The Chicago Journal

Your Gateway to the Heartbeat of Chicago

Ivan B Announces Highly-Anticipated First Headline Show in Los Angeles

Securing a coveted spot in the highly competitive music industry has become relatively easier over recent years, thanks primarily to the advent of digital technology and the rise of social media. Now, aspirants from all walks of life have a shot at reaching millions of listeners worldwide so long as they remain highly aware of the strategic ways to expand their influence. However, it is still true that artists born to privilege and backed by the major power players in the music scene are more likely to top the charts and dominate the playing field, leaving independent musicians struggling to stay afloat in a sea of competitors. But, through his story, Ivan Paniagua, a rising star also known as Ivan B, proves that success is possible even for those who hail from humble beginnings. 

Ivan B, who is scheduled to perform his first headline show in Los Angeles on November 4, has always set his eyes on making a difference through his songs. During his freshman year in high school, he started taking the steps that will bring him closer toward his goal. Since then, he has attracted millions of listeners, serving as the voice behind the singles “Our Time Together” and “Need You Still.” The tracks, which have garnered over 21 million streams and 20 million plays respectively on Spotify alone, demonstrate his potential to hit big and stand side by side with today’s powerhouses. 

This must-watch force has managed to rise through the ranks because of his distinctive artistry. While catchy beats and memorable melodies do characterize his songs, the powerful messages at their core have allowed Ivan B to capture the interest of listeners. Additionally, anyone diving deep into his discography will realize that it has a recurring theme of believing in oneself and being brave enough to face life head-on. 

The heights that Ivan B has reached so far cannot be credited solely to his impressive body of work. Much of the love that he’s receiving is also due to the extent to which he continues to inspire other dreamers. The 25-year-old talent has been in the industry for the past ten years, with little to no notable published articles or promotion. Despite this, he has succeeded in establishing a name in the saturated music scene, doing so through his own efforts. From saving up money through serving as a waiter so he could purchase all his equipment, to earning through his releases, his journey was nowhere near smooth—it proves a testament to the power of hard work and perseverance. 

With close to half a million monthly listeners on Spotify, Ivan B is currently among the most promising artists. He is set to gain a more considerable following in the coming months as he drops more projects. His upcoming headline show at the Catch One venue in Los Angeles is expected to propel this passion-fueled personality toward the limelight. 

Learn more about Ivan B by visiting his website. More information about the artist can also be found here

Albert Lau Creating Earning Opportunity and Protecting Families through Family First Elite Life

Indeed, next to impossible are the chances of seeing a company whose core existence is meant  to service families and protect them from financial problems that could arise when the breadwinner dies. To also see a company that, aside from prioritizing families, pays extra attention to young adults and youth looking to switch careers or make a mark in the life insurance industry is massive news right now. For Albert Lau, the founder and owner of Family First Life Elite, the primary reason he built his agency was to tick all the boxes mentioned above, not for himself but as a way of creating valuable services and giving back to society.

Family First Life Elite is a mortgage protection and life insurance agency specializing in final expense life insurance, retirement planning through universal life policies and retirement protection through the use of fixed index annuities. With multiple insurance carriers on their roster, such as Americo, Mutual Omaha, Aetna and several others, the primary objective is to meet every clients’ needs. Little wonder the mission at FFL Elite is to prioritize the families of the companies’ agents while operating on a dual pivot of trust and loyalty. Albert notes that trust and loyalty, unlike many other things, are earned and not given cheaply, and FFL Elite gives everything in terms of services and customer satisfaction to earn the trust of their clients.

As a 21st century company, Family First Life Elite is well versed in the use of technological tools, possessing a very advanced social media presence, churning out high-quality content for the consumption of its clients and agents and completing one-million-dollar worth of business every month. The agency targets adults at least 18 years or older to join the team to contribute their quality service delivery and wealth creation quota.

Albert attributes his drive and motivation to the desire to see his clients live and grow old with the life insurance protection they deserve. Life insurance indeed is the way to go. Albert says that with consistency and quality services, in half a decade, “I see us getting big. I see us hitting massive milestones and creating a lot of millionaires. I see us doing 500 million dollars worth of business per year and helping millions of families getting financial protection and setting up their children for success on the way.”

Albert is on a mission with FFL Elite. According to him, this mission is what drives him daily to put in the work without relenting, as well as be a vessel to the next generation who are looking to secure their future and create generational wealth. “I want them to know that if they’re looking for work, anybody can do what we do and get paid a lot of money to do it. Life insurance and financial services create more millionaires than real estate agents, and that’s something that can shock a lot of people. I don’t think people know how big this opportunity is.”

To apply for a job as a Family First Life Elite agent, visit the company’s website.

Julia Campbell Is The Limitless Luminary of Tomorrow

Growing up, society’s perceptions of heroes have changed over the past few years. At first, the ideal heroes are those one sees in cartoons and Marvel Shows growing up from Spiderman, Batman, Wonderwoman, Moon Girl and others. However, in the course of experiencing tragedy in maturity, heroes are recognized as those that fight for the nation notably, Martin Luther King, Abraham Lincoln, Dolley Madison, Harriet Tubman and many more. Others suggest heroes are scientists and inventors like Albert Einstein or Marie Curie. In today’s time, luminaries stand for humanity’s rights and use everything in their power to help those in need. Julia Campbell is changing the world a day at a time with her advocacies, talents, businesses, and services.

Julia Campbell is a thriving artist of multiple industries. In addition, she is known to be a freelance creator with an eye for art and a heart for the future. Julia is not just a model, photographer with upcoming unseen photos of the world, painter, artist, or writer, but also an advocate for numerous rights and charities, animal rescue, a comedian, and a volunteer worker in which she is awarded for her contributions.

Coming from an incredible family lineage of inventors, master town builders, world travelers, pirates, vast inheritors of sports cars, and Uncle in Law, Harold Ruth, who is an Army Colonel that went to Westpoint with General MacArthur, and other notables of good repute recognized on various news outlets, Julia Campbell continues a legacy of her own. 

From being a high school dropout to a current college student working on bachelor’s, Julia Campbell redefines success at her pace and efforts. Her works are a product of perseverance and mental preparedness. When asked for a message she wishes to impart to everyone’s lives, Julia shares, “You can do anything you put your mind to. There is always hope. Never give up, never surrender.”

Beyond the success and upshots of the Professional Floridian, she too had a fair share of discrete struggles. Julia Campbell had to bury her father alone, without any support. While her grandfather died in the 90s, who was once a chaplain aboard the ship and an authorized person for the seal of the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, the charity organization declined to lend help during her three lowest times — twice about her father’s funeral and one for moving expenses after some tribulations. Despite those closest to her denying her existence, she chose to move forward.

Consequently, Julia Campbell used her most challenging time to feel inspired and motivated. At the age of 14, the star forged a path full of hard work and determination. In everything that Julia does, she strives to be the paragon giving pride to America. Above all, she is on a mission to help her family and the people suffering worldwide. Instead of finding reasons or ways to spread hatred and reprisal, she has spent the better part of the last year working on herself to accomplish her mission and serve the people. 

Learn more about Julia Campbell, her ways, advocacies, and the businesses she supports by visiting her website. Then, follow her Instagram for more updates.

Rony Jabour Awarded Top 100 Leader in Education by the Global Forum for Education and Learning (GFEL), Las Vegas 2021

The Founder of United Safety Net Mr. Rony Jabour has been awarded the GFEL Top 100 Leader in the World in Education Award. The prize ceremony was held at the Grand MGM Hotel in Las Vegas on June 24, 2021. 

The Global Forum for Education & Learning has given the United Safety Net Founder the Top 100 Leaders in Education Award in the event held in Las Vegas, USA, to Mr. Rony Jabour.

“It was a great honor to be nominated and even greater to win this award. It is an award not to me, but to the dedicated team behind me and to the United Safety Net Community who has helped thousands of workers come home every day safely through our teachings,” he said.

Mr. Jabour’s long dedication to education since he founded the United Safety Net created the first COVID-19 Prevention, Control, and Sanitation Safety Course in the USA.

The Bettie Gang Twins Takes the Music Arena by Storm as the Latest Signees to The Stachehaus Record Label

Visionary artists The Bettie Gang Twins share more than just similar eye-catching physical features as twin sisters; they also have the same fiery passion and talent for music. The two welcomed 2021 with fast-rising success as they became the latest and hottest signees to the boutique music label The Stachehaus powered by KMG/The Orchard. Today, they are determined to transform powerful messages into rap masterpieces that will surely move listeners.

Born and raised in the westside of Chicago, Illinois, fraternal twins Latonya and Latisha Jones, also known as LBezzy and SGezzy, combine their raw talent and relentless commitment to music to form an iconic rap duo called The Bettie Gang Twins. Together, they have become a force to be reckoned with in the music arena. They have opened up shows for famous artists such as Scarface, Twista, Kevin Gates, Young Dolph, Do or Die, Gunna, and Young Joc.

With their mother’s untimely passing on December 26, 2015, the twins dedicated their love for music to their mother and have used her name, Bettie Jones, as the inspiration for their stage name, The Bettie Gang Twins. This touching initiative is a lifelong tribute to their wonderful mother, whose death made national news almost five years ago. Her death ignited hope within the twins and fueled them to pursue their lifelong dream of making it big in the music industry. “Our mom already gave us a blueprint. We just had to put it in motion,” explains The Bettie Gang Twins.

As a rap sensation, The Bettie Gang Twins incorporates real-life scenarios and experiences into their tracks, channeling powerful lyrics that are extremely relatable to people from all walks of life. “We really live what we rap. We reflect our environment and display them in our music. We understand the trials and tribulations of growing up in Chicago,” explains the twins. Overall, the multi-talented pair leaves a memorable impression on their audience through their creative wordplay and catchy beats. Their natural ability to deliver each song verse in a seamless yet moving manner allows them to spark raw emotions within their listeners. Their music speaks of a multitude of themes, including struggle and anger, as well as love and devotion to family and friends. 

Today, The Bettie Gang Twins are most excited for the journey that awaits them in their new home at The Stachehaus, a leading music powerhouse that has molded rising music stars into full-blown internationally renowned music sensations. Indeed, LBezzy and SGezzy are ready to take their rapping and songwriting talent to the next level under the music label’s guidance. 

Essentially, The Bettie Gang Twins hopes for their music to touch the lives of the inner city youth worldwide. They seek to inspire independent people with dreams of success, ensuring them that their blessings are well on their way. Finally, they hope for their music to bring people towards generational wealth and independence, inspiring them to live on their terms regardless of criticism and circumstances. 

To know more about The Bettie Gang Twins and their upcoming music, please visit their official Facebook. You can also check them out on Plugstar

P.U.S.H. Entertainment LLC: Providing Thriving Artists Support to Success amid Challenges

The absence of live music and entertainment has been one of the most dramatic lifestyle changes caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The restriction on huge gatherings and mingling indoors was a significant blow to an industry that relied primarily on ticket sales and endorsements from live performances. However, it still relives and continues to grow with the efforts of thriving companies like P.U.S.H. Entertainment LLC, that see beyond the present and finds opportunities in the circumstances. Now, the company is overcoming challenges after another to pursue individuals’ passion and create a lasting impact on the world.

Established in April 2021, P.U.S.H. Entertainment LLC is an up-and-coming company that stands for “Proceed Until Something Happens,” continuously propelling an independent artists’ career to the next level. It is a company that strives to build a place where artists can grow with hands-on guidance and a support system that fosters success.

In a time when artists are limited with resources due to the pandemic, P.U.S.H. Entertainment LLC exceptionally stands out with its integrity and networks of professionalism. Additionally, it is a business that branches out a sister company Diggie The Progression Of Hip-Hop LLC, founded last August 2020.

Behind the success of P.U.S.H. Entertainment LLC is a determined business owner who has cemented herself in the entertainment industry. Jessica Dalby stands as the heart of both Diggie The Progression Of Hip-Hop LLC and P.U.S.H. Entertainment LLC, elevating and helping artists in the making to reach success together simultaneously. 

Before her establishing P.U.S.H. Entertainment LLC, Jessica Dalby knew she was destined to start a company at present. Knowing that the epidemic has had a significant impact on the music industry’s pendulum and artists were unable to demonstrate their abilities in public situations such as live concerts, studio recordings, and other activities, she knew her company would open opportunities and platforms for Independent artists.

With research, Jessica eagerly did some research and used her skills as the strength to lead P.U.S.H. Entertainment LLC to greater heights. Her knowledge, coupled with a pronounced market shift, emerged the quick pursuit of a career full of passion.

Moreover, her determination led to her feature on a billboard in Times Square, New York City, in March 2021. As she continues to build her first business alongside her second business, P.U.S.H. Entertainment LLC, Jessica believes her efforts will break through the music business. It will also continuously make ground-breaking impacts within the music industry. 

Through P.U.S.H. Entertainment LLC, Jessica believes nothing will deter it from leaving a stamp in the music industry, thriving to embed her motto, “Tomorrow is never promised,” into the company’s works.

Presently, Jessica Dalby ventures with women’s empowerment. With equality movements from all over the world, it is undeniable that there are still numerous industries overly dominated by male supremacy, including the music industry. Thus, she hopes to break discrimination of any forms in all that she does and inspire strength to those artists who work with P.U.S.H. Entertainment LLC.

Follow P.U.S.H. Entertainment LLC’s official website for more information.

Rising Rapper Speedyville Nardy Elevates Hip-Hop Through His Distinct Music

Speedyville Nardy is a trailblazing force in the music industry today despite being new in the business and starting out without any kind of support. The rising artist made an explosive comeback in 2020 with his single “March Madness,” featuring his good friend Petey Blanko. His debut single “Strixtly 4 My Hittaz” was released in 2012. He came out of his hiatus with a back-to-back project that launched “Chiraqian” and “Mail Season” in 2019.

Born Darell Shelz, Speedyville Nardy’s music video for “Free Ralo” and “Make Money Mitch” started to attract attention as he introduced a new hip-hop subgenre which he fondly calls Braveheart Musik. The success of his hip-hop subgenre further inspired him to create his own music label known as Pack Money. He named his company as a memorial to his late cousin Pack Mail, who was killed in 2011. 

The Chicago-based artist draws inspiration from various artists, including Tupac, Lauryn Hill, Juice Wrld, Bankroll Fresh, Money Man, Lil Bill, Marlo, Gucci Mane, and O.J. Da Juiceman, to mention a few. 

Despite the competitive nature of the music industry, specifically in the hip-hop genre, Speedyville Nardy does not consider anyone as a competition except for himself. Each day is an opportunity for him to be better than he was the day before, and he is more focused on becoming a better artist, person, and future entrepreneur rather than who else is making it big in the industry. The rising rapper believes in the importance of introspection and the need for personal development to become successful in the music business. If there is one attribute he treasures the most, it is his being down-to-earth. He values people and their unique abilities. He wishes to remain grounded and work diligently in order to make a name for himself. 

“If I wanted to say what great qualities I inspire individuals, it is critical creative brainstorming,” Speedyville Nardy revealed. “I make people feel, or I would say crack their code within their self-hidden potential. Regardless of how I’m treated, no matter the trials of tribulations, I remain perfect. I’m as honest as they come, and I don’t care for the carnal mind. I’m spiritually inclined! I’m just for positives over negatives! Life is short,” he added. 

This year, Speedyville Nardy is set on accomplishing major feats, which include establishing his own clothing line and buying his own house. With the right amount of hard work and dedication to his craft, he believes that he will be able to make this happen before 2022 ends. 

Among other things, he wishes to continue helping out communities as he has done in the past. Known for having a soft spot for underprivileged people, Speedyville Nardy goes out of his way to connect with the homeless, the hungry, and the lost, hoping that his act of kindness will make a huge difference in their lives. He sympathizes with the poor effortlessly and always shows his compassion by sharing his blessings, regardless of whether or not he has money. At the end of the day, giving back, whether in kind or in time, is a gift he wholeheartedly gives to those who need them the most. 

Aiming for success as a music artist is a given for Speedyville Nardy. But surprisingly, building his own family in the next five years is more important than amassing wealth and assets. He looks forward to having his own children in the next couple of years and raising them to become dream-chasers who are driven and down-to-earth. 

Follow Speedyville Nardy on Instagram and Facebook for updates on his latest projects. Subscribe to his YouTube channel to access his music. 

Brian Maurice Brown on Enabling the Success of Aspiring and Established Musicians Through BMB Records

A myriad of reasons could fuel a person’s drive to establish a name and compete with fellow go-getters in their choice of industry. For some, the hunger to secure a coveted spot at the top stems from the need to provide for their family and generate wealth. Others find purpose in making a difference. In the case of Grammy Award-nominated Brian Maurice Brown, the mission to enable the success of aspirants brave enough to dip their toes in the cutthroat world of music and entertainment has always stood at the heart of his purpose-driven initiatives. As the CEO of BMB Records, he is committed to maneuvering self-starters and dreamers in the right direction.

This Detroit native is a well-respected personality who has worked with notable artists, such as Brooklyn Queen, Ashley Newman, Charlie Baltimore, and Trick Trick and collaborated with acclaimed producers Jupyter, Dre Butterz, Antt Beatz, D-Digital, and Vincent. Over the years, he has proven to be an expert at acing the game, leveling the playing field for budding artists through strategic moves honed by years of experience. Armed with an in-depth understanding of the music scene, this widely acknowledged figure and business administration graduate is credited for propelling several names to the forefront. 

Brian Maurice Brown has always backed artists with the potential and dedication to reach the summit. By launching BMB Records, he is expanding his reach and intensifying his efforts to not only inspire new talents but also resurrect and reestablish the careers of musicians in need of a guiding hand. Through his brainchild, the business mogul and investor provides comprehensive care to those under his wing, equipping them with the tools and resources they need to survive and thrive in an environment known for hindering countless individuals from translating their vision into reality. 

On top of spearheading BMB records, Brian Maurice Brown is also a writer bearing a story that resonates with many others. Highly cognizant of the power of books, the co-author of Living for the Sacrifice: A Hood Hero’s Guide to Success has chosen to wield a pen to share his tale of overcoming demons and doubts. In this insight-rich piece, he details the rocky path that led him to personal and professional fulfillment. “After being incarcerated, I created my own impact on the world and have helped make other people successful through consistency, dedication, discipline, and sacrifice,” he shared. 

Since entering the industries where he is currently making a mark, Brian Maurice Brown has managed to snag numerous achievements under his belt. Amid the heights that this passionate power player reached, he continues to go all out in every endeavor and to engage in change-making activities. The Spirit of Detroit awardee, who earned recognition for his outstanding service to the citizens of Detroit, is heavily involved in charitable efforts and is expected to remain active in philanthropic drives in the coming years. 

With big plans for the future, Brian Maurice Brown is not slowing down anytime soon. Not only does he aim to evolve into an industry powerhouse and stand alongside the big names in the entertainment scene, but he also hopes to remain a pillar of support for more talented artists in the years ahead.

Learn more about Brian Maurice Brown by visiting his website.

How Wealth4Gen Empowers Families to Plan for the Future

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, many families lost loved ones. Aside from the grief that comes with this loss, families are also faced with paying for funerals and other final expenses. Because the nature of death can be so sudden, some may not be financially prepared to make these final preparations. Wealth4Gen founders Quinton McCoy and Viair Myles witnessed and experienced this exact scenario several times over the past year. Their shared experience sparked a newfound passion in ensuring that families are protected from the grueling financial burden that comes with the passing of a loved one.

Wealth4Gen was born out of the desire to help people ensure financial stability for their families upon their death. Founders McCoy and Myles partnered together to start a business offering financial services. They primarily focused on providing affordable life insurance programs for low-income families. Soon, the company expanded to include comprehensive programs for senior citizens who are on fixed or low-income. These programs for seniors focus on cost-effective solutions for burial and final expenses. They have partnered with over 25 carriers to ensure that every senior is covered and that their family is protected.

Since this company was established, McCoy and Myles have grown Wealth4Gen to impressive heights. With just ten agents, they expanded the business in only three months. They have helped numerous couples retire earlier and with more peace of mind regarding their financial security. They have worked with over a hundred seniors and ensured that their families would not feel the financial burden of the funeral and burial costs. 

More recently, Wealth4Gen expanded its programs to include financial plans for millennials who want to start saving and investing. Financial literacy is also a mission the company’s founders are passionate about. They have systems in place to help educate families and individuals on the importance of taxes, social security pitfalls, and the intricacies behind finances in retirement. As a team, they have modernized how millennials and gen Z-ers view financial literacy and generational wealth.

Wealth4Gen enables its clients to diversify their financial portfolios and create multiple streams of income. The team shows their clients how to invest in accounts that will help grow their money with each passing year. They have worked with people at different stages in their life, whether they are young professionals, newlyweds, first-time parents, retirees, or senior citizens. This company has a financial plan that can serve any client’s unique needs.

Quinton McCoy and Viair Myles went into this industry for very personal reasons. As death and loss hit close to home several times for them, they knew they wanted to do something that would help ease the circumstances for those left behind. They brought their separate passions into Wealth4Gen and made it the company that it is today. With McCoy, his particular interest is in ensuring that families are protected and prepared for emergency expenses. Myles was more focused on finding programs that help seniors. And as a master budget analyst, she has also helped young professionals and parents with young children save money and invest in their retirement. Together, they champion financial literacy, especially for younger generations and minorities. Their interests and passions have shaped the company they built and the services they provide.

It is never too early to plan for the future. This may mean saving, investing, creating college funds, setting aside money for retirement, as well as providing for families after death. McCoy shared, “We hope that people gain a sense of urgency. Death is not the focal point of life; it is simply a part of life. At Wealth4Gen, we help our clients give themselves and their families financial peace.”

Wealth4Gen provides financial services for various needs. For more information, you may visit their website.

Pristine Advisers: Patricia Baronowski on How She Built an Award-Winning Company

Building a company and keeping it afloat for more than two decades is not for everybody; simultaneously, keeping the company afloat and winning a plethora of awards is something many CEOs and managers have failed to achieve. Patricia Baronowski-Schneider did not only found Pristine Advisers over two decades ago; she has also built the company into an award-winning firm and a one-stop shop for people looking to access IR/PR/Marketing and Media Relations services.

Pristine Advisers is an IR, PR, marketing, and media relations company that has built a reputation for providing a high-end experience for its retinue of clients and with thousands of valuable contacts and over thirty-three years of operation and experience to back it up. Pristine Adviser is an award-winning firm that has built a reputation in the PR and marketing industry. 

Pristine Advisers, in their service description, as described on their website, is focused on helping companies achieve brand recognition through print media, broadcast, and social media outlets by taking into account other measures of success when preparing for important announcements such as the resignation of a CEO, media reaction to new strategies or investor reactions to changes in prices.

They have a team of enthusiastic professionals specializing in the execution of financial communication, peer analysis, creation of press releases and presentations, website audits, roadshow organization, event management, social media strategies, story pitching to the media, and much more.

Built on a foundation and model where customer satisfaction is the watchword, the professional staff at Pristine Advisers can understand their customer’s needs, brainstorm ideas that could benefit the customers, assess, and deliver the best result.

“As a company, our mission is to make your firm appealing to investors, the media, analysts, and brokers. We will go the extra mile to achieve these goals so that you can focus on managing your business. We are a sophisticated brand that operates internationally while giving businesses the support they need to thrive,” CEO Patricia Baronowski explained.

To have over three decades of experience in practice is no child’s play; it speaks so much about the amount of expertise that the company has put in over the years. With over 800,000 contacts in the company’s database, and with a majority of the company’s staff having at least fifteen years’ experience under their belt, no doubt, Pristine Advisers is a one-stop-shop of IR/PR/marketing/media relations.

“Our dedication and high-quality work has proven itself in that we’ve had clients follow us through three different firms and continued with us when Pristine Advisers was born—that is a true testimonial to the quality of our work,” said Patricia. The company caters primarily to investment companies and any type of company, as long as they are in need of any of Pristine’s services. 

Speaking of her motivation before starting Pristine Advisers, Patricia explained that she knew she could offer value to her would-be clients, and she belongs to a school of thought that clients shouldn’t be overcharged.

“I saw that happen while I was at other companies, and I disagreed with it. I would rather charge less and have a client for many years to prove myself—than charge a small fortune and only have them as a client for a brief time because it is too expensive,” she said.

In five years, Patricia sees Pristine Advisers growing and advancing with the world, helping more clients and people worldwide.Learn more about Pristine Advisers on its website.