Lizzen is carving out her own unique space. From her early beginnings singing in church to hitting the Billboard Hip-Hop/R&B Airplay Charts, Lizzen’s journey is a testament to the power of following one’s dreams. Interview By: Angel Neal Photography Provided by : Lizzen “I started singing in church at age 5,” Lizzen recalls. “I began taking music seriously in 2018 when I released my first studio single ‘You.’ You can find it on YouTube. My hometown loved it, and I actually loved the reactions to my body of art. I knew then… like girl stop playing and take this music stuff FOREAL.” One of the early influences on Lizzen’s musical journey was the show Making The Band . “I watched Making The Band really young,” she says. “I loved the process. I guess it influenced me to challenge myself to come up with a song, and I did it, and it worked.” For Lizzen, music isn’t just an art form but a personal diary. “Every single song I produce is about a situation. It could come from a movie, an associate, or a family member,” she explains. “I’m always down to make a song about something that’s relatable, that has a meaning behind it. Something you can hold on to forever.” Her single “Why” has marked a significant milestone in her career, even making it onto the Billboard Hip-Hop/R&B Airplay Charts. Despite this success, Lizzen remains grounded. “I still approach music making the same way,” she asserts. “Don’t fix what’s not broken. Stay true to you!” The recent “Why Remix” featuring Robin Thicke has further propelled her into the spotlight. “Robin Thicke is a cool guy, extremely down to earth and a nice gentleman,” Lizzen shares. “When I found out about the collaboration, my mouth dropped! I was so anxious to hear his part… he sounds so amazing. I was actually blushing when I heard it!” Transitioning to a full-time artist has been a rewarding experience for Lizzen. “No obstacles thus far… praise God,” she says with gratitude. “My biggest reward is having a true fan base that actually listens to me, loves what I do, and can relate to what I say. It’s great! I just wanna lead by a good/positive example, and I know God has a purpose for me ya know… that’s why I’m here.” Preparing for her live performances, especially with her current tour alongside Kountry Wayne, has been an adventure in itself. “I still drove a school bus at the time of the tour,” Lizzen reveals. “I worked it out with my employer, and some dates were actually on the weekend, so it worked out really good for me.” Lizzen’s songwriting is deeply personal. Her track “Feelings” from her debut album On The Bus is a reflection of her own experiences. “My favorite song is ‘Feelings’ because it’s actually MY STORY,” she says. “You’ll have to listen to it to find out what I’m getting at.” Through her music, Lizzen aims to convey themes of empowerment and self-worth. “A lot of my music is about human empowerment,” she explains. “It’s about choosing yourself, not just settling. It’s about being equal, fair, and kind.” Looking ahead, Lizzen envisions herself continuing to grow within the music industry. “In the next few years, I see myself still doing music and understanding more of the business side of it,” she says. “I have a few ideas up my sleeve…” Fans can also anticipate new projects on the horizon. “At the moment, I’m always in the studio making records,” Lizzen teases. “I believe a Christmas single will arrive soon, so stay on the lookout!” As she prepares to hit the road, Lizzen is excited about connecting with her fans. “I actually start the tour September 1st, kicking off in Atlanta, Georgia, at the City Winery,” she says. “I’m most excited about connecting with a live audience that actually came to see ME! It’s a huge blessing for people to come and celebrate you. God is good!” With a career that’s gaining momentum and a heart full of purpose, Lizzen is poised to make even more waves in the music industry. Stay tuned for her upcoming releases and catch her live as she continues to inspire and entertain. To keep up with all things Lizzen, follow her @ iamlizzen .

By: Diamond Johnson If you don't take risks, you can't create a future." - Monkey D. Luffy. Photograph Credit: MR Mag During this season's New York Fashion Week, Steve Aoki, known for his contributions to music and fashion, showcased a show in collaboration with Toei Animation. The event introduced the Dim Mak x One Piece : Spring/Summer 2025 Collection, offering an engaging runway experience that celebrated not only fashion but also the popular world of One Piece , a beloved anime series. On September 9th, 2024, the runway show was held at Artechouse, a showstopper from start to finish. Aoki's creative direction was inspired by Eiichiro Oda's long-running anime, with a particular focus on the most recent explosive Egghead arc. The Dim Mak x One Piece collection was a feast for the senses, blending streetwear aesthetics with One Piece's adventurous and bold spirit, appealing to both anime fans and fashion lovers. Photograph Credit: MR Mag To celebrate the 25th anniversary of One Piece , Toei Animation collaborated with Dim Mak for a year-long celebration. The collection featured vibrant, bold designs inspired by characters like Monkey D. Luffy and his Straw Hat crew. The color palette reflected the vivid hues of the island of Vegapunk, with neon greens, electric yellows, and fiery reds. This collaboration between Dim Mak and One Piece is a dream come true. It’s a mashup of everything I love – fashion, music, and anime – all in one. As a huge fan of One Piece and Luffy, I’m super inspired by his drive, his fearless spirit, and how he turns obstacles into opportunities. This partnership is all about celebrating that energy with bold, dynamic fashion that captures the vibe of One Piece while repping the street style that Dim Mak is all about,” says Steve Aoki to MR Mag . Photograph Credit: MR Mag The captivating runway experience was more than just a tribute to the anime—it offered a glimpse into the future of fashion, where storytelling, culture, and design converge in unprecedented ways. Aoki didn't just unveil a collection; he orchestrated an experience that transported attendees into the world of One Piece . The audience was fully immersed in the anime's universe through digital projections and set designs, blurring the lines between the real and the imagined. Photograph Credit: MR Mag Aoki showed us that the future of fashion is bold, dynamic, and ready to break the mold—just like Luffy and his crew. "I'm going to be King of the Pirates!" echoes through every stitch, reminding us that true innovation comes from daring to chase your dreams, no matter the obstacles! Photograph Credit: MR Mag

By: Diamond Johnson Photograph Credit: Vogue Off-White made a strong debut at New York Fashion Week this season, presenting its first-ever runway show in the United States under the creative direction of Ib Kamara. The brand, initially established by the late Virgil Abloh, has consistently been recognized for its global influence, and this show seemed like a return to its roots. "It feels like coming home for Off-White and for me as well," Karama stated to Vogue , emphasizing the event's significance. Photograph Credit: Vogue A recent trip to Ghana inspired Kamara's "Duty Free" collection. During his visit, he drew inspiration from local artisans' rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship. The women's designs featured athletic elements with a bold twist, including plunging leotards, split-hem leggings, and track jackets. Meanwhile, the men's pieces were characterized by functional zippered panels and streetwear-inspired layers, creating an effortlessly confident look. Photograph Credit: Vogue The show was held at Brooklyn Bridge Park, with the Manhattan skyline providing a stunning backdrop. The front row was adorned with celebrities like Zayn Malik, Mary J. Blige, and tennis player Francis Tiafoe. Kamara's debut in New York showcased Off-White's renowned global energy and forward-thinking spirit, marking an exciting new chapter for the brand. Photograph Credit: Vogue

Maisy Kay has carved out a distinct niche by merging her passions for nature, fantasy, and video games into a whimsical and ethereal musical persona. Interview By: Elizabeth Weiss Photography by : Shervin Lainez Editor In Chief Angel Neal Kay’s affinity for nature, particularly butterflies, is more than just a branding choice- it’s a reflection of her personal journey and evolution as a journey. “I think there's something really special about the metamorphosis of a butterfly and the journey into becoming something beautiful,” she elaborated. She recalled her struggle to define herself within the industry, and how the idea of metamorphosis led her to fully embrace who she is, both as a person and artist. In addition to nature, fantasy and alternate worlds have influenced Kay since she was a child.“I've loved video games since I was a little girl, and I always knew I wanted to incorporate that in my life in some way.” Her song “The Beast Within” draws from the film Avatar. But her passion doesn’t stop there, Kay dreams of singing in Elvish and has already experimented with Latin chants in her music, adding layers of otherworldliness to her sound. Through these fantastical themes and variety of languages, Kay deviates from today’s top 40 and creates a distinctive and immersive experience. Video games have also created a unique opportunity for Kay to connect with her fanbase. Streaming on Twitch, Maisy is able to talk directly with her viewers. She shared, “It's very casual and it's very authentic, as opposed to (I feel like), some other social media platforms that feel a bit more polished.” Conversely, reality and day to day life also has a big place in her music. Her single, “Sunlight,”dedicated to her boyfriend, is the first true love song she has written. It makes a departure from previous themes of disappointment and heartache in relationships. “I think normally I'm used to writing about less happy experiences when it comes to men. I think I usually gravitate to writing sad songs about how they've disappointed me.” Taylor Swift’s openness and vulnerability in her lyrics is something Kay appreciates and channels through her own creative process. Kay infuses her music with the same authenticity, writing only when she feels a genuine connection to the emotions she wants to express. As pop stars such as Chappell Roan, and Sabrina Carpenter resurge, she sees this as an exciting time for new faces in the industry. She praises these artists, Roan in particular, for their unique styles, and fun outlandish qualities they bring to their music and performances. These are all qualities Kay hopes to incorporate into her upcoming shows this Fall during her tour with Tori Kelly. Eagerly anticipating joining Kelly, she looks forward to visiting new countries, such as Asia. Touring has been a transformative experience. Her first tour with JVKE, initially served as an obstacle. Never having performed live, Kay was reasonably anxious. She instantly fell in love with touring after stepping on stage for the very first time. “I just remember going out there and singing the first song and falling in love with performing live, which is something I didn't think could have happened to me, but it was such an instant shift, just seeing energy from fans and the audience, I'll never forget it,” she reminisced. Collaboration, with artists such as TheFatRat, has also been crucial to Kay’s growth as an artist. Through working and touring with artists, she was exposed to a variety of sounds and ideas. Looking ahead, she is excited about the upcoming release of the remix of her song “Karma” and the second part of her EP titled Wonderlust: The Dusk , releasing Fall 2024. Both promise to continue her exploration of whimsical, ethereal pop. When asked to define what an artist is in 2024, Kay shared a much needed perspective: “I think an artist is someone that is authentic to themselves. It's very easy to get caught up in the game of streaming and numbers, and it's something that I have struggled with in the past. But I think the true hallmark of a great artist is authenticity.” As she asserted, in a world where streaming numbers and social media presence often dominate the conversation, Kay never hesitates to stay true to herself from dressing like a fairy princess to incorporating her love of fantasy into her music, her world is truly enchanting. To keep up with all things Maisy, follow her @maisykay . In the meantime checkout her new single-- Love Is God and the lyric video below.

By: Diamond Johnson Photograph Credit: Vogue As fashion's narrative evolves, Pieter Mulier crafts an intriguing 'American Tale' at New York Fashion Week with Alaïa's new lineup. The renowned creative director drew inspiration from the rich and diverse tapestry of American culture and style. For this collection, Mulier meticulously wove this insight into every piece, offering a fresh and powerful perspective on "American Beauty." The result was a stunning array of ensembles that reflect Mulier's deep commitment and promise to make a lasting impression. Photograph Credit: Vogue On the evening of September 6th, the Guggenheim Museum hosted a breathtaking show featuring Alaïa. The audience, which included the one and only Rihanna, marveled at the collection as it gracefully unfolded against the backdrop of the museum's iconic venue. This event signified a bold new direction for Mulier, who had previously presented Alaïa's collections in Paris. Additionally, it marked a historic milestone for the Guggenheim's rotunda, which had never been the setting for a fashion show before. Photograph Credit: Vogue Staying true to Alaïa's legacy, the collection displayed sculptural elegance. It included dramatic palazzo pants and unique textures, like a candy-pink silk coat with a brushed fur spiral. Mulier also incorporated a more minimalist approach with a clean bandage paired with sheer skater skirts and sleek, second-skin culottes. The collection also featured modern touches, like gold chain necklaces that resembled wired headphones, a nod to street style that adds a contemporary twist to Alaïa's classic poise. Mulier told Vogue that such innovations are uniquely suited to New York's vibrant fashion scene, distinguishing his approach from the more traditional Parisian showcases. Photograph Credit: Vogue Alaïa's Spring 2025 collection is more than just a display of fashion; it is a thoughtful homage to American influences seamlessly integrated into his signature style. With meticulous attention to detail and a penchant for innovation, Mulier continues to push the boundaries of luxury fashion, reaffirming his status as a designer who considers every aspect.

Few artists capture the essence of versatility and creativity as well as Saint Heart. From signing with Universal Music Group to starring in numerous films and television shows, Heart has relentlessly pursued her dreams without pause. Photography  Jim Jordan Words By  Elizabeth Weiss Editor In Chief  Angel Neal  @angel_stylistbehavior Heart’s journey in the music industry has been nothing short of extraordinary. In just a few years, her career has soared. Her sound, described as urban pop with a tribal pop mix, reflects her diverse heritage. As she put it, “The new stuff is more like a top 40 sound that you would listen to like Lady Gaga and Rihanna, but I would say with a little bit of a 2000’s twist because I'm really inspired by Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera.” This blend has deeply impacted her music, enabling her to explore themes of identity and culture while experimenting with her vocal range and mixing. Her recent single, “ Girls ,” embodies her rebellious spirit and openly shares her personal experiences. “I've had girlfriends in the past. A lot of people didn't know this about me. And I feel like this is a way to express myself coming out and saying that I love everyone,” she revealed. With its catchy melody and empowering theme of girlhood, the track resonates with fans worldwide. Heart’s transition from music to acting was quite unexpected. A producer reached out to her about using one of her songs in a film and inquired if she had any acting experience. Although she had never acted before, she decided to take a chance. “I said, yeah, of course.” But in truth, she had no prior experience. “I just took that chance and I booked the role,” Heart shared. This experience ignited a newfound passion for acting. Recently, Heart completed filming for “ Ten Thousand Acres” , which she considers her favorite project to date. “I love that project, it was a period piece. I feel like it really showcases my acting like I've never done before.” The film is set to debut on the festival circuit next year and represents a significant milestone in her acting career. As she explores various genres, particularly horror, Heart is eager to delve deeper into drama. “I'm really getting into drama. I mean, I've done a lot of scary movies, but I really want to be able to challenge myself and I think drama is really challenging.” Her ultimate aspiration is to portray a complex character or possibly star in a musical, merging her passion for both singing and acting. Besides taking to the stage theatrically or musically, Heart has had the unique opportunity to attend award shows such as the Grammys. One year, nominated for best dressed, she found herself alongside legends like JLo, Lady Gaga, and Rihanna. “It was surreal to see me in a lineup with them and to see how far I've come,” she reminisced. Having the opportunity to interview others in the field, including visionary filmmaker Tim Burton, she has learned a rich sense of patience from these industry veterans. “You're not gonna get anywhere without putting the work in.” Never one to remain stagnant, Saint Heart is expanding her horizons beyond music and acting. She’s currently developing her own perfume line, aiming to create a scent that stands out in a crowded market. Perfume is just the start of Heart's ambitions. She also envisions launching her own fashion line and a collection of wigs, showcasing her love for bold colors and unique style. “I just think color is life.” While navigating the complexities of the entertainment industry and staying true to her Indigenous roots, Heart remains grounded and focused. Her advice for aspiring creatives is straightforward yet vital: “Do your research, be in a class or find a vocal coach, practice, practice, practice, practice, and get the best that you can and then come out to the world when you're ready.” She attributes her relentless drive to her late grandmother, who inspired her with the words, “Just keep going. Keep going no matter what anybody says.” Saint Heart's journey reflects her resilience and artistic vision. Whether she's enchanting audiences with her soulful music, bringing characters to life on screen, or exploring fashion, she stands out as a Renaissance woman of her time. As she continues to evolve and inspire, it’s clear that Heart is a force to be reckoned with, and her star is just beginning to rise. To keep up with all things Saint, follow her @ saintheartofficial .

In essence, HauteLife World is more than a brand; it is a global celebration of culture and personal expression, seen through the lens of stylish eyewear. Each collection tells a story, each design is a tribute, and every event builds a global community of like-minded individuals embracing the art of living grandest . Photography  Lei Phillips @leiphillips Editor In Chief & Words  Angel Neal  @angel_stylistbehavior Creative Director & Stylist Ariella Tautua @ariellafaith   Make-Up Davina Yang @glammedbydavina Model Brandon Delsid @brandondelsid Eyewear Designer HauteLife World @hautelifeworld Glasses on Cover The Ubud Eyewear, Bali Collection Wardrobe Jose Ventura @joseventuravbcg Latoya McLeary’s HauteLife World Eyewear is more than a fashion statement; it’s a celebration of global culture and personal inspiration. Born from McLeary's passions for travel, fashion, and eyewear, HauteLife World combines these elements into a brand that embodies her vision of eyewear as “fashion armor.” McLeary’s journey with HauteLife World began with her love for travel and exploration. “Travel inspired my brand’s creation because I felt the most inspired when I’m in different countries seeing different things,” she explains. This sense of adventure and discovery is evident in each of her collections, which are deeply influenced by the unique qualities of the cities and countries she visits. For instance, the Yaadie collection draws from McLeary’s Jamaican heritage. “The Yaadie collection was inspired by Jamaica, my home away from home. I was born in Jamaica,” she shares. This collection reflects the vibrant street style of Kingston, where McLeary’s memories of local fashion are captured in bold shapes and colors. Similarly, the Valencia collection reflects the beauty of its Spanish namesake. “The colors of the eyewear depict the designs of the buildings and the beautiful shapes seen around Valencia,” McLeary notes. Each piece is a tribute to the aesthetic of the cities that inspire her, translating their essence into wearable art. McLeary’s design process is intensely personal. “Each design is not only about the places I have visited but how I felt when I was there and how inspired I was to pull from everything around me at the time,” she reveals. This deep connection to her experiences is evident in collections like the Kingston eyewear, which pays homage to the small-frame sunglasses popularized by Jamaican DJs in the 1990s. Drawing from her own experiences, McLeary offers valuable advice to aspiring designers. “The best advice I can give is to truly believe in what you are doing,” she says. “On the days that are hard and nothing is going right, that is when you fall on your strength and believe in your abilities to rise above everything.” She emphasizes the importance of self-belief and staying true to one’s vision, even in the face of adversity. Looking ahead, McLeary envisions HauteLife World evolving into a major lifestyle brand. “We want to expand as far as we can go—new products, events through technology, fashion, and lifestyle,” she says. The brand's global presence is further solidified through events like The Haute Tour, which features pop-ups in cities such as New York, LA, Hawaii, and Aruba. The New York Edition was a significant success, and the upcoming LA event promises exciting collaborations with local creatives. For McLeary, living grandest means living life to the fullest. “HauteLife World always strives to inspire and build,” she explains. The brand’s events not only showcase fashion but also contribute to the local communities by collaborating with local talents and creating opportunities. To keep up with all things Latoya and HauteLife World Eyewear, follow her @ hautelifeworld .

As the sun shines brighter and the days grow longer, it’s the perfect time to refresh your beauty routine with the hottest releases of summer 2024. This season, the beauty industry doesn’t disappoint with its array of trendy and innovative releases that will keep you glowing. From Fenty’s new hair collection to the return of Summer Friday’s Iced Coffee Lip Butter, it’s time to be a trendsetter and try these new products. By Elizabeth Weiss Saie Glowy Super Gel Lightweight Dewy Multipurpose Illuminator in Roseglow Price: $28  Where to Buy: Saiehello.com or Sephora.com   Saie’s cult-favorite Glowy Super Gel now features a new shade, Roseglow. This glimmering rose gold can be used as a blush, spot highlighter, or primer for an all-over glow. It's perfect for achieving the dewy, flushed makeup look that’s so in right now.  2. Glossier Lip Line Price: $18  Where to Buy: Glossier.com or Sephora.com   Inspired by natural lip shades, Lip Line seamlessly blends into your skin and defines your lips. Whether you prefer a subtle outline or a more pronounced overline, it’s a must-have for lasting wear, even in the sweltering summer heat.  3. Rhode Pocket Blush Price: $24  Where to Buy: Rhodeskin.com   After a much-anticipated wait, the Pocket Blush is finally available for purchase and does not disappoint. The packaging’s compact on-the-go shape makes it practical yet aesthetically pleasing. With a single swipe, you’ll instantly find yourself dewy and ready for a day in the sun.  4. Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm in Iced Coffee Price: $24  Where to Buy: Summerfridays.com or Sephora.com   The beloved Iced Coffee shade has made a return! This lip balm provides a gorgeous beige sheen, perfectly complimenting any makeup look. After its discontinuation last summer, fans (myself included) couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome it back.  5. Patrick Ta Major Glow Crème & Powder Highlighter Duo Price: $40  Where to Buy: Patrickta.com or Sephora.com    Patrick Ta has adapted his iconic blush duo into a highlighter format, available in five shades. Here’s a pro-tip from Patrick himself: Layer the powder and crème for a radiant, lit-from-within glow.  6. Fenty Beauty Hair Products  Price: Starting at $18  Where to Buy: Fentybeauty.com   Is there anything Rihanna can’t do? Following the success of Fenty’s makeup and skincare lines, the new hair products have already garnered rave reviews. The line will leave your hair shining bright like a diamond and your curls delightfully bouncy.  7. Gisou Lip Oils  Price: $28  Where to Buy: Gisou.com or Sephora.com   Gisou introduced four new fruit-inspired shades with shimmer and high-shine finishes. The scents transport you to the beach, while the formula leaves your lips juicy and plump. Gisou formulated the lip oil with nourishing ingredients to keep your lips moisturized.   8. Katie Fang x Glow Recipe  “Get Glowing with Me” Set  Price:  $40  Where to Buy: Glowrecipe.com or Sephora.com   While these products aren’t all new releases, this kit curated by TikTok creator Katie Fang is a dream for skincare lovers. It features fan-favorite products like the Watermelon Toner and Hue Drops, making it perfect for both new and existing fans of Glow Recipe.  This summer, update your beauty collection with these hot new releases and shine brighter than ever.

Ashlee Keating is captivating the pop music scene with her unique sound and dynamic presence, establishing herself as a leading force in the industry. Photography  Combina Kay & Chris Martin Words by  Angel Neal  @angel_stylistbehavior With her latest single " Thirsty ," Keating dives into the depths of social media culture, urging fans to embrace self-expression while navigating the pitfalls of superficiality. "I really hope that it empowers people to just do them and understand that social media is very much a perception," she shares, emphasizing the song's message of authenticity. The accompanying music video promises to be a visual feast, described by Keating as her favorite yet. While keeping details under wraps, she hints at surprises that will surely captivate her audience, teasing with emojis of fire and water, promising both heat and fluidity in the visual storytelling. Keating's musical style defies easy categorization, blending elements of pop with influences from hip-hop and R&B. "I love to incorporate my own vibe into whatever kind of record I'm creating," she explains. This eclectic approach shines through in her cover performances on Instagram, where she pays homage to iconic female artists that have inspired her journey, such as Mariah Carey and Destiny's Child. Her impact extends beyond music, notably with "Saucy," a song that became an anthem for female empowerment and the LGBTQ+ community. Keating's creative process is deeply personal, often sparked by real-life experiences and emotions. "I'm very involved creatively from a production and songwriting perspective," she reveals, recounting how her songwriting journey began during a turbulent period in her life. Navigating an industry that often prioritizes image over substance, Keating stays grounded in her authenticity. "All you can do is be yourself," she asserts, underscoring her commitment to health, fitness, and staying true to her artistic vision amidst external pressures. When asked about her musical influences, Keating's passion for diverse artists is palpable. Her "pop Mount Rushmore" includes luminaries like Michael Jackson, Beyoncé, Madonna, Nicki Minaj, and Rihanna—each contributing to her multifaceted musical identity. Beyond music, Keating's aspirations encompass acting and theater, fueled by her Broadway debut as Gretel. Looking ahead, she envisions a legacy that transcends music—a household name synonymous with creativity and impact across various artistic realms. Right now you can check out the fun and unique lyric video for Thirsty as we anticipate the official music video dropping Friday, July 8th. As Keating prepares to release her debut EP, anticipation builds among her fans. While details remain closely guarded, she promises "lots of surprises along the way," ensuring that each musical endeavor leaves an indelible mark on her journey towards becoming a legend in her own right. In conversation with Ashlee Keating, one is struck not only by her talent but also by her unwavering dedication to authenticity and empowerment—a testament to her role as a transformative figure in today's music scene. As her star continues to rise, one thing is certain: Ashlee Keating is here to make her mark, one empowering lyric and electrifying performance at a time. Stay up to date with all things Ashlee Keating, below follow her. Stay connected : @Ashleekeating

From Fresno to the bright lights of Hollywood and beyond, Frankie Rodriguez has carved a remarkable path, blending his talents as an actor, singer, and now as CEO of the vibrant nail polish brand, Freeland. Known for his role as Carlos in Disney+'s " High School Musical: The Musical: The Series ," Frankie embodies a spirit of authenticity that resonates through his diverse career ventures. Interview By : Angel Neal Photography by Laura Irion, Disney/Carell Augustus & Disney/Fred Hayes  Reflecting on his journey, Frankie credits his background for influencing his career choices, especially in portraying LGBTQ+ characters like Carlos. "I always want to tell authentic stories which requires me to be my most authentic self," Frankie explains. His portrayal of Carlos, a confident LGBTQ+ character and talented choreographer, exemplifies his commitment to genuine representation in media. Frankie's upcoming role in Hulu's comedy series, "Chad Powers," promises a new challenge. "Danny is one of the more out-there characters that I’ve played," Frankie shares, excited about delving into this fresh opportunity to expand his repertoire. Beyond acting, Frankie's entrepreneurial spirit shines through Freeland, his nail polish brand launched this past Pride Month. Inspired by his love for beauty and self-expression, Freeland aims to break stereotypes and encourage creativity. "Freeland is a place to express yourself, try new things, and most importantly, have fun!" Frankie affirms. Frankie sees media as a powerful tool in shaping perceptions of LGBTQ+ individuals. He emphasizes the responsibility of decision-makers to champion diverse voices. "My responsibility comes from showing up and showing out!" Frankie asserts, highlighting the importance of authentic representation in all aspects of entertainment. Actively involved in supporting LGBTQ+ and environmental causes, Frankie underscores the urgency of staying informed and active in today’s political climate. "We’re all being encouraged to live our best lives, but at the same time, people are voting for legislation that could take our rights away," he notes, urging others to engage in civic responsibilities.  Looking ahead, Frankie continues to embrace new challenges with enthusiasm, whether it's through his roles in entertainment or expanding Freeland’s reach. Reflecting on his journey, Frankie cherishes moments that involve his family, highlighting their unwavering support throughout his career. To aspiring LGBTQ+ individuals in entertainment and entrepreneurship, Frankie offers empowering advice: "If you have something you want to put out in the world, do it!" He encourages perseverance amidst challenges, reminding them to take it one day at a time and embrace both victories and setbacks. Frankie Rodriguez's journey is a testament to the power of authenticity, creativity, and advocacy. Through his roles on screen, his entrepreneurial ventures, and his commitment to social causes, Frankie continues to inspire and uplift communities worldwide. As Freeland launches and his career flourishes, Frankie Rodriguez remains a beacon of hope and empowerment for generations to come. To stay up to date with all things Frankie follow him here @frankiearodriguez . Social Media: Instagram  I Twitter | IMDB   Freeland Social Media: Website: www.lovefreeland.com   Instagram: lovefreelandco TikTok: lovefreelandco

Faly Rakotohavana’s path to stardom is as captivating as the roles he plays. Born in Madagascar, the actor’s journey from a young dreamer in Phoenix, Arizona, to starring alongside Kerry Washington in Hulu’s critically acclaimed series “ UnPrisoned ” is a testament to his resilience and talent. Words By Angel Neal @angel_stylistbehavior Photographer : Lindsey Ruth Photography @lindsphoto Grooming : Jessica Robertson @makeup_by_jessicarobertson Stylist : Alex Clough @ alexclough.style Rakotohavana’s passion for acting ignited at a young age. “I was born in Madagascar, and I lived there for about 6 years before my family moved to the United States,” he recalls. Settling in Phoenix, he faced an early setback: a severe stutter that derailed his first audition. “I completely tanked the audition, so I had to go to speech therapy for a while to deal with that,” he admits. Despite this challenge, Rakotohavana’s determination never wavered. His perseverance paid off when he discovered a new world of acting opportunities in Midland, Texas. Through a fateful audition call for Disney Channel, he joined CGTV, leading to the pivotal moment of meeting his agent and manager. Today, Rakotohavana is making waves in “ UnPrisoned ,” a half-hour comedy series on Hulu. The show, inspired by creator Tracy McMillan’s life, explores the chaotic yet heartfelt dynamics of a single mother and her teenage son, whose lives are upended when her father, freshly released from prison, moves in.  “As an actor, I will take nearly every role that comes my way and I’ll work with whoever will have me!” Rakotohavana shares about his role as Finn, Kerry Washington’s son. “Working with an amazing cast really pushes and inspires you.”   The success of “ UnPrisoned ” has been nothing short of extraordinary. It was the most-watched Hulu Original scripted series of 2023 and garnered numerous accolades, including being named Best TV Comedy by the African American Film Critics Association as well as an NAACP Image Award nomination for Outstanding Comedy Series. “It genuinely does not feel real,” Rakotohavana reflects on the show’s success. “I just do the work and go home, so to see the results of that work doing so well obviously makes me feel grateful but it just feels like a dream.” He also showcased his versatility with his lead role in Disney+’s “ Secret Society of Second Born Royals ,” where he played Matteo, a royal with an unconventional superpower. “Playing bug boy was definitely a trip!” he laughs. “He was a fun character, and a lot of that work was just building a relationship with the cast and occasionally waving my hands around.” The actor’s rise has not gone unnoticed in the industry. He has presented at p restigious events like the Movieguide Awards and the ACE Eddie Awards, where he had the opportunity to meet Bryan Cranston. “It was insane!” Rakotohavana exclaims. “My dad and I talked to him about his Mezcal business with Aaron Paul, and it was definitely an amazing experience for me.” Looking ahead, Rakotohavana remains focused on his craft. “For me, it’s just learning to relax and be flexible,” he says of his approach to acting.  “Everything about this industry is unpredictable, so you just have to breathe and let things be.” As for the second season of “UnPrisoned,” he teases, “You can expect more laughs, more problems, more therapy, and a bigger cast including John Stamos.” Rakotohavana’s journey underscores a powerful message for aspiring entertainers: “Stay in your acting classes!” he advises. “That’s the best way to stay motivated and grounded. ” As Rakotohavana continues to make his mark, it’s clear that his dedication, passion, and unique background are driving forces behind his rising star. With a promising career ahead, fans can eagerly anticipate the next chapter in this remarkable young actor’s journey. Looking ahead, Rakotohavana remains focused on his craft. “For me, it’s just learning to relax and be flexible,” he says of his approach to acting." Rakotohavana’s journey underscores a powerful message for aspiring entertainers: “Stay in your acting classes!” he advises. “That’s the best way to stay motivated and grounded. ” As Rakotohavana continues to make his mark, it’s clear that his dedication, passion, and unique background are driving forces behind his rising star. With a promising career ahead, fans can eagerly anticipate the next chapter in this remarkable young actor’s journey. Looking ahead, Rakotohavana remains focused on his craft. “For me, it’s just learning to relax and be flexible,” he says of his approach to acting. To stay up to date with all things Faly , follow him on Instagram @falyrakotohavana.

At some point in our lives we all desire something we want but may can't have. Nicollette puts that feeling into her latest release, " Deja Vu ". Words By Angel Neal Photographer Jimmy Romano, Make up: Magali Hernandez  Nicollette ventured into fresh sonic territory with her latest single, " Deja Vu ," marking a significant departure from her previous work. Known for her evocative lyrics and distinct nostaglic voice, previous music offerings featured  a traditional yet contemporary spin on the soul, blues, and jazz genres. Nicollette has now embraced a more mainstream, radio-friendly pop sound. It’s safe to say the sky’s the limit for this rising songstress. In her own words, " Deja Vu" came from several different poems I had written, and my producer and I honed it down to one concise song. As always the song is reflective of my personal experience. The song is about wanting something you can't have—a long-distance relationship that will never work out, a fantasy." Collaborating with producer Kyle Ward, Nicollette sought to blend her unique style with contemporary pop influences. "My producer, Kyle Ward, and I listened to a lot of the modern artists whom I like and came up with something that feels like Nicollette but with more of a modern/radio-friendly sound," she explains. " Deja Vu " is not only a testament to Nicolette's versatility but also a bold step into new musical realms, promising to captivate both long-time fans and new listeners alike. Stay connected : @nicollettesullivan Listen to Deju Vu