A new artist is making his way to the forefront of the music industry. Ian Kelly is a rapper, actor, and songwriter from Oakland, California. His father and grandmother profoundly influenced him as a young man and imparted the concept of community to him. Observing them, Ian realized the importance of helping others and supporting his family during difficult times.
Hip-Hop Music Drives Him
The introduction of hip-hop to his life soon led Ian to realize that music could be a tool that would fulfill his goals. Combining his family’s values and the introduction of hip-hop to his life is like two sides of a coin. The former provided him with a deeper understanding of the importance of community, and the latter gave him an avenue to express it.
At the age of 18, Ian began to develop a passion for music. His cousin commonly shared underground mixtapes from rappers such as 50 cent, Lil Wayne, and local Bay area artists. As a result, his inspiration for writing his own rhymes came from this. Since then, Ian’s been committed to perfecting his craft and advancing his abilities. In 2013, the “Take My Time” rapper released his debut album, In The Mean Time. The unique sound of his music became a hit with fans, which began his journey.
A Great Deal Has Been Happening For Ian Kelly
Many people are unaware that Ian has written music for R&B singers. Among the artists he has worked with are Rapsody, Phesto (member of Souls of Mischief), Jane Handcock, and many others. During his freestyles on Sway In The Morning and Bars Session with Gray Rizzy, the rapper attracted the attention of hip-hop fans nationwide. Queen Latifah praised his work, and he was featured on the soundtrack of the 2015 movie Creed.
In addition, Ian’s music has been featured on the tracklist for Madden 22 and premiered fan favorite “Misunderstood” on BET.
Ian intends to continue releasing music in the near future. His upcoming joint project with Drew Banga is scheduled for release in March of this year. Acting is also a part of his plans, as he will appear on Keke Palmer’s new television network in the show “Big Girl Blues.”
The increasing popularity of rap music has led many rappers to explore the possibility of pursuing acting and other forms of media. Rappers such as Ice Cube and Queen Latifah have had successful careers in music and acting, encouraging other rappers to follow in their footsteps.
In last week’s episode of Yara Shahidi’s Day Off, hosted by actress Yara Shahidi, model and actor Alton Mason took to the gymnastics mat and engaged in an in-depth conversation about overcoming obstacles, navigating life gracefully, and the importance of family.
Gymnastic’s Background
As the first Black male model to walk for Chanel, Alton Mason has appeared on screens and in magazines. In addition, he recently appeared as Little Richard in the Elvis movie. While making milestones at the gym, Alton opens up about the responsibilities and journey of becoming a fashion icon on the runway and worldwide
Before their gymnastics lesson, Yara and Alton stretched their bodies and discussed his gymnastic background.
“Well, I started gymnastics when I was 3,” Mason said. “And I trained for like 10 years until I was like 13, but once I started modeling, I kinda just incorporated gymnastics into what I do.”
Yara Shahidi’s Day Off: How Did Alton Get Into Modeling?
Following a few gymnastic tricks, the conversation turns to Mason’s journey into modeling and fashion and his belief in himself that led him to this point in his life.
“I always loved fashion. I moved to Belgium when I was three ’cause my dad played basketball. And then we traveled all throughout Europe,” said the model. Due to these experiences, Alton developed a taste for fashion, music, culture, and cuisine. “And then here I am now, moving to LA, and I kind of got to express that.”
As a result of the photos he took on Instagram, he was scouted to begin his modeling career. Following this, Alton traveled to Rome to meet Italian fashion designer Alessandro Michele. “Which was such a stunning moment for me because I’m like, whoa, it’s my first time here, and I’m trying on all these clothes,” Mason said.
Alton Mason. Credit: GQ
Considering Mason’s background, it seems unbelievable that he could make such sacrifices and move to such an urban setting from Phoenix, Arizona. Also, he’s surprised that all of these things can be achieved by believing in yourself and having faith in your abilities.
Often, opportunities of a lifetime can be found in places that you would least expect them to be. Take a chance at your first impression and listen to your instincts.
Multitalented
Furthermore, Yara was intrigued by Alton’s all-around creative abilities, whether in martial arts, gymnastics, or dancing. This prompted her to ask how this has prepared him or how it has continued to inform his career choices.
“I think it definitely made me aware of my body, my movement, how it would feel doing a flip, how it would feel shooting a basketball, dancing, or being on stage and doing theater.”
In addition to his imagination, Alton has always kept these feelings close to his heart. He started to channel back and express those things when he reached this different fashion and art platform. Being the first Black male model to walk for Chanel, or because he is a known collaborator with so many culture makers, Shahidi asked Mason “what this means to him.”
“It means the world for me.” he replied. “I think of people who are one of one and people who have opened the door for people like me, people like you. I think of Sidney Poitier.”
Watch the full episode below:
Giving Icons Their Flowers
Further, Yara shares an unforgettable moment when legendary actor Sidney Poitier appeared on the set of “Black-ish” in the middle of a scene, and everyone was left speechless. “You could just feel his presence walking in ’cause everybody just stopped,” said Yara. The impact a single person can have on many people is truly remarkable.
“Isn’t that crazy how you can feel it radiating off of you? What’s amazing about what I do is the responsibility that comes with it,” Mason explained. And I really acknowledge that and honor that.”
Moreover, Mason contends that he would not have been able to enter the room with such prominence if the people who opened the doors for him had not done so. Thanks should be given to those who contributed to the opportunities we enjoy today.
Yara Shahidi’s Day Off: Influenced By Her Family
As the conversation progresses, Alton asks Yara how she manages to stay focused and yet simultaneously be so free.
“Because you’re such a hard worker, and I love that you keep your family close to what you do,” says the actor. “You are so focused and shrp, but also just so free. And I wanted to know, how do you navigate through that? What keeps you that way?”
According to Yara, her family plays a critical role in her success.
“When we talk about legacy, my father was Prince’s photographer when I was growing up,” she said. “And, so to be proximate to art in that way, I don’t even think I realized the gift of being so close to an artist that was so fearless. But really, it did come from parents.”
At a young age, Shahidi’s mother taught her that she deserved to be in the situations she found herself in. Her mother primarily influenced her through the example she set. “I’m grateful to have a family that loves each other and likes each other. We just enjoy being around each other. We enjoy the fact that we share the same values.”
Staying Grounded
Alton appears to be busy, which led Yara to ask him how he maintains a balance between his creativity and his family to maintain his mental and emotional well-being.
“Honestly, through creativity. I love to write music. I love to write poetry, spoken word,” said the model. “Staying in touch with my family. Me and my mom speak every day.” He also checks in with my brothers and sisters every day. However, he believes what also keeps him the most grounded is his spirituality and practicing that and always keeping his faith.”
In addition, Alton aspires to advance African culture, to further the development of futurism, the style, and the flavor of the continent. As an African American boy, Alton believes this is essential since African-Americans have been instilled with a great deal of fear concerning the continent.
For those who wish to understand the true meaning behind their heritage, it is best to visit the place where it originated. By doing so, you will gain a much deeper understanding.
According to Mason, he made an unforgettable trip to Lagos, Nigeria, in 2018. He fell in love and discovered an aspect of himself that he was unaware of as an African American boy.
Yara Shahidi’s Day Off. Credit: Facebook Watch
Every Thursday, Yara Shahidi’s Day Off airs on Facebook Watch, and Instagram at 9 am PST/12 pm EST.
For more information on Alton Mason, check out his social media.
Some terrible news has been released to the world! On July 14, Jak Knight died at the age of 28. He was a TV writer, stand-up comic, and actor.
People obtained a report from the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner-Coroner stating that Knight was found bleeding from a gunshot wound on a dam in Los Angeles, California. As a result of the investigation, suicide has been determined as the cause of death.
Upon learning of his passing, comedians, fans, and actors took to Twitter to express their sorrow and to remember him.
“My heart goes out to his family, by blood and by comedy, and everyone who loved Jak,” wrote “Big Mouth” co-creator Andrew Goldberg. “There were a lot of us, and we miss him already.”
Jak Knight was an incredible voice and spirit in comedy. We really lost an incredible light in our world. I sincerely hope you’re at peace now brother.
Often, individuals begin at the bottom and work their way up to reach their desired level of success in life. LieGuys was Jak’s first acting role in 2014. He played an iPhone cameraman in the film.
Besides performing live stand-ups, he opened for several well-known comedians, including Dave Chappelle and Eric Andre.
Furthermore, he has appeared in several popular series, such as the animated Netflix sitcom Big Mouth, where he voiced the character DeVon and the television series Black-ish.
During this challenging time, the FMHipHop family extends its condolences to the Knight family. Moreover, the importance of mental health cannot be overstated! The most upsetting thing is when a person is suffering so much that they contemplate committing suicide. Also, ensure that a person experiencing mental health issues is not made to feel guilty. In addition, if someone requires assistance, they should seek it as soon as possible before things worsen.
If you or someone you know is considering suicide, don’t hesitate to contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988, text “988” to the Crisis Text Line at 741741, or go to988lifeline.org.
DAY SHIFT. JAMIE FOXX as BUD JABLONSKI. CR. PARRISH LEWIS/NETFLIX
Jamie Foxx can add the role of Vampire Slayer to his catalog of movies. Netflix has released the trailer and a behind-the-scenes look at the upcoming horror-action flick. “You are not prepared for Day Shift,” Foxx says in the video. “This is gonna be like something you’ve never seen before.” The film will release on August 12.
Foxx plays a hard-working dad who wants to provide a good life for his daughter. Along with his pool cleaning job, he also hunts and kills vampires as part of an international union of hunters. The film also stars Dave Franco, Karla Souza, Meagan Good, Natasha Liu Bordizzo, Oliver Masucci, Snoop Dogg, Steve Howey, Scott Adkins and Zion Broadnax. It is also the directorial debut of J.J. Perry, who has done stunts for films like John Wick, Avatar and Iron Man. The film also is Foxx’s first since reprising his role as Electro in the record-breaking Spider-Man: No Way Home.
Jamie Foxx’s Latest Projects
Foxx is also set to play Mike Tyson in a limited series that will be directed by Antoine Fuqua, with Martin Scorsese as executive producer. A release date has not been announced, but Foxx has been preparing for the role for nearly seven years. He will also be lending his voice in the film Strays, alongside Will Ferrell, Will Forte and Isla Fisher. The film is about an abandoned dog who teams up with other stray dogs to get revenge on his former owner. It is scheduled to be released in 2023 from Universal. Last year he released his memoir Act Like You Got Some Sense: And Other Things My Daughters Taught Me. In the book, he talks about his no-nonsense grandmother, the ups and downs of life in Hollywood and the lessons he has learned in raising his two daughters.
Eddie Murphy‘s third act has been a delightful experience. Deadline reports that the 2007 Academy Award nominee is currently in talks to play music legend George Clinton. The Nutty Professor star was not on my list of possible actors to star as the Parliament-Funkadelic frontman. However, this project appears to be a genuine passion project for the legendary comedian.
Eddie Murphy Must Discuss Rights Before Portraying George Clinton
In addition to Murphy producing, the team will begin searching for a writer after they have negotiated for rights with the “Flash Light” singer. There are no studios attached to the project. However, due to the actor’s three-picture deal with Amazon, it would not be a surprise to see them competing for the film.
You are missing out if your parents have not played Parliament-Funkadelic non-stop since you were born. George Clinton is among the most iconic musicians of all time. His music is what forms the basis of hip-hop, dance, and modern R&B. Moreover, he is one of the most exciting figures in show business. It seems Murphy is the kind of actor who can take on a role like this and prove the skeptics wrong once again.
Career Comeback
Aside from his outstanding performance in the 2019 film Dolemite is My Name for his portrayal of Blaxploitation star Rudy Ray Moore, Murphy has seen a comeback in his career. Coming 2 America, the sequel to his comedy classic of the same name, did better than anyone expected. Furthermore, Murphy will appear alongside Jonah Hill in Kenya Barris’ film You People, which Barris and Hill co-wrote.
There is also news that Beverly Hills Cop 4 is set to film this summer. As a point of reference, Beverly Hills Cop premiered in 1984, and the third film appeared a decade later. Therefore, nearly 30 years have passed since we last saw Axel Foley. Eddie Murphy is in the phase of his career where he has the freedom to do whatever he wants. However, he is old enough to know better, and this is leading to some exciting work.
Earlier this week, Essence revealed the digital cover and the interview with Method Man. The legendary Wu-Tang member also sat down with the publication to discuss his feelings about being a sex symbol. The artist also spoke on how he transitioned from being one of the leading voices in hip hop to killing it in Hollywood, landing multiple TV and film roles.
The digital cover of the Essence magazine with Method Man.
Method Man On Being a Sex Symbol: “I don’t understand that shit”
During the interview, Method Man talked about being on the top of every woman’s wish list since the 90s. The artist shared that while his social media posts may serve as thirst traps, that’s not his intention. In the end of the day, he just likes working out.
“I go to the gym for my own peace of mind. I don’t do it to become someone’s sex symbol or a pinup on someone’s wall, I do it for me. People like attention. I’m the same as everybody else. But at the end of the day, take me seriously, not lightly.”
Meth On Acting
Method Man also revealed that while he has always had a passion for acting, the “changing of the guards” in Hip-Hop helped him push harder in the acting lane.
The higher-ups, the so-called gatekeepers, didn’t have much use for a 44-year-old rapper,” Method Man said in the interview. “There was a changing of the guard in hip-hop.
Jumping into the acting world could be a tough transition for some Hip-Hop stars, but the 50-year-old rap icon has made it look effortless. Last month the New York native received an NAACP Image Award nomination for his stellar acting chops. Business is certainly booming for Meth.
However, Method Man explained in the interview that he also wants nothing more than to be taken seriously in his third decade in the entertainment industry. “I was a Black boy living in some of the worst areas of New York. I’ve always felt like I wasn’t enough. I’ve been told that from the gate, “You don’t belong here,” without words sometimes,” Meth says.
Method Man shows no signs of slowing down, at least throughout the interview. He currently graces the small screen as attorney Davis Maclean on the Starz, 50 Cent-produced series Power Book II: Ghost and on The Godfather Of Harlem. The artist brings crime boss Sam Christian to life.
