THANK YOU MR. WEST

My name is Billy Bragg and I live the Fast Life! My days (and a lot of long nights) are spent working with some of the brightest stars, past and present, that entertainment has to offer. It’s not easy and it’s not for everybody, but fortunately, I’ve learned from the best to become the best at what I do. And what is it I do….well, how long ya got??? Simply put, I’m a strategic marketer. It’s my job to create, present and represent artists, projects and products for mass consumption through all forms of social media…Still don’t get it? Okay…I make things HOTT! If its music, you wanna hear it…If it’s an event, you have to be there…And if it’s a product, you gotta have it!!!
How do I do it….well I can’t give you everything all at once! But with “Bragg On It” I’m gonna give you useful and relatable insight each week that hopefully you can use in your own life and career. I’ll give you different perspectives on today’s pop-culture trends, artists and new media. I’ll tell you what works and what doesn’t…then explain why!

You don’t have to agree with me about everything, but I do hope that you’ll talk to me about something.

And the very first thing I wanna do is something that NOBODY has done since the events that transpired at the VMA’s on Sunday and say THANK YOU MR. WEST….Now why in the world would I do that!!! Well let’s take another look at what happened…He didn’t commit a crime (well maybe with the hair) and he didn’t hurt anyone (well maybe a few feelings)…He was just being Kanye West! I’ll be clear in saying that I don’t believe what he did was right and I don’t recommend him jumping on the next awards show stage unannounced and crushing the heart of another young girl…but what he was able to do was fill the entire nation (our President included) with entertaining conversation. You know if you’re reading this you’ve already made your fair share of Kanye jokes this week. He’s the headline topic of every TV show and website and he’s inadvertently given even more star power to both Taylor Swift & Beyonce (something I’m sure he’ll take credit for one day).

A lot of people have said “Why Taylor” or “I bet he wouldn’t have done that to 50 Cent”….but I happen to think Taylor Swift couldn’t have been a more perfect person to interrupt. She is the exact opposite of EVERYTHING Kanye is and in that moment he solidified his position as the anti-hero, the man we love to hate, an evil genius…something I think we need in music (and a role he’s been flirting with for several years). Instead of waiting on the world to tear him down; he embraces his imperfections and the fact that he’ll never be able to please everyone while remaining brutally honest in his opinions and views.

In today’s world of entertainment where everyone looks and sounds the same…He remains one of one. He may not always be right but he is truly unique. And that is what I thank Kanye West for! 

Let’s be honest, as long as he’s able to keep himself together personally and keep the music on point, Kanye won’t lose any fans…He’ll probably even find a way to team up with Taylor Swift down the road and gain even more. He’s got a big mouth, but he’s also very smart. This entire line of events became a marketing strategy the second Matthew Knowles told Beyonce to bring Taylor back out for her acceptance speech. And did anyone else notice how they announced his tour with Lady GaGa yesterday…I mean c’mon!

So while the rest of the world is busy calling him an asshole, jackass or any number of other words that include “ass,” I’m taking a look at the other side…Seeing and understanding what happened for what it is. You can’t live the Fast Life if you don’t understand it…and that’s what I do! Now I want you to talk to me about it!!!

Until next time…Bragg

Want more me?!? Follow me on Twitter or Find me on Facebook.

Don’t forget to check back Friday when Mike Mauldin opens the doors to the Speakeasy…where ya gotta know somebody who knows somebody to gain access. Tell him Bragg sent you and he might let you in

Can’t get enough of the Fast Life crew…get more at www.MauldinBrand.com

Are Real DJ’s Jealous???

The answer is probably YES!

What up grinders? As the chief MTM mentioned in the Fast Life intro blog. My name is DJ Nabs, welcome to my lab. This is the part of the “Fast Life” where you’ll step inside the ever changing world of music, technology and overall DJ culture/lifestyle. This is THE PRODUCT & THE POWER!

This week, I thought I would start with a subject that DJs all over the world discuss daily, the invasion of the non skilled laptop DJ…the poser..the Fake DJ. 

 I spent my entire career dedicated to the art of DJing and Hip Hop. I didn’t hustle drugs to make it and I didn’t kiss ass either. I just learned how to spin to the best of my ability. I’m not the most famous DJ you know but I’ve done everything in this business that a DJ can do and one of the things I’ve learned is that if you have a voice, try and use it for change. I’m writing this because these days all I see around me is blatant disrespect for the DJ culture and I’m compelled everyday to expose this fallacy. This is for me and every DJ who appreciates the craft and feels what I feel. I do this for Hip Hop!

In every corner of the world, at every radio station and usually standing behind some of the biggest artists in music, there is a “real DJ” who spent long hours learning the craft of beat matching (mixing), scratching (creating sounds by rubbing the record back & forth) and beat juggling (creating drum patterns between 2 records). Not too long ago, the idea was to actually be skilled in these areas so that hopefully, one would be respected enough to get work…maybe even get famous like Jazzy Jeff or Grandmaster Flash. Oh….wait….maybe that’s too far back. Maybe I should speak of DJ Drama or DJ Khaled? These popular DJs are well respected for mix tape compilations (Gangsta Grillz) and hit records (We The Best!!). The evolution continues I guess. Maybe actual DJ skills haven’t been necessary in a long time and maybe I’m just realizing what everyone else already knows.

When speaking of DJ skills, I should also mention that every proficient party DJ I know, like DJ Mars (ATL) and DJ Tee-Luv (Greensboro N.C.), understands the importance of “programming” or playing the right record at the right time to keep the party going (or slow it down depending on what you need to do). Point is…being a crowd controller with the mic and the music is another example of what a “real DJ” actually does.

Mixing live (or prerecorded) on the radio is actually a science as well. To create a seamless, creative mix while “sandwiching” new records with current hits while keeping the listener engaged is not as easy as it seems. If I hear one more DJ “duck mix” on the air (the practice of dropping sound effects and drops with the dj’s name over the transition between two records as to hide the fact that they don’t know how to actually mix) I’m going to slap somebody with a 12 inch piece of colored vinyl! (I have plenty to spare)

Anyway, back to the “fake DJs”….

The “fake DJ” comes from all walks of life. He or she could be your favorite celebrity who craves more attention than they’re getting already and just trying to stay in the spotlight a few extra minutes until they catch the next big opportunity to shine brightly once more. I know for a fact that the “fake celebrity DJ” will do a huge event or another celebrity’s party FOR FREE just so they can “stay in the mix”…I mean this figuratively… not literally. Sorry all you “real DJs”…who needs to pay you when they can get an actor to play the part (damn..that was good Nabs..keep going..) lol

The “fake DJ” could also be your local street promoter who decided a few days ago that he needs to make a few extra bucks and is now “cueing and playing mp3s” from his or her laptop at your local bar or club. Most local club owners/promoters have a low opinion of the DJ anyway, so if they can get someone who will at least keep the music going and save themselves a few hundred dollars…why not hire the “fake DJ”? He’s cheaper and more eager. Again…all you “Real DJs” out there… suck it up, everybody’s got a right to hustle the game…. right??

Now this is my favorite, the “fake model DJ”. This person is female and promotes themselves with photos taken in front of the turntables or cdjs which suggests that they are both good looking as well as talented on the mix. The outfits are usually very skimpy and revealing. Ya know…low cut tops or even better..bikinis!! “yeah…that’ll get me work”. There’s nothing cooler than 2 Technic 12′s and 2 fake uhhhh….well…..you know where this is going. A few exceptions to the ” fake model DJ” are Mami Chula (ATL), Princess Cut (below) and DJ Lady Tribe(Cali). These ladies are beautiful and extremely capable DJs. I know that there are more great female DJs out there but unfortunately, there are even more “fake model DJs” ( I personally know a Playboy playmate who faked it in the actual magazine).

Some may read this blog and ask the question “Who is Nabs to say whether or not these people have the right to call themselves DJs or not?” I don’t know. Who are you “fake DJ” to disrespect the art form of DJing and the legacy of greats like JMJ, Capri and so on? Who are you to disrespect the culture and then ask me for advice, records and my top ten play list??

Unfortunately with the ease of technology and the vast accessibility of music files, I don’t think that the epidemic of talentless, non skilled DJs will disappear anytime soon but just as Hip Hop survived Marky Mark, cross colours and throwback jerseys, I believe we will survive the “fake DJ”.

Peace

DJ NABS

Welcome To The Fast Life

You may ask…What is the “Fast Life”?

More than just a blog, it’s a lifestyle community of movers & shakers!  We don’t just report current news & trends “we create it.”  Our focus is: music, motorsports, fashion, celebrities, technology and the arts.  Our cross marketing techniques can enhance your world.  We know how to get you there, so that you feel like you belong, like you’re an invited guest and not just an on-looker.

They call me MTM, I have been in the entertainment business for many years and I still hang with the best of them.  I love what I do and I don’t screw over anyone, regardless of how sh*tty they may have been to me or my crew.  I wish I had a magnifying glass to shine on those fools that sometimes has ill will in their hearts, cause it is truly a waste of time when you have to deal with ignorance.  I have many friends and have lost some along the way.  Some to death, some to drugs, some to greed (on their part) some to jealousy and some, just because!  But I don’t think anyone can say we went separate ways because I did something f*cked up or screwed them over but if they do say it; then peace out! 

Most of my career I have been surrounded by celebrities; some are real STARS, some are wanna be stars and unfortunately some are just shooting stars.  You know the kind; the ones that takes off like a bat out of hell and then burn the f*ck out before ever having a chance to show their real potential or how bright their light could really glow.  If they had did it right from jump street, or had listened to someone like me, their career would have stayed on the straight & narrow and we would still be talking about how dope they are.  Why are folks so hard headed; that they forgo wisdom and experience, and instead, they cling onto luck and that; “oh, I just wanna do it my way,” mentality?  I’ve tried to guide many and some have listened & learned and some have fallen along the way, but overall I guess I can just sum it all up as life, but it’s always better when it’s the FAST LIFE!

Each week our team of experts, will have your Hot Pass to ACCESS the best, the worst, the way to and not to.  You will become an insider to the backstage, the red carpet, the velvet rope and the Speakeasy.  Yes I said the SPEAKEASY! The Speakeasy is where I host!  Where you have to know somebody, that knows somebody, in order to gain access.  Our topics and conversations in the Speakeasy, will motivate, stimulate and sometimes dictate.  If you’re doing something that is ridiculous, I will call you out but in most cases, I will shine the light and turn you on to the way it should be.  Cause believe me, if I didn’t want you hanging out with me, you would not be admitted.  f*ck what you heard; in the SPEAKEASY, I will give you honesty, just as it’s suppose to be. 

We will discuss many different topics from around the world, such as why some music artist make the wrong choices, again & again & again, instead of being steadfast.  We will discuss the excitement, reservations, career opportunities and color lines of NASCAR; its teams, drivers, sponsors, fans and its pro’s & con’s.  We will discuss music trends and the future of the business in foreign countries and how their outlook connects to ours.  For instance; how the Urban lifestyle & Hip Hop communities have became a culture of its own, and now thanks to its pioneers is being followed by every nationality, gender and country.  We will also look at how the President of the United States, his cabinet and the political world in general, affects us & our industries and how important urban communities, women, youth and education are for motor sports, music and the arts.  As part of the Fast Life movement, many times in the SPEAKEASY we will “acknowledge the past, to inspire the future”.  We support the youth but we also embrace the mature & sexxxy!  Don’t get me wrong, were not for everybody but we are there for everybody!  All you have to do is know the password………….ACCESS THE FAST LIFE!

The resident Fast Life crew and our special guests will be coming at you with something new every week!!! Here’s a preview of what’s coming up! YOU ASKED FOR IT, SO GET READY!  See ya next week!  MTM

Mondays: In The Lab With Nabs – For legendary DJ Nabs, music is his life. With over 20 years experience as a DJ, radio host, producer and manager, Nabs has traveled the globe and back again. And for the first time, he’s opening his “lab” to aspiring artists, producers and writers with insight and education on today’s music culture & technology.

Wednesdays: Bragg On It – It’s not just news coverage, it’s a conversation…join the discussion with Billy Bragg for the latest in today’s pop-culture trends, artists and social media. He’ll tell you what works and what doesn’t…then explain why!!! You’ll also get weekly tips from the young marketing executive on what you can be doing RIGHT NOW to break into the business and succeed.

Fridays: MTM’s Speakeasy – Over 30 years of history making and record breaking. Michael Mauldin has created some of the biggest music stars and events the world has ever known, and for the first time you get to “Access The Fast Life” with him!

Mauldin Scholarship Endowment Gives Back To SCAD

We wanted to take this time to thank each and every one of you who contributed to a worthy cause this weekend for the launch of the “Timeless Promise” tour! The Mauldin Scholarship Endowment at SCAD was established in 2006 by Michael and I, for African American and Hispanic students from Georgia or North Carolina who are financially unable to attend this amazing school!

On Saturday night, DJ Nabs warmed the Savannah crowd with a magical tribute to Michael Jackson and left everyone on their feet. Kenny Lattimore & Deborah Cox tore the building down with an amazing concert performance that has left everyone in Savannah in awe! They gave us their time and God given talent and we in turn are able to help truly gifted students attend this amazing school! Thank you!!!

For those of you who are just receiving our request for support, its not too late to give! Donors may visit the following link to donate online: http://www.scad.edu/alumni/giving/how-to.cfm

To donate by phone, donors may call SCAD’s Office of Institutional Advancement : (912)525-5868

To donate by mail, donors may send a check to SCAD’s Office of Institutional Advancement at the following address:

SCAD
Office of Institutional Advancement
P.O. Box 3146
Savannah, GA 31402

In each case, donors should indicate that they wish their donation to go towards the Michael and Judy Mauldin Scholarship endowment.

Thank you again for your support!

Fondly,

Judy & Michael Mauldin

In case you are not familiar with this amazing school please see below as well as a wonderful note we received from President Wallace today!!!

A little about SCAD:
The Savannah Coll ege of Art and Design (SCAD) is a private, nonprofit institution with locations in Atlanta and Savannah, GA, Lacoste, France and online. The college is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award bachelor’s and master’s degrees. The college offers bachelor of arts, bachelor of fine arts, master of architecture, master of arts, master of fine arts and master of urban design degrees, as well as undergraduate and graduate certificates.

The five-year professional M.Arch. degree is accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board. SCAD has become known as an international leader in arts education. Around the world, SCAD exhibitions, film festivals, design competitions, students and faculty have received awards and recognition and are defining standards.

The college’s enrollment includes students from all 50 states and over 95 countries. Buildings and spaces at SCAD are meticulously maintained, and often an inspiration in and of themselves. Student equipment and software (more than enough for every student) is state-of-the-art and replaced by manufacturer agreement every three years. Wireless Internet access is available throughout the Savannah and Atlanta locations.

Students may enhance their experience at SCAD through study abroad programs that offer opportunities to earn college credit while developing a deeper understanding of the world. Recent study abroad locations include Italy, China, Japan and Australia. Students also may spend an entire term at the Lacoste location in Provence, in the South of France.

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