The Chicago Journal

Your Gateway to the Heartbeat of Chicago

Joseph Yonke Aspires to Captivate the Art Scene With His Unique Style

In the digital age, individuals who are not attached to their phones and social media accounts can be hard to come by. However, 21-year-old student Joseph Yonke is unlike most people. Instead of spending his time gaming or on social media, the artist dedicates his life to creating stunning works of art.

Being exposed to art at an early age was instrumental in shaping his interest and passion for painting. Joseph received mentoring and lessons from his artist grandfather Robert Yonke, whom he considers to be his most influential role model.  

Some of Joseph’s fondest memories involve his journey into discovering his distinct art style. The painter recalled thoughtfully, “While working next to my grandfather in his garage studio, I applied heavy layers of oil and acrylic paint while mixing the mediums on the canvas’ surface and following his color relation and design lessons. We realized I was progressing towards a unique style of my own. The product was abstract and saturated, but the fashion of its production intrigued me more than any other work I had done prior.”

By finding his unique identity and technique as a painter, he hopes to make a mark in the art world. His one-of-a-kind designs give viewers a peek into his unique perspective and how he sees the world. 

The artist is already building up a collector base and attributes these accomplishments to his grandfather’s guidance plus hard work, practice, and perseverance. He works with a sense of urgency and focus, avoiding distraction as much as possible.  For him, time is best spent working to improve his talent. Life is short, and Joseph realizes that it should be spent on worthwhile pursuits, like painting. 

Being passionate about his craft and what he does has considerably contributed to the quality of his life. By sharing his story, the young man wishes to become an inspiration to his fellow young minds to pursue their interests. Learn more about Joseph Yonke and his creations by visiting his official website.

Anthony D White III on a Full Ride to Taking the Music World by Storm

Many musicians have drawn inspiration from other legendary musicians and have gone on to be greats in their own rights. Anthony D White III is no different as he has taken so much from the pop icon Michael Jackson and was even inspired to the point of putting on a show for his family members as a child. 

Music interested Anthony D White III naturally, and the Indianapolis, Indiana-born artist has staked a claim in the industry as a talented independent artist worth watching. As someone who has never limited himself in anything he did, Anthony hopes to connect with as many people as possible and get them to believe enough in themselves to pursue success relentlessly. “I believe strongly in my music traveling far and wide, and at the same time hope people connect with my person. I want my audience to know the real me and draw inspiration from that.

He released his first EP recently titled I’m Over You on all major streaming platforms. He’s also projecting himself to different labels and stakeholders in the music industry and hopes to land a record deal by the spring of 2022. As part of showing his authentic self to his audience and fans, Anthony D White III has a reality TV show on YouTube titled “For The Life of Anthony,” which he just wrapped up filming for its second season.

Anthony D White III is laser-focused on his music goals and the things he wants to achieve in his career. Competition-wise, he sees no one as a competition as he believes his journey is unique to him and for him alone. “I’m my only competition, and when I see there are other greats in the room, I accord everyone the respect they deserve without diminishing myself. I keep my composure and my eyes on the prize,” he said.

He has enjoyed immense support from his family since he started making music. He has credited a great deal of support to his mother, Bridget Rowser, who has motivated him from the start to focus on his music career no matter the opinions of people around him. “She has been my biggest cheerleader who encourages me to fight for what I believe and never let anyone tear me down,” Anthony revealed.

As his career trajectory continues on its current path, Anthony D White III sees himself becoming more prominent and more grown as an artist in the next five years. Anthony hopes to leave a big mark on the world, showcase his talent, and prove to the music industry that he is here to stay. As an artist, Anthony D White has quite an interesting journey worth watching, and he wants everyone to understand his story, dreams, and who he is as an artist. With an album released less than two months and gaining traction on streaming platforms, Anthony D White III is optimistic about what the future holds for him in music.

Learn more about Anthony D White III on his official Instagram page.

Entertainment Powerhouse, Stryker Records Promoting Artists Such as Drew Lines to Stardom

Photo of Drew Lines taken by Quinn Wold

A famous saying goes, “Everything begins with an idea, but an idea that is not developed into action will never get bigger than the brain cells it occupies.” This saying proves true for Chris Dobry, who, in 1997, conceived the idea to bring on a battle of the bands in his hometown of Green Bay Wisconsin. With a lot of determination and not a dime to his name, Chris worked hard to bring his idea to life and founded his record label, Stryker Records, where he promotes live concerts, manages artists, and releases music world-wide.

To secure initial funds for the company’s launch, Chris had a series of press releases and secured an interview on the local CBS station the same night as the Grammy Awards. Naturally, this drew a lot of attention to the event showcasing local rock talents that Chris eventually teamed up with. 

At present, Stryker Records first Hip Hop Artist, Drew Lines is fine-tuning his debut album with multi-platinum and award-winning producers Malcolm Springer and Scott Wilson at the House of Blues Studio in Nashville. Drew Lines’ debut single “Rise” featuring Clio Cadence, is now available on all streaming platforms and will hit the airwaves soon. 

Since establishing his company, Chris has been hosting events of chart-topping versatile artists including Saving Abel, Merle Haggard, The Goo Goo Dolls, Saliva, Shedaisy, Trapt, Tantric and more. In September 2020, Chris collaborated with Holly Hutchison of AnR Girl to launch Stryker Records recording artists Jamie Fontaine & The Level to the #20 spot on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Indicator chart and #7 on the Concrete/Foundations Chart with their single “Save Your Life.” Produced by Jason Schrick of JPS Productions and platinum producer Malcolm Springer at Universal Studios in Nashville, the single challenged other releases by established artists like Seether, Marilyn Manson, Volbeat, Breaking Benjamin, to name a few. Chris also teamed up with Scott Wilson at Sunshine Studios in Colorado Springs to produce the current single “I Ain’t Breathin” for Jamie Fontaine & the Level.

Unlike many other record labels, Stryker Records also manages bands and artists of different genres, including rock, country and hip hop and puts on concerts and live events as well. In collaboration with Mainstage Media, the record label also hosts the “The Hip Hop World Series,” an annual all-live hip-hop music showcase. A one of its kind, the competition features artists from all over the midwest, judged and awarded prizes by a panel of three judges based on crowd response.

In the coming years, Chris Dobry plans to expand his company into a global brand, promoting signed artists and helping them earn gold and platinum singles. “I see expanding my roster to include more rock, country and hip hop groups. I will also continue to promote and produce live music events around the country and continue to support the people who have helped me reach these successes,” he shared. The music entrepreneur also wants to balance home, business and social life and live a fulfilled life.

To learn more about Drew Lines, Chris Dobry and Stryker Records, visit the company’s Facebook page.

Ibrahim Ismail AKA ThatGuyHabibi Putting Smiles on Faces through Social Media

Social media has been a tool for various things, from business to networking and even entertainment. Social media personalities like Ibrahim Ismail, also known as ThatGuyhabibi on social media platforms, have made a career out of entertaining people and making them laugh on social media. ThatGuyHabibi is a rising comedian, actor, and content creator on Instagram, TikTok, and other platforms. He is known for creating comic content using satire, dark humor, and other comedy elements to entertain his global audience. Some of his comedy content also relates to the everyday world, and that is why so many people find him relatable and have consistently engaged with his brand over the years.

ThatGuyHabibi is heavily in tune with pop culture and makes sure his content fits into current world events. He thrives on creating content around trending events, and his audience recognizes his efforts in that aspect. He has been a social media content creator for about three years but has been in the acting world since he was a young child. The Palestine-born comedian started in a few commercials back in Israel and has decided to scale things up with a solo career in comedy and film now that he’s older.

Versatility is one of ThatGuyHabibi’s strongest suits. Asked to describe his craft, Ismail said, “I can target every single audience type because I live in such a cultured area where the people are diverse. Diversity is the key in skits/bits and commercials. As I learn and experience life, I use what I learn as material for new content, which I feel everyone can relate to. If someone does like one video style, next week there is a whole new type of video with a whole new different scenario. This is what makes me different from other content creators.”

Building the ThatGuyHabibi brand was not by accident. It’s a dream he has nurtured from a very young age. “I was called a clown as a kid because I always made people laugh and feel better with themselves. Growing up, content creating became a thing, and I saw many people doing it. Since I once had the idea, it was easy for me to execute. I was doing it for fun at first and later took it as a career when my followers and viewers started increasing,” he explained.

Ismail’s goal is to become globally known as a social media sensation, making everyone laugh regardless of tribe or race. He sees himself becoming everyone’s favorite comedian in a few years. He hopes the ThatGuyHabibi brand gets to represent global brands while getting acting opportunities to grow his profile further. Putting the Arab-American image of an actor in people’s minds is one of the goals he wants to achieve, and it’s why he’s putting so much work into his craft presently.

As ThatGuyHabibi embarks on a global takeover with his comedy brand, he looks forward to a happier world where everyone is willing to work, interact, have fun, and do great things with one another.

Learn more about Ibrahim Ismail, AKA ThatGuyhabibi, on his official Instagram page.

Chicago’s Pride KiDConscious Sets His Eyes on Bigger Feats to Pave the Way for Aspiring Young Rappers

Independent rapper and rising actor KiDConscious is fixing his eyes on becoming one of the best artists in this generation to pave the way for newcomers who also aspire to build a name for themselves in the entertainment industry. The well-loved rapper has attracted thousands of fans from the south and west side of Chicago because of his enigmatic 90s rap vibe and natural performing abilities. It comes as no surprise that the rest of the world is falling in love with his music as he continues to uphold excellence and promote a genuine love for the arts.

Born Robert Upton, KiDConscious has been performing since he was nine years old, having been trained in stage presence and music theory by his own parents. Apart from rapping, he also played a wide variety of roles as a thriving and promising young actor. He has been privileged to train under the legendary Denzel Washington and hopes to one day follow in his footsteps and become a respectable award-winning performer. 

Throughout his career as an actor, he has appeared on three major TV networks, seen in more than five televised shows and commercials for Gatorade, Fox’s “Chicago PD,” and Showtime’s “The Chi.”

“Growing up, I looked up to Denzel Washington and Jay-Z. I wanted to be like both of them,” KiDConscious explained. “Growing up, I just wanted to be the best me and implement those dreams into them. I wanted to be seen because, for the first part of my life, I was bullied and told I couldn’t be what I wanted to be. I started this brand to show how confident I can be being who I am authentic,” he added. 

His rap career has also been nothing but promising as he steadily made a name for himself, opening for the likes of Polo G and DAX. KiDConscious has also performed at Rhyme or Reason, the House of Blues, and several notable venues all across the country. The depth and fire behind his music have garnered him features on Broadway World, ABC 7, Shade45 Sirius XM, and Power 92.3, among others. 

KiDConscious’s first love as an artist has always been hip-hop and R&B. He hopes to add value to these genres in the next few years and introduce new trends that will take songwriting and production to the next level. 

The years ahead of KiDConscious are looking very promising as he works towards bringing home his own Grammy award someday soon. He also looks forward to creating his own film where he can pour out more of his creative passions as an artist. Reaching the prime of his career with grace and confidence is something that he aims to accomplish in the next few years, highlighting his authenticity and independence as a committed music artist and actor. 

Ultimately, KiDConscious hopes to be known as a worthy example of a life well-lived, one that is a testament to God’s goodness and faithfulness. Knowing that people can draw inspiration from his hard work, perseverance, and dreams give him enough motivation to brave the new seasons that will come in the future. 

Learn more about KiDConscious by visiting this site. Subscribe to his YouTube channel for updates on his latest projects.

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

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

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.

BonezRoger Alorde Reclaims Freedom and Emerges as One of Hip-Hop’s Most Promising Stars

Freedom is a privilege that a lot of people overlook and take for granted. However, unlike many individuals, up-and-coming hip-hop star BonezRoger Alorde greatly values his liberty as he fought tooth and nail to reclaim it. 

Born Roodjery Roger in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, the young singer has had a tumultuous past. Back in Haiti, the life he knew changed drastically after experiencing an extremely horrifying incident. At a very young age, he witnessed his father get killed, and he even had to flee with his brother as the assailants also targeted them. The boys then had to move to the United States to be with their mother, who at the time was living in Florida. The incident has left him severely traumatized, and the young man carried a lot of guilt and even blamed himself for his father’s death.

At the age of eleven, he was naturally drawn to the streets, and that was also when he started getting into the rap scene. Unfortunately, he got mixed up in the wrong crowd, got kicked out of school, and was placed under Florida’s juvenile system.

He hopped from one alternative school to another and had to attend a level six program for one whole year. Eventually, he was released but got locked back up again for another year and was classified as a level eight.  

Seeming to have turned things around, he was able to graduate from highschool and was even a star football player. Multiple colleges from Miami and Ohio offered to take him in for his undergraduate education, but instead of going to college, he was sent to prison.

After being in prison for seven years, he faced yet another arduous battle. He was picked up by the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement and was threatened with the possibility of deportation. He had to stay in the Krome North Service Processing Center for a year while his family fought for his release. Coming to the country legally as an asylee, he believed that he had a solid case but he still ended up losing two times. 

At one point, he told his mother that all he wanted was to get his liberty back regardless of whether it was in America or in Haiti, but she convinced him to stay and send an appeal.  In the appeal, not only did he win but his case was effectively terminated. At last, the freedom he longed for was granted back to him.

These days, BonezRoger Alorde spends most of his time and energy towards creating beautiful music. The budding musician has been productive and has made significant headway, working with major players in the industry like Grammy-winning producer Kevin “Capi” Carbo. He has since released THE Liberty Mobster on various streaming platforms. It features tracks such as “Dark Side” and “Go All the Way.”

The promising artist dreams of one day building his own brand and becoming a famous artist known around the world earning six figures. Most importantly, he wants to tell his story by creating music that inspires. Learn more about BonezRoger Alorde by visiting this website.