Consciousness Magazine

Renowned Poet and Author Sanchez Gardner Q&A with Consciousness Magazine Question: You are very talented at your craft and have a talent that’s unlike any other when it comes to connecting words. What do you feel is your ultimate purpose or calling? Answer: Actually, I’m not sure what my calling is. I write what I hear and share it with those who are interested. It seems to me as though I’m writing pieces for a future generation. A lot of poems I’ve heard and written are about things I don’t understand or have knowledge of. Question: Regarding your poems, they are truly a gift from God. Do you have any pieces that are dear to your heart or that you use as therapeutic to help you get through the day? Answer: There are many pieces that get me through different situations and subconsciously come to my rescue. However, I don’t have one in particular or one that’s above others. Question: You are a good friend of Nikki Giovanni. If you would like to share, as a poe...

Music Producer and Autism Activist Marcus Boyd sheds Light on the Autism Community Interviewed and written by Aaron Robinson - Editor   7x Grammy Award-winning music producer and autism activist Marcus Boyd has been giving back and fighting for his community as a voice for autism. Beating the odds while living with autism was a challenge, however, a gift from God as he continues to live his dream and follow his passion no matter the circumstances that he may face.   Recently, Marcus Boyd was honored at the Atlanta Hip Hop Day where he received a Pioneer Award. He was also honored at The Stone Awards in Memphis, Tennessee. In 2020 Marcus Boyd will begin working on his worldwide clothing brand, ART'istic Wear Clothing that will give light and honor to the autism community. That is not the only goal he looks to achieve as he sets out more goals while being the founder of A Solid Music Note Foundation.   I had the opportunity to interview Marcus...

Desreta Jackson: Strong, Innovative and Successful Businesswoman Interviewed and written by Tocarra Eldridge Natural hair expert and businesswoman Desreta Jackson has recently released her new book “ The Black Hair Conspiracy ” in which she takes a look into natural hair and its physiological effects throughout history.   The book is educational and informative as it provides a step-by-step guide to maintaining hair and disproving practices passed down by mass media. Desreta Jackson is also an amazing actress and film director. She is known for her iconic role in the film “The Color Purple” as the young Celie, where it was nominated for an Oscar. She has also landed roles on Sister Act and Mancuso FBI, just to name a few. Some of her accomplishments consist of her being awarded the 2011 Prestige Award and two MAC Awards. She is also the C.E.O. of the hair and beauty brand BlackSilk. Nonetheless, she has worked with international companies and much more. I had the opportu...

The Iconic Multi Platinum Singing Sensation Adina Howard Interviewed and written by Tocarra Eldridge Adina Howard is one of the most memorable and greatest artists that the 90’s generation has ever seen and was created from that era. As an R&B icon, the International Multi-Platinum Award-winning artist has influenced the likes of artist such as Lil Kim and Foxy Brown. Howard’s album releases includes Do You Wanna Ride?, Welcome to Fantasy Island, The Switch Up, and Resurrection, just to name several. One of her most recognized albums is Do You Wanna Ride?, which struck certified gold and platinum in 1995. She would become a household name as she eventually reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 with her single “Freak Like Me”. Some of Adina Howard’s other chart-topping singles include songs such as “T-shirt and Panties” and “Switch”. Aside from her musical artistry, being gifted and talented as she is, the Grand Rapids, Michigan native also has acting under her bel...

Crazy by Tocarra – A New Style of Rap Originally from Kankakee, IL, the gifted rap artist known as Tocarra a.k.a. TK is certainly making waves across the music world with her new single “Crazy”. Tocarra has a very animated style of delivery that can’t be put into a box but is eloquently groomed by such influences like TLC, Salt and Pepa, Lil Kim, Beyonce, Lauryn Hill, and a host of others. Tocarra’s lyricism covers a wide range of topic and celebrates the beauty of womanhood within the vibe of being. Produced by Earl “LC” Robinson (founder and original member of R&B group Public Announcement),  Crazy  is a nostalgic offering from the youthful hip hop veteran that will keep you on the edge of your seats waiting eagerly in anticipation for what is about to come next. The music opens with a chill tempo that provides enough free space for Tocarra to captivate listeners with that infamous street edge bravado. The melody is intoxicating and consists of keyboard riffs, ...

Taylor Dayne 30th Year Anniversary in the Music Business (Interview) Interviewed and written by Tocarra Eldridge Photo credited by Peter Baratti This year marks dance-pop icon Taylor Dayne 30 year anniversary in the music business and she is back with her new electro-pop anthem “Live Without” that is steady climbing on the Billboard charts. Taylor Dayne, is a prolific singer of our time. She is also a successful crossover artist who has accomplished music in the genres of Pop, Dance, R&B, Adult Contemporary, and Rock. She has 17 hit singles, three Grammy Nominations, an American Music Award, and has sold over 75 million albums worldwide. Some of her hit singles includes “Tell It To My Heart,” "Prove Your Love,” “Love Will Lead You Back,” and "I'll Always Love You.” I had the privilege to talk with Taylor Dayne about her new single, her longevity in the music industry and much more. Here is what she had to share with the readers. Tocarra El...

Rick Ross on Living the American Dream and Not Fearing Death By Allison Kugel One conversation with rapper Rick Ross will have you questioning the definitions of success, wealth and opportunity; how to identify opportunity, how to achieve success and how to maintain it while keeping your soul and bodily faculties intact. Ross, born William Leonard Roberts II, rose to prominence in 2006 with his breakout single, Hustlin' , a word that defines his character and approach towards life. Though Ross doesn't speak like a scholar, his wisdom permeates our conversation. He is an alchemist; aware of his power to transmute base metals to  gold. Rick Ross' fans are believers in his use of language, and his unabashed celebration of riches. He's proud to remind people that he created a palatial oasis out of the urban desert that was his early life. Where many others in the Carol City district of Miami where Ross grew up saw few options, Ross saw the opportunity to tran...