Always having a love for expression through movement, Brice D. Vick has fought his way to the top and through a very rigorous dance industry. So many dancers are born and compete for that one shot every day, but not many are lucky enough to actually reach their goal of stardom. Brice was discovered by a talent scout who was on a search to find the right person to choreograph an upcoming United Colors of Benetton commercial. After having a successful run with the company, he was soon discovered by top recording artist, Ashanti, and took on the role as her sole choreographer. Like most success stories go, Vick’s talent also caught the attention of power houses such as: Beyonce, R. Kelly, Christina Aguilera, 50 Cent, Lauryn Hill, Chris Brown and so many others.
Hailing from Queens, New York (my birthplace!), his dance ability bloomed while attending the Bernice Johnson Dance Studio. Brice D. Vick was also trained at the Martha Graham School of Contemporary Dance, The Dance Theater of Harlem and the Alvin Ailey School of American Dance (wow!). His journey has afforded him the opportunity to work with greats such as Debbie Allen and David Robertson. If you think his story is inspiring, you are not alone! I was able to pick his brain and find out what pushed him to fight so hard for his place in the industry, how you can get there and what latest projects he has in store.
What is the hardest thing you’ve had to endure throughout your career?
My mother getting diagnosed with congestive heart failure; I was in the height of my career. I had just finished working with Beyonce’ and I was working with Ashanti on the Concrete Rose album for her video “Only You” in addition to being selected the Artistic Director for Pop Starz, Inc. ( a professional dance company geared for children). I got the call that my mother wouldn’t make it and I had to drop everything.
What advice can you offer up-and-coming choreographers who aren’t seeing success and feel like giving up?
If they feel that they need to give up, then that is not your calling. I would suggest that they create their own opportunities, produce their own events, create their own name by teaming up with local companies to showcase their talent.
What is your ultimate career goal?
To help preserve our future. To me, that means helping children stay healthy, both mentally and physically. If we don’t look out for our youth, imagine a world without them..there isn’t one.
How have you managed to build your brand so well that power houses such as Ashanti and Beyonce trust you to work for/with them?
By hard work, determination and being talented. God doesn’t deny talent. When it’s your time to shine, it’s your time to shine! Choreography is what I love and when you are passionate about something and you invest time and energy, you cannot fail.
What advice would you offer the “younger you” knowing what you do about the industry thus far?
Run as fast as you can! LOL. No, I’m joking. I would say just to remain humble and know that in this industry, you must pay your dues. Every gig is an opportunity to show your talent and what you have to offer, regardless if it is paid or not. Also, no matter what comes my way, I can’t quit.
What artist have you always wanted to work with and haven’t yet?
Sting because I’ve always loved his music. With his style and mine, I think we would create the ultimate masterpiece. I believe he would allow me a lot of space to be creative.
What’s one funny/quirky thing that others don’t know about you?
I have to have my security blanket everywhere I go. I travel with it when I’m overseas. Also, I am a huge prankster.
What projects do you have coming up in the near future?
I am releasing a children’s DVD called “Hip Hop For Health”, it is a fun and interactive way for children to learn the benefits of exercise and taking care of their bodies by incorporating hip hop music and moves.
Be sure to support Brice D. Vick’s new children’s DVD when it comes out! Making sure our kids are healthy is key! I hope this has been helpful for all aspiring dancers out there. Thank you for visiting the Dreamworld; come back often!
I know Mondays are reserved for tips on how to become a blogger, but pardon the interruption while I show you what I was up to this weekend! DC to BC came together to put on a much anticipated music festival, Trillectro, at the Half Street Fairgrounds that highlighted emerging artists in Hip-Hop and Electronic music. Thousands attended this exciting event in DC and I was lucky enough to get a taste of what the hype was all about. So, without further ado, here you go!
I volunteered my services for a great cause, by assisting DMV’s very own Lazy Panda who was a sponsor at Trillectro. They produce clothing for all ages and sizes, with their infamous panda logo, all in an effort to give back to DC’s youth!
Well folks, did you learn anything THIS week?!?! Of coooourse you didn’t! Why? Because that ish isn’t reaaal (hee hee)! Regardless of the fakery, once again, I was able to snag some lessons that we could all learn from. Check them out:
1. If you name your kid “Stevie J,” #2 and #3 will more than likely define their path and they’ll look like this:
Aaaaaaand like this:
And bite you like THIS:
2. If you got to therapy with your baby daddy and his side chic, you’ll have to watch him wipe sweat off of her nose.
3. If your baby daddy’s side chic finds out he hasn’t been faithful to her either, your a$$ better bob and weave because she’s going to start swinging (something you should have done already)!
4. If you do vagina exercises now, you will have that snapper in your 40’s that will cause a man to buy you diamonds after less than a month of dating (and all you have to buy him is a fake metal puzzle piece to carry around his neck)!
5. Don’t ever be surprised when your ex drops a mixtape, has a release party, doesn’t invite you and instead brings his new jumpoff (after all, he did take his couches back when he moved out!).
6. Being on a show called, “Love & Hip Hop” when you’re an R&B singer may offer some insight as to why you aren’t further along in your career (but we thank you for being such a great friend to everyone!).
7. Going to see a therapist that says, “WHAT THE HELLLL WAS THAT?!?!” or “Look at the bottom of your shoe…you’ve stepped in something again” may not be the best life choice lol.
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If there is one thing we’ve all learned about life thus far, it’s that we don’t always get to control the pitfalls that are lurking on the road ahead. Even the things that we can control, can sometimes prove to be a roller-coaster ride. This is where our wisdom is born and our strength is heightened. In the moments where we can learn from our mistakes, try again and grow from our past, is where WE are built. So often, we not only get to see our peers travel on their journey through life, but we get to see those that are in the media spotlight as well. A celebrity puts their life on display for us to observe, to have opinions on and to critique every detail, from what they wear, down to what they eat. They put themselves on the line for praise and judgement alike, but what you don’t always get to see is their personal struggle to come back from the pitfalls that may have overtaken them. I’ve been determined to have Maia Campbell join the Dreamworld, since she is someone who’s experienced life at its best and has overcome tragedy right in front of our very eyes.
At a young age, she became a familiar face to many, on and off the screen. Maia played the role of “Tiffany” on the hit show, In the House, featuring LL Cool J. She’s been featured in other projects such as: Poetic Justice, Thea, Beverly Hills, 90210, and Moesha, just to name a few. Her success took a tragic turn when the world began to see her in a much different light. Hidden from the big screen for years, tabloids and home footage began to quickly surface of Campbell, looking taken over by drugs and displaying irate behavior. No one knew what had happened, but what we saw was heartbreaking. Our young starlet was no longer young and it seemed her path had deviated from being a star. Since then, she’s done a pretty good job staying out of the media and has taken major steps towards her recovery and improving her life. Maia was gracious enough to share her story with me; take a look at what life has been like for her, how she got there and what she advises up-and-coming stars to be aware of:
First and foremost, how are YOU doing?
I have been doing great, working on a few projects and enjoying my family now more than ever.
Going back to when you were first introduced to the world and this industry, how hard was it for you to be discovered?
I actually loved acting and singing but never knew I would be famous. I was introduced to a lot of legends when I was young and worked with them and didn’t realize the seeds that were being sewn. Breaking in to the industry wasn’t difficult for me when I look back on it.
There are so many people who fight hard to get noticed and make it on television and in movies, what was your motivation to keep going and sticking to your career goals?
The generation has changed DRASTICALLY. Talent is what used to be required now its like anyone can do television. It was important for me that young girls looked at me in a positive light. I never wanted to be seen throwing glasses, and food across a table.
How do you determine what roles are right for you?
I have a saying that I live by and that’s, “if it doesn’t feel right, then it’s not for you” so when I audition or roles are presented I always think about how the character will make me look. I am very selective!
So that others can see YOUR words, what do you think contributed to your hardships in the industry? Should other aspiring actors beware of anything specific on their journey to the top?
Not having REAL people around, and not realizing how blessed I truly was. I took so many things for granted. I would tell anyone make sure you know who you are and have a solid foundation because you can get so lost in the world of entertainment.
How did it make you feel when the world got to see you in the midst of your struggle? Did you feel violated?
It took for me to step back and see the person that had become so bad. I used to blame others, but there comes a point where you have to be responsible and accountable for YOUR actions. To me, that is where growth comes from because I was at a place in my life where that type of life is what I felt I deserved.
What new projects are you currently working on and what would be your dream role moving forward?
My dream role is to play Whitney Houston and I have a few awesome projects I am working on that I can’t speak on right now, but I think people will be so proud when they see the finished projects.
How can the fans show their support because we certainly miss you and have been cheering you on?
Make sure you follow me on Twitter (@MaiaCampbell); the love that I receive daily, I couldn’t ask for more. To see some people create accounts just to show me love, it means so much.
If you could go back in time and offer the “younger you” one piece of advice what would it be (based on what you now know about the industry)?
Enjoy being a kid, don’t rush to be an adult.
What is one funny/quirky thing about you that the fans may not know?
I am quite the little comedian and I am so sarcastic. My friends and I just sit around imitating people on TV shows and movies and we laugh for hours.
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No matter what we may face in life, it’s never too late to pick yourself up and bounce back. Thank you for visiting the Dreamworld! I hope you’ve enjoyed learning more about Maia Campbell’s journey…it’s sure to be a great lesson for us all!
(Remember him? He played “Austin” on In the House)
(Mari Marrow from How to Be a Player)
The answer is simple…not a DAMN thing! Ok, ok, that was harsh, but seriously…this show CAN’T be real! Of course, that’s because it’s NOT, but it does highlight some interesting things. Check out what you can take away from this ratchet display of poor acting and fake plots:
1. Don’t have babies unless you’re married or else you’ll end up like Mimi, chasing off a Spanish poodle who raps.
2. If you’re going to pounce someone on the first date, don’t do it on national television like K. Michelle.
3. Don’t trust anyone named Stevie J.
4. If you date Benzino for a week, he will give you a key to his house and get you a huge meeting with one of the biggest label executives.
5. Don’t hire your husband as your manager…if you do, you’re going to have to suffer through firing him!
6. If you date a rapper, he will leave you for his best friend and take his couches back when he moves out.
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Before I go, I’m leaving you with a small excerpt from the album…and this is just from the intro; only the tip of the iceberg:
…who wasn’t the most faithful husband, revealed my life, you will forgive me, you will love me, hate me, judge me, relate to me. Only a few will, this how it sounds when you’re too real. They think it’s just music still. Well, I am a graphic, classic, song composer, music notes on sheets I wrote this piece, to get closure. Some of yall might know Kelis, this goes to her with love, also goes to yall to see, the craziest things already happened to me…so either you’ll be laughing at me or you’re laughing with me.
We’ve seen him on television, heard him through our speakers and now he’s telling everyone to Instagram Ya Body in his brand new single! This young man has been known to sing ladies’ lingerie right off their bodies (or so we can assume!) and he’s proven to be well equipped with dance moves, a sultry voice and writing talent. Willie Taylor (Willie Madison Taylor III) hails from Illinois and was a member in R&B group, Kwiet Storm, but eventually parted ways to start his solo career. He’s worked with artists such as Avant, Joe, Jagged Edge and Ginuwine and, prior to his solo album release (On My Way), he auditioned for MTV’s Making the Band 4. He and four others managed to fight their way through grueling try-outs, wow the judges and even win over Diddy himself, to eventually form the group, Day26.
In addition to his success on Making the Band, Willie is the CEO of Noivak Music Group and is a father of two; he seems to be holding up well against the pressure of balancing family and work. He took some time out of his busy schedule to chat with the Dreamworld and share what’s new with Day26, what we can expect in the near future and one thing that all of the ladies are dying to know…if he’s single! Check out what he has to say:
How have you grown (musically and personally) since you were first introduced to the world on Making the Band 4/Day 26?
I’ve grown a lot since the show first aired, I’ve recorded two #1 Albums, traveled the World twice, won awards & had a LOT of Reality checks, but I feel it only made me STRONGER and WISER in my Music and Personal Life.
Instagram Ya Body seems like a simple enough concept since it’s such a popular app now, but no one has made a hit quite like you. How did you come up with the idea to dedicate an entire track to this modern phenom?
I’m a CREATIVE Writer, I always want to be Clever in my Music, I’ve shown a lot of that on my first mixtape, Sextape, with songs like “Knock it Out The Park,” “Sex Conversation,” “King of the Jungle” & “Full Course Meal” to name a few and just like I did with those records I did this record Instagram Ya Body; which is basically letting your girl know how fly she is and wanting to share her Beauty with the world, that Simple!!!! lol
Are you still making music with the group or can fans expect you to be a completely solo artist moving forward?
Great Question,lol. Well Honestly I would Love to tell you that a New Group (DAY26) Album is coming soon but that wouldn’t be true. The reason for the Breakup….. we’ll have to do in a later interview but just know I was one of the members there til the end, and I can’t just stop because of others, so I have to continue to do what I love which is Music. Get Ready For “The Reintroduction Of Willie Taylor”!
Between the Sextape mixtape and Instagram Ya Body track, it’s safe to say that you are a sexual individual. What influences you to make such raw and sensual music…is it all based on personal experiences?
Some of it is Based of Personal Experiences, Big Imagination, and some just from Knowing what Women Want. Those 3 are SOME of the Secrets to My MADNESS.
You’ve fought your way through the industry and have seen your fair share of ups and downs, what’s one thing you would change if you could?
Honestly, I wouldn’t change anything thus far, I feel Like God works right “ON” Time so everything that I’ve been through, Ups and Downs were in some shape, form or fashion Needed for this Journey!!!!
If you could offer advice to the younger you, what would it be (given what you’ve learned about the industry up to this point)?
I would say, Keep God First, Stay true to yourself, Invest in YourSelf, And Give it your all, that way you can always know that you left it all out on the table. Win or Lose You Gave it your all!!
A personal Willie Taylor favorite of mine is 12 Play; how does it feel to know that you may be responsible for some great romance and/or baby making?
That’s a good feeling! I actually have had many ladies come see me at a show and tell me that they have a baby off my Sextape Music…. crazy part is one said she named her baby “Willie” LOL
All of the ladies want to know…are you single or can they feel free to Instagram their body?
Sorry Ladies, I’m not Single but, however, you can Still feel Free to “Instagram Ya Body” I’m Sure you do that already!!! lol
What’s one funny/quirky thing about you that fans may not know?
I’m goofy as hell, I turn everything into a Joke!!!! We laugh all day in my Camp!!!
Danithedreamgirl 