Celebs
Interview with NYC-based rising alternative rock singer-songwriter Alexa Dark
With a vintage sound that is at once cinematic and captivatingly intimate, Alexa Dark is revealing her signature sound for the first time, introducing herself to worldwide audiences with a graceful alternative rock ballad. We had the opportunity to chat with her about her debut single and music video, her inspirations, upcoming plans, and more!
Hi Alexa!
Hey!
What first got you into music? How did it all start?
I’ve always had a love for music. Nobody in my family really played music, but it was always a constant stream of different music of various genres and artists – from the Spanish songwriters my mom would sing along to in our kitchen to older rock n roll albums. I grew up in a multicultural household, as well as moving and traveling a lot, which exposed me to a lot of different music from different parts of the world at a young age. Hearing all the ways artists could create music made me want to create my own. I started playing piano and then guitar, and found I could join my love for writing and music together. Making music became an outlet for my own expression.
What inspired you to write and record “Fade to Black and Blue”?
My producer sent me an idea for a chord progression late one night when I was alone in my New York City apartment, and the music seemed to capture exactly what I was feeling at that moment in life. The lyrics kind of came flowing out of me. I’ve always been inspired a lot by films, and love the idea that I can soundtrack a feeling with music like a scene in a movie.
Are you more of a performer, a recording artist, or both?
I always will be more of a performer, since that’s how I initially got into music. Living in London during my teenage years, I had the chance to get involved in the live scene early on, playing both solo and with different bands. On these stages, I was able to start growing as an artist, honing my sound and connecting directly with the audience. When I started recording it was a completely different experience, but the studio is also a place where I can be more creative and try new things out.
When you are not making music, how do you like spending your free time?
I love spending time with friends, checking out new restaurants, art galleries, and other things going on in the city – I live in New York City so there’s always something to be a part of and get inspired by.
What’s the first thing you notice when listening to a song for the first time?
For me, the initial impact of a song is always the feeling I get from hearing those first few notes. I’ve always had such an emotional connection to music, where some songs, across genres and styles, strike me and stick with me in a powerful way.
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Who are your favorite artists, past and present and why?
I love a lot of the French 60’s pop artists like Serge Gainsbourg, who’s use of instrumentation and production is an inspiration to me when I’m recording. I also love Joni Mitchell, who uses her voice and lyrics in such a powerful way. Elliott Smith is one of my favorite artists and has been a key influence on me as a songwriter. The darkness and vulnerability in his songs hits me in a way few other artists do.
Any upcoming plans you would like to share with our audience?
I’m planning on playing more shows and putting out new music very soon!
Follow Alexa Dark: YOUTUBE – INSTAGRAM – SPOTIFY – WEBSITE
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Celebs
T-Pain Gets A Heroic Tribute in Tallahassee with Key to the City and His Own Street “T-Pain Avenue”
In a heartwarming ceremony on November 10, T-Pain, the talented Tallahassee-born star who changed the game in modern hip-hop, was given a special honor in his hometown with a Key to the City presented and a street named after him. More than 4,000 fans came together at Cascades Park to celebrate, filling the area with excitement as T-Pain took the stage to perform a set of his iconic hits, his voice merging with the night sky and nostalgic images of Tallahassee surrounding him. When he shouted, “Tallahassee love!” the crowd erupted, cheering back, creating a sense of unity and celebrating one of their own.
Mayor John Dailey’s words emphasized the significance of T-Pain’s journey: “He’s had a tremendous impact on the local community of Tallahassee, particularly its younger generation. T-Pain’s success and determination make him a great societal role model.” “I’m just proud to celebrate with him today. Nobody really expects this, you know. The people that usually are real forward about it (saying), ‘I’m gonna be successful. I’m gonna do this. I’m gonna do that.’ Usually, it’s them forcing their way in, and it’s short-lived.”
For T-Pain, this occasion was much more than a career milestone; it held deep personal meaning. “This just goes to show that you can be a regular person…a normal guy,” he reflected. “This is solidified, man, that the city is behind me… This is very special to me, and I appreciate y’all.”
T-Pain’s mother, beaming with pride, shared how monumental this moment felt for the family. T-Pain’s journey has been one of hard work filled with creative fearlessness, from his breakout 2005 hit “I’m Sprung” to his Grammy wins and latest release, “Does She Know?”. His discography, with hits from Rappa Ternt Sanga to Three Ringz, has left an undeniable mark on music and pop culture.
But the path hasn’t always been smooth. Reflecting on 2023, T-Pain’s previous relationship with Tallahassee had its ups and downs, which he candidly discussed in a series of TikTok videos dating back to 2016. This ceremony, though, marked a fresh start, symbolizing his past and future connection to the city that helped raise him.
Now, with the newly minted “T-Pain Avenue” and the Key to the City seals, a bond renewed, presenting a poignant reminder of how far he’s come. As he concluded the celebration with another enthusiastic shout of “Tallahassee love,” T-Pain gave fans a moment that resonated well beyond his beats and music rhymes, a tribute to where it all began for him.
Celebs
Challenging Discrimination for Immigrants and Racial Assault in Australia
Xenophobia, which can be defined as prejudice or discrimination against immigrants, has long roots in developed countries. If gone to extreme levels, it can often dehumanize people and make the locals think that anyone from a different race or anyone who looks different doesn’t deserve a good life. Australia, even though it is renowned for its multicultural landscape. However, the pursuit of a better life in this vibrant nation often comes with its share of challenges, including discrimination and racial bias. In 2016, Gabriel embarked on his journey to Australia as an international student, drawn by the promise of a brighter future and the vibrant opportunities that the country had to offer.
In this article, we will explore the experiences of immigrants in Australia and the impact of hate crimes and discrimination in light of Gabriel’s story.
Immigrant Experiences in Australia
Australia’s multicultural identity is one of its strengths. The contributions of immigrants enrich their history and achievements. However, immigrants like Gabriel can face various challenges related to discrimination and racial bias. These challenges can manifest in different aspects of their lives, affecting their social, economic, and emotional well-being.
Discrimination in Everyday Life
Discrimination can rear its ugly head in various forms, from subtle biases in employment and housing to overt acts of racism in public spaces. Immigrants may find themselves subjected to stereotypes, microaggressions, and systemic obstacles that hinder their integration and success in Australian society.
Immigrant Rights Advocacy
Gabriel has been quite vocal about immigrant rights. He has spoken out about the systemic discrimination immigrants often face, and his case serves as an inspiration to the importance of individuals who raise their voices against injustice.
Racial Assault and Hate Crimes
In 2018, Gabriel, while working as a rideshare driver in Australia, took a disturbing turn when he was racially assaulted by a customer who told him to “go back to your country.” This incident highlights the grim reality of hate crimes that immigrants can encounter. Racially motivated attacks can have far-reaching consequences, not just for the victims but for the community as a whole.
Impact on Individuals and Communities
The impact of hate crimes and discrimination on individuals is profound. Victims may suffer not only physical harm but also emotional trauma and a sense of vulnerability. Moreover, when immigrants experience such incidents, it can create fear and mistrust within their communities, which ultimately undermines the spirit of unity and diversity that Australia prides itself on.
Law Enforcement Response
One crucial aspect of addressing hate crimes and racial assaults is the response from law enforcement. Gabriel’s case was subject to police investigation, but it closed without resolution, leaving him with significant psychological and financial damages. This raises important questions about how law enforcement agencies handle such cases and the need for more effective measures to combat hate crimes.
Australia’s embrace of immigrants is one of its defining characteristics, yet the challenges posed by discrimination and racial bias persist. The case of Gabriel underscores the importance of advocating for immigrant rights and highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to tackle discrimination. It is, indeed, the need of the hour to address hate crimes, and fostering a more inclusive society requires cooperation from individuals, communities, and law enforcement agencies in the 21st century.
Gabriel’s dedicated advocacy has led him to initiate a petition urging for justice and equality. If you’d like to support his cause and raise awareness about the challenges immigrants face on their path to Australian citizenship, please consider signing his petition.
