Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Bijan Shaw
Creating Timeless Music
Rumble Rich
Making His Dream
A Reality
Accentuating Her
Artistry
First Friday
At Bessemer Billiards
Nitrogen
Tone
TNT at GTCC
UnikCreations Photography
Cover Inside
Poetic J
Fine-Tuning Progression
Artist Bijan Shaw
6
Rumble Rich
Cover Story First Friday
Music Shops Nitrogen Tone
Mikes Word
Club Calendar
Digital Bagquiet
Inside Story
Owners Thoughts
As we are in the midst of the Holiday Season I tend to gather around family and friends
Local Businesses a little more than the norm and I especially enjoy going shopping and hearing all the
different artists that play during this time. Whether it be at the mall hearing a choir or
orchestra or a one or two piece band playing outside of a book store or one of my favor-
ites the very talented praise and worship team at church. Music just seems to brighten
most everyone's day. I have even seen family members that really don't like music that
much tapping their foot to a Christmas song or two, of course a few drinks might be a
contributing part of that! I would like to wish all of our readers a very Merry Christmas and a Rockin New
Year! Stay safe and see ya next year.
336.617.0350
Mexican Grill 3011 Spring Garden St.
Greensboro NC Greensboro, NC 27403
A
t first glance you may mistake Jenna McMillan for a Hol-
lywood celeb. Quite easy to do as she fits right in with the
stars. Elegance, grace, style and charisma topped with a load
of ambition makes her one to keep your eyes on. Known as Poetic
J, shes becoming a household name. Its safe to say shes a hot
commodity. Appearances have included WUAG 103.1 FM, WNAA
90.1 FM, 102 JAMZ and 97.9 Da Plugg. Intriguing indeed, we
sat down to discuss her previous, current and endless roles. From
graduate of Sports Science from The University of North Carolina
at Greensboro, creator of natural and organic products, bartender,
theatre worker, nutritionist to mom, one may think she has done it
all. Tirelessly, it doesnt stop there. Recording artist and songwriter
are amongst her list of endeavors as well. Ive been writing since
age 11, says the Greensboro native. I find myself writing all over
the place. I write on mail. You gotta get it out on paper. I literally
find myself pulling over at a light sometimes to record myself on my
phone. A true artist uses unconventional methods, she says. Poetic
Js writing sessions are a collaborative effort with her companion,
Treyo Senko, who creates her tracks. He describes the day they met.
I always saw her in the neighborhood. She stuck her nose up at
me, he jokes. We met one day at the studio and she mentioned
it was her first time recording. I couldnt tell, says Senko who is
also her strongest critic. Seated across from her, I could not help but
take in her captivating aura and poise. Theres definitely something
unique about her that puts her in a different class. I mentioned, I
can see you on the big screen or maybe even an overnight sensa-
tion in Europe. Ive been invited to Italy to perform in a fashion
show, she mentions. Ironically enough, her single Vacation, stems
from her love for travel. The song is currently available for stream-
ing via Apple, Spotify and iTunes. She expounds. Ive visited over
15 countries and taken something from every place. Seek support
outside of your area. Go places and experience languages and cul-
tures that you havent before. People will spend $200-$300 in a bar
or club versus traveling. Its sad to see value placed on that type of
lifestyle. Though I sensed it was a heartfelt statement, she laughed
while stating, I sound like a travel agent. Poetic J. Vacations.
Shes equally passionate about her music. When people hear my
music, they label me without knowing me. Music can come from
any place. Its a reflection of what I and others have seen, heard
and been through. Get to know me. Dont pass judgement based
on lyrics. You have to sit down with people and get to know them,
like were doing today, she states.Poetic Js sound is a unique blend
of melodies paired with her sultry rhythm and flow. Listeners be-
ware. Were not talking nursery rhymes. These tracks are suitable
for mature audiences only. Her liberating and bold lyrics embody
PHOTO BY feminism and freedom. Though distinctive, pay close attention
Digital Bagquiet and you will pick up on her musical inspirations that range from
Lauryn Hill and Eve to Erykah Badu and others. I like Solange.
STORY
Shes a weirdo like me. Im not ashamed of it. Shes eccentric, The trio exemplify how females can join forces within the in-
different and creative. I admire her growth, she says. Backed by dustry, which is not always portrayed. We spoke briefly about
Zimmerman Music Group, an independent label out of Baltimore, rivalry amongst female artists. This seems to be emerging fre-
she mentions the array of folks that have their hands in the making quently within the hip-hop culture. The notion of having to
of her artistry. She shouts-out DJ Sleeze, stylist Rita and her aunt, choose a favorite artist while preparing for a debate in doing
Sylvia West who provides her jewelry. "They do their part with so, is quite senseless to a degree. With so much music at our
distinguishing me from other artists. Its about stage presence and disposal, shouldnt we be fully enjoying it? Heres Poetic Js
looking the part. She also gives credit to her mother, Teresa Clif- take on the issue. There is enough room for everybody to
ton and stepfather, Scottie Gwynn whom she states continuously be successful. Competition can be healthy or unhealthy. Dont
supports and encourages. Shawn Foster is someone that I must be afraid to like and share. I dont mind friendly competition
also mention. Shes my daughters caregiver. Shawns been there though Im not a fan of all the bragging in todays music. We
from the beginning and always there when I need her. She teaches have to stick together with no division. The only thing that we
my daughter how to pray. Shes awesome! When speaking about can take from this is what we have self-developed. Develop-
her daughter, Melrose, she mentions, Im a mother full-time. Im ment is obviously no stranger to Poetic J. Shes performed
an artist part-time. I tell Melrose that anything is possible. People moments prior to legendary Sheila E. taking the stage. She
are quick to put limitations on you but if you grind hard enough, mentions her preference is live music. Id love to have a
your dreams should never stop.A definite leader by example as band with sax and trumpet. Quite the musician herself, she
Poetic J continues to pursue her aspirations. Her latest compila- plays clarinet, keyboard and drums.I asked, If you could tour
tion consists of 5 tracks: Vacation, Just Breathe, Faith, Girls Night or open for someone again who would you choose? She re-
Anthem and Runway Walk. She mentions, Just Breathe is my plied, Janet Jackson. She can dance and sing. Shes universal
favorite! Its a feel good, exhale and let it go song. You can get and crosses generations. To be in front of that type of audi-
in your own zone with this track. Poetic J is also focusing on ence would be great.For now, its all about Poetic J creating
creating more visual content. They can hear you all day but there her own audience. Shes entertaining the thought of a listen-
is nothing like seeing the artist, she says. Her latest YouTube ing party. Admirable for standing in her own lane and wearing
video is a collaboration with artists Vellie Marie and Brandi Be. many hats successfully, look forward to what she will uncover
They present the club smash, Girls Night Out. Its a high energy next. With the mentality of a professional, she has her act to-
track centered around an evening out unwinding with friends. gether.
Tracey Haney
Catch Poetic J,
December 14TH
at SHINERS
PHOTO BY
UnikCreations Photography
LIVE MUSIC
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5701 Randleman Rd. Randleman 336.674.5111 December January
December January
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12-16 Matt Tucker (Larry's Birthday Bash) 1-6 Hot Times hosted by GTSC
For our line up in January
12-23 Darrell Harwood 12-16 Crow Atkins 1-20 Mightier Than Me
give us a call or check out
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our Facebook page!
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Visit us www.ridersinthecountry.net
www. Zimmerman Music Group.com 5701 Randleman Rd, Randleman, NC 27317 336.674.5111
Banding Together the Local Music Scene
he Greensboro/Triad music scene is like an onion, peel off one contest for a music video, so we may have that coming in the near future..
T layer and then you have another. Its almost bottomless, but an
absolute wonder to explore! Unlike with the onion though, not
a single tear will be shed! I have mostly been involved with one
segment of the rock scene. Even as Im writing this I find it hard to identi-
fy or describe. At one time I may have described it as the Somewhere Else
Skulls and Whiskey just rocked the house in High Point and this Viking Skull
tribute band will please any rock enthusiast. Old school antics and a crushing
beat make for a damn good time! S&W has dealt with some illness this year,
but now seem ready to bounce back. A Light Divided has just announced a
Fall/Winter schedule that kicks off in Greensboro and travels the southeast.
Tavern/Shiners scene, but with new venues popping up in and around the This bands work ethic and professionalism make them one of the bands to
area that is no longer accurate.The first band I got to know was Trailer watch for breakout success. But, alas, this year has seen some departures.
Park Orchestra. When I first got involved with this segment of the local I just learned Soapbox Arson has gone the way of the Dodo, and they will
scene, TPO was the band that either booked the show or if you were pro- be missed. I only caught a few shows, but this band was easily a fave. Haiz
ducing a show you wanted to build around. At their peak, they Rail remains my favorite band I have never seen! For some reason
were popular enough to win a Pack the House contest at The I can never seem to make the stars align. I hope to correct this
Blind Tiger and be rewarded with the right to open for an Ace soon! Id like to catch The Kneads as well! Cover bands seem
Frehley show in Virginia. 2017 has been a frustrating year for to be making a comeback with Schmack Daniels, Ghosts of the
Trailer Park with illnesses and setbacks, but 2018 looks more Past, and Dogdaze. But, these arent your Mothers cover bands,
promising. There is a new CD on the horizon and a planned expect cool remakings and presentations. I love the small segment
triumphant return to their signature show at Carols Bessemer of the Americana singer/song writer scene I am familiar with. I
Billiards for First Friday in November. In the absence of TPO, have traveled half way across the state for local stalwarts, Pos-
Desired Redemption has stepped up as the standard bearers. Skulls and Whiskey sum Jenkins and Wurlitzer Prize. Tyler Millard is a hard working
For a couple of years a TPO/Desired Redemption show was a, singer/song writer that can please with catchy originals and crowd
Cant Miss! Desired Redemption has recently added a sec- pleasing covers. Tyler solo is great, but fireworks ensue when the
ond guitarist and has settled into a well honed act and has turned into one whole band gets together. Caleb Caudle of Winston Salem has been touring
of the regions hardest working bands attracting an ever growing cadre nationally and if this guy cant crash the glass ceiling with his song writing and
of fans. Another rising star in this group is The Nitrogen Tone, a steady live show delivery, it just cant be done! Man, Ive just name dropped about
working polished rock/blues act that turns heads and gets requests for sixteen acts and havent even scratched the surface of the acts that are filling
encores on a regular basis. Their new EP is a must have! Ive got my venues in the area. My best advice is to use Everything Music Magazine as a
eyes (and ears) on The Matt Irie Band, a refreshing rock/reggae act that jumping point and get out and experience the local music scene for yourself!
is popping up on show posters and even regularly crossing into rock/ Mike Beane describes himself as a local rock historian of quick wit and dull
metal evenings with ease. Matt Irie is such a nice guy you cant help but mind and a DJ at WQFS, Guilford College Radio, currently on Mondays from
be drawn into the songs of fun and sun. The metal scene around here is 6-8. Visit his Glo Radio Facebook page for the best in classic, modern, and
huge! I recently saw White Knuckle Blackout at a show and they seemed local rock.
rested and refreshed. They just won a Facebook
Mike Beane
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R in Rochester, NY and
raised in Fayetteville,
NC to a musically gifted mother.
produced and co-written over
100 more all by the age of 20.
Rich is on his constant grind
Coming from a talented family and is rising to the top of the
and with music running through entertainment industry. Pen-
his veins, Rumble Rich released ning lyrics, producing dope
his first mixtape at the age of 14 beats, rapping with energy
called The Wake Up. With catchy for days, and directing mind-
upbeat anthems like Hold Up blowing videos, Rumble Rich
and Wait A Minute, The Wake has no plans of slowing down.
Up kept listeners cruising down He is bringing back the cul-
the highway wanting more. His ture of Hip-Hop with catchy
sophomore project Traffick hooks but more importantly
followed shortly after several substantial lyrics. Expect his
tracks were produced by Tha new EP Christmas Eve entitled
Kidd QDH and Shuan Dallez. Young Richie Make sure to
Earlier this year he released follow him on Instagram (@
Rich Soul and has proven to iamrumblerich) and catch his
show many more layers of his newest project, Rich Soul, on
growth and how he's making his SoundCloud and Spinrilla.
dream a reality. Rumble Rich
has been ArnetteXavier Ward
The Nitrogen Tone
Rich Levine
I
t was a Tuesday night. It was one of those nights so Ive seen them about everywhere else since then, The Em-
dark that light can hardly pierce it and actually seems pourium, Shiners, Carols Bessemer Billiards, but the GTCC
to be absorbed in the shadow. A light rain sprinkled the stage is special! The guys in the band had been working
windshield just enough to be annoying. What in the heck there ass off all Summer. I saw them on bills everywhere.
could drag me out on a miserable night like this away from They once even played two shows in one day. One was
a warm hearth, home, and my favorite superhero shows? a marathon that they played to an audience that in some
(Yea, Im a geek!) The Nitrogen Tone at GTCC! I have instances was literally running by! When I last saw them
been a big fan of The Nitrogen Tone for a couple of years at Shiners, they told me they were going to take a break
now and try to catch them whenever I can, But the GTCC and work on some new material. That brings us back to the
(Guilford Technical Community College for the abrevia- GTCC show! They look rested. Preston Parsons is much too
tionally challenged among you!) stage is a fantastic place to good of a blues guitarist to be as young as he is. I wonder
see a show. The stage itself is nicely elevated. An array of if he has been hanging around this crossroads I hear about?
cool lights hang from scaffolds and create wonderfully cool Thomas Ruhe is thin and and animated on bass and has
colors and contrasts as it beams through the stage smoke long full brown hair (I hate him!) that bounces with steady
that billows in from the side. Its about one flashpod away beats. Joe Baranowski is a self taught wonder on the drums
from perfect! (I love flashpods!) The event is a showcase as and features a damn good drum solo that on this night fea-
much for TNT (The Nitrogen Tone, stay with me folks!) as tures Air drums. (Ive been going to shows for over forty
it is for the students of the Larry Gatlin School of Entertain- years and this was a first!) Jessen Melara fronts the band
ment Program sponsored by the school. The sound system and hangs on the microphone like a blues Sinatra. The guys
is excellent. Early on there seems to be a few glitches that seem to genuinely enjoy each others company and rare
need to be worked out, but by the second song everything miscues are met with wide smiles and happy shrugs. They
seems to be in order. I like to say I discovered The Nitrogen may play the blues, but this is a good time band! Original
Tone. I first caught them at The Brewers Kettle in Kern- tunes like The Man With the Torn Sleeve are mixed in with
ersville at a dog adoption fair. Cute adoptable dogs preened deep blue covers from Howlin Wolf to Muddy Waters. The
and played trying to entice folks to give them a permanent step back was well worth it and now TNT has enough mate-
home as a young band worked the stage. It would have rial for two solid sets, which is a good thing because they
been a tough gig for anyone, but I was blown away by these almost always are asked for encores! Encore! Encore!
young guys doing a rockin blues show with good original
material! I was so impressed I went over to them after the
By: Mike Beane
show and invited to come and showcase their stuff on my
WQFS (90.9, Your only alternative!) radio show.
Los esperamos
amos
Abierto Miercoles A Domingo
entrada GRATIS
Cont ona
8pm A 2am
con z atis
y por si Fuera poco
mucho entretenimiento,
r Musica en vivo todos Los Fines
mucha diversion, VIP G de semana Acompanando Su
muchas damas dj preferido Armando mix
hermosas para atenderte
tenemos de todas
las bebidas!
cerveza, tequila y
whisky de
toda clase