Blacc Topp was born to a father who was a gangster turned preacher and a mother who was a singer, artist, and scholar. Blacc Topp was born in Benton Harbor, MI and raised in South Dallas, Texas. At the age of 13, he lost his father who was very instrumental in ensuring that he walked a straight and narrow path. After the death of his father, feeling as though he had nowhere to turn, he turned to the neighborhood gang, Dixon Circle 357um Gangsta Crips. Although he was deep in the gang he continued to excel in his studies for fear that his mother would make him move to Florida if there was a slip in his academic performance. Even though Blacc Topp did well in school, the gang still remained a big part of his life and he was headed down a path that could only lead to jail or a casket! By age nineteen, he was on his way to the Texas Department of Corrections with a forty year prison sentence. Through his pain, he began to chronicle his life, his mishaps and his capers which gave birth to The Hustle Chronicles, his debut novel and soundtrack of the same name, which was released November 23, 2012. Blacc Topp has gone on to release five other titles, The Hustle Chronicles 2 and 3, Tainted, Corporate Amerikkka and the newly released Tainted Too! Blacc Topp is the first African American Urban Author to have a mobile gaming app created and named after his Hustle Chronicles Trilogy novels, which was released, November 29, 2013. Satoya Smith is a native of Daingerfield, Texas. She has been an author for just about a year. Her debut short story titled “Tied In A Bow” chronicles true to life events. With her debut book, she hopes to empower and motivate. She is currently going to school to obtain her Bachelors’ in Psychology. She plans to continue with her writing, bringing her stories to life. She hopes to focus her writing in the fiction & non-fiction genres.
Peter Mack is the author of Dirty Licks, his forth published novel. It follows his erotic romance trilogy featuring Ayana Cherry. He is from Los Angeles, California and writes with a witty flow that is dramatic and innovative for its delivery and content. Dirty Licks is a novel collective that finds twin brothers caught in a scheme to kidnap a murderous drug dealer's wife whip trying to escape a crooked narcotics detective. The reader is thrust into a world of sexual fetish and amateur criminal hijinks.. Tonya M Barber was born and raised in Newark, NJ where she currently resides. Her love of the written word began at the tender age of twelve, developing poetry that read like stories. During her writing journey, she discovered that her craft was not only entertainment, a way to pull people into her imaginary world but it was and always will be a form of therapy, a way to cleanse her soul. To date, Tonya has had a few of her poems published in anthologies in the UK. She has self published three poetry books, one short story, four romance novels and four urban literature books including "The Changing The Game" series. You can contact Tonya at: Authortonyabarber.com Authortonyabarber@gmail.com On Facebook and Twitter @ladytb
Elijah believes that although he never went to prison or hasn't experienced certain things dealing with street life that he is just as important to Urban Fiction and African American Literature as whole as the people who have. He knows what its like to be homeless and not have a dollar to his name. He knows what it's like to have nearly everyone close to you turn their backs on you. He knows what its like to lose one of the most important people in a person's life (His Mother) and have to fend for self and find his own way. And he believes that he brings some of that to life in his work. His titles have strong messages in them and his mission is to have you wanting more. Elijah works hard on his craft and works hard to make sure the growth is shown and seen in every release. There will much more to come in the horizons for this young talent. Reds Johnson is a twenty-one year old author from New Jersey. She is currently signed to Lock Down Publications. To be such a young woman, the stories that she wrote hit so close to home for many. After being homeless and watching her mother struggle for many years, Reds knew that it was time to strive harder. Her passion seeped through her pores so she knew that it was only a matter of time before someone gave her a chance. Not only does she write , but she's looking to be an inspirational/motivational speaker for teenagers. Being a victim of rape, and being bullied when she was younger and as she entered her adult years; Reds knows that she could be an inspiration to some. One of her main goals is to provide for her family and make sure her nieces and nephews have something to look forward to in the future.
Unique Penn is originally from Chicago, IL and currently resides in Italy with her husband and two children. A degree in History with a concentration in Black American Studies helped to foster her love of reading and writing literature. Her stories will invite into the hearts, minds, and lives of her characters. And allow the reader to examine the depths of their own morality through clever plots, intricate characters and surprising story lines. My name is Latitta Waggoner, I am currently residing in Orange, Texas!! I'm a country girl! I am a mother of three. I am a substitute teacher and a hospitality aide at a nursing home. I also write full time. My bestselling debut novel is Can't Stand the Rain and is available NOW on Amazon. Writing is definitely my passion and I definitely plan on making a career out of it. I desire to take my writing as far as plays, movies, and tv series in the near future. Can't Stand the Rain Part Two will be coming soon, as well as part one of my new series.
Chatiela Underwood is very active and engaged in the community and the education sector. She has passionately worked in higher education and directed schools across the country in business development for over ten years. Ms. Underwood, loves to spend quality time with friends, family and travel. She also is a Motivational speaker and truly believes in inspiring others through her testimony. She is sophisticatedly passionate about making a difference in the lives of others, and was encouraged to share her compelling story by writing her debut novel “Eyes Wide Shut.” Sonya Felice Jenkins, former model, former professional singer/songwriter, professional and corporate certified trainer, life coach, mentor, entrepreneur, host of the Internet radio show, "Raven's Closet Talk Show," and now a published author. Stepping from out of the spotlight now going behind the scenes is where she feels the most comfortable. January 2012, Sonya created, produced and hosted “Raven’s Closet Talk Show.” A show focused on adult theme topics such as love/relationships, health/wellness, financial/entrepreneurial, motivation/encouragement and other adult topics. Raven’s Closet Talk Show broadcast live for 2 seasons. While on hiatus from hosting, Sonya took the time to focus on her next venture which would be self-publishing her book. Writing took hold of Sonya in high school and refused to let go, but the creativity and imagination has always been a big part of who she is and how she has been able to adapt and thrive in various industries over her personal and professional life.
On this episode of SWAG RADIO, Yara Kaleemah will be talking with author J Summers and author Sharnel Williams. Join us for an exclusive interview of two authors who are breaking into the literary world and sharing their talents across the nation!
On this episode of SWAG Radio, Yara Kaleemah will be chatting with Akilam and Chimia about their outstanding novels. Malika Dews fell in love with reading around 18 years ago. She’d frequent the library leaving sometimes with five plus books. She often participated in summer reading contests’ as well. When The Coldest Winter Ever was released in 1999 by Sista Souljah, she developed a love for street literature and started to read more of that genre. She chose authors like Treasure Blue, Donald Goines and several others that were authors under Triple Crown Publications. In 2001, while following Kimberla Lawson Roby's literary work (The Rev. Curtis Black series), she found herself reading more and more. This soon turned her into an avid reader choosing different genres and also a variety of series and stand alone titles. In the fall of 2008, she picked up A Hustler’s Son by Toy Styles. This was before Toy launched The Cartel Publications. Malika loved the book so much, she reached out to her via email and they shared an insightful conversation. She knew then that she wanted to write a book. However, she still did not pick up a pen for fear of failure which delayed her writing. In the winter of 2012, Malika came across a contest on Facebook which required a short store submission with the max word count of 12,000. Her first day after two rewrites and a test read by her mother, the response was “girl you better not submit this. Write your own book.” That same book, is now almost 40,000 words and still yet to be released. The creativity she's bringing to the literary world will be under the genres' of Urban, Drama, Erotica, Romance, Christian Fiction. Chimia Y. Hill-Burton was born in Chattanooga, Tennessee in December of 1981. She was raised in Giessen, Germany. Chimia is the proud daughter of Arline Crawford-Stevens and Eric Hill. She is the eldest child of four children, her brothers Henry, Lemuel and sister Hadijah.
Tonight on SWAG Radio, Yara Kaleemah will be talking with Shawn Starling.
Kenni York is the author of over 11 titles to date. Kenni's love for the literary arts drives her every move. She has ghost written several novels, teaches creative writing classes for youth and adults in Atlanta, serves as the creative and executive producer for the online series Literary Ladies of the ATL, while still finding the time to pen her own titles. Kenni's works have a creative flare that is a combination of mind blowing dialogue, vivid details, and compelling story lines. Her goal is to make a difference with all of her projects and not just a dollar. In southern Dallas, Texas, Sunny Giovanni, or "Gio" as she likes to be called, was born on the fifth day of June in 1989. Born to a mother who was a teacher and a graduate from Texas A&M University, you couldn't so much as watch a Disney movie if you hadn't read the book before hand. Gio has had a very strong history with literature, diversifying from poetry (winning placements in oratorical contests), to thriller short stories as a way to vent her frustrations. My name is Sherene Holly Cain. I was born prematurely 3 months early in a car to Gwendolyn Baker and Sammie Holly. I was raised in Compton, CA. I'm 40+ and married to a wonderful man by the name of Darrell Cain. I have 3 beautiful children. My oldest son Demetri is 23 and I have a set of twins, I'munique and Shameek, age 15. I love reading, singing, cooking, and of course writing. I have a full time government job but hope to one day pursue my writing on a full time basis. Writing has been my passion for as long as I can remember. I wrote a stage play at age 9 and several poems, songs and short stories thereafter.
Briana Cole is an Atlanta native and proud mother of two. Having graduated from Georgia Southern University in 2009, she immediately began working for the federal government. Briana enjoys acting and public speaking but writing is her first passion. She has coined the term 'spiceual' to describe her style of writing; a mix of spicy and sensual romance that stimulates the reader mentally, physically, and emotionally. Tired of reading the same type of books in the urban industry, Briana prides herself on bringing unique plots and a distinct voice to the bookshelves. Her debut novel, Heart Breaker, is only the beginning in, what Briana considers, ‘a new experience’ in African-American literature. Her motto and ultimate drive towards success is a famous quote from Mae West: "You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough."My name is Margaret Flack and my pen name or other persona is Mz. Demeanor. I am a 32 year old Louisville, Kentucky native (Derby city stand up). In October of 2014 author and CEO of Write House Publishing, Cole Hart signed me. In November 2014 I came out with my first book series called Bout Last Night. As of March 26 My second series A Hood Love in Atlanta was published. When I am not writing I am working on my masters in criminal justice which I will complete in October. I have no children right now just a husband and a very spoiled dog named Gnarls Barkley. I am not sure what the future holds because I allow God to order my steps. I appreciate the blueprint that I have been given and I intend to keep building from it.
On this episode of SWAG Radio, Yara Kaleemah and Deidre Lashay will be interviewing A'Zayler and Dimitria Davenport. A'Zayler: Patrice Watts is a Graduate student furthering her knowledge of Criminal Justice at Troy University. She is expected to graduate in 2016 with her Master’s degree. She’s a graduate of Columbus State University, where she obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Sociology. She has plans of becoming a social worker for juvenile offenders, and adopted children upon completion of her second degree. When asked about what compelled her to writing she answered, her love for reading. She says reading provides her with a plethora of ideas, and imaginable escapes from reality. Growing up, reading was her favorite past time and still is today. Dimitria: Dimitria Davenport was born in Jersey City NJ. She attended Bethune Cookman College but left shorty after and begain a career in Business Mgt.She enjoyed her job but knew she was destine to become writer.She'd been writing poetry since 7th grade.From poetry to Writing short stories.At the age of 17 she begin dating drug dealers who'd quickly introduce her to another form of living.From there she had a serious addiction to greed which inspired her very first novel "Token" Although the character is completely the opposite the one Dimitria a lot of the events hold truth.With more great stories to come Dimitria is definitely the new Author to watch.Dimitria now resides in Florida with her lovely Husband and best friend of many years Jesse and her sons whose also known as her boyz :Justin ,Carlton,(CJ) Elijah.
Latoya Chandler is a New York-based writer. She enjoys her career as an executive assistant to the CEO of a non-profit organization. When not busy writing or burying her nose in books of the urban romance/fiction persuasion, Latoya enjoys spending time with her family, which includes her five loving children and her very patient better half. In October of 2013, Latoya’s life changed drastically when she realized she wasn’t crazy and the people talking—or the voices in her head—were actually the voices of her potential characters desperately wanting to be heard. She began writing and before she knew it, she had penned her first novel, Torn: I Don’t Need You, But I Want You. Latoya’s pride and joy was released and published January 1st through her long-desired personal publishing company, Passion Publications. Writer’s Bio Karen N. Cummings Karen has had a love for words since she has been able to speak. Her passion began with her competitive classroom spelling Bees. Her love for speaking continued into High school when she placed third in a state public speaking competition for VOCA. Her dad proudly displays the plaque on his wall to this very day. She never saw her passion developing into what she can only describe today as an amazing blessing. Karen has worked in the medical field for 25 plus years and continues to do what she does best, be a support system for others and provide comfort. She has combined her love and passion to create books of entertainment while touching on real life situations. Karen's first title, "Grey Family Preys" was published in June 2013, via Amazon Kindle as well as paperback, and touches on Child Molestation. She later signed with World Haven Agenda for a short period before gracefully departing with the Publishing group. Karen is now the entrepreneur of Pensive Publishing, a small publishing company that she began in June 2014, and delivered "She Me We", as the first title, a short story written by Neal. This story touches
On this episode of SWAG Radio Deidre Lashay and Yara Kaleemah will interview romance author, Xyla Turner. Xyla Turner was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York. She has always been a writer, even as a teenager, she wrote short stories and essays that won awards and nation-wide competitions. Xyla is an avid reader of romance novels and a sucker for sassy females and dominant males. She is a lifelong learner, Vice-Principal at a Brooklyn High School and a pretty good Auntie. Outside of reading, Xyla likes to spend time with her family and friends, experiment with dangerous adventures and travel. She writes different genres, but her favorite is contemporary romance. Xyla has her Bachelor’s degree in Education and Masters in Education Administration. She is also a web designer and a Life Coach. She will forever be an educator, innovator and entrepreneur. Ready to break into the writing scene with her debut novel The Chase, Xyla will merge her interest in social nuances and incorporate them into romantic story lines.
Gossip Village Radio will explore a plethora of topics and will be used as a voice for the silent.
Tonight Yara Kaleemah and Deidre Leshay will talk with Montez about making music!!
Tonight on SWAG Radio, Deidra Lashay and Yara Kaleemah will be chatting live with Shantay and a host of authors from Boss Chic Publications. Boss ChicEmpire is ran by Shanty, author of the Boss Chic Series. Shantay is the CEO of Boss Chic Empire Publications. At only 19-years-old writing comes easy to her. She first hit the literary scene in July of 2014 where she was signed to Sullivan Productions, LLC. Her first debut novel was entitled "A Boss Chic: A Love Story" by the end of the weekend her book skyrocketed to number one on the Urban Best Selling Charts on Amazon. She stuck to her guns and made her first novel be the motivation she needed to continue. Shantay had dabbled in writing before but it didn't seem to work out for her. She was more into reading Urban Fiction. When she was convinced and persuaded by her best friend to try and write again for a hobby she was shocked that her story was flowing naturally. When she found her pace and her flow she took further steps of being a published author. Bring you to today she is currently working one of her many books and running the company. She started Boss Chic Empire to target young girls that have a bright literary future to take under her wings. She is currently molding and shaping her authors to bring out the best that they can be.
Yara Kaleemah was born and raised in Newark NJ where she attends NJCU and studies to become a sociologist. Currently, she owns SWAG Presents and has six published novels. Yara is also the host of this show, SWAG Radio. During her free time, Yara enjoys sewing and quiet time at the movies. This week, her book Even the Bluest Eyes will be released...
Zakariyya Syed Ramadan, Colors started life in Manhattan, Kansas in 1979, where soon after he became a native to South Carolina where he reps and roams to this day. Deciding between basketball and music, Colors always knew music was his destined path. Starting out with the group "Fatal Instinct" where he was known as Sassy G and Sleazy Z. The summer of 97 was the birth of Dangerous Alliance. Which expanded and decreased in members over the years leading to Colors working on his own recorded solo project "Time Waits For No Man". Today the rapper, promoter, and networker stays very busy. With everything from shows & features on other artists’ tracks, to promoting his double disk mixtape entitled "Where's The Love" that dropped February 5, 2011. Also he shot 7music videos entitled “Keep It 100” featuring Quana P of singing dual NYA “Not Your Average” also shot J.O.B featuring Harmony Ella also Sun Don’t Shine featuring Lady J and Madam Lishes the album version of the song also features Alazae.COLORSBLIND FEAT DAWANNA PRICE N ANJAE,HERE NOW FEAT JEY BROWN,WHERE'S THE LOVEFEAT TAMARA JOHNSON.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hyo4O43NBRU ,ALBUM VERSION FEAT TIA-G,AND REALTALK FEATSHALANDA DAVIS Stay tuned more videos to come. Also he’s been working on his long awaited album "Time Waits For No Man, The Progression" schedule to drop june5 of 2012. Colors was also A&R for Jigalow Records bringing in new talents.
On this episode of SWAG Radio, Yara and Deidra will be chopping it up with Elain Wood and Davino Dixon. Join us for a conversation about becoming successful authors and adventurous entrepreneurs.
On this episode of SWAG Radio, Yara Kaleemah will be talking to none other than Slyce of Slyce the Book Club. Marilyn Brown is known for extending her time to upcoming authors in the interrogation room but we will find out if she can stand the heat on SWAG Radio with Yara Kaleemah and Deidre Lashay!