http://www.ammomag.com AMMO Magazine Sun, 15 Jan 2012 23:09:59 +0000 http://www.ammomag.com en http://www.ammomag.com/HOME-1 http://www.ammomag.com/following/ammomag.com/HOME-1 Sun, 15 Jan 2012 23:09:59 +0000 AMMO Magazine 2130971 .header_img, .project_footer, .nav_container, .project_thumb, .project_feed_thumb, .project_bottom, .pagination { display: none; } <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/2130971/ammo-intro-spring2012-2_860.jpg" border="0" width="860" height="471" width_o="1356" height_o="744" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/2130971/ammo-intro-spring2012-2_o.jpg" align="left" /> http://www.ammomag.com/Q-A-Aimee-Garcia http://www.ammomag.com/following/ammomag.com/Q-A-Aimee-Garcia Wed, 30 Nov 2011 04:08:52 +0000 AMMO Magazine 2384946 stLight.options({publisher:'377e277a-7658-41e0-9bd1-4c0966629fa2'}); <img src="http://payload4.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/2384946/L10_2057.jpg" border="0" width="333" height="500" width_o="333" height_o="500" src_o="http://payload4.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/2384946/L10_2057_o.jpg" align="left" /> Photography by Elton Anderson Interview by Abbey Miller What's Your AMMO? Aimee: Knowing that I only get one lifetime. So I’ve gotta give this one all I’ve got! Also, my parents….my parents inspire me. They are amazing hard-working, creative and fun people who always taught me to be respectful, work hard and Go Big or Go Home. You got your start in acting on the stage, how does theatre differ from T.V. and Movies? A: Yes. I started my career in Chicago theater at age 7. Performing in front of 10,000 people is an incredible rush. You can HEAR the audience laugh, feel them crying and see them smiling. There’s a certain continuity in theater. Once you start the play, there’s no going back. You are performing LIVE and that’s an exhilarating feeling. In TV and film, you have your crew and co-stars, but the audience won’t see your performance until a lot later. You have no idea how the audience is going to respond so you just have to trust your gut, your co-star and director. You started dancing very young, dancing up to 20 shows a month by age 12. Do you still work it into your schedule? Do you miss dancing that much? A: Yes! I actually just started taking dance classes again. It’s the best way to stay in shape! I do miss dancing professionally actually. Performing for 10,000 people 20 times a month is such an exhilarating feeling. There’s nothing like dancing your heart out for a sold-out crowd! You graduated from Northwestern with an impressive triple major in Economics, Journalism and French. Why did you take the break from the stage, and how did you manage all of those classes? A: I was Tracy Flick. Not only did I have three majors, but I also choreographed for Northwestern’s dance team, produced Northwestern News Network segments, joined a sorority, planned Dance Marathon (Northwestern’s largest philanthropic event) and, of course, partied. So, I guess I was pretty good at time management. I never really took a break from acting until AFTER college. While at Northwestern, I did Chicago theater, independent films, commercials and college plays. But, once I graduated, I packed up my things and moved to New York to work in finance. I wanted to experience living in New York so badly that I got a 9-5 job as a Mutual Fund Analyst for an Investment Survey company and shared a tiny apartment with two roommates in Brooklyn. I lived in a closet for 8 months (it was literally a closet…I had to put up a shower curtain as a door). If you weren't acting professionally, what would you be doing? A: I would be a National Geographic photographer or a translator for the United Nations. <img src="http://payload4.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/2384946/aimee-ammo.jpg" border="0" width="363" height="545" width_o="363" height_o="545" src_o="http://payload4.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/2384946/aimee-ammo_o.jpg" align="left" /> You've been in shows like Trauma, ER, American Family, and CSI , and now Dexter, which role were you most excited about playing? A: Different roles for different reasons. I loved Trauma because Marisa was a bad-ass helicopter pilot who flew Apaches and Blackhawks. But, I’m loving my role on Dexter as Jamie Batista because she’s a fun college grad student who is just as comfortable in a bikini as she is going toe-to-toe with her brother Angel (David Zayas). Top, Pants & Belt, The Bunny Knose Vintage; Sunglasses, Emmanuelle Khanh; Shoes, Rough Justice. What has been your most challenging role so far? A: Again, different roles for different reasons: Marisa was challenging because I had to portray an ex-Marine and did a lot of my own stunts. I remember one time I was dangling in a helicopter 4-stories high over concrete and having to hold and shoot a gun as if I had killed someone before. Carmen in the movie Go For It was challenging because I did all my own dancing. I was dancing alongside Gwen Stefani’s Harajuku girls and the Beat Freaks. I trained for 9 months and took 4-5 hip-hop classes a week to prepare for the final dance routine. The final dance number is very much like Flashdance, except without a body double or a guy with a wig. And, Jamie Batista is challenging because of how high-profile Dexter is. It’s an Emmy-nominated show with a fervent global fan base. So, the pressure and expectations are high. But, I just have to block all that out and do my thing. You've worked alongside industry heavy-weights like Jennifer Aniston and George Lopez, and now Michael C. Hall. How did it make you feel to share the screen with them? A: Jennifer was so approachable and down-to-earth. She really feels like someone you have known forever. You feel like you’re talking to an old friend as opposed to a big-time movie star. George is a crackup. He made every day fun and kept me on my toes because I never knew what he was going to say! As for Michael, he’s such an incredible talent. He comes from Broadway and has such pedigree. And, even though he’s a Golden Globe winner and one of the most highly-respected actors of our time, when the cameras are rolling he’s an actor. I know that no matter what, I can count on him to be there for me in the scene. And, getting to work with such a talented actor for an entire season is a dream come true. If you could work with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be and why? A: I’d love to work with Leonardo DiCaprio in a Clint Eastwood or Aaron Sorkin film. Leonardo is a chameleon and puts his heart, money and soul into everything he does. Or I’d love to do a Tim Burton movie with Johnny Depp because Johnny Depp brings an incredible sense of humor to all his characters. And, then maybe an action movie like Avatar 2 where I get to work with James Cameron and do my own stunts. <img src="http://payload4.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/2384946/AimeeGarciaAmmo2_860.jpg" border="0" width="860" height="572" width_o="900" height_o="599" src_o="http://payload4.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/2384946/AimeeGarciaAmmo2_o.jpg" align="left" /> Jacket, Ohara; Dress, Octavio Carlin; Jewelry, Ouroboros Designs; Shoes, Hendrick Brun. Did you ever have an 'I made it' moment? If so, when? A: Not yet. I don’t want to jinx it. What has been the hardest part of working in Hollywood? A: Not giving up who you are. Hollywood is a very seductive business…there’s a lot of powerful people, a lot of money and a lot of temptation to take short cuts. How do you deal with it? A: I make sure to stay grounded by nurturing my relationship with my family and friends and doing things for myself. I have a life outside of Hollywood. I travel, golf, play poker and do a lot of charity work– all of which have nothing to do with Hollywood. Your popularity in Hollywood will come and go, but your relationship with yourself and the people close to you will last forever. What's next for you? A: Right now, I’m still shooting Dexter so I’m focused on that, but I’m eager to see what’s next. I’d love to do a Funny or Die video or a cool indie. Maybe even start producing. I’d love to end up as a producer some day. You can catch Aimee on the new season of Dexter which airs on Showtime. Photographer: Elton Anderson Writer: Abbey Miller Stylist: Nicole Balzano Hair Stylist: Neicy Small http://www.ammomag.com/The-Idea-of-Fall http://www.ammomag.com/following/ammomag.com/The-Idea-of-Fall Wed, 14 Sep 2011 07:17:49 +0000 AMMO Magazine 2001230 <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/2001230/MENSSHOOT-IMGcover-92011_860.jpg" border="0" width="860" height="577" width_o="1234" height_o="829" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/2001230/MENSSHOOT-IMGcover-92011_o.jpg" align="left" /> <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/2001230/MENSSHOOT-IMG4-92011_860.jpg" border="0" width="860" height="577" width_o="1234" height_o="829" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/2001230/MENSSHOOT-IMG4-92011_o.jpg" align="left" /> <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/2001230/MENSSHOOT-IMG5-92011_860.jpg" border="0" width="860" height="577" width_o="1234" height_o="829" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/2001230/MENSSHOOT-IMG5-92011_o.jpg" align="left" /> Right: WOOL COAT AND QUILTED COTTON PANTS BY ETRO, WOOL PATTERN SWEATER CALVIN KLEIN COLLECTION, CHECK COTTON BUTTON DOWN SHIRT BY TROVATA, FELT BRIM HAT BY SALVATORE FERRAGAMO, LEATHER RIDING BOOTS BY MARC JACOBS COLLECTION. Left: DROP SHOULDER BUTTON CASHMERE SHIRT WITH WIDE LEG TROUSERS BY DIOR HOMME, FELT BRIM HAT BY SALVATORE FERRAGAMO, LEATHER MONK STRAP SHOES BY Z ZEGNA. <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/2001230/MENSSHOOT-IMG7-92011_860.jpg" border="0" width="860" height="577" width_o="1234" height_o="829" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/2001230/MENSSHOOT-IMG7-92011_o.jpg" align="left" /> LEATHER SHEARLING COAT WITH WOOL HENLEY SHIRT, CASHMERE PANTS, SUEDE BELT, FELT BRIM HAT AND LEATHER SHOES BY SALVATORE FERRAGAMO. <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/2001230/MENSSHOOT-IMG6-92011_860.jpg" border="0" width="860" height="577" width_o="1234" height_o="829" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/2001230/MENSSHOOT-IMG6-92011_o.jpg" align="left" /> Right: DOUBLE-BREASTED WOOL COAT WITH STRIPE MOHAIR SWEATER, SILK COTTON DRESS SHIRT BY GUCCI, WOOL WIDE LEG TROUSERS BY CALVIN KLEIN COLLECTION, BRIM HAT BY RIVIERA CLUB. Left: LEATHER OVERCOAT WITH CHECKED WOOL AND ANGORA TROUSERS, AND SILK AND CASHMERE SWEATER BY Z ZEGNA, COTTON DRESS SHIRT BY DIOR HOMME, AND LEATHER RIDING BOOTS BY MARC JACOBS COLLECTION. <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/2001230/MENSSHOOT-IMG8-92011_860.jpg" border="0" width="860" height="577" width_o="1234" height_o="829" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/2001230/MENSSHOOT-IMG8-92011_o.jpg" align="left" /> LEATHER TRENCH COAT BY TRUSSARDI 1911, SUEDE BUTTON DOWN SHIRT WITH WOOL HENLEY SHIRT AND FELT BRIM HAT BY SALVATORE FERRAGAMO, WOOL STRETCH MELANGE PANTS BY GUCCI. <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/2001230/MENSSHOOT-IMG3-92011_860.jpg" border="0" width="860" height="577" width_o="1234" height_o="829" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/2001230/MENSSHOOT-IMG3-92011_o.jpg" align="left" /> Right: WOOL AND CASHMERE TURTLE NECK SWEATER BY CALVIN KLEIN COLLECTION, AND LEATHER V-NECK T-SHIRT BY TRUSSARDI 1911. Left: WOOL DOWN COAT W/ BELT AND BRUSHED COTTON TROUSER BY CALVIN KLEIN COLLECTION, BRIM HAT BY RIVIERA CLUB, LEATHER MONK STRAP SHOES BY Z ZEGNA. <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/2001230/MENSSHOOT-IMG1-92011_860.jpg" border="0" width="860" height="577" width_o="1234" height_o="829" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/2001230/MENSSHOOT-IMG1-92011_o.jpg" align="left" /> WOOL AND CASHMERE TURTLE NECK SWEATER, AND BRUSHED COTTON TROUSER BY CALVIN KLEIN COLLECTION, AND LEATHER V-NECK T-SHIRT BY TRUSSARDI 1911, BRIM HAT BY RIVIERA CLUB, LEATHER MONK STRAP SHOES BY Z ZEGNA. Photographer: John Burke Styled By: Javon Drake Photogapher Assistant: Genevieve Garruppo Model: Tim Devos (Request Models) http://www.ammomag.com/Q-A-Melanie-Fiona http://www.ammomag.com/following/ammomag.com/Q-A-Melanie-Fiona Wed, 14 Sep 2011 04:55:38 +0000 AMMO Magazine 2000929 <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/2000929/melanie-img111-ammo.jpg" border="0" width="633" height="422" width_o="633" height_o="422" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/2000929/melanie-img111-ammo_o.jpg" align="left" /> Q&A: Melanie Fiona Interview by Jae Ink Photos by Ashley Sky Walker Jae Ink: What's your AMMO? Melanie Fiona: My Ammo is honestly the fact that I really believe that I’m destined to change the world & that is a big responsibility. But, I feel like its my purpose so I feel that is the reason why I fight as hard as I do, why I work as hard as I do, why I laugh as hard as I do because I just feel like its infectious & I feel like what I’m here to do is something powerful. I feel like that’s my purpose, it’s to change the world. JI: You have a new album coming titled 'The MF Life’; in an interview you stated the album as being "stadium soul." Explain what that means. What can fans expect from this album? MF: I fell in love with the sound of my music being played in big arenas when I went on tour with Kanye West & Alicia Keys. I became addicted to that feeling, so I just wanted my music loud and I wanted these songs to be big & I wanted them to be full and feel like they could fill an arena. I’m a big fan of live instrumentation so it was pretty much taking it to another level off the first album and just making this album something big. JI: Who are some of the collaborators on the new album? MF: I haven’t finished what will be on the album yet, but I’ve been in the studio working with Andrew Martin, Los, Jerry Wonder, Salon Remy, Jack Flash, and Chuck Harmony. Its been really good I’ve been getting all my creative juices & getting all my ideas of what I want this album to be about. I’m trying new things & I’m also writing with John Legend. JI: Your first single "Gone and Never Coming Back", you sing about love lost in a relationship, did this song come from personal experience? MF: Everything I write about, sing about or perform about is always about life. A lot of the things I go through its always what we all go through and I feel like “Gone and Never Coming Back” absolutely comes from personal experience. I’ve had to end chapters in my life, cut people out of my life, say goodbye to people I necessarily wasn’t ready to say goodbye to, had people say goodbye to me and I wasn’t ready to let it go. I feel that is just the real concept of lost & what it means. So I just wanted to put that into a song and make it very emotional something that people can relate to and help them get through whatever it is their going through. <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/2000929/melanie-img22-ammo_860.jpg" border="0" width="860" height="388" width_o="933" height_o="421" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/2000929/melanie-img22-ammo_o.jpg" align="left" /> JI: How was it working with director Collin Tilley on the "Gone and Never Coming back Video? (The video is very artistic & has great visuals). MF: Collin Tilley is a beast he’s amazing. I love working with people who are young he’s 22 or 23 I think. I love working with people who are around my age who I can vibe with & he’s super creative and his energy is right, he’s a cancer like I am (laughs). Collin is brilliant, his taste is classic yet fresh, new & current at the same time. I would love to do quite a few videos with him actually. I’m use to doing narrative videos but I wanted to do something that was a little bit more artistic and just show people a little bit more in-depth which is what I’m coming with on this new album. JI: The Canadian explosion is among us and there seems to be a lot of great talent. Is there any difference in music influence and style when compared to the US? MF: I think as a Canadian & just knowing fellow Canadian artists we just have a different perspective on the world, on the world as a whole. Canada I feel like it’s so multi-cultural and I feel like it draws from a lot of different influences. So I feel like absolutely that is reflected in my music. I think Canadian artist just have a very diverse sound and I think that’s just how we view things, we never want to be pigeon holed into one thing. Canada is just a very broad place with a collection of many different influences. JI: You've worked with some pretty big names in music, is there anyone you would love to work with that you haven’t yet? MF: I want to work with Stevie Wonder absolutely most definitely. I’ve met him and he actually wants to work with me, which is really cool, and I’m dying to work with him. So I have to make that a priority on my to do list, just get in the studio I don’t even care if the song never comes out (laughs). I just want to be in the studio with Stevie Wonder. JI: Mixtapes are the new albums; do you think it’s a great pre-album promotion tool or a musician’s downfall? Do you have any plans for a mixtape release? MF: I think mixtapes are a great thing. Its tough because people have to remember that everything you put out is a reflection of you and sometimes the things we artist do on mixtapes we can’t do on our album for whatever reason for radio play, for commercial appeal whatever it is, but I think mixtapes are great. I did a mixtape on my last album and I’m going to do another one for this new album before it comes out. <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/2000929/melanie-img3-ammo.jpg" border="0" width="417" height="833" width_o="417" height_o="833" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/2000929/melanie-img3-ammo_o.jpg" align="left" /> JI: Do you have a reggae/dancehall-influenced alter ego? Would you ever come out with a full reggae album/mixtape? MF: Yes, I do have a bit of dancehall/ Hip-Hop/ reggae artist alter-ego, because I am West Indian, I am Caribbean so it’s a part of who I am it’s a huge part of my life and upbringing. I definitely have that personality on stage; wherever in my album, stage show, mixtape you’re always going to hear some sort of reggae influence because that’s natural to me. I’ve done that type of music before my first album came out, before I had music on the radio I use to do music independently for the clubs and it definitely had a reggae dancehall vibe. JI: How was it working with Jay-Z and the Rocawear campaign “What’s Next”? MF: It was very cool. It’s crazy because I just left Times Square (NYC) and I saw my Billboard & I said WHOA. I forgot I had a Billboard in freaking Times Square its crazy. It’s honestly an amazing feeling when you have the eye, the attention and support of Jay-Z who’s been so successful and who is just dope at what he does & just made himself into one of the biggest artist in the world. It’s really cool to have been chosen for that campaign that is called “What’s Next” and to be labeled what’s next is really cool. JI: You were on the road this summer promoting your new single & album, what shoe or shoes must be in your luggage that you cannot live without on the road? MF: The wedge heels definitely, but my stage shoes are bad girl shoes. I always have to have a killer pair of shoes on-stage that’s just my thing; I don’t care what I’m wearing in-between but my shoes, the shoe game I stick to my shoe game. I’ll spend some money on some shoes. I love shoes; my favorite pair of shoes I own are probably my cranberry red Christian Louboutins they have about nine straps on them & their super high. I toured with Kanye West in those shoes, so no matter how old I get I will never get rid of those shoes their kind of like the golden slippers that have been around the world. JI: Besides music, do you have plans to venture out into other projects like film, television, etc? MF: I definitely do. I take the entertainment arts so seriously and I definitely think that if I do venture out in film, television or acting I want to be able to devote time & really study and really prepare myself because it’s an art. I wouldn’t want anybody who has dedicated his or her whole life to acting to feel disrespected by the fact that I just get a good opportunity and I’m like “Hey this is a joke”. I think if I actually do get into film & television, I would study it and treat it as I do my music. JI: If you weren’t doing music, what other profession would you have taken on? MF: If I wasn’t doing music I would probably be in some kind of social work. I wanted to do medical research but my grade school chemistry teacher told me “Your to dynamic to be sitting in a lab sorting shit all day”, that’s what he said verbatim & there went my dreams of medical research although I love science. I just feel like through my music I’m really able to express myself and to help other people express themselves its very therapeutic. So I would have been doing something in mentoring or social work, just because I feel like that’s just what I’m naturally put here to do. JI: What's next for Melanie Fiona? MF: I have this new album, the new single its so early to tell but I’m just excited about the future just because the ideas I have creative wise. Just the launch of this new project the concept of “The MF Life” and what that is, it’s not just an album it’s an overall project, it’s a way of life, it’s a mentality & that’s really my focus and drive. Along with my charitable organizations, my creative online outlets and just getting out on the road and spreading my message touring and performing because that’s what I love & I feel like are my biggest strengths. Performing and sharing the music & these stories to people live is the best connection. So just getting out there finishing up this album, touring and living “The MF Life”. For more info on Melanie Fiona go to, www.melaniefiona.com. http://www.ammomag.com/the-better-to-see-you http://www.ammomag.com/following/ammomag.com/the-better-to-see-you Wed, 14 Sep 2011 03:41:47 +0000 AMMO Magazine 1932218 <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1932218/RED-IMG111111-82011_860.jpg" border="0" width="860" height="577" width_o="1234" height_o="829" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1932218/RED-IMG111111-82011_o.jpg" align="left" /> <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1932218/RED-IMG2-82011_860.jpg" border="0" width="860" height="577" width_o="1234" height_o="829" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1932218/RED-IMG2-82011_o.jpg" align="left" /> Red Chiffon Knee Length Dress, CHENG; Lace Shorts, LA FEE VERTE; Shoes, PLOMO. <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1932218/RED-IMG3-82011_860.jpg" border="0" width="860" height="577" width_o="1234" height_o="829" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1932218/RED-IMG3-82011_o.jpg" align="left" /> Shawl Collar Coat, LAFAYETTE 148; Tights, URBAN OUTFITTERS; Shoes, PLOMO. <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1932218/RED-IMG4-82011_860.jpg" border="0" width="860" height="577" width_o="1234" height_o="829" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1932218/RED-IMG4-82011_o.jpg" align="left" /> Left: Top, WINTER KATE; Pants, ROCHAMBEAU; Shoes, ASOS; Jewelry, STYLIST OWN. Right: Top, TRINA TURK; Pants, BROCHU WALKER; Clutch, TRINA TURK; Shoes, PLOMO. <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1932218/RED-IMG5-82011_860.jpg" border="0" width="860" height="577" width_o="1234" height_o="829" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1932218/RED-IMG5-82011_o.jpg" align="left" /> Red Jersey Long Sleeve Wrap Shirt, ROCHAMBEAU; Tights, URBAN OUTFITTERS; Shoes, PLOMO; Rings, TRINA TURK; Bracelets/Necklace, STYLIST OWN. <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1932218/RED-IMG6-82011_860.jpg" border="0" width="860" height="577" width_o="1234" height_o="829" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1932218/RED-IMG6-82011_o.jpg" align="left" /> Red Jacket, LAKO BUKIA; Pants, H&M; Jewelry, STYLIST OWN; Shoes, PLOMO. Photographer; Leonard Poteat Stylist; Patricia "Nkem" Nriaka Hair Stylist; Joey Oso Makeup Artist; Shantini Alleyne Model; Jordan Hebbes (RED) http://www.ammomag.com/KELLY-ROWLAND http://www.ammomag.com/following/ammomag.com/KELLY-ROWLAND Tue, 30 Aug 2011 23:19:25 +0000 AMMO Magazine 1933030 <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1933030/fallfashion-main-img1.jpg" border="0" width="328" height="422" width_o="328" height_o="422" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1933030/fallfashion-main-img1_o.jpg" align="left" /> Photos by Randall Slavin Interview by Ashley P. Williams What’s your AMMO? Life inspires me. Other women inspire me. Whether it’s watching them work, like there are so many women on the set of X-Factor that are so strong – the producers, the executive producers, and everyone up there. They are just so driven, and they know exactly what they want. They’re powerhouses. I love to meet women who completely inspire me. Your latest video for the single “Motivation” shows a sexier, edgier side of Kelly than we are used to seeing. What made you want to reveal this side of yourself now? I wouldn’t say that it is a new me. When Frank Gatson, my choreographer and creative director, and I came across this treatment, we both were like this is just really fly. From the choreography to the bodies just looking like liquid, to just everything about it. The lighting was just so beautiful. So, when we finally got through the video, there was just something that kind of oozed over the whole [thing] – just very sensual and sexual – the whole vibe, period. And it just kind of happened. It wasn’t anything [we] tried for or anything like that. It just kind of happened, to be honest with you. Let’s talk about this new sound from you and your new album Here I Am? The vocals are definitely more mature, and stronger. And I think that’s just growth, like [with] any album, I think that [I] should definitely grow every time. I remember hearing Janet Jackson say that, and that’s always been a goal of mine – to grow every record. But also, the fact that I didn’t allow myself to be put in a box, as far as sound is concerned. Because so many people heard “When Love Takes Over” and “Commander”, and said, “Oh my God, this [new effort] is a totally different Kelly Rowland,” and my comment to that was “No, it’s absolutely not. It’s the same person, I’m just an artist.” I think that you shouldn’t put yourself in a box, or allow other people to – sound-wise. If you can do it all, why not? You’ve taken a bit of a hiatus from the airwaves. What have you been working on, outside of music, since we’ve last heard you? Really just making music, to be honest with you. I’ve been overseas. Doing some underground records, and that’s been fun. What inspired you to go across the pond and what has that experience brought to your work? I’ve been coming over to Europe since I was sixteen years old, and I think it always sparks a creative interest. You know, definitely switching up your surroundings sometimes can be a good thing. And, that’s exactly what I did. I came over here, hung out for a summer, and didn’t leave for a while. And [I] just had fun, above anything. So, did you spend most of your time in London? London and Paris. And, I went to Ibiza a lot. What kind of perspective would you say you got from people overseas that the general public doesn’t necessarily have in the States? It’s a completely different surrounding. There’s no [experience in America like] going to Paris. The accents and languages. I was supposed to learn French six months ago, but I haven’t quite opened up that box [laughs]. I’ll definitely learn it before the year ends. I promised myself. You have an amazing body, and we understand that you just wrapped up the “Motivation”-inspired Get Healthy and Sexy for Summer (Bikini Bootcamp) DVD tied to the Twitter challenge you collaborated on with Jeanette Jenkins. How did it go? What else do you do to stay in shape? First of all, working with Jeanette is not just working with a trainer, but I think what she’s taught me overall is that eating right and exercising is a lifestyle. And you can definitely find time and make time for exercise, if you want it bad enough. I like my clothes. I want to fit into my clothes, always. I don’t want [my] shoes to be the only thing [I] can keep in my closet. I’ve been given so many amazing clothes from designers and I really love [them]. But, I really love how I feel above anything. I feel so much better when I eat clean. I feel so much better when I’m juicing. I feel so much better when I feel like I’m doing what I’m supposed to do for my body. And I can have my cheat days. [Jeanette] has this 80/20 rule that she taught me: you are strict 80 percent of the time on what you eat, and what’s a part of your lifestyle, and then 20 percent – you can go a little crazy. I’m obsessed with cake. So of that 20 percent, how much of that goes to cake? Probably 19! And one percent is a cocktail. Are you as bag- and shoe- obsessed as so many women can be? If so, are there any designers that you love right now as far as accessories go? I shop with everybody to be honest with you. I go the department store and just rummage through everything to see what I like and it’s a lot of fun to do that for me. I love my shoes though. I love, love, love my shoes. At Selfridges, in the UK, they have the best shoe department. You can find every shoe by every designer. And I plan on going there and spending half a day tomorrow [laughs]. I love finding pieces that I can have forever. Those pieces that you can see in your closet that won’t go anywhere, they just stay current – all the time. Or they come back – fashion is a circle really. You were a part of one of the biggest female singing groups of this generation, Destiny’s Child. How has being solo compared to working with a group – both creatively and logistically? Creatively [as a solo artist] you’re just depending on yourself. And I remember, when I was with the girls, we did everything together. [Solo], you just focus on yourself within your own creative space - to do whatever you want. Although [within the group], we allowed each other the freedom of ideas, and of everything – which was [what was] great about being with Destiny’s Child - the cool thing [about being solo] is that it’s really just you. You come up with everything, or you give ideas to the producers and tell them what space your in, and that’s a really cool feeling. Is it easier or more difficult working by yourself? At first, it was difficult because I was so used to being with the ladies. But it is easier now…now that I’ve gotten more used to my surroundings. They still support me, though. It’s still love. You’re extremely philanthropic. And, you’ve given your time and resources to efforts that span from personal healthcare to child welfare. How do you pick which projects to support? Honestly, whatever touches my heart. Whatever I feel the closest to, because I wouldn’t be real, or genuine, if I just went after everything. I have someone very near and dear to me who is going through breast cancer right now. And, I have someone very near and dear to me who’s going through testicular cancer. So, when it comes to anything that has to do with cancer, I usually want to be involved. And, anything that has to do with kids. My goodness, it’s the next generation. They are going to be our next doctors and presidents and teachers, and they’re going to fill this world; we need positivity for these kids to be happy and sane. What charities are you working with now? I’m actually doing my own charity. It’s called “I Heart My Girlfriends.” It’s been in my mind forever. I’m just happy that I finally got the opportunity to start working on it. And that’s been wonderful. Basically it’s where I go to different schools or foster homes and talk to girls, or bring other ladies with me. It’s about building young females up to support each other - love each other. You always hear “females can’t get along” and that bothers me. So, I want to change that. What kind of impact has “I Heart My Girlfriends” had on the girls you’ve worked with? Often, we can feel buried in our situation. And, it’s more so about girls feeling like they have someone to talk to – and that’s each other. When I go talk to the girls, and then they hear what each other is going through, they’re like, “Oh my God…you always walk around like you’re hard or you don’t want to talk to nobody, and I had no idea ‘that’ was going on with you. You can always talk to me.” That’s breaking down a barrier right there. And, that’s a lot within itself, because, you know, sometimes that never happens…ever. What’s next for Kelly Rowland? This album! Also, of course, X-Factor over here in the UK. And, I’m crossing my fingers…I would love to do a movie by the end of the year. Be sure to pick up Ms. Kelly's album Here I Am in stores and on iTunes NOW! http://www.ammomag.com/BLANC http://www.ammomag.com/following/ammomag.com/BLANC Tue, 30 Aug 2011 22:07:38 +0000 AMMO Magazine 1930729 <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1930729/WHITE-IMG1-82011_860.jpg" border="0" width="860" height="577" width_o="1234" height_o="829" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1930729/WHITE-IMG1-82011_o.jpg" align="left" /> Coat (worn as a dress), Calvin Klein Collection (available at Saks Fifth Avenue); Turban, Made w/ Mood Fabrics; Necklace, Alexis Bittar; Earrings, Ben-Amun; Ring, Vintage; Sunglasses, Ray-Ban; Socks, Falke. <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1930729/WHITE-IMG2-82011_860.jpg" border="0" width="860" height="577" width_o="1234" height_o="829" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1930729/WHITE-IMG2-82011_o.jpg" align="left" /> Sweater & Pants, Etro; Boots, Maison Martin Margiela; Earrings, Ben-Amun. <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1930729/WHITE-IMG3-82011_860.jpg" border="0" width="860" height="577" width_o="1234" height_o="829" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1930729/WHITE-IMG3-82011_o.jpg" align="left" /> <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1930729/WHITE-IMG4-82011_860.jpg" border="0" width="860" height="577" width_o="1234" height_o="829" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1930729/WHITE-IMG4-82011_o.jpg" align="left" /> Sherling Coat (worn as dress), Belt, and Boots, Maison Martin Margiela; Earrings, Ben-Amun; Socks, Falke. <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1930729/WHITE-IMG5-82011_860.jpg" border="0" width="860" height="577" width_o="1234" height_o="829" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1930729/WHITE-IMG5-82011_o.jpg" align="left" /> Jacket and Pants, Michael Kors (available at Saks Fifth Avenue); Shirt, Stella McCartney; Necklace, Earrings, and Bangles, Ben-Amun; Ring, David Webb; Tights, Falke; Shoes, Walter Steiger. <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1930729/WHITE-IMG6-82011_860.jpg" border="0" width="860" height="577" width_o="1234" height_o="829" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1930729/WHITE-IMG6-82011_o.jpg" align="left" /> Dress, Dolce & Gabbana; Coat, Maison Martin Margiela; Earrings, Ben-Amun; Tights, Falke. <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1930729/WHITE-IMG7-82011_860.jpg" border="0" width="860" height="577" width_o="1234" height_o="829" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1930729/WHITE-IMG7-82011_o.jpg" align="left" /> Jacket, MaxMara; Turtle Neck Sweater, Pringle Of Scotland (available at Saks Fifth Avenue); Skirt, Bibhu Mohapatra; Turban, Made w/ Mood Fabrics; Earrings, Ben-Amun; Necklace, David Webb; Bracelets, (Top) Alexis Bittar; (Middle) Vintage; (Bottom) Ben-Amun; Socks, Falke; Shoes, Walter Steiger. Photographer; Christopher DeMairo Stylist; Javon Drake Hair Stylist; Courtney Bednarowski Makeup Artist; Madison Mills Model; Cristina (RED) http://www.ammomag.com/CELEBRATE-FALL-2011 http://www.ammomag.com/following/ammomag.com/CELEBRATE-FALL-2011 Tue, 30 Aug 2011 22:07:36 +0000 AMMO Magazine 1930581 <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1930581/PARTY-IMG111-82011_860.jpg" border="0" width="860" height="577" width_o="1234" height_o="829" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1930581/PARTY-IMG111-82011_o.jpg" align="left" /> <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1930581/PARTY-IMG3-82011_860.jpg" border="0" width="860" height="577" width_o="1234" height_o="829" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1930581/PARTY-IMG3-82011_o.jpg" align="left" /> All Apparel and Black booties, Stella McCartney; Tights, Falke; Gloves, LaCrasia; Black pumps, Christian Louboutin. <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1930581/PARTY-IMG4-82011_860.jpg" border="0" width="860" height="577" width_o="1234" height_o="829" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1930581/PARTY-IMG4-82011_o.jpg" align="left" /> All Apparel, Missoni; Shoes, Brian Atwood. <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1930581/PARTY-IMG5-82011_860.jpg" border="0" width="860" height="577" width_o="1234" height_o="829" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1930581/PARTY-IMG5-82011_o.jpg" align="left" /> Full Look, Prada. <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1930581/PARTY-IMG2-82011_860.jpg" border="0" width="860" height="577" width_o="1234" height_o="829" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1930581/PARTY-IMG2-82011_o.jpg" align="left" /> All Apparel, Tommy Hilfiger; Shoes, Brian Atwood; Sunglasses, Marc Jacobs. Photographer; Jena Cumbo Hair; Courtney Bednarowski Makeup; Lisa Bensley Model; Lucci and Kris (RED) http://www.ammomag.com/BLACK-LACE http://www.ammomag.com/following/ammomag.com/BLACK-LACE Tue, 30 Aug 2011 22:03:11 +0000 AMMO Magazine 1932544 <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1932544/LACE-IMG1-82011_860.jpg" border="0" width="860" height="577" width_o="1234" height_o="829" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1932544/LACE-IMG1-82011_o.jpg" align="left" /> Necklace, Sequin NYC; Black Elegant Rock Leather jacket, JNBY; Body Suit, Kiki De Montparnasse; Straight Leg w/Embroidery Pants, Timo Weiland; Black Patent Leather and suede pumps, Kelsi Dagger; Black Embossed clutch, Kamola. <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1932544/LACE-IMG2-82011_860.jpg" border="0" width="860" height="577" width_o="1234" height_o="829" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1932544/LACE-IMG2-82011_o.jpg" align="left" /> Earrings, Sequin NYC; Black Dress and Belt, SportMax; Bracelet, R.J. Graziano; Zig Zag hosiery, American Apparel. <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1932544/LACE-IMG3-82011_860.jpg" border="0" width="860" height="577" width_o="1234" height_o="829" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1932544/LACE-IMG3-82011_o.jpg" align="left" /> Black Sheer body suit, Sammy B. <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1932544/LACE-IMG4-82011_860.jpg" border="0" width="860" height="577" width_o="1234" height_o="829" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1932544/LACE-IMG4-82011_o.jpg" align="left" /> Black leather gloves, camisole, garter belt, and panties, Kiki De Montparnasse; Ruffle necklace, Sequin NYC; Black studded lace booties, Cesare Paciotti. <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1932544/LACE-IMG5-82011_860.jpg" border="0" width="860" height="577" width_o="1234" height_o="829" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1932544/LACE-IMG5-82011_o.jpg" align="left" /> Earrings and necklace, Sequin NYC; Stretch wool, leather, feather and silk dress, Kahri by KahriAnne Kerr; Ostrich and fox motor cycle jacket, Bibhu Mohapatra; Shoes, Casadei. <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1932544/LACE-IMG6-82011_860.jpg" border="0" width="860" height="577" width_o="1234" height_o="829" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1932544/LACE-IMG6-82011_o.jpg" align="left" /> Black sheer body suit, American Apparel; Necklace and cuff, Christian Breul Von Maria. Photographer; Aurelie Graillot Stylist; Erika Nunez Hair Stylist; Courtney Bednarowski Makeup Artist; Yannize Joshua Model; Angelique (RED) http://www.ammomag.com/226-WAYNE-STREET http://www.ammomag.com/following/ammomag.com/226-WAYNE-STREET Thu, 04 Aug 2011 04:20:55 +0000 AMMO Magazine 1818853 <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1818853/WayneStreet_860.jpg" border="0" width="860" height="741" width_o="1200" height_o="1035" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1818853/WayneStreet_o.jpg" align="left" /> WAYNE long white dress/long sweater Earrings, Marc Jacobs; Glasses, Super (RestroSuperFuture); Necklace, Ben Amun by Isaac Manevitz; Belt and Bandana, Stylist own; Shoes, Costume National. <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1818853/WAYNE-img2-82011_860.jpg" border="0" width="860" height="537" width_o="1152" height_o="720" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1818853/WAYNE-img2-82011_o.jpg" align="left" /> WAYNE black sweater & pencil skirt Earrings, Marc Jacobs; Necklace & Bracelets, Ben Amun by Isaac Manevitz; Long necklace with vintage key worn underneath, Stylist own; Shoes by Walter Steiger. <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1818853/WAYNE-img4-82011_860.jpg" border="0" width="860" height="537" width_o="1152" height_o="720" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1818853/WAYNE-img4-82011_o.jpg" align="left" /> WAYNE white & black leather coat Earrings, Marc Jacobs; Necklace & Bracelet, RJ Graziano; Long necklace with vintage key worn underneath, Vintage ring, and Net Tank, Stylist own; Pants, Ralph Lauren Black Label; Shoes,Walter Steiger. <img src="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1818853/WAYNE-img3-82011_860.jpg" border="0" width="860" height="537" width_o="1152" height_o="720" src_o="http://payload.cargocollective.com/1/1/44698/1818853/WAYNE-img3-82011_o.jpg" align="left" /> WAYNE white jacket & slim pant and t-shirt Necklace & Earrings, Ben Amun by Isaac Manevitz; Shoes, Walter Steiger. Photography by Ashley Sky Walker Styling by Rome Hair by Kanaar Larique Makeup by Shantini Alleyne Model Diandra Forrest (RED)