Unveiling Truths, Connecting Communities

Unveiling Truths, Connecting Communities

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Jim Fitzpatrick: Unveiling the Striking Story of a True Art Visionary and an All-Time-Survivor in Life

Jim Fitzpatrick is a multi-talented and skilled visionary who is most notable for being a true survivor in life. After overcoming various life-changing injuries from his roller skating career and firefighting missions, he found himself suffering from chronic pain, which made life even more challenging. Still, this man of courage managed to navigate his way to success in different fields, winning in the realm of arts, and helping other chronic pain sufferers overcome their situation and find their purpose in life once more. 

A multi-award-winning figure in the world of sports, arts, and profession, Jim Fitzpatrick serves as a real inspiration to many who have heard his remarkable life story. After high school, he served as the photographer for a professional wrestling promotion in San Francisco. This marked the beginning of his career as a self-taught photographer and artist. But before venturing into the world of arts, he pursued his lifelong passion of becoming a professional roller derby skater. By 1980, he competed in the World Champion San Francisco Bay Bombers and took the skate industry by storm in San Francisco, skating as far as Argentina and Japan. Unfortunately, his career in skating ended after suffering injuries. From this, Jim went into the field of public service. He served as a police clerk and technician, and eventually, he became a professional firefighter. 

Unfortunately, after a firefighting mission caused Jim Fitzpatrick to attain career ending injuries that brought him chronic pain, he needed physical therapy and other treatments and brought him chronic pain. Again, this tenacious man bounced back in life, undaunted by all the difficulties life has thrown at him. At this time, he explored his talent in drawing and arts as his way of relaxing and motivating himself to move forward in life. Fueled by his passion for helping others, he began reaching out to fellow chronic pain sufferers, encouraging them not to lose hope and helping them find their purpose despite their situation.

Eventually, Jim Fitzpatrick returned to his calling in the creative art scene. He believes that when one door closes in life, another one opens for a new beginning. For Jim, creating art and photography was the door that opened for him. He then went on to publish three photo books: “Roller Derby Classics…and More!,” “I Have a Chin! A Japanese Chin!” and “When I Shot Good and Bad Guys (Who Wrestled at the Cow Palace).” Over the last two decades, he has had several solo art exhibitions. His first was in 8th grade while attending St. Anne’s School in San Francisco. This was followed by a 2011 exhibit in the LC Gallery at the Westfield Mall where Senator Leland Yee appeared to view his portrait made by Jim. In 2012, he held another exhibition at ManCave Memorabilia in California, where he displayed some of his portraits of boxing legend Mike Tyson, who made a special appearance. Since then, Jim’s work has been displayed at the Rio Gallery Space in 2018 and in the Viviana Puello Art Gallery in 2019.

As an artist, Jim Fitzpatrick primarily focuses on creating realistic portrait drawings, often combining them digitally with photographs he has taken to create a more special and unique art scene. He mostly works with portraits, animals, and sporting events photography, specifically roller derby skating and professional wrestling.

For making a significant mark in various industries, Jim Fitzpatrick has received a number of awards from the community. For seven consecutive years since 2014, he has been selected by Art Tour International Magazine (ATIM) as one of the Top 60 Master Contemporary Art. In 2017, he was chosen as a Top 20 Fine Art Photographer. In 2019, he received a special Certificate of Recognition from Congresswoman Jackie Speier, commending his service as a firefighter, efforts in supporting people with chronic pain, and artistic achievements. Most recently, he was selected as one of ATIM’s Artists of the Decade and received an ARTYA Award in 2020.

Jim Fitzpatrick hopes to get across an important message through his work, and that is for others to never lose hope and optimism. Today, the seasoned artist continues to use his skills and talent in art and photography as a way to inspire others to rise back up again in life. 

To know more about Jim Fitzpatrick and his artwork, please visit his official website

Like his FB @JimFitzpatrickArtworkAndPhotography

2k Ponce Juno: A Taste of Caribbean New York Flair Music

2K Ponce Juno is an international hip hop sensation from Staten Island, New York. Juno is a recording artist of Sony Music Group, and the owner of Ellispe Group Records Global LLC,  a music label that houses some of the best in urban music and hip hop and its subsidiaries which includes, Star Music Group LLC, and EGR Global Music Publishing.

Having worked with a plethora of established and A-list music producers, Juno has cemented his place as one of Sony Music Group/The Orchad and High-Performance Records professional entertainers, and his first album titled, “Concrete” recorded tremendous success by its streaming numbers and statistics. Also, being raised by a West Indian culture gave him a “don’t give up” mindset and attitude which has driven him in his pursuit of success since when he was little.

2K Ponce Juno has indeed come a long way in his career and sojourn in the music industry, with some very impressive records to his credits to show for his efforts. First, as an entrepreneur, he launched his first project “Chicken Grease n’ Grits” in 2012, which would go on to receive over three thousand hits on Datpiff and he followed this up with his first video titled, “They Like This.”

In 2019, he released an EP, titled, “Coolli Bandz,” which features his hit single, “This life” and propelled him to earn a place on The Takeover Tour, powered by the AAMG family. Through his music, 2K Ponce Juno expels his positive, infectious, yet bouncy, and feel-good vibe in his attempt to dominate the industry, and while his music embodies a Caribbean New York flair, his energy on and off the stage is nothing short of electric and mesmerizing to the point where the audience is always asking for more.  

Before COVID-19 and the shutdown of clubs, 2K Ponce Juno’s records were constantly blaring in various clubs. He had been billed to join the Sony/Orchard and Mo Thugs Family’s America’s “Most Blunted Tour” but while the global lockdown persisted, he’s remained creative and has been reaching out to help those closer to home. And his most recent single titled, “Go Pretty Girl Remix,” where he featured Double K and Beenie Man was premiered on Hot 97.1 by DJ Drewski and on SunCity 104.9 FM by DJ Motivatah. The record has also received massive airplay on Irie FM Ochos Rios Jamaica by DJ Digital Chris and  DJ Sincere from Drtybsmnt Radio to mention a few.

2k Ponce Juno strives daily to build a music brand that is not unique in terms of the songs it puts out, he is also committed to developing and growing with his team in such a way that ensures that everyone is at their best. He doesn’t see himself as an artist being in competition with any other artist for that matter, as far as he is concerned, he only wants to create music that passes across his message and keep his fans and audience glued and addicted. “There is no competition with artists who produce similar genres and have the same outward expression of his or her love for The Lord. The separation from the music produced by 2k Pounce and secular artists is simply the difference in lifestyle lived by the artists.” He says.   

Away from Music, 2k Ponce Juno is a fashion enthusiast and whenever he makes an appearance, his fashion sense is always on display and a sight to behold. Recently he added becoming an ambassador for Kim Birkedal Hartmann’s Revanche Cognac to the growing list of things he’s enthusiastic about.

In five years, Juno sees himself producing other artists and bringing them into the mainstream, and making stars out of them. He wants to be able to help upcoming artists reach their highest musical potential and heights possible. He also wants to help them create evergreen hit records under Ellipse Group Record Global LLC/Sony Music Group. 

To learn more about 2K Ponce Juno, his music and future collaborations and plans, visit his website.  

Paul Eliacin Provides Authentic Exploration of African American Pop Culture Through Film “Up In Harlem” on Amazon Prime

Paul Eliacin’s movie “Up In Harlem” serves as additional evidence that the world has entered the new golden age of television. The film’s release on Amazon Prime Video further solidifies the platform’s position as a leading contender in streaming and content production services.

“Up In Harlem” is a coming-of-age film that tells the story of an inner-city family struggling to survive in the ghetto. Its main character, Fay Mulberry, is an ambitious black teen determined to break away from the cycle of drug use and violence that often plagues her community. A college scholarship opens opportunities that are historically unavailable to her. Fay’s initial focus in navigating through the ups and downs of street life is interrupted by her brief romance with a smooth-talking drug dealer. Paul Eliacin expertly introduces and develops the film’s conflict and tension in the form of compromising circumstances. It is a realistic portrayal of the personal and systemic challenges faced by people of color.

Just released on Amazon Prime Video, “Up In Harlem” depicts the myriad of life struggles that African Americans need to overcome. However, the movie can teach a lesson to anyone about rising above the problems that plague American families through determination. Rapper-turned-actor Ice-T, who appears in “Up In Harlem,” commends Paul Eliacin for the filmmaker’s “thoroughly researched and accurate portrayal of the constantly evolving life in Harlem during the 1990s.”

The film is a valuable contribution to African American pop culture. It is also a timely statement on the need for filmmakers, producers, studios, and streaming services to create movies with better representation. As a Haitian immigrant, Paul Eliacin understands the ability of film to empower communities. Maximizing that impact requires a diverse cast and a plot reflective of lived experiences.

Paul Eliacin uses his self-taught mastery of the craft to weave together life stories that resonate with a universal audience. Instead of formal training, Paul learned filmmaking through experience. When Paul entered the film industry in 1989, he started as a stagehand and extra. Not long after, he was learning directly from award-winning directors. By memorizing scripts, paying close attention to storyboards, and noting the techniques these directors used to improvise while shooting demanding scenes, Paul slowly developed his own style.

Drawing from his wealth of experience in the film industry, Paul Eliacin established his own production company called Up In Harlem LLC. It was through this company that Paul produced “Up In Harlem” (the film). The company also assists aspiring young filmmakers in documenting cultural trends.

Paul Eliacin is currently working on a proposed documentary film that chronicles his experience as a 9/11 first responder. Taking part in rescue and recovery following the tragic attack, Paul was exposed to asbestos and developed a life-threatening respiratory disease. These experiences further enhanced Paul’s intuition and ability to pick up on the life stories of those around him to produce compelling storylines.

You may visit Paul Eliacin’s website for more information.

Jordan Boyd Reenvisions Life through the Power of Social Media

While many perceive being ordinary as lacking the voice to create a positive impact, Instagram influencer and aspiring basketball player Jordan Boyd proves that anyone can inspire millions worldwide. With his goal to motivate followers and reinvent the meaning of the word “influencer,” Jordan envisions becoming an online personality with a more profound purpose.

Born and raised in Batavia, Illinois, the 24-year-old rising Instagram star has won the hearts of over 50,000 followers on the platform. To echo his words, he is a “very self-motivated individual who is driven to excel in anything.” As an internet celebrity, Jordan Boyd aspires to be different from other influencers in the game. In an age where social media platforms have turned into highly saturated communities of content creators, Jordan aims to stay a cut above the rest by establishing a common interest with his followers.

Besides promoting reliable brands and products, Jordan wants to equip his followers with the necessary tools needed for life. He feels an immense responsibility to uplift his followers, as much as they have trusted him as an influencer. “I want every single person or company that comes to my page to feel motivated and excited to chase their dreams,” said Jordan. “My page promotes a successful mentality of life,” he added. 

Jordan Boyd has been promoting and modeling for multiple verified brands over the years. He has gained the trust of both his fans and clients with his work ethic and talent to engage audiences in the digital space. 

Additionally, Jordan is also motivated to build a career as a professional basketball player. He is a self-confessed avid fan of basketball shoes, an obsession springing from his passion for the sport. Currently, Jordan is working on improving his basketball development skills, on his way to chasing broader horizons as a professional athlete. The aspiring basketball player has traveled overseas twice, in El Salvador and the Dominican Republic, to play basketball, despite being homeschooled. 

What’s even more amazing is how Jordan Boyd landed an opportunity to win a high school three-point contest with his shooting ability at Missouri State. He also bagged the second place the following year at Liberty University. “I found a way through Instagram to play overseas basketball professionally without playing college basketball, which is practically unheard of,” shared Jordan. With his determination and passion, the basketball player made history as the homeschooled kid who took high school and semi-pro games by storm.

On top of that, Jordan Boyd had competed against the legendary Paul George in a three-point contest when he was only 18 years old. “Paul hit 13 and I hit 11,” said Jordan. He has also competed against the basketball superstar Klay Thompson on a virtual shooting workout through a mobile application called ShotTracker.

Jordan realized that life does not need to be a competition by playing basketball and social media. Instead, Jordan wants to see everyone around him win at life and achieve their dreams using both aspects of his life.

Learn more about Jordan Boyd on Instagram.

Ava Caceres and Bella Thorne Captures Story of Love and Loss in the Hit Single “Be Somebody’s”

Beginning the story with a scene showing musician Ava Caceres in an empty theater, the music video of the hit song “Be Somebody’s” quickly picks up the undeniable chemistry between the singer and Hollywood’s Bella Thorne. The rising pop star uses her gift in singing and songwriting to show the world the beauty of vulnerability in experiencing love and loss in her hit single. 

Ava Caceres is a multi-talented singer and songwriter capturing the hearts of many in the music industry. Ever since she was little, the rising music diva knew she wanted to “create art and uplift people.” During her school years, she strived to integrate her two goals by joining many school plays and concert choirs. Eventually, her endeavors paved the way for her passion for songwriting. Notably, her love for writing started with novels and short stories before jumping to song compositions. Shortly after finishing high school, she had the opportunity to pair up with Grammy Award-winning producer Damon Sharpe for a music collaboration. From this strategic partnership, the hit single “Be Somebody’s” was brought to life. 

The top hit, “Be Somebody’s,” is a song written for everyone who has faced heartbreak in their lifetime. “To me, the most important takeaway of “Be Somebody’s” is that it is a gift to have loved and lost. When you have, you have a chance at experiencing being humbled with gratitude; the kind that reveals how beautiful it is to be so vulnerable as humans,” shares Ava Caceres. 

On top of the song’s moving lyrical content and its laid-back melody, its official music video championed the scenes capturing young love and heartbreak between Bella Thorne and Ava Caceres. The pair’s undeniable chemistry and impressive acting skills, coupled with a gorgeous theater setting, have made many listeners fall in love with the track. The video also features the charming Charlie Depew, who adds more to the story. 

The track also reveals the singer’s solid background in acting, molded by years of theater productions and countless acting classes. Her acting skills paired with a storytelling perspective in the song seemingly takes the listeners on a trip down her memory lane as the lyrics effortlessly tells her story, narrating her feelings of falling in love. “There are stories everywhere, both within and outside ourselves. As an artist, I want to apply these stories in a way that transforms ourselves,” says Ava. 

For Ava Caceres, she uses her voice not only to sing songs but to share exciting and captivating stories that are easily relatable for each listener. Ava’s music peels off several layers of communication to establish a profound connection between her and her listeners. At present, she continues to take her passion for music to greater heights as she hopes to strongly impact the music industry through powerful lyricism. In the future, she has her eyes on becoming a household name in the music industry, bringing authenticity and genuine passion to the table.

With so many things to say and an unparalleled commitment to creating a positive impact on people’s lives, the young singer is, indeed, here to stay.

To know more about Ava Caceres and her music, you may check her out on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

Upcoming Artist SCY Aims to Bring Substance Back to Industry with Life-Based Music

In an era when music tends to focus significantly on the highs of life, SCY, pronounced as “sky,” aims to shatter the norms by tackling real-life issues through his songs. The artist was born in New Orleans, Louisiana. But, he grew up in the buzzing streets of Los Angeles, delivering the perfect blend of southern charm and the guts of a Californian.

For SCY, music has always been a passion. It’s an avenue to tell untold stories and hard truths about today’s society. Like most people, the artist has a nine-to-five job, making it inevitable for him to genuinely experience the pains of an ordinary individual—the stress, pressure, needs, and financial factors. He realized that life isn’t just one big party from such experiences, and it’s a gap that music has to fill. Being able to share the same hardships as his listeners make his songs relatable to everyone.

SCY recently released a new song called The Sky is Falling. “It is a song about a man who appears to have everything to the naked eye. However, at the end of his usual busy day he feels as if something is missing. Then he meets a specially mysterious woman who seems to fill that missing gap instantly,” shared the artist. 

The artist writes songs based on experience and observation. Additionally, SCY is also a recording engineer, singer, and producer at Real Life Music, a record label that embraces artists’ creativity and uniqueness. The label was launched to provide artists with an opportunity to be different, to express in their songs every avenue of life, not just the typical party scene. Real Life Music does not tell one-sided truths but digs deeper into issues that affect people every day, bringing back substance into the music industry. 

Asked what motivated him to start his own brand, SCY shared that he felt that there was a need to revive originality in the music scene. Working as a corporate professional in a bank before made him realize how the worlds of finance and music are alike. Often, people with great business ideas are pushed aside because they don’t already have the finances to back their plans. The same goes for the music industry. Those with guaranteed success are always the ones who get the opportunities because big-name labels fear loss.

Instead of complaining about the problem, SCY decided to become the solution and pave the way for upcoming artists like himself to have a voice. The artist aims to produce music that would stand the test of time, captivating listeners with what the song has to say rather than creating fleeting melodies. 

“It’s not just a simple matter of pushing a few buttons on a computer. Music has the power to heal; take you back in time to the greatest times of your life; walk you down the dark path of the pain that comes with life as well. It can also take you right into the future, brighten or darken your spirit. Music is very powerful,” said SCY.

Indeed it’s time for an artist with such a profound purpose to take the reins. Without a doubt, SCY will capture music lovers across the globe as he puts their pain, truths, feelings, and struggles into harmonious words.

Learn more about SCY and listen to his music on his website.

Mandy Corrente: The Next Child Superstar and Music Sensation

By Carlos Camargo

Art may age in a person through time and experience, yet there are always those diamonds in the rough that present a wealth of talent and charisma at a very young age. It’s unmistakable that Mandy Corrente is one of them. 

A singer and actress out of Miami, Florida, who has just recently turned seven years old, Mandy is a superstar on her way to the halls of music greatness. And the artist is ready to take the world with the upcoming release of her debut album, which will hit outlets by the end of the year. The child superstar is the owner and performer of seven singles—five in English and Spanish and two in just English—which combine for a total viewership of 70 million.

Mandy brings together a smooth blend of pop and urban music. Two of her earliest released tracks include her debut single “Sunday Funday” and her rendition of the children’s “Birthday Party” song. She followed up those hits with the songs “Cotton Candy,” “Sleep Over,” “Planet Earth,” “All My Love,” and her most recent release, “Butterfly.” The newest track on Mandy Corrente’s discography speaks about her metamorphosis from a quiet little girl with a Latin upbringing to a star with the confidence to show the world what she has to offer. The song carries the literary mark of Mandy’s most significant music mentor—her mother, Daniela Corrente. “Butterfly,” as well as many of her existing and upcoming tracks, mostly carry a positive and uplifting message. Mandy loves to inspire girls her age and beyond to chase after their dreams and never let anything slow them down. 

One of Mandy’s most significant breaks was when she appeared on The Ellen Degeneres Show, where she captured the heart of the entertainment and talk show icon and millions of people all over the world. Today, Mandy has thousands of loyal fans, and her following continues to grow exponentially with time. 

Since then, Mandy has also appeared on many other shows and publications, including being featured on El Diario Las Américas, El Nuevo Herald, Peekaboo Magazine, Luis Chataing, and many others. The artist also has a solid social media following and now has over 221,000 followers on Instagram and has gathered around 5,400 followers on TikTok. Mandy continues to amass thousands of followers by engaging with her fans and releasing content on Tik Tok and Reels.

Unlike most artists her age, Mandy Corrente isn’t afraid to take leaps of faith to achieve her dreams. She continues to work hard and develop her skill, talent, and material. With the release of her first-ever album, the performer, dancer, and recording artist promises to deliver music that’s fresh and better than she has ever released before. 

Mandy dreams of one day touring the world to perform for hundreds of thousands of people as soon as music events return post-COVID-19. While waiting for that day, she makes the best out of what she currently has and takes every opportunity to grow and develop as a person and artist. 

Learn more about Mandy Corrente, her music, and upcoming album by visiting her website, Instagram profile, YouTube channel, and TikTok account.