Wise Words From A Senior Project Legend !

Hello, my current Senior Project Students I hope all is going well in Senior Project and I am praying Abrams is not too hard on you guys already. Some of you may know I am in college and I attend Clark Atlanta University in Atlanta, Georgia. I know the class is really boring right now because of all the English “crap” (sorry Larry). I was not a fan of the reading and the round-up quizzes but at the end of the day business is business so things had to be done no matter the circumstances. Some advice I could give to you is for you to do what needs to be done at your own pace but keep up with Abrams after all this is an “Honors Course”. Believe it or not Senior Project is an easy yet fascinating “A” to earn during your senior year of high school. I am aware that Abrams can sometimes be a little pushy and ask you to do the impossible and you believe you cannot do the task because it maybe too big for you but if you try you will succeed. I know the time is approaching where you all will be starting the blogging process and it could get very overwhelming with all your other courses but let me give you some words of wisdom. Think of Senior Project as an internship for a job you really want in the field that you are studying for your overall project and you will be successful.

PSA: This class is a not hard you make it hard. Also, this class prepares you for the college life. I will be doing this every couple of weeks for you guys in Senior Project. If you need help contact me if needed. Email:  antionemcgee80@gmail.com.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3cIlnzSld54

Good Luck,

Antione McGee

Becoming One With The Music. (Finding the Glow !)

“If you want a lover, I’ll do anything you ask me to, if you want another kind of love, I’ll wear a mask for you. Cause I’m your man!” During my sponsor visit this week I Brian, Darrius, and myself reflected back on how much I progressed since the start of the project and our amazement the results were outstanding. Since the start of my first time recording for this project my confidence and maturity has helped me to transform from an apprentice to a young artist. Similar to training as a Jedi becoming an artist takes time find yourself and become strong in your gifts. Fortunately, through this sponsor visit I pasted my last test to become an artist by getting the opportunity to collaborate with my sponsor Brian. We decided to sing a song together called “I’m Your Man” by Michael Buble through the song I reached my finally level with Brian. He has taught me how to keep my pitch correct and to let myself go through my music by use of my feelings. In retrospect I reached my level of the glow. I sang notes and did without knowing letting my feelings guide me to the truth that I can do this. There is still another level I must touch for my journey and destiny to be complete. I know I must figure that out myself. My friends told me to find someone else to help me more and said, “No training, do I require I already know what I need to do. I only have to complete my finally task to reach the finally level of the glow.”
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jqf1ImqI7N4

*The Saga Continues. .*

A week from tomorrow is the big day, my senior project presentation (Yay! Clapping.) The date is June 2nd at 11am in room D105. I am growing excited for this project because I put myself into this project being that my topic is music. Music is like my bride I am married to it without any chances of divorce. In fact, music is quite similar to Star Wars with the concept of the force. Like Luke Skywalker, the force is strong in my family too; the force of music is strong in my family. My father has it, my mother has it, my aunt has it, my uncle has it, and my grandmother has it. So, it did not surprise me to have the trait of musician in my blood. As a small boy I felt the presence of the force of music in me while doing small little shows for relatives at Thanksgiving and Christmas. My Uncle once said to me “You are going to be my superstar!” Lo and behold hear a stand an apprentice to music learning all I can from the masters of the industry through performances, documentaries, and their music. On a good note this class has helped to gain the level of apprentice in music learning from a master as my sponsor. Remember to avoid the Dark Side and may the force be with you.

The Force of Music has 3 levels:

• Cover Song Artist
• Aspiring Young Artist

• Recording Artist

Beware The Power Of The Dark Side !

In the movie, Star Wars III: Revenge of the Sith, Chancellor Palpatine told young Anakin Skywalker that “The dark side of the Force is a pathway to many abilities some consider to be unnatural.” Sometimes I often wonder how it would feel to live in the world of the Star Wars with the training in the Jedi Temple and avoiding the Dark Side. The question comes to mind what side would I choose? I know I would go to the Force side because I am not actually an evil man. However, there are those times where I could be questionable if pushed to my limits. Little do many people know there is a force within me that my dark side which is very powerful. Similar to Anakin Skywalker in episode II Attack of the Clones when he found that the sand people killed his mother and killed them all the men, the women, and the children too. I find myself to capable of the same destruction and I know that I would turn to the dark side for someone that I love to keep them from dying. In saying this I would love to be a Sith Lord because it is opposite of how I am throughout my daily life but it’s a part of me that once embraced cannot be stop. But, there is always a chance for redemption. . to be continued!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UWLV2VeMP04

Sponsor Substitute ! (Personal Master Yoda on my back!)

Last week I experienced yet again a set back with my sponsor visit with Brian, in the back of my mind I try to remember that I this happens sometimes. Instead, of beating myself with the help of Mr. Abrams I created a substitute sponsor with the help of TED Talks and youtube.com these websites allowed me to learn about Usher Raymond’s rags to richest beginnings. In Usher’s younger years he was notice to have the superstar quality that we now call iconic. He began in the church like many R&B artist his talents and ambition brought him to find a love in secular music. I can agree with the concept of finding music in the church and then having your talents over shine the church atmosphere. This is because I myself am experiencing the same torn feeling with my music experiences. For instance, this past summer I was in a youth choir at my church while trying to discover myself as an artist. The conflict caused me to become torn between Gospel and Secular music however; I did choose my path and its secular music. With this in mind I was forced to leave the group for educational and personal reasons but I am considering a victorious return to the world of gospel music for business purposes. The video documentary of Usher gave me the knowledge in knowing how to get myself exposure to begin a career in the entertainment industry. The video is called Usher “Papers” Documentary.

"Dream Birth !" (1, 2, 3, Push. . Push. . Push)

Every person is put on this Earth with a dream in their heart to do something that is barrier breaking. It is up to us to find our dream and believe in it so that no one can destroy your dream. Beware of the dream killers they live amongst you. Similar to Judas with Jesus, the dream killer will betray and murder your dream without a second thought. If you have a dream you believe in it and protect it like a Golden Treasure. For in reality, your dream will be your ticket to success, love, and happiness on this wrecked planet. Dreams can be simple. It can be something you always wanted to do with all your might. However, its one thing to have a dream and another to have a dream without works is not a real dream. It’s the same as faith without works is dead. Work your dream until no one on the Earth can do the things that you can do. I am working in my dream with a humble heart and I know that if I keep it up no one will be able to stop me. “Climb every mountain, search far and wide. Search every rainbow until you find your dream”

In The Mix !! (The Editing Experience)

With the recording process, editing happens to be one of the hardest parts of making music because you have to have the ear of perfection. I am learning how to hear things that the normal thing does not hear through my sponsor of Brian Walsh. He has perfect pitch and hears things that I cannot hear while I am sing in the booth. For example, while recording the background parts for “Perfectly Blind” by Day 26, he made me do 27 takes for this one part. I did not hear actually what was wrong with those parts but he some how did. All I remember him saying is “Your so close buddy… keep it up… you’re a little bit off, lets do it again.” So I used this lesson to make a mix for one of my favorite parts of this CD which is the Jackson Five Medley. (I cannot wait to sing the bars of that song) I used my own technique to mix the songs in my way and it my own personal tribute to the Jackson Five. “Good Times”

Hit Factory II !! (Daddy's Home)

Last time at the Hit Factory, I struggled with finding my recording voice and the confidence to sing the way wanted to. But, this time at the Hit Factory my situation was different. I lost myself in my art so deep that I amazed myself with my melodies and rhythms. While in the Hit Factory I finished up my recording of Perfectly Blind by Day 26. I know I will be leaking a snippet of the song in class soon for my bosses (Mr. Abrams and Snyder). I realized through this experience that I had to lose myself in the music so that the result will be mind blowing. Speaking of mind blowing, my sponsor Brian, never ceases to amaze me with his talents he played background for the song and made it a masterpiece. (I love that guy.) I admire ear for music he hears things that the normal ear does not hear and I find that so amazing. But in conclusion, my next time at the Hit Factory is going to be Thursday with my young producer Kyle. I’m going to work on something a little old school Marvin Gaye to be exact. Stay tuned! You think you ready?

                                       Kyle                                                       

                                        

                                                                                    Brian

So, You Wanna Be Startin' Something !! (Proof)

The time has finally come for the senior’s in Senior Project Class to really start something in this class. With last year’s messiah Ivan image and bar setting presentation on my back, I find myself looking for new and better ways to improve my skills. Knowing this my mentor gave me a little bit of advice for a way to guide my presentation. Ladies and Gentlemen I give you glogster.com. Through this program you can create a virtual poster with music, pictures, graphic, wacky text, great colors, and videos. I think this website is great for me to create this entertainment presentation to incorporate videos and influential artist that influenced me throughout my project making and recording process. The proof is really on the CD. Stay tuned to see my vocal snippet of my Perfectly Blind cover song. Are you ready ?

Relationships: Therapy and Wisdom Through Music. (Connection)

Relationships in life are created to be complicated and test your patience with your sweetheart. But, that does not give you the excuse to cheat and break hearts by wrong doing. I understand that relationships are like college it’s not for everybody because not everyone can handle the pressure and time management.

A wise man once told me, “There is a song for everything in this world. So you can release yourself in the song and let go of your drama.”

Guess what? That wise

man was correct. A relationship healing song for any man, woman, or child is called Slippin’ by Usher off of his Raymond versus Raymond album. The song speaks from a man’s point of view of relationships and how he feels about being caught cheating or slipping. This song is really meant to be serious talk from man to man to be honest it makes me think of any times I’ve cheated or been cheated on. For example, I recently went through some serious heart break with my ex-girlfriend we both played the role of wrong doers. I did her wrong and then she up and did me wrong more than once. To make a long story short were going to work things out and then she up and leaves for another guy while telling me later about the situation. The result of this angered me and caused me to go into a slight depression. But, things began to turn around after I heard Slippin by Usher. It gave me the wisdom and strength to move on while knowing things will eventually change.

The main thing I learned through this is:

Music is like radiation treatment for cancer. However, this concept only works if you truly understand and know the power of music. The reason why I say this is because when words fail music succeeds it’s your way to let the world know what exactly you want to say through rhythms and melodies. I just want to say, “One man’s lost is another man’s gain!”

Hit Factory !! (Daddy's House)

During my sponsor visit I began to find myself as an artist. Struggling, with pitches, and finding my groove was very good for my development as a young artist. The studio setting for me is quite intimidating. This leads to lack in self confidence and I try too hard reach notes. I realized through my frustrations that I need to get comfortable in the studio to release the hits my fans would want to hear. On another note working with Brian is no joke. This man is an amazing artist with an amazing ear for pitches and trying to pull off a fake note simply does not work. For instance, while singing my cover song to Day 26’s Perfectly Blind, I sang a note that was pretty good if I must say so myself. But, Brian heard the not differently and thought it was flat so I ended up doing like 22 takes of that one part until it was perfect. The reason why he did this was because I asked him to make the best I can be by pushing me before my limits. I admire him for this because he cares enough to make better than I already am. (I can only imagine myself ten years from now…. Amazing.)

"It's a small world after all !" (Field Trip Blog)

Last week I experienced a little bit misfortune with my sponsor visit with Brian. We had some miscommunication and forgot our meeting date. In result, I lost a sponsor visit but my advisors told me this happens; sometimes things do not go as you may plan. But I know now I have to take this experience and learn from it like Simba did when Old Rafiki hit him with the stick. Speaking of the Lion King, instead of having a sponsor visit I chose a substitute --- to see the Broadway Musical the Lion King this past Saturday with a group of friends. Watching this show brought me back to my childhood days watching the Disney film everyday afterschool. I admired the creativity of bringing the Disney magic to the stage. My favorite scene in the movie is “Mufusa’s Second Coming.” This is the scene where Mufusa comes back to stir Simba back into the circle of life, to give him a true wake up call to tell him to “Remember.” The main reason why I loved this part is because it’s one of my favorite scenes in the movie. It shows the true power of a father’s image and voice. It only took Mufusa to speak and show his face to his son to set him straight and I think that is true love.

Just like most Christians today, their week may have been really bad and all they need is one word from their heavenly Father and all will be set right. The Finale scene is the most moving to me because Simba hears his father's word saying "Remember". He then orders Simba to the circle of life. In the end, I loved the show the music and the actors were great. 5 Stars! (Two of my favorite scenes from the Lion King)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gEW5g9TeNbc


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i-gzUVVpezU

Let Freedom Ring ! MLK Response ! (Connection or Free Write)

Martin Luther King Jr., once said “I have a dream.” This dream has finally come true for us Americans with the election of President Obama and our rights as Americans. Recently, a fan of my blogs site came to me with a message to let freedom ring once again in our hearts and communities. The way he intends to do this is by building a memorial of the man who lit the fire of so many Americans during the Civil Rights Movement. I feel that this concept is great to do to keep people aware of Martin Luther King’s life and mission so that the future generations know that he set the tone for peaceful movements. I think we all should add to this building because Dr. King added to our lives in more ways than one. So we should keep his dream and hopes alive so that his death would not be in vain.

As We Come To The End Of The Road !!

The time has come for Senior Project to come to an end and we are all starting preparations with our project presentations. With this in mind I am under an extraordinary amount of pressure to get the presentation and my final product finished. But this is something that will help me to succeed in this project and in college life. On a better note the project is coming along I start recording my album on Thursday in Mr. Flick’s class (Really excited). I am amazed at how time flew by this year because it seemed like just yesterday that I embarked on this journey and now its time for it to end. During fourth marking is going be all about me transforming into Mr. R&B along with a little bit of A.T.M. So stay tuned for the new and improved me.

Who are you ?

Jesus once asked his disciples, “Who do men say that I am?” The disciples sprang into a thunderous conversation about which people said that Jesus was they said “some say you are John the Baptist or a Great Prophet.” Then Jesus hit them with a bomb asking, “Who do you say that I am?” Stunned by the question the disciples looked around puzzled trying to find the words to say or even a good enough examples to please Jesus’ ears. After a few moments of silence a stern voice in the distance said, “I say you are the Christ, son of the living God.” Happy with his answer Jesus placed a blessing on this special disciple that no one could take away whether they were human or spiritual.

This short story is one of my favorites because it shows that you may know who you are but you really know who you are when your loved ones tell you to your face. A secret of mine is that I have twelve friends or followers like Jesus while know who would betray me at the drop of a hat. I did this purposely to have a circle of friends and within the circle I have 4 others who I am very close with. So now I ask the same questions: Who do men say that I am and who do you say I am ?

Taking Care of Home and Business !!

ATTENTION EVERYONE! WE HAVE FANS THAT FOLLOW OUR BLOGS AND MINE AS WELL. A YOUNG MAN HAS ASK ME TO HELP HIM GET THE WORD OUT ABOUT MARTIN LUTHER KING. SO PLEASE READ.

We want to commemorate the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by leading a collaborative funding, design, and construction process in the creation of a memorial to honor his national and international contributions to world peace through non-violent social change..

The vision of a memorial in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. is one that captures the essence of his message, a message in which he so eloquently affirms the commanding tenants of the American Dream — Freedom, Democracy and Opportunity for All; a noble quest that gained him the Nobel Peace Prize and one that continues to influence people and societies throughout the world. Upon reflection, we are reminded that Dr. King's lifelong dedication to the idea of achieving human dignity through global relationships of well being has served to instill a broader and deeper sense of duty within each of us— a duty to be both responsible citizens and conscientious stewards of freedom and democracy.

Dr. King championed a movement that draws fully from the deep well of America's potential for freedom, opportunity, and justice. His vision of America is captured in his message of hope and possibility for a future anchored in dignity, sensitivity, and mutual respect; a message that challenges each of us to recognize that America's true strength lies in its diversity of talents. The vision of a memorial in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. is one that captures the essence of his message, a message in which he so eloquently affirms the commanding tenants of the American Dream — Freedom, Democracy and Opportunity for All; a noble quest that gained him the Nobel Peace Prize and one that continues to influence people and societies throughout the world. Upon reflection, we are reminded that Dr. King's lifelong dedication to the idea of achieving human dignity through global relationships of well being has served to instill a broader and deeper sense of duty within each of us— a duty to be both responsible citizens and conscientious stewards of freedom and democracy.

You Can help “Build the Dream” by supporting the Washington, DC Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial Project Foundation and make a $5.00 donation today through text messaging.

There is a simple process to follow:

STEP 1: Text MLK to 20222

A one-time charge of $5 will be added to your mobile phone bill. Message & Data Rates May Apply. All charges are billed by and payable to your mobile service provider. Full disclosure at: http://mcommons.com/t. Offer available to US Subscribers only.

Thank you for supporting us with your donation .

FLYING WITHOUT WINGS !!! (Connection)

Millions have watched, thousands have auditioned, hundreds have made it to Hollywood, tenths made it to the final, two have made it to the finale, and ONLY one can be an American Idol. Ladies and Gentlemen. . . THIS IS AN AMERICAN IDOL!!!

While on Senior Trip this past week we went to Disney’s Hollywood Studios to enjoy a nice day at a park when I saw a sight that brought a star to my eye. It was The American Idol Experience. This show is based off of the real show and they have very similar auditions too. The purpose of this experience is to get the fill of the real show and what Idol feels like as a young aspiring artist. Eagerly, I auditioned and made it to the show as an alternate for the show in Hollywood Studios. Overall the experience gave me great insight to get ready for the real show. Although, I though I did not get to perform I got a hook up for the real show in the summer. So Randy the real dog is coming to the house, you ready?

BIG RUBEN !!!!!!!

Mentor Recap (Any Choice)

On Tuesday, I met with my mentor Mr. Maggi and we discussed what I did on my sponsor visit. He really approved of my progress and I get the feeling that he is proud of me like young apprentice learning the ways of the Force.

Surprisingly, the research paper came up in conversation and I tried to avoid the conversation but it was unavoidable. Later on we talked about the topic of the hour “The Big Presentation”. He gave me some of the greatest advice possible to break up my presentation into chunks like a dinner. I was told to hit my viewers with a bang in the beginning and end. . And that is exactly what I am going to do. This is only the beginning. Announcement: Maggi will be playing in Dirty Diana while I record the cover song. .

THIS IS IT..

Let's Talk Business (Sponsor Visit)

This Monday, Brian and I met up to discuss our business for my senior project and this little surprise he had for me. The surprise that was planned was my track for “Beauty School Dropout” it is almost complete he just has to lay down the drums and bass. When I heard the good news I became very anxious to practice and record the song for my fans here at LHS. (So for the fans out there Beauty School Dropout is coming soon and much more) Now at our sit down we discuss the real sound and time theme of the Demo CD and we came up with “Motown meets R&B Soul”.

We are going to follow a time theme starting in the 1950’s to the present day with little surprises here and there. At your request (Mr. Abrams) I will be doing some Leonard Cohen cover songs like “I’m your man”. However, it will be another version of this legendary song that I really enjoy listening to and cannot wait to put my touch on it. Later, on in our meeting we kind of talked about a medley and how to create one that is memorable. So I came up with a group to honor in my ground breaking medley and the group is the Jackson Five. The medley will be the longest song on the CD and will feature my group No Komparison. Stay tuned for much more really soon. That’s all folks. .

Trying Tenderness to Dropout !!!!

My connection this week is about a film I had the privilege to a year ago called, “This Christmas”.

This Christmas was about a family who comes home to visit for the holidays and then all hell breaks loose. The kids reveal certain secrets, find love, loose love, come back to the family, and reveal their talents.

My favorite character of the movie was “Baby”, played by Chris Brown because we had a common gift of song. However, in his family, his mother did not want him to sing because she thought music was the root of all evil. So, Baby wa scared to tell his mother that he wanted to sing because of how she would react.

In comparison, my connection to this character has the same story but with a twist because my mother knew I had a voice but, when I told her I had a solo in Grease she began to doubt. (Or at least that’s what I felt like when I told her.) The funny thing is last Christmas my family and I were watching us the film and my grandmother said “That will be you!” I had no clue what she was referring to but after Grease we all figured out what she meant. (Fate is a fickle friend isn’t it?)

Lastly, in the film Baby’s brothers and sisters went to a night club with no clue that Baby was there performing because earlier that day he told them he had a date. So, Baby was called the stage and suddenly the family was shocked then wanted the older brother to stop him from performing. But to their amazement Baby could really sing and blew them away. (It’s a power scene) Well this happened to me during Grease because my mother was really surprised and by the applause the crowd loved it. Well, I am out of time but I am never out of word this is Antione McGee signing off saying, “God is Love.”

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dbtBF7TkzqY (Link of the scene.)

Making a Connection to Motown. (Rags to Riches Epiphany)

Through my research for my paper I learned a great deal about Berry Gordy and Motown from his rags to riches upbringing. Berry Gordy began Motown with a vision and a loan from his family that supported his new business decision. Like the Jackson family, the Gordy family was also very musically gifted although none of their generation became superstars they still had a love for music.

In comparison, as a young child I was gifted with a voice and incredible stage presents if I must say so myself. I started singing in the church choir then the unthinkable happened and I lost my voice due to puberty which was discouraging. Rip into rags because of my lost talent I began to become a stronger dancer watching and learning from Michael Jackson, Usher, and a lot of old school dancing movies. Like Berry Gordy learning the tools of my trade from my idols I became my own best teacher training my talents. This often reminds me of Joseph in the bible how he was sent to jail and while in captivity he worked his gift until it got him where he wanted to be. It amazes me how far I’ve come and how much I worked to be this good without any proper vocal training taught myself. This really goes to show you that I truly have my father’s coat on and it flows through me. (The Father’s Coat in the Book of Genius, the story of Joseph look it up) The play really allowed me to show the town of Lindenwold exactly what Antione “Iconic” McGee could do with a simple song telling a girl to go back to high school.

The title rags to riches come to mind because when I started singing again I was at the bottom of the popularity charts. When now I am near the top of the charts with my vocal ability however, my sponsor Brian begs to differ he says I am the best vocalist in the school by far. I am honored to be held to such a high esteem but I feel I have a long way to go. But, I have come from rags to riches that are just beginning. Lastly, remember that God is Love. A.T.M.

The Sit-Down with Brian… Sponsor Visit.

After a long week of saying thank you and smiling from my performance in Grease I finally got to sit back and enjoy another artists company without the spotlight being on me. Today, I met up with Brian for some very interesting conversation about music and the type of things we are going to prepare for. A very interesting thing about my visit is that it began where our journey with Grease ended at the Stratford Diner. We entered into a very tasteful discussion over delicious lunch specials Brian ate a Tuna Sandwich and I enjoyed a Caesar salad with light dressing.

Our conversion began with a simple question from Brian, “what kind of music do you want to make and how do you want it to sound?” Pausing with excitement I answered, “The kind of music I want to perform and sing is both old school and new school.”

Then I went into the name of the CD which is “THE GEMINI (PAST TO PRESENT)”, the name itself sets up the structure of the CD and how it is going to sound. Recently, I told you about the demo guidelines that all artists format their albums by and we had to go back to those notes to help choose the music. He introduced me to an artist called Michael Buble to listen to and become familiar with his music, I have to say Mr. Buble is really good. In the mist of our sparks flying while brainstorming about ideas we hit a huge discovery to use my love for MJ and put it to good use.

So I had Brian listen to Dirty Diana by MJ because he never listened to it and he thought the song was amazing. As he listened I watched his facial expressions to see what he was thinking when something outstanding happened he came up with a way for me to remake the song. He went into the arrangement and how we were going to change things make the song become blues and jazz with a hint of Seal. At the end of the day I learned a lot and I am glad that I met Brian Walsh he is a great guy.

Connect Five ! ! !

Last night was the first real rehearsal for “Grease” and it began with a wonderful energy that excited me. Suddenly, after a few scenes tension began to develop in the room where people were catching attitudes about little things. Unfortunately, the show did not go as planned but, there is still hope left to make the show great. On a brighter note I had the time of my life on stage last night while performing “Beauty School Dropout”. I finally learned to just let go, have fun, and sing to the audience with all my emotions. Using my emotions let me channel into the song without thinking of how to move my hands, look at the audience, and interact with “Frenchy” (played by the wonderful Ashley Webster). In conclusion, my performance reveal that letting go and just letting your emotions guide you will serve you well. With this in mind I choose not to go frustrated over little things and let all my experiences good and bad become a masterpiece.

Easy Pickings !! Music Is My Calling !

Before, choosing the class I was torn with the fact of choosing my Senior Project due to my contrasting interest and talents. My areas of close perfection are singing, dancing and forensic science; these three things I do and use in my daily routine without knowing. For example, I use my vocal skills and how I deliver my speeches or even how I write on paper uses my vocal skills. How precise I am when you my utensil to create a work of art on paper for my teachers and peers to read; I have been compared to a girl when I write because I write neat and careful. I use dance in my daily routine in the way I walk the halls and how I loom the opposite sex with my body. Forensic Science is all about solving crimes by using critical thinking to see clues, find leads, and discover how a person was murdered. This skill I use when presented with a dilemma in my personal life or even within me. I often find myself in my lab (my room or mind) solving problems looking for positive and constructive ways to end up with a good end to the adversity I am facing.

Looking back at how I made my decision to pursue music through this opportunity I used my forensic science traits and decided to begin with the end in mind. To use this opportunity to test the waters and see if this is the life I wanted to live. For I have learned that the life of an entertainer is very demanding from my research for my research paper. Being an entertainer lets you live out your wildest dreams while in the end take away your freedom with you performing, making person appearances, and touring all around the world. I have come to a conclusion that this is the life I am choosing I will not complain because this is my purpose on this Earth being born to amuse, delight, and inspire.

Well unfortunately, I am out of time but not out of words, God is Love, Love A.T.M.

Making A Connection !!!!

“Temptation is something everyone cannot have, but something everybody wants, it’s something irresistible and sexy.” These were the words of Paul Williams, of the original group, The Temptations, said this to show his follow group members the meaning behind their music and group persona. This concept really stuck with me because I am “Teen Angel” in the musical, Grease and I am struggling to show my sexy, cool, and suave.

One Day In Your Life.....My Out Look !!! (Any Choice Blog)

Life, a gift giving to us by the Almighty, it is something we all take for granted because we can do a lot in this life with patience and given an opportunity. Like “The Force” life can be manipulated through your actions because life can be good and bad, when you experience hardships that challenge your character. Bad situations build your character to endure hardships and rough time without breaking down under the pressures of life. For example, in Grease, I am under stress trying to provide the correct amount leadership without getting frustrated and this is testing my character. I am so glad I am experiencing this now for when I get to the level of show business I am destined to do I will need to able to deal with this pressure. But, in the end I believe that life is what you make it and how you respond to tension. In my case life is about the opportunity to serve and become great through your challenges. God is love, love A.T.M.

And we'll Crawl !!!

Recently, during my lockdown time I listened to a song that I disliked when it was released late last year. The song is by the young icon Chris Brown and it is called Crawl. Most people know Chris Brown as woman beater due to his violence towards Rihanna during the past year. But I know him as an amazing artist who has grown into a young “Icon” who revolutionized dance and music through his smash hit “Run It.”

But, “crawl” is my new jam because it reminds me of a past situation I had with a lady friend. The girl and I went through an off and on relationship, where we hated each other then we loved each other. I felt that the whole situation was a little immature but it was a growing experience for all of us.

My favorite part of the song is the chorus, it says:

If we crawl

Till we can walk again

Then we’ll run

Until we’re strong enough to jump

Then we’ll fly

Until there is no end

So lets crawl, crawl, crawl

Back to love, yeah

Back to love, yeah

"When You Got That Glow" Berry Gordy Connection

Last night I had the pleasure of watching a classic Berry Gordy movie, “The Last Dragon”, the movie was created in 1985. Berry Gordy, my idol has yet again amazed me with his renaissance actions and talents. He revolutionized music, business, performing, fashion, and Hollywood. A mogul in his own right Berry Gordy inspires me to become great, and follow in his legendary footsteps. Since, studying him I set a new goal to be honored on national television like he was on the Motown 25 Special, where MJ revealed the “Moonwalk”.

In addition, I admire how the movie The Last Dragon touched on all the bases of what Berry Gordy stood for like great music, perfection, fashion, a great show, and believing in your destiny. Through the film I learned that your destiny is what you make it and the only way for you to make it to the next level you must find someone to push you pass your limits. Then when you find someone who pushes you past your limits you will find the GLOW. The glow is not a physical glow but it is the inner glow that you feel when you know what you are doing.

WHEN YOU GOT THE GLOW YOUR FEELINGS SHOW…..

The Apprentice "Who wants to work for Brian"

Wednesday was my first real meeting with my sponsor Brian, although I already knew him I still wanted to make a good impression. Most of the time when I got together with Brian was for practice, but this time was different we had business to discuss. Brian and I talked about my overall project with great detail. I expressed my urge to write, producer, advertise, market, and sing my own CD. He smiled and told me well this is what you have to do; he gave a format to follow for an effective Demo:

Demo Guidelines

1. Best Vocal

2. Catchy hook

3. Best arrangement

4. Cover Song

5. Ballad

6. Message Song

7. Cover Song

Using this knowledge I did a little research of my own to see if the standard is true. The experiment I conducted consisted in me listening to a CD to see if most artist follow the same guidelines for their records. To my amazement, this music sterotype was true, a lot of artist like Michael Jackson, The Jacksons, Chris Brown, Trey Songz, Usher, and etc use this guidelines. I also discovered that the guidelines were created to trap or make the listener, listen to their album from cover to cover. Currently, I am working on the music for my project and their is a lot to be done in a short amount of time and I know in the future I will have these:

 And the Winner Is ? ....

It Is Time !!!!!!!

The time has come for us to leave the nest and become our own best teachers. By this time in Senior Project we all are suppose to have a time where we visit our mentors and sponsors. Unfortunately, I have not scheduled my meeting with my sponsor due to him being under the weather. Begining with the end in mind, I already picked my day to leave school and get into my craft with my sponsor. That lucky day is hump day  aka Wednesday.

The main thing I want to get out of my sponsor is the able to pick pitches for vocals and piano.  I want to learn some basic paino skills and further myself to become as great artist.

Nightmare on 1801 Laurel Road (Songwriting Through My Pain)

My weekend was not as pleasant as I wanted it to be. Everytime I turned around there was more calmity. Friday night my escort forsaked me and left to go to my waltz lesson "All Alone." With this in mind my mother talked to me and was telling me that I need to step it up. Saturday was a blessed day for me and my family. We talked to prepare for the near future. The icing on the cake was my computer and how it manfuctioned. But now all is well God has truly blessed me and changed my clamity into favor.

However, through this nightmare, I saw the light at the end of the tunnel and it was my music. My research paper is bout music and how it heals the soul from illness and stress. The song I wrote was about a past relationship and how I wanted to let the girl know how I felt. Through, this song I tell the girl I had to let her go. The song is called, "I gotta let you go." I used a few examples from my relationship and things that made me upset. The one thing I learned from this weekend is that a "Music Career is not a just about the vocals but it is really about the soul of the melody (the songwriting)." A.T.M vs Mr. R&B, who's it going to be?

ALL MY LIFE !! (I WILL NEVER FIND A LOVER)

During my break, I really did not learn much educational or of great value with my three days off. However, I did learn some new harmonies for our talent show performance in March. For those who are wondering what we are blessing your ears with is some Kci & Jojo. Specifically, All my Life, my group name is No Komparsion and this year we are using live band. Played, by some of our very own students that shall remain nameless.

As a reference we used the "Legaci" version. The group Legaci is an Asain Group that sings old RnB songs with piano and guitar as the back drop sound. I heard out Legaci, from a group

member, in order to find our harmony notes. Also, I recently became a follower of their Youtube account.

Hait, Help Haiti....

As we all may know a true disaster and tragedy has happened on Earth, Haiti, was hit by an earthquake. The results of this earthquake left Haiti devastated along with thousands of its residents, rich and poor, from shantytowns homeless.

The newscasts call the death total “unimaginable”. People in the country did not know where to sleep due to damage to schools and hospitals. There were sounds of screams and sadness with bodies of the poor trapped in the aftermath.

There are many relief groups who are doing all they can to help out in the country. This is a time to keep them in your prayers and save people through donations. LHS will be having a relief fund coming really soon. For us to do our part and make a difference without looking at the man in the mirror, so let’s heal the world because we are the world.

Walking Down The Rocky Road of Good Deeds !!

The life of a teenager is a stressful one filled with proactive decision making and time in the “chamber rooms” for inspirations. A chamber room is a place where people go solve the enigmatic issues they are facing in their careers. Many groups like the Jacksons use this strategy to delve into their music and the business at hand.

Curiously, I mentioned this to my group and we all agree with idea of keeping focus on our goal of music and performing. This concept has a lot to do with maturity and self discipline to not get distracted by the outside world. When you really love something and you want to be great at it you have to study and work your craft. You should also have the heart and brillance of Acticus Finch, the father of self control and discipline. Some of you may know about this man through the book, To Kill A Mockingbird, he stood in the face of segeration and racism. Mr. Finch was as gentle as dove but as power as Master Yoda. During my time of lockdown, is a time to connect with oneself and lose yourself and the music like Eminem.

Entertainment Careers !!!

Martin Luther said, "If you want to change the world, pick up your pen."

This quote is essential to my growth for being a music artist and a writer. I learned that a writer is a creative individual who can "invent"  something out of nothing. So, while reading this book, I've learned something new about myself that I am a Composer. Although, I do not write music for both instruments and vocals like most composers I am still a composer of R&B. Most composers get hired to write the music for theatrical musical productions.

Another skill I learned that I prize is songwriting. I am a songwriter and according to the Entertainment Careers book, my main focus should be on writing melodies, lyrics, or both. Most songs that I write about love, pain, and romance.

2300 Jackson Street

Over the weekend I had the pleasure of enjoying some free-time to watch some educational TV. I watch the reality series the Jackson Family Dynasty, which took a close look at the Jackson brother’s life after Michael Jackson. While watching the show the brothers did something strange and unusual to me, they went into “lockdown” for a show. During, this show the brothers went into lockdown to focus on their music and their new album. Recently, the brother’s made promise to perform a show for a benefit event and now they are working on a show for their 40th anniversary special.


Throughout the show, I learned that family is a key to success and fortune in the world of fame. Also, I learned a new strategy for working on a show or anything for that matter. The strategy is lockdown. The musical/artistic definition for lockdown is drop everything and focus on your craft; avoiding temptation from girls, media, and family. This strategy only works with a location that is hidden to others.

I am going to use this strategy for my own show the Michael Jackson Tribute. Everyday, I we learn something new that will bless our futures.

AM I MY BROTHER'S KEEPER ?

While reading an online edition of MTV News, I came across a shocker in the music world. The band Day 26 lost a member, the baby of the group, Que. In a video Que states, “I love Day26 and I just wanted to move forward with my management. I feel bad for my brothers because they don't get it, and they making me seem like the bad guy. But no, MTV don't got control of this no more, I'm telling the world the truth, it's [Day26 manager Joseph 'Screwface' Charles] Screwface, it's not Puff.” With this statement in mind, I feel that if Que had a problem with the management, he should have spoken to Screwface and handled his business. I know that the music business is a great field to work in but, it does get dirty. As I continued to read it was revealed the Day 26 dropped Que and not the other way around.

So, the question comes to mind, am I my brother‘s keeper? These young artist began together in a competion as brothers, who fought for the same goal. It blows my mind how fame and money destroys male pop groups. I feel that we all need to take a slice of humble pie and slowly digest each bite until we realize all we have is a BLESSING.

http://www.singersroom.com/news/4971/Que-Talks-Day-26-Dont-Feel-Safe-Theyre-Not-My-Brothers

Knowledge Part I

Over the course of my break and throughout my life. There were many issues that were brought to my attention dealing with relationships and vital decision making. I play the role of a mentor/ leader in and outside of school. I am a leader in school and a leader in my family through my actions and my works. However, I can not take the credit for this talent that I prize. My brother, Kyle Thompson, recently had a hard decision to make and me being an older brother stepped in to help. I am here on this earth for many reasons but one of them is to give guidance to those who ask me for it. Although I can help people but sometimes I can not help myself and I learning that I must seek 1st to understand myself then to be understood. It is written "Ask and you shall recieve." Maturity takes time and with patience comes wisdom.

MUSICAL DIVINITY !! "TELL EM THAT ITS HUMAN NATURE." YOU THINK ?

 What is about music that lefts spirits and calms the human mind? Some believe that music was given to us by God in order to bring glory to Him. When some also believe that music is the universal language of God and this is the way we communicate with the heart of God. A writer at www.srichinmoy.org states "Music is the inner or universal language of God. I do not know French or German or Italian. But if music is played, immediately the heart of the music enters into my heart, or my heart enters into the music."

Although the statement above is an opinion, I feel the same way about music and God. I feel that music was given to us to appreciate and make an interpretation through it to connect back with the source. I was asked, why do you like music and why do you like to perform? To my amazement I was stunned by the question so I delayed my answer. While thinking of a true answer, I listened to Perfectly Blind by Day 26 and the answer came to me. The reason why I love music is because it brings me closer to God through the excitement and peace I feel while listening and singing songs. The reason why I truly love to perform is because I the stage is my sanctuary; it is the place where all my troubles disappear. When I step on stage to deliver a performance I have an outer body experience where I feel a divine presence allowing me to move and sing with grace and style.


So, what I am going to prove will be the connection with Music and the Divine. I want to know what causes human beings to react the way we do with music and why can’t other living things do the same. I want to prove that there is a connection with God and Music.