him, and it seemed the only time he called me was when he wanted me to write monologues for him for the play with his name on it and not mine. Some Men Wear panties got pushed back further and further on his to do list and its now October and still no Some Men Wear Panties and my fans pre-ordered the book. So I cut him off the project, since I didn’t sign the contract THANK GOD. And I will do it myself, the King of Erotica way. E Lynn Harris was the epitome of class. All JL King wanted was ass. So I will never work with him again.

unheardvoicesmag: Wow, we here at Unheard Voices is so sorry that a successful writer like J.L King would find a need to exploit a very successful writer like yourself. You were so right by keeping your business professional.

unheardvoicesmag: How many hours per day do you spend writing?

Larry Wilson: Its not that I am bashing him, ‘cause I’m not. I looked up to him, he was on Oprah, I met him, had a beer with him, wrote this book for his Urban Moon Imprint. So imagine how devastated I felt he is touring for his book, he’s helping other people and I got pushed back. My Pink Panties Tour he was putting together never happened. But he made pretty little flyers and all. It devastated me to the point I closed myself off from working with anybody ever again.

Larry Wilson: I write 14 hours a day, 6 days a week. I sleep for five hours, get up, take my HIV medicine, grab a bite to eat and write 14 more hours. I research all day, read thesauruses and encyclopedia. I am more than sex with these books. I am very disciplined. I listen to Janet Jackson’s Rhythm Nation with each project I write.

unheardvoicesmag: Well… you are a shining star and should never let your light stop shining! When one door closes as you know another opens.

Larry Wilson: That’s what the greatest book of all time says, The Bible. My faith in God dismantles any weapon formed against me.

unheardvoicesmag: Wow… you are very disciplined in your writing. And writing to Janet Jackson rhythm nation, how can you go wrong? And yes, give God all the glory and more success will come your way.

unheardvoicesmag: Do you think that you use your writing to be an advocate for the prevention of HIV?

Larry Wilson: I don’t think, I know. I have become a spokesperson for it. When I found out I had HIV I actually had AIDS, had no immune system and was dying. I had no symptoms, which was the scary part. I was devastated, and on my book tour in Atlanta I gave up. I knew where I got it from. My ex, who I was with for three years, was giving it to me and making love to me smiling in my face like he wasn’t, and I had no clue. I was the fool in love. I paid the price, and I have no ill will or hate. I blame LARRY, me, for that. But my pastor at Bethel Church prayed over me, and after a month and a half on Meds my T4 cell count skyrocketed past 200. Another three weeks later, I didn’t have AIDS anymore and my HIV was undetectable in my blood. That’s the power of God. He has a greater purpose for my life.

unheardvoicesmag: Yes, the Lord is so good! It is very important that people get tested because like you said you had no signs or symptoms. Would you tell people to get tested as early as possible?

Larry Wilson: That’s a part of being a spokesperson. I have HIV, HIV don’t have me, HELLO! I love me, I am happy with me, I accept me, I acknowledge me. E Lynn Harris also helped me cope. He often time listened to me and gave me advice. So now I share that advice with my readers and fans. I always let them know, even when I sign autographs hat getting tested is now a matter of life and death.

unheardvoicesmag: You have several books that are now selling in the book store. Where can the Unheard Voices find/buy your books and what are the names of them?

Larry Wilson: They are available at book stores to order. And online, such as Amazon.com from here to Canada, Germany, Japan, The United Kingdom and France.

Larry Wilson: Also on barnedandnoble.com

Larry Wilson: They are named The King of Erotica 1 the Throne

Larry Wilson: The King of Erotica 2 the Crown

Larry Wilson: The King of Erotica 3 VIP

Larry Wilson: The King of Erotica 4 the DeTHRONEment, and my fourth bestseller

unheardvoicesmag: Unheard Voices will be hosting their own radio station in the near future and would love for you to be a special guest so that we can have open discussions on your literary work. This is a personal invitation to “King of Erotica”

Larry Wilson: And for Unheard Voices The King of Erotica would be honored

unheardvoicesmag: I also learned that you will be collaborating with Playa4Playa an online adult in promoting their site. How do you feel about that?

Larry Wilson: It’s about saving lives and this HIV/AIDS thing is real. So I use any avenue and any site to make my presence known so that those who seek hook ups and are too horny to think straight that I am sexy, I am very curvaceous and I also live with HIV and have no symptoms and half the men they are lusting after have it as well. So it’s about promoting it to show them its ok to do what you do, but be SAFE about it.

unheardvoicesmag: You are so right! It is all about saving lives!

unheardvoicesmag: We know that “The King of Erotica” loves life. I believe that you mentioned that you had someone special in your life. How is he supportive in what you do?

Larry Wilson: I love him very much. He is very warm and sincere. Though we don’t talk as much as I would like, because he works and so does I, but knowing that he calls at the right time means so much.

Larry Wilson: And by the way I got my 240th (5) Star Review on Barnes and Noble.com for my books

unheardvoicesmag: That is so wonderful. One milestone after another! That is what it is all about!

Larry Wilson: And I was also the first African American self published author to have three Barnes and Noble.com Top 100 bestsellers at the same time this year

Larry Wilson: I shared that list with Steve Harvey, John Grisham and Presdent Obama

unheardvoicesmag: Do you find that there are a lot of people that would love to see you fail and what do you say to those negative people?

unheardvoicesmag: That is a wonderful accomplishment!

Larry Wilson: Not really, but they are out there. And the ones that want me to fail are in the gay community, so in that aspect I have experienced racism and prejudice within my own community, even outside of that with family and so-called friends. In the beginning they said it would never happen. And now that it has, I learned to keep GOD first. With GOD in your life who CARES who you lose?

Larry Wilson: So I say, “Instead of hating, pick up the Word and read what it says about anger, jealousy and arrogance.”

unheardvoicesmag: Praise the Lord! We at Unheard Voices could not have said it any better.

Larry Wilson: Amen!

unheardvoicesmag: Unheard Voices learned that you will be collaborating with Chenelle Design’s & Management Group on a new website to promote more of your work. Are you excited about that?

Larry Wilson: LOL

Larry Wilson: Very

Larry Wilson: She’s extremely talented and I am looking forward to working with her

Larry Wilson: She actually designed the Pink panties site, which I am taking over from JL King

unheardvoicesmag: Wonderful

unheardvoicesmag: Larry can you give Unheard Voices a final thought on what we can expect from “King of Erotica”

Larry Wilson: Well The King of Erotica is one of the personas I use when I write, but there are two others. Erotica and sex doesn’t define me. I’m also Dapharoah69, the author and Larry Wilson, the regular person who has flaws in his own life. I write as all three when I create a book. My new book, Call Her Queen Hatshepsut doesn’t have erotica or the King of Erotica attached to it. Just Dapharoah69.

Larry Wilson: And it’s a suspense novel telling the life of a transvestite who has an infatuation with an Egyptian ruler, Hatshepsut.

unheardvoicesmag: Very interesting… can’t wait until you complete it…

unheardvoicesmag: We heard at Unheard Voices would like to thank you very much for your time and is looking forward for more great things from you!

unheardvoicesmag: We love you here at Unheard Voices!

Larry Wilson: I thank you very much for the love!

Larry Wilson: And I love you too!

unheardvoicesmag: Keep writing and putting out beautiful pieces of work!

unheardvoicesmag: Unheard Voices!

Larry Wilson: I will, and to God be the glory.

unheardvoicesmag: Unheard Voices will be staying in touch with you to let our readers know what is going on!

unheardvoicesmag: bye my friend from Unheard Voices!

Larry Wilson: Same to you

Larry Wilson Jr’s books can be purchased at BarnesandNoble.com & Amazon.com.

Houston native Ricardo Francis, an up&coming painter, writer, and director talks candidly with Unheard-Voices about his work, and his expression through his art.

unheardvoicesmag: First of all, Unheard Voices magazine would like to thank you Mr. Ricardo Francis, an inspiring artist/painter, for taking the time to kick it with the Unheard Voices community.

unheardvoicesmag: Ricardo, can you tell the Unheard Voices Community who you are and where are you from?

Ricardo Francis: My name is Ricardo Francis. I’m 33 years old. I’m a mixed media artist who works mostly in painting, in theater as a writer and director. I’m originally from Houston, TX.

unheardvoicesmag: I see that you have a very good mix of theater, painting and writing; which is a great combination for success! Today, I see that you have brought along with you several of your paintings which I would love for you to discuss and share with the Unheard Voices community.

unheardvoicesmag: But before I ask questions about your paintings, how long have you been painting, working in theater, and writing?

Ricardo Francis: I’ve been painting since I was 14. Theater and writing came later when I was in college I would say I started developing performance projects as a sophomore in college. But art has been with me all of my life

unheardvoicesmag: What exactly inspired you to paint at such a young age and do you remember the first thing that you ever painted?

Ricardo Francis: (laughs) no I don’t actually. I had a middle school art teacher that flat out said to me you’re going to be a painter. I wanted to draw for comic books initially. After taking his suggestion I discovered I really enjoyed painting and saw how expressive I could with it.

Ricardo Francis: Peace yes, Relaxation no. Painting isn’t about thinking.It’s about doing.

unheardvoicesmag: Can you tell me about your painting Relative Soul?

Ricardo Francis: I wanted to do a black male version of the catholic saint St Sebastian. Usually in images of him he is dying or rather in agony from injuries to due to arrows piercing him all over his body. Here I thought it would be interesting to have flowers growing from his abdomen. I think the painting questions the notion of what masculinity is.

unheardvoicemag: the flowers growing from the abdomen is pretty interesting…Where were you when you painting this picture? What kind of atmosphere or setting were you in?

Ricardo Francis: I was still living in Far Rockaway Queens. At the time I was still struggling with developing my work both conceptually and technically

unheardvoicesmag: How do you feel about this piece of work? Is it one of your favorite pieces?

Ricardo Francis: I don’t have favorite pieces. Everything I do has a purpose and reason why I made it. They all are equally important.

unheardvoicesmag: Ricardo, can you tell the Unheard Voices community the meaning behind your next painting call “Lust Becomes Night”? And what inspired you to do this particular painting. I was very intrigued with the snake like image.

Ricardo Francis: I wanted to make a snake painting. That was initially the beginning of that idea. The rest of the image is simply going at it everyday until it was complete.The snake has always been an intriguing metaphor in art for thousands of years.

unheardvoicesmag: In your painting “Relative Soul” I found this painting to be very interesting. What does the hand over the man’s head symbolizes and what inspired you to do this painting?

Ricardo Francis: It was a period where I juxtaposed men of color with flowers. Here I thought it would be interesting to have the flowers coming out the abdomen of the model.I was inspired off of St. Sebastian, the catholic saint that died from a hail of arrows.

unheardvoicesmag: The last painting is that of “The Uncomplicated Womb” that I would like to address. Can you tell the Unheard Voices community what is the meaning behind this particular painting? And do you use live models in your painting?

Ricardo Francis: I don’t believe in meaning, that hurts a painting in many ways. This one however is a self portrait. I had a picture taken of me in a window and it appeared as if I was in a womb. So I decided to make a painting from that image. I usually take photos of my models and then work from select images from that.

unheardvoicesmag: I was able to look at your painting and get my own meaning from it. Very interesting! I believe your painting allows a person to see their own meaning which is very special to do.

unheardvoicesmag: If our Unheard Voices readers/community wanted to see more your work where can get they go? Where can they get a personalized painting done?

Ricardo Francis: www.apanamae.com is my website. Right now it is being updated. By late November it will be complete. However there is a splash page with a selection of images from the recent portfolio to see and my contact information is on there as well.

unheardvoicesmag: Ricardo, what plans do you have in the future in painting? Any projects or events that are coming up that you can share with Unheard Voices community?

Ricardo Francis: I am planning some exhibits for the early part of next year and will premiere a new play I’m currently working on in the fall of 2010.

unheardvoicesmag: Unheard Voices magazine would like to thank you much for sharing your work with the Unheard Voices community. I am sure that our readers will appreciate your work and how you have opened up to them. We look forward to seeing more of you Ricardo. We also hope to have you on as a special guest when UV online radio station comes to the magazine. We thank you once again Ricardo!

Ricardo Francis: Thank you Keith

Ricardo Francis: Much appreciation and much respect

unheardvoicesmag: We here at Unheard Voices have a lot of love for you! Keep painting and producing great works of art!

Check out Ricardo Francis’s work at www.apanamae.com

[Show as slideshow]

[View with PicLens]