Let Goo Dress You!

Something significant happened to the fashion world in 2003. Goo Atkins entered the scene as one of the most dynamic forces to ever be called stylist. Specializing in curvy figures, Goo is also a costume designer for stage and television, with clientele that includes the likes of Michelle Williams of Destiny's Child, gospel greats Mary Mary, and leading actors Laz Alonso and Morris Chestnut. There's nothing she can't champion having coordinated runway shows, and created looks for major red carpet events like the Grammy's and AMA's, album cover art, and editorial shoots for Jet, Heart &Soul and Sophisticates. Although she is technically a celebrity stylist, Goo is "non-industry" and enjoys working with everyday people as much she likes working with her celebrity clients. Her passion is helping everyone look their very best and reach their optimal style potential! ~Written by Christopher E. McMullen

The Dunlap Digest got the opportunity to interview this woman of fashion! Below are the questions and links to all of her social media outlets.

Questions:

DD: Many people may not know, but you have a huge musical history in singing background vocals for major artists. Can you tell us some you have sung for?

GG: I've sang with Mary Mary, Patti LaBelle, Mario, Kelly Price, Kanye, Common, Mos Def ....

DD: When did your artistic flow begin, in regards to designing and styling?

GG: I can remember drawing sketches of ideas as early as 14 yrs old.

DD: Who has been your favorite client to style and can be versatile with different looks? Who would you like to style?

GG: I don't have a favorite client. But I do have a favorite "type" of client. That's the client that while they know what they want, they allow me to make their visions & ideas come true...As in, they give me their ideas & quietly go away & allow me workspace. I always like to style "new comers" or those who don't have an established "presence" fashionably. So that I'm not riding anyone’s coattail, but rather take full responsibility for creating their fashion presence...in other words, I'm not hype therefore I don't have the least bit of interest in styling "big names" in fashion JUST BECAUSE their big names. I like creating it all from the ground up, day one.

DD: Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Do you envision your own clothing line?

GG: In 5 yrs Let Goo Dress You will consist of great stylist all over the world, who are capable of wearing my name...My clothing line will be in major stores everywhere.

DD: What are some “Do’s and Don’ts” in dressing females?

GG: Do's & Don’ts: The average female wants to look taller and/or thinner, ALWAYS. So always shop with this in mind.

DD: What are some “Do’s and Don’ts” in dressing males?

GG: Do's & Don’ts: Male's should always look distinctly different from a female.  Tread lightly around pattern & print mixing. Leave that to the trained pro's.

DD: What styling advice can you give to the “saints” both male and female?

GG: "Churchy" looks always require "one less item" to me. It’s usually over done. Just choose any one item & leave it at home.

DD: What motivation can you give those who are aspiring to follow in your footsteps?

GG: Aspiring stylists should be "good" and not just "into fashion". If I hear that term again I'll scream. They should not be designer label driven aka "hype". They should picture all of their work & shop their best work to agencies. They must know that they work in a "service" industry & that they "work for" divas. Which won't work is stylist is one. They should be nice. They should be diligent.

Random Questions:

What’s your favorite color?

~Blue

Are you a morning bird or a night owl?

~Night owl

What’s your favorite vacation spot?

~Sydney, St. Barths, London, Maui, Miami

Blackberry vs. iPhone?

~Team Blackberry

What is something you do that nobody knows about or notices? (Ex. Count your steps, bite your nails, or have a collection)

~I'm always looking. I'm very observant.

Follow Goo! Facebook, Twitter, & Website!

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Music Industry Insight from Pastor Seon Thompson

Pastor Seon Thompson is a name that has been setting a blaze and creating a buzz on the mic for quite some time now. Born and raised in Flint, Michigan, PT (Pastor Thompson) started Refuge Temple of Flint in early 2004. It has now become one of the fastest growing churches in the area. Not only does he teach God's word to a mass congregation, but he also owns and operates Just Wait Records. Just Wait Records is an independent label created to spotlight Christian based ministry. He is the debut artist for the label and his first album entitled, "I'm Out - Live" has had the Billboard charting single "I Want the World to See."

Having many roles including pastor, entrepreneur, and artist, the Dunlap Digest had the pleasure to interview PT and asking him about the many responsibilities and insight into the music industry.

DD:  How important is it for a business owner and artist to use proper negotiation skills?

PT: It is very important! I negotiate on a regular basis. With the record company, I'm looking over contracts making sure certain services are fulfilled and in a timely manner. Also pricing, length of services, and expectations are things that I negotiate. On an artist's stand point, my contract and rider has to be approved by the venue and promotion team. It is equally important to remember that time is money.

DD: How do you juggle the many roles being a Pastor, Record Label CEO, and also an Artist?

PT: It is definitely demanding. I believe it takes teamwork to make the dream work. If I didn't have people to help administrate those demands, the juggle would be virtually impossible. Another way to juggle the roles is by being selective, without prejudice, in what we participate in. Many requests come, but not all are fruitful.

DD: Let's say you run into a negotiation and some problems arise. How do you separate the person from the problem?

PT: Rule # 1 is to remove the emotion out of the situation. As in most negotiations, each party is batting for their own deal. I always go to the table with a reasonable range. At the time of deal making, it's not about the person it's about putting bread in the mouth of my family.

Pastor Seon Thompson is currently working on his 2^nd recording. For more information on booking, events, and news updates check out his Facebook, Twitter, and Website!

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Welcome to My World

What’s on the Menu?

Have you noticed the same artist getting all the shine? It seems like some of the major artists get put into rotation automatically. Well I dare you to order something new from the musical menu and explore the different flavors and sounds of the one and only, Camper…. Aaron Camper (I’ve always wanted to use the James Bond intro #random). 

Dig in…

Appetizer:

Most high school seniors have plans to either find jobs or prepare for their upcoming college experience. Aaron Camper had other plans; right after high school he started his professional musical career touring with the world re-known gospel artist Tye Tribbett. At such a young age, his voice became one of the outstanding vocals in the group.

From there Aaron's writing and vocal abilities led him to working and writing with some of the industry’s best such as Mike Posner, Rob Thomas, Jessica Simpson, Jill Scott, Stevie Wonder, Patti Labelle, The Clark Sisters, Bo Bice, Eric Roberson and Fantasia.  Garnering his first RIAA certified gold album in 2008 with Marvin Sapp's Grammy Nominated album "Thirsty". ~Via Biography

Entrée:

Welcome to My World is the debut solo MixTape from Aaron Camper. This album includes the writing genius and sounds from Swiz Beats, Kanye West, Eric Roberson and PJ Morton. Camper’s vocal agility coupled with the lyrical storylines will take you on a different journey on each track. “Second Thought” tells the story of a couple deciding if they want to continue their relationship. Oh, & did I mention that this track features BRANDY! By far, this is one of the best duets that I’ve heard featuring Ms. B.Rocka (Had to throw in the nickname LOL).

Aaron Camper can be respectfully compared vocally to Omarion, R. Kelly, and a male version of Brandy. In so many words, what I’m trying to say is that his vocals are out of this world. Hence the title of the MixTape which introduces the listeners to his world of musicality. The song structures are uniquely formulated to hit you with a catchy chorus but also has a storyline that plays out within the verses.

Dessert:

Not only is this MixTape $FREE.99 but The Dunlap Digest was granted the opportunity to ask Aaron Camper some questions (See below). Click here to download the MixTape from his website, his twitter, and Facebook.

DD: What a blazin’ Mixtape! Were you always interested in going solo?

AC: Thank you, I'm definitely not new to the game been in it for a while now writing and singing but the Mixtape was something I wanted to do and make a statement with. Never really was a goal of mine to go solo but things happen, plans change.

DD: Are there any challenges?

AC: Always. With anything you love there's gonna be a lot of challenges and difficulties that try your persistence but the music helps you get through.

DD: You have some BIG NAMED artists featured on your music (Brandy in particular, “Second Thought” is one of my favorite songs), how was it to work with
them?

AC: I'm just honored and humbled to have my name placed next to there's. I'm just a big a fan as I am a supporter of all the artists on my Mixtape.

DD: Do you write/play your own material?

AC: Of course. Its my outlet, something I enjoy doing more than anything in the world.

DD: Do you miss being in a group setting?

AC: I'm always working with a group, my team works extremely hard helping push this brand to the forefront. I understand the importance of a team.

DD: Who do you look up to in the music industry?

AC: Everyone who's becoming everything they dreamed. Everyone who'll push the envelope and stand alone to be the best.

DD: What advice you would give to another upcoming artist trying to "make it"?

AC: Stay persistent, stay passionate and let God take care of the rest.

DD: What are your next steps?

AC: Getting to EVERY city, town, college and anywhere that supports my music. I wanna see my supporters.

DD: 5 years ago, could you have imagined the place that God has allowed you today?

AC: Never. I’m always on my toes and I try to stay prepared for anything. I’m truly blessed.

Random Questions:
What is your favorite place to visit?
- The Bathroom. It centers me. Lol

Blackberry vs. iPhone?
- Are you serious? iPhone

What do you think about these gas prices? LOL
- I’m thinking about getting a brand new Huffy "Mountain X-Treme" Series. It's so ridiculous out here.

What’s your favorite restaurant?
- A quick one.

What is something you do that nobody knows or notices? (Ex. Count your steps, bite your nails, or have a collection of items)
- If I told you then people would know, now wouldn't they?

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Love, Onitsha

What’s on the Menu?

Who’s Hungry? Check out the menu and get ready to enjoy some great music! This artist will fill you up and entice you to come back for seconds. Dig in…

Appetizer:

The sound of Gospel Music has changed tremendously. I remember growing up listening to my Walkman Cassette Player, playing songs I had recorded off the radio (both of those statements date me). Just as technology has changed, so has the sound of the typical church song. Foot stomping and hand clapping now has more rhythm and bump. According to The Dunlap Digest, an artist that has kept current with the changes and creating a whole new sound is none other than Onitsha. Who? You may ask.

Entrée:

If you have either one of her CDs, “Church Girl” or “Love, Onitsha” she makes it plain on how to pronounce her unique name on the first track of each album. This uniqueness only emulates her sound. Her vocal ability is hard to ignore. She is secure in her alto/tenor vocal range and has the ability to give you goose-bumps with her melodic harmonies. With the release of her second album, she takes a spin on some today’s most popular radio hits. Don’t be swayed by the familiar tune to mistaken the gospel charge that is present in her music. With songs like “Try Me” and “Holding Me Down” on the album, it is apparent whom she represents! Onitsha is more than an upcoming Gospel Artist, I believe that she is changing the sound and expectation that people place on religious music.

She has gained a vast following on Social Media Networks. Here is a link to her Twitter @OniTshA where she is a part of #teamfollowback (My tweeple know what that means). An anointed, humble, and warm person, I want you to support and get to know Onitsha!

Dessert:

Like me, who doesn’t like the price $ FREE.99! If you have not heard this album, you don’t have to simply listen and sample it. Click here to download it for $ FREE.99!

I got the opportunity to ask Onitsha some questions (her responses in pink, that's how she responded to me LOL):

DD:  At what age did you begin singing?

O:  I started singing at the age of 4.

DD:  Growing up, what musical artist influenced you the most?

O:  Well, I had a lot of musical influences growing up, but I learned most of what I know from my mom & dad. Other influences: Vanessa Bell Armstrong, Ray Charles, Daryl Coley, Michael Jackson and Angie & Debbie Winans.

DD:  Onitsha! I’m sure that many have really messed up your 1st name (LOL) but you have made it clear in song how you pronounce it and your nickname. What are some of the ways people have misspelled or mispronounced your name?

O:  Oh wow! I've gotten some of everything. Ontishia, Ont-sha, Osheena, O'Neil.....everything wrong! LOL!

DD:  5 years ago, could you have imagined the place that God has allowed you today?

O:  Well, five years ago, I was in a different place musically. I was signed to a major label and had a shelved record, but I knew that God would come through for me and eventually that record was released. I am no longer with a label, but I was recently able to produce and release an inspirational mixtape that I am very happy with. :-)

DD:  I remember turning on television and seeing you singing backgrounds for major artists and even the world TV hit American Idol! Can you name some artists that you have shared the stage with?

O:  Let's see...Stevie Wonder, Jennifer Hudson, Christina Aguilera, Whitney Houston, Brandy, Kelly Clarkson, & Carrie Underwood. I am also a background vocalist on the new FOX show GLEE.

DD:  As a singer myself, I LOVE singing backgrounds! What are your thoughts on any differences between taking the lead and backgrounds? Which has more musical fun?

O:  Background singing is definitely a hard job, but there is not as much pressure to be perfect when you're in the background. You can't sound a mess, but you can get away with a little bit of here and there. LoL. I enjoy both, but I know it's all eyes on me when I hit the stage to do my own thing.

DD:  Would you consider yourself a songwriter? Is it something that you enjoy?

O:  Yes, I am a songwriter. I write or co-write most of my material. And I love it!

DD:  Do you limit your vocal abilities to one genre of music? What are your thoughts on artists being open to singing all types of music?

O:  No I don't limit myself. I've been fortunate enough to work with all types of artist from gospel to pop to country, so I've sang some of everything.

DD:  You have a new Mixtape released! “Love, Onitsha” A listener can hear some popular guest appearances and some of their favorite radio hits with a new gospel spin. How was the process of creating and writing this Mixtape?

O:  Stressful..lol. Just kidding. I just woke up one morning and decided to do an inspirational mixtape. I wanted to release on Thanksgiving, so that only gave me 3 and a half weeks. It took a lot of hard work..early mornings and late night, but it was worth it.

DD:  Describe working with the likes of Drizzy Drake and Amber Riley from Glee and other guest appearances on the Mixtape.

O:  It was phenomenal working with everyone. We're all friends and I was honored that they said yes.

DD:  I would have to say that my favorite song would be “He Is” from the 1st album entitled “Church Girl”. What is your favorite song that you have released?

O:  Thank you. I guess as time goes on my favorites change up. Right now, I really like "Try Me", but my all time fave would have to be "This One". I still get tons of messages about how that song has helped so many people get through their "This One". :-)

Random Questions:

DD:  What is your favorite cereal of all times?

O:  Pops and/or Cinammon Toast Crunch

DD:  Where would your dream vacation be?

O:  Onitsha, Nigeria. :-)

DD:  Blackberry vs. iPhone?

O:  LOL...I think you already know, but BLACKBERRY.

DD:  What was the last movie you went to see?

O:  True Grit..Loved it! I'm a super movie buff.

DD:  What is something you do that nobody knows or notices? (Ex. Count your steps, bite your nails, or have a shoe collection)

O:  I eat ice everyday and I have a favorite type. 

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