MET Fashion Photo Show Presents Michael Crawford and New York Life

Good afternoon everyone and welcome back to another edition of the Fashion Photo Show blog. I recently visited the WBLS Bridal Expo at the Hotel Pennsylvania in Manhattan. Vendors in the wedding industry, family planning, travel industry and personal products all came down to show off their product lines. I had the pleasure of talking to two representatives from New York Life, Mr. Michael Crawford and David Drayton. You probably have auto insurance to protect your car. You most likely have home insurance or apartment insurance to protect the valuables in your home. What do you have to protect the single most important thing in your life? I am referring to your family! If you shook or scratched your head while thinking about it, then read on as Michael Crawford and David Drayton tell us a little bit about life insurance.

ME: Good afternoon Michael and welcome to this weeks edition of the Fashion Photo Show blog.
MICHAEL: Good afternoon and thank you for having me.

ME: What is life insurance?
MICHAEL: It is protection for your family. God forbid something happens to you. How will you provide for your family? Life insurance provides financial stability when you need it most. When something bad happens to someone and they are the sole provider, or one of the main providers how will the rent or mortgage get paid? How will you put food on the table? Who will take care of your loved ones?

ME: Why should someone purchase life insurance?
MICHAEL: People should purchase life insurance because at the end of the day, life insurance is going to give you the best return for your family. Life insurance can help you manage the financial aspects of your life just in case something serious happens to you preventing you from providing for your family yourself.


ME: How long have you been with New York Life?
MICHAEL: I have been with New York Life for three years now.

ME: Can you tell us a little more about the New York Life Insurance Company?
MICHAEL: New York Life has been around a long time. The company is currently 164 years old. It is also a privately owned company. In recent months this country has undergone a very serious recession. The stock market has not affected us negatively at this time. New York Life is a good investment for your family. If something should happen to you or another member of your family and he or she is no longer able to take care of the family, New York Life gives you the peace of mind knowing that there is a company out there looking to help you take care of your family.
MICHAEL: I would also like to mention that during the recent bailouts of a lot of companies, New York Life was one of the companies that did not take part in the TARP program.

ME: And what is the TARP program?
MICHAEL: Tarp is better known as “bailout money”. TARP stands for “Trouble Asset Relief Program”. Companies such as AIG and General Motors were companies that took this money. New York Life on the other hand was asked about their management skills and how they were able to function without receiving any additional funding to keep their company in the black.

ME: If someone wants to get more information about New York Life how can they learn more about the company?
MICHAEL: For more information you can call me at 914-253-7076, or visit www.nylife.com.
ME: Mike this is a blog featuring real New Yorker’s wearing real New York fashions. Can you describe what you are wearing for the audience please?

MICHAEL: I am wearing a gray suit that I purchased from K & G fashions. My tie is a pink, striped tie from the Van Heusen outlet. I purchased my collared shirt from Simms and my shoes from DSW.

ME: Hopefully the cold weather will come to an end sometime soon. What are three must have items for the springtime?
MICHAEL: Three must have things for the springtime would include the following:
A good watch, specifically a Breitling watch
A good wallet
Good underwear
ME: Lol, You can’t go wrong there. I need you to describe yourself to the audience. Can you tell me three words that you would use to describe yourself?
MICHAEL:
Charming
Funny
Smart

ME: I’m sure that in your profession being charming, funny and smart is very important. Michael is currently working with a few of his colleagues. At this time I would like to introduce you to one of Michael’s partner, Mr. David Drayton.

ME: Good afternoon David.
DAVID: Good afternoon.

ME: I just finished interviewing Michael for my blog and he provided my audience with some very good information about life insurance and the New York Life company in general. I asked Michael about the clothing that he is wearing and a few words that he would use to describe himself. I would like to ask you the same questions. What are you wearing and where did you purchase your clothing from?
DAVID: I’m currently wearing a black, three piece suit that I purchased from K & G. I got my shirt and tie (Both purple in color) from Century 21. I bought my shoes from K & G as well.

ME: What are three words that you would use to describe yourself?
DAVID: Handsome, Personable and Driven

ME: What are three must have items for the springtime?
DAVID: Ipad2, Nice footwear and Money

ME: Gentlemen, I want to take this opportunity to thank you for participating in this weeks blog.
MICHAEL AND DAVID: Your welcome.

ME: Ladies and gentlemen I want to once again thank you for taking time out of your busy schedules to follow my latest blog. Next time I am going to introduce you to Ms. Cindy Sanabria, Videographer and CEO of "Our Imagination, Your Entertainment".

MET Fashion Photo Show Presents Tasian Mohan

Good evening everyone and welcome back to a special edition of the Fashion Photo Show blog. Today I have the pleasure of featuring Ms. Tasian Mohan for our latest segment called "Quick Hits". Quick Hits focuses on everyday New Yorker's that are taking great strides in advancing their lives and careers. Unlike our regular segments that include detailed interviews with our guests, "Quick Hits" provides the opportunity for our guests to describe themselves in a few sentences. However, I am still focused on the original goal which is to provide you with interviews featuring real New Yorker's wearing real New York fashions. At this time it is my pleasure to introduce you to Tasian Mohan.

Tasian is currently employed as an investigator with the New York City Law Department. Tasian is an aspiring Immigration attorney. She is constantly keeping up with current events as they relate to immigration law. She describes herself as "never being complacent." With the knowledge that she has acquired, Tasian is constantly setting new goals for herself. Tasian says that she "always stretches her mind into something that it was not the day before." She also says that she allows every experience to shape her, while never losing a handle on her own personal convictions. Tasian believes that all of her accomplishments were made possible with the help of God and her family. Her family fervently lives by the following motto, “Prayer and work conquers all!"

Tasian has a high flair for fashion and describes her style as chic, elegant and sophisticated. Tasian describes herself as quite the "girly girl" and believes that being comfortable in the clothes that she wears brings out confidence. In the pictures featured in her blog, Tasian is wearing a black top from Victoria's Secret, a skirt from the Banana Republic and she is wearing Steve Madden boots that were purchased from the Steve Madden store.
I took the liberty of asking Tasian three questions as they relate to her personality and her fashion style.

What three words would you use to describe yourself and why?
1)Determined-I am determine to keep my dreams alive and understand that in order to achieve anything worth while requires faith, belief and dedication.
2) Compassionate-I belief that if you want others to be happy you must practice compassion and then you in turn will be happy.
3) Honest-Integrity is telling myself the truth and honesty is telling other people the truth

How would you describe your fashion Sense?
I would describe my fashion sense as "Chic and Elegant"

What are three must have items for the spring?
1) Nude pumps
2) Envelope pocket book
3) Soft short leather jacket

Thank you Tasian, and thank you ladies and gentlemen for taking the time out to read the very first edition of "Quick Hits" featuring Tasian Mohan.

MET Fashion Photo Show Presents Nijzae "Nanee" Frazier

Good afternoon everyone and welcome to another edition of the Fashion Photo Show blog. Birthdays are very special events that only come once a year. We like to celebrate them with family and friends and everyone wants to look and feel their best. Sweet 16 parties have undergone a huge transformation as parents and children want to make their parties huge events. MTV's "Super Sweet 16" depicts this by showing today's hottest parties and what it cost to have them. Today we are going to visit the Sweet 16 birthday party of (Nijzae "Nanee" Frazier)


ME: Good afternoon Nanee and thank you for participating in this weeks edition of the fashion photo shoot blog.
NANEE: Your welcome















ME: Nanee, you just celebrated your Sweet 16 birthday party on Sunday February 20th. It also happened to be your actual birthday. About 200 people if not more attended your party. The theme of your party was "Barbie." Can you tell the audience what this experience was like for you?
NANEE: It was cool and stressful at the same time. Over 375 people attended my party so it was cool to be around so many of my friends and family members. When we were getting fitted for our dresses we became closer as friends. The stressful part was going back and forth with my mother about the different ideas and direction that we wanted the party to go in. She kept telling me "no" on a lot of things that I wanted to do. Another stressful thing was people not coming to rehearsal when they were supposed to. We choreographed a dance routine and we had to partner people up. We had to make sure that everything was coordinated. Finally, the boys not wanting to dance made it stressful.


ME: Sweet 16 parties have been described as mini weddings. The gown, the reception, the cake, or in your case, "cakes", (There were two cakes prepared for this event) and the large amount of guests that attended rivaled that of a big wedding. Do you see the similarities, or do you think that the comparison is overrated?
NANEE: Yes! I definitely see the similarities between a sweet 16 and a wedding! The only difference that I really see is that you don't have a groom, but you still have a date. I don't have a husband so we didn't have to jump over a broom. (Lol) You have more fun at a sweet 16.














ME: Nanee, Now that the event is over is there anything that you wish you could have done differently?
NANEE: No, I liked the way everything turned out. I would have done everything the same way.





ME: Nanee, I am about to photograph two more sweet 16 parties in the near future, is there any advice that you would give to the parents, or planners of these events?
NANEE: Yes, don't have a big court. There were 26 of us. You have to have a positive attitude. You should also listen to other people when they give advice. Especially if you are close to them. Make sure that you have plenty of rehearsals because there is a lot of time, money and energy being put into this event.

ME: Nanee, you wore a beautiful pink gown with some interesting footwear. Please describe the sneakers that you were wearing?
NANEE: My sneakers came from Converse. I love Converse sneakers! My mother came up with the idea to design my sneakers. My uncle and my godfather wanted to be a part of the "changing of the shoes" ceremony.


ME: Nanee can you please tell the audience what the "changing of the shoes" portion of the program was and what it represented?
Nanee: Sure, the changing of the shoes ceremony is the removal of your sneakers or other footwear that you normally like to wear, to a pair of heels which represents the changing over into adulthood for a young lady.













ME: Thank you Nanee. Well, this blog focuses on real New Yorker's wearing real New York fashions. Please describe the outfits that you were wearing and where you purchased them.
NANEE: I was wearing a Pucci dress that I purchased from a boutique on Jamaica Avenue. I ended up changing into a second dress that I picked up on Jamaica Avenue as well. I can't remember the designer though.

ME: That's ok. How would you describe your fashion style? What do you like wearing to school?
NANEE: My fashion style is pretty simple. I like designer clothes. My favorite designer is Betsy Johnson. I also like True Religion and Hot Topic. Sometimes I like to dress up and sometimes I just like wearing jeans. I love fashion name designers. I also love Taveraniti Jeans.








ME: Nanee I want you to think about three words that you would use to best describe your fashion style.
NANEE:
1) Crazy
2) Fly
3) Trendy







ME I now want you to think about three words that you would use to best describe yourself and why.
NANEE:
1) Beautiful, both inside and out.
2) Strong Minded, because once I make up my mind about something that's it! (Lol)
3) Caring, I care a lot about people in general, especially the elderly. I really care about people that I am close too.

Thank you Nanee, I appreciate all of your time and energy that you put into this edition of the blog. You and your family did a wonderful job in putting together your sweet 16.
NANEE: I want to thank you Mr. Madison for all of my beautiful pictures and helping me out on such short notice. This was an experience that I will never forget. I just want to also thank everyone who participated. Peace, love, money and happiness!

ME: Well ladies and gentleman I would like to personally thank you once again for visiting the MET Fashion Photo Show blog. Until next time, have a blessed day and don't forget to become a follower. Visit the upper right hand section of the blog and click on "Followers."

MET Fashion Photo Show Presents "Tykime Davis "

Good afternoon everyone and welcome back to another edition of the MET Fashion Photo Show blog. As much as I like interviewing people wearing the latest winter fashions, I would love to show you some spring fashions. That would mean that we are finally changing over to some decent weather. With that in mind, the sun was out when we did this photo shoot and the temperatures were above freezing for a change. There were still four foot drifts of snow lying on the streets but that didn't stop us from going outside and taking advantage of some sun. The photo shoot didn't last too long because it was still very cold outside. Tykime handled the cold weather like a true professional. With that being said, let me introduce you to today's fashion show subject, Ms. Tykime Davis.

ME: Good afternoon Tykime, I want to first say thank you for not only participating in today's blog session, but for taking some of these pictures outside in the cold. Even though the sun was out, it was still pretty cold.
TYKIME: Your welcome and I'm glad to be here.

ME: For those of you who are new to the blog, the MET Fashion Photo Show focuses on real New Yorkers wearing real clothes purchased somewhere in New York City. The idea is to learn a little bit about the subject we are focusing on, their clothing syle, and where their items can be purchased as well as where to go for services such as a barber shop for a haircut, or the best beauty salons for ladies to get their hair done. Even though it's February, people are still attending functions where they have to dress up in dresses, gowns and suits. In addition, people still have to go on job interviews and when doing so, they must look their best. A business suit is a must have item. Today I asked Tykime to wear an evening gown and a business suit just to remind people that just because the weather is bad outside, you still have to look good when you are inside.

ME: Tykime, please tell the audience how we pronounce your name.
TYKIME: It's pronounced "Ty-Keem"

ME: TYKIME: Thank you

ME: Please tell the audience a little about yourself.
TYKIME: I love acting and dance. I am an aspiring actress that has performed in several plays and movies over the last few years. I started out as a dancer and I l love all types of dance. However, I perform most of my dance routines in the following forms of dance. They are Hip Hop, Jazz, African, Belly and Praise and Worship.

ME: What roles have you been involved in as an actress?
TYKIME: I have played small parts in different films. I had a small part in Mickey Rourke's film "The Wrestler" in which he won the academy award, and I also had a small part in Beyonce's film "Cadillac". I have also appeared in several independent short films and I also perform in plays as well. I choreographed a play at the Ujamaa Black Theater. It is something that I am very proud of.

ME: What are some of your future projects?
TYKIME: Right now I am shooting an independent film and I am taking classes to become a better actress.

ME: What do you like most about acting?
TYKIME: I like the fact that you can change into a different person.

ME: Please describe for the audience what you are wearing.
TYKIME: I am wearing an aquamarine evening gown with silver shoes.

ME: It's a beautiful gown and you look great in it. Where did you purchase your gown and shoes from?
TYKIME: I purchased the evening gown from Macy's. I purchased the shoes from a little boutique on Jamaica Avenue.

ME: Where did you get your hair done?
TYKIME: I got my hair done at a salon located in Jamaica off of Sutphin Blvd. and Jamaica Avenue. My stylist's name is "Isabel."

ME: Where else could you wear this outfit?
TYKIME: This outfit could be worn to almost any formal affair. (Anniversary dinner, award ceremony, etc.)

ME: How would you describe your fashion style?
TYKIME: I would describe my fashion style as "Sexy", "Classy" and "Fun"

ME:No sooner than Tykime uses the word "fun" to describe her fashion style, she changes into her business suit and we were able to take the following photos. Tykime really enjoys looking her best and she can't wait to introduce everyone to her "fun" side.

ME: Where did you purchase this suit?
Tykime: This is an Ann Taylor suit that I purchased from Macy's.

ME: And the shoes?
Tykime: I got the shoes from Nine West.


ME: Thanks for your identifying your outfit for us. If the readers want to know a little bit more about "Tykime Davis", what are three words that you would use to describe yourself?
TYKIME: 1) Spiritual 2) Loving 3) Focused


ME: Finally, in your opinion, what are three must have items for the winter season?
TYKIME: 1) Scarf 2) Boots 3) Hat

ME: Tykime I want to take this tme to thank you for your time and for participating in this weeks edition of the MET Fashion Photo Shoot Blog.
TYKIME: Your very welcome.

MET Fashion Photo Show Presents "Simone Lord"

Welcome back everyone, I would like to wish everyone a Happy New Year, and best wishes for 2011 for you and your family. This is the first blog for the new year. I have chosen to interview a very positive young lady who believes in supporting her community, and working with young people. She is constantly on the move as the Editor In Chief of "Around Town" Magazine. At this time I would like to introduce you to Ms. "Simone Lord".



ME: Good evening Simone, and thank you for taking the time out to share yourself with my audience. I appreciate you sharing your fashion sense, as well as your views on how we can improve our communities. At this time I would like to give the audience a little background information about you. Simone is the Owner and Editor In Chief of "Around Town" magazine. You have probably seen her publication in professional establishments around the city, primarily in the Southeast section of Queens. Simone has interviewed celebrities, entrepreneurs, and everyday New Yorkers for her publication.


When Simone is not publishing her magazine, there is very little time for anything else. She is constantly running around the city interviewing people for her magazine, she is also an author whose projects we will discuss shortly. She is currently working on a new project to help homeless, teenage mothers.

ME: Simone I would like you to discuss your magazine for the audience please.
SIMONE: Good evening everyone, my name is Simone Lord and I am the editor of Around Town magazine. The magazine is based on my interviews with different people from all walks of life. I am focusing on "Community Empowerment".

ME: Can you please tell the audience what that means to you?
SIMONE: In addition, I want to help teenagers read more. One of the things that I find fascinating about the magazine is being able to talk to young people about it. I want to set an example for teenagers. I want them to go out into the world and to better themselves.



ME: You talk a lot about teenagers, is your magazine designed for teenagers?
SIMONE: No, teenagers are a part of the magazine as is everyone else. Teenagers are a very important part of the audience because they are our future.

ME: Who would you say is your target audience?
SIMONE: I would say that my target audience is men and women ages 16 through 50+. I write articles about positive role models that do great things for their country, and the communities in which they serve. I want these same people to influence the younger generation to do wonderful things in and around their communities as well.

ME: Simone, you are a positive role model for young women. Your style of dress exudes confidence, style and grace. These three traits are very important for young women. Please describe the first outfit that we have featured in our photo gallery.
SIMONE: This is a red dress that I picked in the city and to be perfectly honest with you I cannot remember the store that I purchased it from. However, I do know that I purchased it somewhere in Manhattan. (Lol)



ME: Thanks Simone, we definitely appreciate your honesty! (Lol) Please tell the audience about your novel.
SIMONE: I have written a book entitled "The Last Castle In Brooklyn". It will be followed up with a play sometime in 2011.

SIMONE: It is a novel about an enchanted castle in East New York, Brooklyn. Only time will tell if the main character, Mariah will emerge victorious from the evil that holds her captive as she is drawn to the castle's keeper, the creepy old Reverend Blake, like a moth to the flame. You can read more by downloading the eBook at www.smashwords.com/LadySimone or order a hard copy from Amazon.com or Barnes & Nobles, for a signed copy log on to www.AroundTownTV.com.

ME: Congratulations on the book. Can you please tell the audience about your next project, one that is very dear, and close to your heart?
SIMONE: My pet project is our Royal People Group non-profit where we are building up the castle in the book and restoring it into a castle home for young homeless pregnant mother and their children. We want them to know that they have royalty within and can be somebody. Proceeds from the sale of the book go towards building up the castle. Please donate to our cause by going to www.Zioncastle.blogspot.com. Together we can make a difference in whether a young pregnant girl sleeps on the train or not.


ME: Thank you for sharing that with us. If any member of our audience would like to purchase your novel, or make a donation with any of your projects, what is the best way to contact you?
SIMONE: You can help donate to our cause and receive further information about my projects by going to www.Zioncastle.blogspot.com.


ME: Now it's time to get into more detail about you being a "Fashionista". You are the second person to describe herself as such. [For those of you that remember, Ms. Shondel Jones from our last edition also described herself as a "Fashionista". You can view her interview by scrolling down behind this edition]

ME: Please tell the audience about the outfit that you are wearing right now and who is responsible for your beautiful hairstyle.
SIMONE: I purchased my dress from the Queens Center Mall. My bag was custom made by “Machijah located on Atlantic Avenue in Brooklyn. My hair was done by”Snakx” Beauty Salon located in Queens.



ME: How do you describe your fashion style?
SIMONE: I would describe my style as "Elegant", "Eclectic", and "Fashionistic"

ME: What helps make one a fashionista?
SIMONE: It's all about the "glam".

ME: What are three words that you would use to describe yourself and why?
SIMONE:
1) "Enterprising" I am always thinking about "business". I want to know everything there is to know about business and what I can do to be successful.
2) "Prolific" I am writing all of the time and consider myself a prolific writer.
3) "Caring" I am a person who cares a great deal about the community. You have to be involved and you have to make a difference.

ME: What are three must have items in your opinion for this winter?
SIMONE: 1) Over the knee boots 2) Juicy Couture jewelry to accessories
3) Poppin’ lip gloss



ME: With that being said what final words would you like to leave the audience with? SIMONE: We should all strive to be more like President Obama and Michelle Obama and Darryl Madison. I had the pleasure of meeting them both and shaking hands with them, that hand shake has inspired me to keep on going through the tough times. These are people who reach down and help pull others up. Lend a hand to someone in need; it should not always be about getting paid. Volunteer more, do something good for someone and see how your life will be enriched. Let's support each other now. I thank you so much Darryl for supporting me, my work, and my vision. One love, and best blessings to you and your readers.

ME: Thank you for the plug Simone. (Lol) Well ladies and gentlemen; this concludes another edition of the Fashion Photo Show Blog, see you next time.

The MET Fashion Photo Show Presents "Shandel Jones"

Welcome back everyone. Today I am proud to introduce you to Ms. Shandel Jones. Shandel is a young, self described "Fashionista" who loves to shop. I had the pleasure of photographing Shandel and her boyfriend Raheem in the Downtown section of Brooklyn. When we did today's photo shoot, it was very cold outside. Since it's December, and we are talking about "winter wardrobes", the day couldn't have been better. Shandel was accompanied by her boyfriend Raheem. He agreed to take some photographs with her. I asked them to meet me on Jay Street in the Downtown section of Brooklyn. When both parties arrived, they were coincidentally wearing the same colors. (Black and Gray) Needless to say this made the interview very easy. I started off our interview by asking Shandel about her outfit.


ME: You both said that you had no idea what colors you were wearing for today's photo shoot. How long have you guys been dating?
SHANDEL: We've been dating for about a year and a half. We actually do pick up on each others thoughts very well. This isn't the first time that we've been out with the same colors on. We just look at each other like "Were you peeking inside of my window today?" Most of the time we will now check with each other to see what color the other one is wearing so that we won't look like twins.

ME: Do you ever dress alike intentionally?
SHANDEL: Never! He thinks that dressing alike is lame.

ME: Shandel, Can you please describe what you are wearing for the audience?
SHANDEL: My outfit is a basic, winter, work day outfit. Grey slacks, black shirt, black wool coat, and grey and black boots.


ME: And where did you purchase your outfit from?
SHANDEL: I purchased my slacks and shirt from Banana Republic. The coat I believe was purchased from Century 21. The coat was designed by Jessica Simpson. I bought the boots from "heels.com" and they were designed by "Luichiny."

ME: Where did you get your hair done, and who is your stylist?
SHANDEL: I get my hair done at a salon upstate in Poughkeepsie called "The Golden Girls Beauty Salon located at 400 Main Street. My stylist's name is Tonya.

ME: Thank you Shandel, and if you wouldn't mind, please tell the audience what you look for when you go shopping?
SHANDEL: I look for things that are loud, bold and different. Anything (Especially shoes and stockings) that will make someone turn their heads and look twice, that's what I look for.

ME: How would you describe your fashion style?
SHANDEL: My fashion sense is very versatile. But for the most part, I'm really "girly." I love heels and the taller the heel, the better. I also love dresses and skirts.


ME: What are three must have items for the upcoming winter season?
SHANDEL: Wow, only three things? There are so many things that a woman must have going into the enter. But if I had to narrow it down, I guess that I would say every woman needs a nice pair of boots that can be dressed up or dressed down. A nice coat is a must have item. Maybe a wool coat or even a Military style coat. Military coats seem to be in this season. Finally, a nice pair of snow boots, preferably some "Uggs" boots. I picked Uggs boots because they are warm and it looks like it's going to be a bad winter.












ME: The audience is now getting a sense of who you are as a fashionista. What are three words that you would use to best describe yourself for the audience?
SHANDEL: Confident, Creative and a Shoe-a-holic.

ME: Shandel I want to take this time to personally thank you and your boyfriend for taking the time for the photo shoot and answering the questions for today's blog.

MET Fashion Photo Show Presents "Starr Entertainment"

Good afternoon and welcome to another edition of the MET Fashion Photo Show Blog. New York City has many venues. One of its larger ones is the New York City Subway system. Today I traveled on the "A" train and ended up at the Chamber's Street station. I had the pleasure of meeting Rogerst Charles and Tony Brown, better known as "Starr Entertainment." These two musicians play music on the platforms of subway platforms to the delight of many passengers. Tony is the guitarist and Rogerst is the saxophone player.

As Roger and Tony played their musical instruments, passengers both young and old took time out of their busy schedules to listen to them play. In addition to giving their time, they gave their money as well. The duo play both popular and classic songs that cater to everyone that uses the subway system. I had the pleasure of interviewing the two of them in between sessions.

ME: How long have you been performing in the subway?
TONY/ROGERST: Its been about 2 years


ME: What is your favorite memory while performing in the subway?
TONY/ROGERST: A girl came up to me crying saying that she had a really bad day. She said that our music helped her feel better. She gave us two dollars and said that we are a blessing.

ME: When you are not performing in the subway where can people hear you play?
TONY/ROGERST: We perform in church (At the Zion Cathedral
in Freeport Long Island) and we have an album release date of December 18th.


ME: Congratulations, how would you describe your music?
TONY/ROGERST: It's a mixture of jazz, R & B and gospel music.

ME: What is the hardest thing about performing in the subway?
TONY/ROGERST: Being heard and playing songs that everyone can relate to. We want to reach everyone. Dealing with the authorities is sometimes a problem because they want to know if you have a permit.

ME: What advice would you give to someone who is looking to perform in the subway?
TONY/ROGERST: Make sure that you're good at performing music. New Yorker's know real talent. They know when you are faking it. You also have to get a permit to perform in the subway. It becomes a real hassle if you don't have a permit and you're questioned by the police.

ME: In keeping true to the blog I have to ask you some questions about your clothing style. Rogerst, please tell the audience what you are wearing and where you purchased it from.
ROGERST: I'm wearing PUMA sneakers, blue jeans and a black tee-shirt. I purchased everything from Daffy's in the city.
TONY: I'm wearing a brown skull cap, a brown sweater, black jeans and black and white NIKE sneakers. I honestly don't know where I purchased my clothes from but I do know that I purchased them in the city somewhere. (With all fairness Tony did not know about the interview until a minute before I started asking questions)

ME: Rogerst, how long have you been playing the saxophone? (Rogerst plays the alto saxophone)
ROGERST: I've been playing for 8 years.
ME: And Tony, how long have you been playing the guitar?
TONY: I've been playing the guitar for "Too Long!" Lol


This is the picture that I took of Tony that best describes, and shows the essense of his music. Notice the three people that are standing behind him. He was playing the guitar so well that a crowd started to gather around them. I want you to get the total picture so that you can get a sense, and a feel of what I see and hear.

Please don't get me wrong, Rogerst is just as good as Tony when it comes to playing his instrument, but you just can't see Rogerst moving about the platform like he does which truly does not give justice to his performance. A video clip would provide a better glimpse of his true talent but since we only have photographs, I am hoping that these next few photographs will do him justice.




ME: Rogerst, what are three words that you would use to best describe yourself?
ROGERST: Three words that I would use to describe myself would be 1) "Determined"
2) "Different" 3) "Always Changing" (I informed Rogerst that this was indeed four words but because of his amazing, musical gifts we would forgive him this time)

ME: Tony, I'm going to ask you the same question, please describe three words that you would use to best describe yourself.
TONY: Wow, that's not an easy thing to do but if I had to use three words to describe myself, I would say 1) Honest 2) Open Minded 3) Fun (I should have asked him for four words to describe himself as well but never the less his abilities definitely allow for a pass.)

Gentlemen, I want to take this time to thank you for allowing me and everyone else to hear your music. What message would you like to leave the audience with at this time?
TONY: Smile!

If you want to learn more about Tony and Rogerst, or to learn more about their music, please send them a message at abrownguitar@gmail.com for more information on their performance schedule.