Fox of the Week (5/19/10): Des'Monae

Des'Monae is a model from Maryland. She discusses her first modeling gig, studying creative fields, and her goal to help single moms pay for college.

How did you get started modeling?

Actually my brother was modeling and he had a fashion show coming up that needed more kids, so I took my daughter to audition and not only did they want her they wanted me as well. So I did the fashion show because it was a benefit show to raise money for a women's/kids shelter. From that one show I was approached by local designers, and managers and eventually ventured into print.

Describe how you felt at your first modeling gig.

My first gig was the benefit fashion show and I was very excited honestly. I was anxious and a little nervous in the beginning but once the music started I was in my own world and had fun. I never thought about modeling before this event. I was the tomboy who played sports and spent my time drawing or painting but as I look back on my first gig, I realized how many doors it has opened up for me not only for modeling but for my artistic talents as well. I was now introduced to another a "artistic" field that I feel as though I can excel in. The fact that I made it in so many different fashion shows regardless of the fact that I didn't meet the height requirements or the size requirements proved to me that I can do anything that I want.

You have studied a lot of creative fields. Which is your favorite? Why?

Art is a passion of mine and I have studied web design, 2D and 3D animation, video production, game art design, aspects of fine art such as painting and sculpting, graphic design, fashion design and construction, etc. I love every aspect of art but my favorite field would have to be Video Production. I consider it to be my favorite because as with all fields there are rules and boundaries but you have a lot of freedom in film to express yourself and be as creative as you want. Also the fact that if you do it right you can break the rules. I love everything from preproduction work like storyboarding, concept art to production with direction and post-production editing. To have a vision and to be able to produce that vision for others to see is amazing!

If you could make a living at something other than modeling, what would it be? Why?

Modeling is great but it's not what I would call my dream career. Being in front of the camera is wonderful but I would be just as happy being out of the limelight. Whatever career path I finally choose will be art and/or math-oriented. I am a very creative person and love to use my creativity whenever I can. I orginally wanted to do architectural engineering and I have been thinking about going back to school to pursue that dream, but I may just take up drafting and design first since I currently work with a construction company and I am receiving a lot of hands-on experience.

Who are some models you admire?

I don't just admire a specific model, I admire all the models who dedicate their life, energy and time to perfecting their craft. We can learn from each other and each model brings something different to the table. Modeling is not easy at all, it takes self-discipline, dedication, time, energy, persistence and hard work to do it successfully and anyone who possesses these qualities should be admired regardless of their profession.

If you could only accomplish one more thing in life, what would it be?

A goal that I would like to accomplish would be to set a scholarship/funding system for single mothers who chose to push past the many barriers associated with motherhood to better themselves inorder to support their family. Higher education is very expensive and not only do single mothers need support financially but emotionally and socially as well. To be able to help a female obtain a higher degree in a field of her choice would make my day. The system will not just provide help with tuition but with child care, housing if need be, school supplies, and the essentials needed whether its extra tutoring or transportation help. I want women to know that having a family is never a set-back and they have the power to overcome all steroetypes and obstacles associated with their situation.

Fox Tracks model update: Ebony Lavette is Stunnaz cover girl

Back in September, Ebony Lavette was the featured model right here on Fox Tracks. Not surprisingly, she has caught the eye of other publications. She is the May 2010 Stunnaz Magazine cover girl. Check it out.

Fox of the Week (5/11/10): Andrea Marie The Italian Dimepiece

Andrea Marie (38DD-27-40) aka The Italian Dimepiece is a model from Chicago. She discusses her best feature, her first photoshoot, and models she admires.

What would you say is your best feature?

My lips. I think they are absolutely perfect! Full, soft, and so damn sexy. I always pout them like crazy in my pics!

What sets you apart from other models?

I do things myself. I don't sit on my ass waiting on others to make moves for me. I'm a headstrong go-getter. Plus I work a full-time job, so I have something to fall back on.

Describe how you felt at your first photoshoot.

I was a nervous wreck! I was so worried about every little thing, and I kept asking my photographer dumb questions, but everything turned out amazing. It was a great learning experience and I will always remember it.

What do you like most about modeling?

Like any woman, I absolutely LOVE make-up, lingerie, jewelry, and high heels. I feel that nothing is sexier than being someone's fantasy. Also, I love traveling all over the country for shoots and parties. The jet-setting lifestyle never seems to get old.

What do you find most challenging?

The most challenging part has to be all the pre-conceived notions that people have about glamour models. Not all of us sleep our way to the top. I am a strong-willed woman that was raised with class, and I will NEVER let someone belittle me for a lousy "15 minutes of fame".

Who are some models you admire? Why?

I really admire Jesika Maximus, Jessica Burciaga, and Kim Kardashian because they are all beautiful ethnic women that have amazing natural curves and are all so naturally photogenic. I also admire my BFF Jayonna Fabro because she's such a smart, sexy, business minded woman that doesn't let the industry change her.

If you could only accomplish one more thing in your career what would it be?

I would like to become a mainstream model. I've already shot for a bunch of smaller publications, but I've yet to be able to go into the local 7-11 and pick up a magazine with me in it. I know it will happen one day, but it just can't come soon enough!

Book Andrea Marie. Follow Andrea Marie on Twitter.

Dudley Taft: Writing in the blues is liberating

Dudley Taft is a blues artist from Seattle. He discusses playing in a band with Trey Anastasio, what he learned from touring as a part of the band Sweet Water, and with whom he would like to write a song.

In high school, you founded a band with Trey Anastasio. Describe what that band was like. Would you have ever guessed that Trey would go on to have the success he's experienced?

That was Space Antelope. We played mostly cover songs, and a few originals. The fun there was mostly in the practicing: we had very few gigs. Trey and I did a lot of improvising, vibing off of what the Grateful Dead were doing. That improvising was very cool and has influenced my career, and obviously his! Trey always had this boundless energy- indefatigable is a good word to describe it. Most successful people I know have serious drive, and Trey really lives his music.

What drew you to the blues?

My teenage years were full of what is now classic rock, and that stuff was really an extension of the blues. I listened to Lynyrd Skynyrd, Deep Purple, Jimi Hendrix, Cream, Ted Nugent, Kiss, etc., a lot of what was on the radio at the time (this was the late '70s). Listen to Machine Head by Deep Purple- TONS of blues there. Little did I know it at the time, but blues was really the cornerstone of that stuff. Doing research now into the blues of the '40s '50s and '60s, it is evident that amercian blues pioneers like Muddy Waters, Howlin' Wolf, Freddie King, etc. were really the rock stars. And Lighnin' Hopkins with those huge wayfarer shades! Bad Ass!

Writing in the blues genre is very liberating- unlike in some rock bands I have been in on major labels, I am not worried about writing a "hit" or about taking a long guitar solo. If I have something to say I just say it....

You toured with some very well-known acts as a member of Sweet Water. What did you learn from touring with those bands?

Uh, that Jagermeister can be dangerous.... Some of the bands that I was fortunate enough to plays shows with really enjoy playing live and strive to make it fresh every show. Some bands just learn the songs and play them the same way every time. Like pressing "play" on your CD player. Playing blues involves listening and improvising every night, so that is something that I need to have in order to feel alive!

How would you describe your experience with major labels like Atlantic and Capitol? Do you think you would ever go back to that?

That era is over for the moment. The big cash advance, the hundreds of thousands of dollars in tour support. The labels had such a controlled system that it was tough to make it without them. Nowadays you have to do it yourself which is a lot of work, but it certainly is what you make of it! As a band on a major label, you were very much at the mercy of what the company wants to put their muscle behind. For most bands, like Sweet Water, we were almost ignored. Very frustrating. Second Coming was in a much better position- we were signed by Gary Gersh who was the president of the label at the time, but during our first album cycle, he and the top staff were let go by EMI. So, we really didn't get a good chance since the new regime wanted to focus on their urban artists.

If you could write and perform a song with one artist, who would you choose? Why?

Probably Neil Young. He is a great songwriter, and one of my idols. I'd be happy just to have a beer with him.

What would you be doing if you weren't making music?

Trying to be an actor! (laughs) I really don't know...

Check out this video of Dudley and Blues Overkill.

Fox of the Week (5/5/10): Kandy Cavalli

Loyal reader, as you know, this blog is dedicated to bringing you the best in independent music and beautiful models. It was only a matter of time before the two overlapped in one feature.

Kandy Cavalli is a music artist and model from LA. She discusses her musical style, with whom she would like to write a song, and what she hopes to accomplish in her career.

Describe your style for someone who has never heard your music. What sets your music apart?

I have my own style. I'm soulful And edgy I'm willing to do any type of music from R&B to pop. That's what sets my music apart.

If you could write and perform a song with one artist, who would you choose? Why?

I would write a song with R. Kelly because I look at him as being a great artist. I grew up listening to him.

Which is more challenging: writing songs or modeling? Which is more rewarding?

I would say writing a song is more challenging. Also writing a song is the more rewarding.

Who are some models you admire? Why?

I admire Omayra. She has a unique look to her and she has different looks on every photo she takes.

If you could only do one, would you choose music or modeling?

Music Is my life.

If you could only accomplish one more thing in your career, what would it be?

I would hope my music will bring people together and have no hate.

Follow Kandy on Twitter. Check out videos of Kandy.

Should I move Fox Tracks to Tumblr?

I have been considering moving Fox Tracks to Tumblr. So, loyal reader, I would like your input on this. Will you still follow Fox Tracks if I move it to Tumblr? You will still get the same great content of band and model features, just in a different location.

Yes, Tumblr is great!

No, I don't use it.

Orange County band Secret Citizen: unstoppable

Secret Citizen from Orange County, CA, was formed around the unique sound of Calvin Riley lead vocals and songwriter. Calvin is a determined, driven artist that eats, sleeps and works music. Coming from well travelled background, having lived in Europe and in Asia, he is inspired by the human race and portrays the truth in his songs. The band’s name, “SECRET CITIZEN” derives from his travels, never really belonging but living as a secret citizen of the world.

Complete the sentence. Secret Citizen is...

(Gideon, drums) Secret Citizen is a band whose members are citizens of the world creating an eclectic sound that is familiar to all. The unique dimensions in our music is what leaves you wanting to rock-on. We have just completed our first professional Demo CD out of our large repertoire of original songs, The CD consists of four of our best original songs that will rock your mind. We are unstoppable.

How might a Secret Citizen song come together?

(Calvin, guitar, vocals) An SC song comes together through the process of "jamming it out". An idea comes to the table and the idea is played out in rehearsals until we find a groove. After the groove is established we work on structure and momentum and eventually we find the pattern of each song and play them till we drop.

What is essential to every SC song?

(Calvin) It is essential for every SC song to be written with feeling and personality. With every song comes the question, how is this song suppose to make the audience feel? and with that answer we find the structure to build upon.

If you could have a conversation about music with anyone, who would you choose?

(Ben, bass) Anyone who can have an open discussion about music without getting too "I'm an expert" about what they do. Too many times you meet people who believe "good" music is a certain type. Music is an art. You can't be closed minded and really embrace it or make it your life.

What would you be doing if you weren't making music?

(Jay, lead guitar) Promoting events and gatherings that support live music. All of us do everything we can to keep people interested in Music, especially in these times when Art is considered a "luxury" item. when really it's as important as breathing or eating.