EASTER SPECIALS WITH LALA THE BEAUTY

We having an Easter specials with the lovely eyecandy, glamour model, hair stylist and actress Latrell Dickinson. Latrell Dickinson who is popularly known as " Lala The Beauty ", is originally from Columbus Georgia. She's fun, easy going, down to earth, professional and reliable. She's very versatile in her poses for photo shoots, I guess the moniker Chameleon fits perfectly cause she easily adapts and creates the concept requested, she is also a very skilled hairstylist and actress. Here is another rising star, stick around cause we got more intriguing tales on the way...



UVB: Hi Lala, tell us about yourself? Where you from originally, And what was it like growing up in your neighborhood?

Lala: Born and raised in Columbus, GA. Oldest of 4 children. My neighborhood was like any other neighborhood. I'm still close to everyone I grew up with. They don't see me as LaLa the model or actress. I'm Latrell, the quiet shy girl with the pretty eyes.

UVB: Whats the best trait about you? And how would you describe your personality in three words?

Lala: Girl Next Door!

UVB: Whats the biggest misconception about you?

Lala: That I am arrogant or just some dumb model. I keep them guessing.

UVB: People would be surprised to know that...?

Lala: I am very shy.

UVB: What do you think your best physical feature(s) is? And what physical feature(s) do you like to show off...?

Lala: I love my overall appearance. What God has given me are gifts, therefore; I am grateful. There are some features I dislike, so I know how to enhance them. My eyes are what makes my overall look unique. They change colors, different tones of amber and green often. Its weird but cool.

UVB: Whats one thing you wouldn't be able to go through the day
without...?

Lala: Vlassics Original Dill Pickles. I even travel with them.



UVB: You are a model, actress and hairstylist, how do you work three careers without them having to clash with one another?

Lala: No, I work specific days in the salon and specific days as a model/actress. My schedule in the salon is very flexible. My clients are aware and don't mind if I have to leave short notice. They are very supportive of my new career.

UVB: Ever had a time when two or all three were check listed into the same scheduled day or time for a gig or gigs? And how did you work it out?

Lala: Some gigs have ran over into the next. I always notify them of my schedule in advance that way if I am running late or may not be able to show, they are aware of my busy schedule.

UVB: In between modeling, acting and hairstyling do you have much needed time for yourself? When you not in front of the cameras or working your magic on hair, what do you do to relax or keep yourself busy?

Lala: I enjoy spending time with my family and friends during my down time. Its important to me that I balance both work and family time.

UVB: Whats the sexiest outfit you will wear in public? And whats the first thing a man or woman would compliment you for when you strutting your booty down the streets? What part(s) of your body gets more attention from guys?

Lala: I'm a jeans. tee, and large hoop earrings type girl. Your average girl from the block. My legs and eyes get the most attention.

UVB: Whats the craziest thing a fan has done to try to get your attention?

Lala: I get the usual, flowers, love letters, and marriage proposals. I haven't gotten anything crazy yet.

UVB: Is you single or taken? If taken how does your man handle the drama you get from modeling and acting? And if not whats a thing or two he or she must know about you before planning dates, movie nights or a romantic getaway with you?

Lala: I love the beach. A beach vacation would be the ultimate date.



UVB: A man would impress you if...? And whats the simplest thing that can make you happy?

Lala: If I tell you, he will know!

UVB: Laughs, hmm nice one.

UVB: A man would disappoint you if...?

Lala: I've been disappointed a thousand times. Nothing surprises me now.

UVB: In a relationship do you tend to be passive or aggressive?

Lala: I don't think I'm either. I tend to go with the flow. Whatever happens,happens.

UVB: Do you consider yourself a sexual person? When it comes to sex do you like to be in control or taken control of?

Lala: Leaders allow someone else to take charge every once in awhile ;-)

UVB: Bedroom fantasies, turn on and turn offs? And whats your most important rule of bedroom etiquette?

Lala: Make it spontaneous and change things up every once in a while. Don't constantly hit the repeat button.

UVB: Whats your philosophy on love, life, sex and relationships?

Lala: Live Life with no regrets. As far as relationships and love, I haven't figured it out yet.



UVB: What was your experience like on your first shoot?

Lala: My first shoot was fun. I didn't know the things I know now, and I'm still learning. One of my most talked about shots was produced from my first shoot. My body wasn't used to holding the poses for such a long time. I was sore for days.

UVB: How long have you been modeling? What was your first big break and do you think that has created a better platform for you as a model?

Lala: I have been modeling for a while on an off. I decided to finally introduce myself fully to the industry last summer. Its been going full throttle since then. I haven't gotten my big break yet, this is just the beginning.

UVB: People tend to believe modeling is all glitz and glam but fail to see the rough patches within, the preparation, networking and ton of work been put to it to get the desired results. Can you tell us and other aspiring models some of the challenges you have encountered and how do you keep your grind on point?

Lala: Patience will be the greatest challenge. Above all else, be polite and always say thank you. I can't stress that enough. Don't give up on your dream. One models market may not be the same for you. Find out what makes you unique and focus on selling just that. Sell your product, no one elses.

UVB: What are some of the things you enjoy most being a model? What are your best experiences so far?

Lala: best experiences is viewing the finished images. I'm always surprised to see the outcome. Till this day, I don't quite believe those are pictures of me.

UVB: What inspired you into acting and hairstyling?

Lala: My inspirations as an actor started when I was in elementary school. My 4th grade teacher must have put on a play every month. I loved the freedom of transformation. In middle school I joined a local company that did stage acts annually in my hometown. Hairstyling has always been apart of me.

UVB: I read on your resume you have been seen on "Blossoms For Clara" movie. For those of us who haven't seen it, can you tell us what the movie is all about? What character did you play in the movie? And what was your experience like on and off stage?

Lala: "Blossoms for Clara" is a short drama SAG film, that was produced by Colossal Film works. It was influenced by the sounds of the great musician Duke Ellington. I was partnered with Brian Greene (Facebook) as a romantic couple in the jazz club. It was a great experience and I worked with some wonderful people. The movie stars Jasmine Guy, Ed Silvera, Dasie Thames and Daniel DiPiazza.



UVB: Whats the best way to tame wild curls? And whats your favorite type of hair to work with?

Lala: Wild curls must have lots of moisture and very light silking oils. I mix my own concoction of silk oil, conditioner and water. Works every time.

UVB: How do you feel hair relates to personal style? And how do you think hair relates to a persons confidence?

Lala: My hair is the cherry on the sundae. If its not what it should be then my look is not complete.

UVB: Which styling tools do you use most often?

Lala: Flat Iron

UVB: Whats your favorite hair product you had recommend to friends, family and clients to use?

Lala: Hands down, Paul Mitchell Products and Frederic Fekkai

UVB: How did you get started in the hair styling world?

Lala: After receiving my first barbie when I was a young child, I knew I wanted to do hair. I was amazed at how a woman's hair could change her appearance.

UVB: Are you a self taught hair stylist or did you attend special classes for it?

Lala: Most was self taught and experimenting. Classes help only if you have the patience to sit through them



UVB: How long have you been doing hairstyling professionally?

Lala: After graduating high school

UVB: You have an amazing body build and features do you hit the gym or is black, native American and Indian just the perfect mix of genes?

Lala: I jog 5 days a week. I love to run, have been doing so since I was child.. My workout is a mix of cardio, weight training, yoga, and pilates. I owe my legs to my mother. The eyes, chin, skin tone and whatever else to my great great grandmother who was Caucasian and Native American. My great great grandfather was also Caucasian and African American. I was blessed to have their features pass on to me.

UVB: Some models tend to do breathing exercises before a shoot others just tune into the mood bringing out that sexy-confident and fierce look for the camera and just work the magic. How do you get prepared for a shoot? Do you have sorta like a routine planned out or it just comes to you naturally?

Lala: I prepare and research the photographer weeks in advance to get an idea of his style of shooting. The night before is spent packing last minute stuff. Once shooting begins, I get a feel for what I'm wearing or what the concept is and observe my surrounding. Adapting like a chameleon I become "TheBeauty"

UVB: What other projects have you been apart of? And what other projects do you have in the works that your fans should be on the look out for?

Lala: I have completed several drama films this past year. I am currently working on two horror films that will be released Halloween 2011. A few cameos in music videos and sitcoms as well. "TheBeauty" 2012 calendar is in progress as well as exclusive posters, trading cards, and wallpapers.

UVB: Where can the readers find you online?

FreedomUnlimited
www.freedomunltd.com

Facebook: Lala Dickinson or LaLa TheBeauty Dickinson Fan Page

Twitter: LaLaTheBeauty

UVB: Final words to fans?

Lala: Thanks to everyone who supports my journey. I won't let you down. Thanks to all of those have offered their time and allowed me to grace their magazine, website, camera, and film projects. Special thank goes out to all my networks Freedom Unlimited, Sincere's Ladies Of Sin, ITM Models, Jadore Models Inc, and many others. Last but not least my facebook and twitter family, I Salute You!

UVB: Big ups and thanks for doing this interview with us, It was a fun.



Interview done by Dani Reid

Photos by MD Mason photography, Ken Morrison Photos and Photos by 4-play

For features, interviews and submissions contact us at urbanvixenzblogzine@yahoo.com
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OMG SUNDAY EXCLUSIVES: INTERVIEW WITH RACHEL CLOSE

Wow this one hell of ah Sunday, we have been getting much love lately from Nashville. And today will would be introducing your to an up and coming model Rachel Close, Rachel is a Puerto Rican and Italian model currently residing in Nashville Tennessee, she has been modeling for four months now. She's fun, easy going, reliable and professional, she has a great passion for modeling and takes it seriously. Come join us as we unravel the mystery behind this fast rising model...




UVB: Hi, tell us about yourself? Where you from originally? And what was it like growing up in your neighborhood?

Rachel: My name is Rachel Close, I am 21 years old. I grew up in a a small town 40 miles east of Nashville, Tn. Where I actually grew up on a farm and growing up there really gave me my since of responsibility, independence and my drive for success made me a stronger person.

UVB: My best trait is...?

Rachel: My independence.

UVB: Three words to best describe my personality is...?

Rachel: Optimistic, Spontaneous, and Friendly

UVB: When am not in front of the cameras or working a gig, i stay busy doing...?

Rachel: I spend a lot of time with my family especially in my 6 year old little sister, network on the computer, and work.

UVB: The biggest misconception about me is...?

Rachel: A lot of people think, I am a b*tch but it is a major misconception. I am just focused and business minded.

UVB: Am easy going, laid back and down to earth but i wont settle for...?

Rachel: I won't settle for less.



UVB: I think my best physical feature is...?

Rachel: My eyes.

UVB: Physical feature i like to show off is...?

Rachel: My Legs.

UVB: The sexiest outfit i will wear in public is...?

Rachel: Extremely short dress known as a freak em' dress. lol

UVB: I wouldn't survive a day without?

Rachel: My I phone

UVB: Whats the first thing men or women compliment you for when you strutting your booty down the streets? What part of your body gets more attention from guys?


Rachel: Of course my behind is noticed the most, second my eyes and smile get complimented often.

UVB: Whats the craziest thing a fan has done to try to get your attention?


Rachel: I have received dirty pictures several times, just constantly contacting me for my number etc.



UVB: The simplest thing you can do to make me happy is...?

Rachel: Make me laugh and smile.

UVB: People would be surprised to know that...?

Rachel: I do not drink, smoke, or do any drugs. Sober 24/7 365 days a year.

UVB: A man would impress me if...?

Rachel: He thought about anything other than sex.

UVB: A man would disappoint me if...?

Rachel: Couldn't have an intelligent conversation with me.

UVB: My philosophy of life, love, sex and relationship is...?

Rachel: Live life to the fullest, do what makes you happy.

UVB: On a scale of 1 - 10, how would you rate your sex drive?

Rachel: 10 I definitely favor sex, I guess you could say its my vise.



UVB: I love your tattoos, they are quite an eye popper. Is there any sentimental story behind them or is just an obsession/addiction?

Rachel: I actually have a tattoo on my ribs that has my two youngest sisters names and my brother who passed away. The one on my hip has writing in it that says Love Kills Lovely and I believe that.

UVB: Are you single or taken? If taken how does your man handle the drama you get from modeling? And if not how would you react suppose you was dating someone who couldn't deal with all that?

Rachel: SINGLE as a dollar bill. If I was dating someone who couldn't understand or deal with something I am passionate about isn't the person for me.

UVB: Bedroom fantasies, turn on and turn offs? And what is your most
important rule(s) of bedroom etiquette?

Rachel: Turn on - I am a pleaser, and also a man who moans not to the extreme just a little is a turn on. Turn offs- Man who are to into themselves just let things happen.I don't actually have any rules but do have limits.

UVB: Do you consider yourself a sexual person? When it comes to sex do you like to be in control or taken control of?

Rachel: Yes, I do. Depends on the person actually.

UVB: How did you get started in the modeling in the industry? What was your experience like on your first shoot?

Rachel: My friend got me started and I did one photo shoot and became addicted. My first shoot was a great experience, very comfortable with a photographer in Nashville, Tn Tavell Brown.

UVB: How long have you been modeling? What excited you the most when you first started modeling?

Rachel: I just recently gained an interest in modeling so about 4 months, I love the feedback, I get from it.

UVB: You got a lovely hour glass figure and killah curves to go with it. Do you hit the gym or is puerto rican and italian just the perfect mix of genes?

Rachel: Well thank you, :] But yes I have just recently gotten back in the gym.

UVB: People tend to believe modeling is all just a days work, but fail to recognize the time, preparation, hard work and networking put into structure to attain the desired success. Can you tell us and other aspiring models some challenges you have come across and how do you keep your grind on point?

Rachel: Honestly I thought that modeling would be easy as well boy was I wrong, Its TONS of work networking trying to sort the serious inquiries from the bs.I just say if its something you like to do go for it don't give up on your dreams.

UVB: When working concepts for upcoming shoots, how much thought or effort do you put into it? Where does your inspiration come from?

Rachel: If I am contacted from a photographer, I generally ask them to send me some ideas. This is something I love to do I am passionate about it.

UVB: What are your thoughts on TFP or TFCD sessions in general?

Rachel: If it benefits my portfolio I really don't mind doing TFP Or TFCD. But with in doing it I have certain things I ask of the photographer.This is something I love to do I am passionate about it.

UVB: Would you be open to do penthouse pets or playboy nude style shoots?

Rachel: That is something, I have to think long and hard about.

UVB: What projects have you been a part of? And what future projects should your fans be on a look out for?

Rachel: Model Mondays, I will be in F.E.D.S presents Sweets magazine and ASIS Magazine within the next two months.



Q31: Where can your fans find you online?

Rachel: Www.twitter.com/Msdreamcrusher

Www.ModelMayhem.com/Rclose

UVB: Final words to fans?

Rachel: Thank you guys for recognizing my hard work and dedication. I will continue to work as hard as I can.

Interview by Dani Reid

Photography by Aldrick Williams Photography and Brown Photography and special thanks to Mikal Blair

For features, interviews and submissions contact us on urbanvixenzblogzine@yahoo.com
Read more!

UVB UNPLUGGED PRESENTS EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH KITAMI SAFIYA

Wah gwan mi idrins, Urban vixenz unplugged presents exclusive Q&A session with Kitami Safiya. Kitami Safiya is a recording artist, singer and song writer from Queens village, New york. At age 5 wrote her first song "time" and at age 9 started an all girl RnB group Paradyce which toured the US and UK. Kitami gained critical acclaim as the songwriting force behind her group "Paradyce" and for co-writing the intro for DJ Jazzy Joyce Friday night radio show on Hot 97. And also in 2006 co-wrote the hook on DMX's song Dog love which was performed by Amelia. I think we both came in contact around 2009 on a facebook battle rap group. Men she was one hell of a contender, we use to go at each other - it was like watching 106&Park freestyle Fridays with blind fury & the #1 female MC lol. I can attest to her skills for real Kitami got talent and i definitely can say i am blessed to know her. Kitami aspires to be the female Ne-yo or the new generation Smokey Robinson. She recently released her EP album The Funeral "laying love to rest" which is getting a lot of buzz on the internet. And currently working on a new mixtape, a tour in the UK and her independent album. Stick around we just getting started...



UVB: You originally from Queens New york, tell us what was it like growing up in your neighborhood? And how has being a native of Queens shaped who you are?

Kitami: I was born and raised in Queens village. Its a pretty diverse neighborhood and has definitely played a part in shaping me as a person. I learned all my views and morals just watching things happen and seeing friends come and go. I also discovered my love for the arts there so it has also had a lot to do with the shaping of me as an artist and the support i have been getting from my home town has been out of this world.

UVB: Tell us how you got your start as a singer?

Kitami: Hmm, i was 5 years old when i remember writing my first song. Its crazy because i remember it like yesterday. The song was called "Time". I wrote it with my BFF Desiree in Jr high school, i had my very first recording session and i was HOOKED! Lol.

UVB: My best trait is...?

Kitami: My free way of thinking and creating. I try not to get locked into any boxes in life or with my music. I please me first and hope that people appreciate me for just what i am. Its the only way to be.

UVB: The biggest misconception about me is...?

Kitami: That i'm a control freak lol, its not that at all. I just reeeeally know what i want. Especially in the studio but i'm always up for some constructive criticism.

UVB: I think my best physical feature is...?

Kitami: I like my cheek bones, i think they are pretty cool.

UVB: Physical feature i like to show off is...?

Kitami: That would have to be my hair. I love shaking it on stage like a mad woman lol.



UVB: Nice tattoos, what do they mean?

Kitami: Ok the one on my leg says paradyce, its the name of the singing group i founded and was a part of for a very long time. And the one on my hand is a picture of Africa and its a representation of being black and proud.

UVB: People would be surprised to know that?

Kitami: There is a shy side of me. Lol

UVB: When you're not on the stage working a music gig...what do you do to keep busy?

Kitami: Movies and yoga.

UVB: Are you single or taken? And your ideal man should be...?

Kitami: I'm single, don't have much time for a relationship but if i was in one.. My ideal man would just be honest, respectful and he would treat me like a queen. Thats all, lol i don't ask for a lot

UVB: Do you think being a writer and an author gives you an edge over other artists when it comes to penning down lyrics and writing a song?

Kitami: A little bit. All artist have their stronger points and writing is definitely one of mine. I wouldn't be the same as an artist if i didn't write because my lyrics are the foundation of my art.

UVB: At age 9, you founded an all girl R&B group called paradyce. Can you tell us more about it and what led to the break up of the group?

Kitami: Yes, paradyce was my baby. We toured all over the US and UK. I learned a lot during my journey with the group.



UVB: Who were the other members of the group? Are they still committed to music like you are?

Kitami: The other members have gone on to do other great things with their lives and as long as they are happy, that's all that matters. We have chosen different paths. I wish them all the best.

UVB: How have you been able to progress as an individual soloist since the break up of paradyce?

Kitami: It wasn't easy i'll tell you, when you get so used to being in a group you are kind of spoiled. Its so much work being on your and you have to get used to doing EVERYTHING on your own from all the recording to all the planning and organizing. However, its the best thing that has ever happened to me. I have so much more freedom musically now and i can just be me. I wouldn't trade it for the world.

UVB: In hip-hop its almost a crime to have someone else write your lyrics whereas in R&B, some of our greatest singers have had songs written for them. How important do you think it is to write your own song? And why do you think it is more accepted in R&B than hip-hop?

Kitami: Well hip hop is based on lyrical talent, R&B is more based on the voice. Having the lyrics as a singer is like icing on the cake. Also singers that don't write give opportunity to writers who don't have vocal skill. Writing is important to me because its the foundation of my art and its also my outlet.

UVB: Being a mix of British and Jamaican would i be right to say you add
a mix of dance hall, reggae and grimes in your music?

Kitami: Oh yes, my music is many things. I was raised on reggae and i am inspired by it so i do try to incorporate it to my music.

UVB: What are your major genres of music?

Kitami: Hip-hop, RnB, Soul.

UVB: You worked with Bosh records before, what was your experience like? And what cause the break up between you and bosh records?

Kitami: Yes, working with Bosh was cool. I'm always trying to learn from every situation and that was another learning experience. Compatibility is an important thing.



UVB: Your EP album the funeral "laying love to rest" is getting a lot of buzz on the internet. Can you explain the album title, where did you get your inspiration for the name from?

Kitami: In the process of putting this project together i noticed i was wearing black a lot and my mood seemed to fit right into where the songs were going so i took it and used it.

UVB: Whats the hit single for the album? Though personally i love shady most featuring Mic Matayo, what was the experience like working together with Mic Matayo? And what direction do you see this going towards?

Kitami: Working with Mic is always a pleasure. He is very talented. The project is the tool i'm using to take things to the next level. Its ground breaking also personal.

UVB: What other artists would you like to work with in the near feature?

Kitami: Whoever is dope at what they do and is willing to work with me. There are so many great artist out here. Especially coming out of queens.

UVB: Are there any plans to tour? If so what cities, states or countries will you be performing in?

Kitami: Yes, i am working on hitting the UK very soon to solidify some venues once everything is set in stone you will be me of the first to know. Its going to be NUTS!!

UVB: smiles, that's awesome...i'm keeping my fingers crossed and wish you success

UVB: Music has changed a lot over the years, whats your opinion about the current state of the music culture?

Kitami: Music is always evolving. There is always room for something, i do think at times that the culture of music is compromised because of the focus on appearance more than the art. But i guess that all a part of evolution.

UVB: Are you satisfied with your career? Are you completely happy now as an artist?

Kitami: I'm happy with myself as an artist. I've been through a lot, As far as my career things are great but could always be better. I'm just scraping the surface right now.

UVB: Feeling it Chronicles Vol. 1 mixtape could you tell us more about it. And can you tell the readers how they can get your new album The Funeral "laying love to rest" ?

Kitami: FIC volume 1 is my very first solo mixtape. I remade all old hip-hop classics. Its awesome! Any hip-hop love would eat it up. You can find The Funeral for FREE download on Datpiff.com. Just type in my name and i'll be there.

UVB: What other projects have you been a part of? And what projects do you have in the works that the readers should be on a look out for?

Kitami: Well I'm doing a lot of writing for some up and coming artist that I can't talk too much about because I don't want to jinx anything. Just keep your fingers crossed for me. I'm also working on my next mixtape and my independent album that I plan on releasing overseas in the UK. I'm doing collaborations with more artist than I can count all over the US. I have a lot on my plate right now. I can handle it though. Lol

UVB: Where can the readers find you online?

Kitami: Readers can check out my blog: www.kitamisafiya.blogspot.com
Follow me on Twitter: @kitamisafiya_
NOTE: I ANSWER MY MESSAGES!
Be my friend on Facebook: search Kitami Safiya
The website is under construction. Soon. They will be able to get all Kitami Safiya merchandise there as well.

UVB: Final words to fans.

Kitami: THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH FOR YOUR SUPPORT. I APPRECIATE EVERY ONE OF YOU. KEEP FOLLOWING ME!! I HOPE TO SEE YOU ALL VERY SOON. STAY BEAUTIFUL!!

PEACE and LOVE!

KITAMI SAFIYA... ;-)

Urban Vixenz, Thanks for having me!!

UVB: Your welcome it was a pleasure!!!


Interview was done by Dani Reid

Photography by Candace Thompson

For features, interviews and submissions contact us on urbanvixenzblogzine@yahoo.com

Read more!