Category Archives: Interviews

05.02.13
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Floyd Mayweather Jr Interview

Floys Mayweather

In just two days, Floyd “Money” Mayweather Jr puts his undefeated record on the line as he takes on Robert Guerrero in what is sure to be an explosive fight this weekend. Check out my interview with the self proclaimed “king of boxing”.

Everyone wants to fight you in this sport no matter their weight class. Guys like Pacquiao, Alvarez, Sergio Martinez, and so on. Why do you think guys from lower and higher weight classes want to fight you? Does this help prove the case that you are the best pound for pound fighter in the world?

For one, everyone wants a chunk of Mayweather money. Everyone knows that when you fight me, that is undoubtedly the biggest payday of any fighter’s career. And two, everyone wants to try to be the one guy to beat me, but we all know that isn’t happening. Forty-three have tried and 43 have failed.

You’re a boxer but you’re also an “entertainer” with a brand. Why do you think that so few boxers can establish a brand like yourself?

I am not just any fighter. I am a promoter. I am a businessman. I am an entrepreneur. I have my own style, and I am the best in the sport. All of that makes for an unbelievable brand.

You are one of the most polarizing figures in sports. People either love you or they hate you. How do you deal with the “hate” portion from boxing and non boxing fans?

I don’t pay attention to the critics and haters. If I let that get to me, I wouldn’t be doing this anymore. I have built my legacy with the support of my fans and followers. They have been there for me since the beginning and I appreciate that. As for the haters, they are still paying to watch me fight, so I have to thank them for that.

What can we expect out of you from your new unexpected mega deal with Showtime/CBS?

You can expect a whole new level of exposure for Floyd Mayweather and The Money Team. The programming they are rolling out for my May 4 fight is unbelievable and I am just really looking forward to being a part of the SHOWTIME/CBS Family.

Last year you faced some obstacles which helped contribute to yet another long layoff from the sport of boxing. How do you still stay motivated and committed to the sport of boxing year in and year out?

Boxing is what I do. It is my life and I have been doing it as long as I can remember. It is second nature to me, when I get in the gym, that is all there is…hard work and dedication no matter what is going on anywhere else. I am one hundred percent committed to preserving my legacy and being known as one of the best to ever lace up a pair of gloves.

Some would say that Robert used borderline illegal bully tactics against Berto. What do you expect from Robert come May 4th?

I expect a tough tough fight. Guerrero has wanted this fight for a long time and it was because of his determination, that he got it.  He is a champion and is going for glory in the biggest payday of his career. He deserves the shot, but that is all it is going to be…a shot. 

You are now back training with your father, How does he being back impact life in the gym?

 My father taught me the foundation of my boxing skills, and we are really getting back to the basics in the gym. Hard work and dedication. Family is so important to me and it is great to have my dad, uncles and extended family day in and day out in the gym. 

What is your diet regimen like when you’re training? People are interested in how you maintain such great shape.

I eat a lot of lean proteins, but I mostly stay in shape just by working it in the gym. I spend about 5 hours a day in the gym or running. That is how you stay in shape.

When Floyd Mayweather’s career is all said and done, what legacy would you hope you’ve left behind? What would boxing be like without a Mayweather fight?

 I want to be known as the greatest of all time. Right now, I am the sport of boxing. People want to see me fight because there is no one else like me. There are some good up and comers, especially the fighters we have under the Mayweather Promotions banner, but the sport revolves around when I fight and luckily fans have a lot more Mayweather coming up.

Your boxing skills are second to none and you are a master technician. What advice can you give to boxing hopefuls who are hoping to make a career out of prizefighting?

 This sport is all about hard work. If you don’t have it in you to work harder than you have ever worked in your life, than this sport isn’t for you. You have to leave it all in the gym every single day because there are hundreds of other guys doing that and then some.

I wish you all of the best in the fight and I appreciate you taking the time to do the interview with us at Blended Entertainment. Is there anything that you’d like to say to your fans, the readers, and Robert in preparation for your May 4th battle?

Thanks. Just tune in May 4, you will be happy that you did.

 

06.20.12
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Interview with Lulu Antariksa

You know her as Stevie from Nickelodeon’s hit series How To Rock. Enjoy Blended Entertainment’s interview w/ the lovely Lulu Antariksa

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05.10.12
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Interview w/ J.Dash

J. Dash is a piano prodigy who performed his first concert at age 5. By the time he was 8 years old, this classically trained pianist loved to play Mozart for his family and friends. Throughout his teens, however, he cut his teeth playing in various blues and jazz bands. A rapper, songwriter, producer, mixer, & multi-instrumentalist, this Renaissance man also holds a degree in computer science from the University of Florida.
 

 How did you get the name J-Dash?

The name was given to me by another producer/artist because when I was 14, before I knew anything about music, he brought me into his studio as a fly on the wall. He left for a minute and I asked if I could play around with the equipment, then ended up making four beats in a ridiculously short time so he started calling me J. Dash.

When did you start getting into music?

I was always into it but around 14 I realized I could do it as a profession.

As you were growing up, were there any artists/albums that inspired you?

Absolutely. Definitely Dr. John, BB King, Eric Clapton, Timbaland, 2Pac, Mos Def, Talib Kweli. That would probably be the core of my early inspiration.

The name of your album is somewhat of a contradiction which is interesting. People normally do not find the truth in tabloids. What gravitated you to picking “Tabloid Truth” as the name of your album?

I was actually reading a tabloid when I came up with the name. The concept came from how you can get drawn into tabloids just by the cover, the surface. In the same way, my first single WOP was a dance record but didn’t have as much depth and I wanted to make sure that people knew there was more to me. We have hot stuff in here that will attract you but there’s also some meat, not just the dessert.

Your album is a collection of different styles both lyrically and musically. What is the concept of your album?

A journey through life in musical form.

What is your favorite song on your album?

The title track because it’s the realist track I’ve ever written. “Life” because it’s the most artistic track I’ve ever done and “WOP” because that song changed my life.

Your single “WOP” has garnered millions of hits on youtube and this is not even including your how to video for the dance which also has millions of views. How did the song and dance come together?

Actually the WOP was a dance before it was a song or the thought of even being a song. My friends and I used to do it in the club and after a while my friend told me I had to make a song that went with the dance. Next thing I knew we had a hit!

How did you feel about getting those views and all of the videos that followed with people doing different versions of the dance?

The video responses actually preceded my official music video. The original video was my dancers and that’s what started up the responses. The viral nature of the song/dance is what really propelled it so it feels great that people really caught on to the true, fun concept of the dance! 

Something we do not hear often from artists who dabble in hip hop is education yet you went to college. Can you talk a little about what college in regard to your major and what it has done for you as a person and artist?

Honestly college, if nothing else, gave me time to mature. My degree is in computer science and people wonder how that helps me but I was in an engineering school where you learn how stuff works so I developed a passion for how things work. When I first entered the music business I wanted to know how EVERYTHING worked and that’s how I approach everything these days. In college I learned how to learn and developed myself. It was so easy to grow and learn, so I doubt I’d be the artist I am today had I not gone to school.

I know your album just recently dropped this year, but what do you hope is next for you?

More success! My success thus far just motivates me to reach a higher and higher level. I want more people to hear my music and I’m excited about visiting new and different places. I’m always striving to do something better and bigger.

Are there any artists out there today that you’d hope to collab with in the future?

Absolutely. To name a few: Cee-Lo Green, Timbaland , Lil Wayne, Dr. John. BB King…I’m sure there are countless more!

I want to thank you for your time, is there anything you want to shout out to your fans, supporters, and the readers who will be introduced to you through this interview?

Make sure you follow me on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook all at therealjdash to get a more in depth view of who I am and I’m looking forward to meeting you all. 

 

J.Dash’s Official Website

J.Dash’s Twitter

J.Dash’s Facebook

 

05.01.12
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Interview w/ Hugo

Hello world. Let me introduce you to Hugo whom I have had the pleasure of setting up this interview with. He is an artist from Thailand who is signed to Roc Nation which of course was founded by hip hop mogul Jay-z.

How did you end up writing a song for Beyonce’s successful “I am… Sasha Fierce” album?
My writing partner and mentor, amanda ghost, played beyonce songs from an album of mine that never saw the light of day, ms Knowles picked a song she liked called disappear and sung it.

What was the process and conversation like when you were getting a record deal with Roc Nation?
Exciting and confusing.

Who would you say were some of your musical influences?
The doors, Leonard Cohen, Neil young, howlin wolf, Robert Johnson, creedence Clearwater revival, free, Bob Dylan, Donovan, nirvana, carabao, 213, Dr Dre…and many more I’m sure.

How is the music scene different between Thailand and the United States of America?
Very different, in terms of Market size and language. Similar as far as intent goes though.

How would you categorize your artistic style?
I wont. I’ll leave that to you.

What are your greatest attributes as an artist?
Patience and sympathy.

Your album, “Old Tyme Religion” came out back in 2011. What does the title of the album mean, and what did it mean to release your first album a part of Roc Nation?
The title is from one of the tracks on the record that really crystallised the sound and feel of the record. It also goes some way to addressing the way I feel about American roots music, that is an almost religious respect and interest in it.

*Your cover and rendition of Jay Z’s “99 Problems” was featured in a couple of films last year as well, what gave you the inspiration of doing that particular track?*
Mainly gratitude for being signed and a real love of the original from the black album which seemed to be a new kind of rocknroll to my ears.

What projects are you currently working on?
Cutting live footage from some shows out here in Thailand and writing songs for the next record.

Thanks for your time. Any last comments for your fans, and Blended Entertainment readers?
Be strange or act normal.

Check Hugo’s official website for his latest music and news.

Hugo’s cover of “99 Problems” was featured in the movies, No Strings Attached and Fright Night

03.24.12
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Interview w/ Jessica Caban

The beautiful Jessica Caban

You were one of the special guests for a recent Latin American Gala held by the CHCF. How was the event and what was your role?

Yes it was the 12th Annual “Slice of Latin America” Gala. The CHCF was also celebrating 30yrs! It was a great event to say the least. The venue was Cipriani Wall Street, there was amazing food and a great mix of people who all came out for a great cause. I was a guest as well as a host for the live auction. We sold 5 items for the organization. I used my wit and charm to get as much money as I could and it worked!

The organization CHCF aims to strengthen the voice of the Latin community.  What areas do you feel need to be addressed most in the latin community?

The CHCF does an incredible job of strengthening the Latino community. They believe in self sufficiency and the best way to become self sufficient is to get educated. The CHCF provides various programs to ensure that. I believe we need more funding and programs to provide our youth with opportunities otherwise not available. We also need more programs to provide food for our Latino children and take the stress off of their families. No one should go home hungry.

You won a couple of awards for your first role in a film. What can you tell us about that film?

I won Best Actress twice for my portrayal of Thea Larson in Are You for Great Sex. This film is based on a true love story written and directed by Cynthia Hsiung. I can tell you the title is meant to grab your attention. Yes it is boundary-pushing and perhaps a bit raw but it is intelligent and sophisticated. There is a lot more to this love story told in a uniquely fresh female perspective. It was my first role ever acting and the most demanding. I’m almost in every scene. I learned a lot! Are You for Great Sex was released in 5 countries and will be available on Netflix soon.

What can you tell us about the movie you currently are working on?

I have two upcoming films. The first is a romantic comedy called “Getting Even” written and produced by Beverly Orozco. Aditi Pictures explains this hip and hilarious flick gives a revealing look at the highs and lows of celebrity relationships for three best friends who find themselves being dumped in a matter of days apart from each other. I play one of the leads. The second film I can tell you dates back to 1933 and I will again be working with the very talented Cynthia Hsiung. We begin filming this August in Montana. Both of these upcoming films are different from each other and from anything I’ve ever done. This is on purpose. I want to show what I can do and not be stereo typed as just the hot girl. I can’t wait to begin these projects!!!

Who are the NYC It Girls and what is their focus?

NYC It Girls was created by my friend/Brand Manager Eunice Quiñones. “It Girls” throw/attend the hottest parties in NYC, highlighting smart and talented women who are not only beautiful but business minded. The best NYC has to offer. They are one of a kind women who accompany each other as oppose to being someone’s arm candy. You know its gonna be an unforgettable event when these girls walk in.

What upcoming modeling projects do you have coming up?

Well currently I am on the cover of Fuzion Magazine and will have a spread in Signature Hits Magazine for their “Success Issue”. Next week I have a hair shoot with Herbal Essences.

What has been your favorite photoshoot?

 My favorite photo shoot would have to be the feature Latina Magazine did on me after winning Model Latina. Simply because I’ve always dreamed as a little girl of being in that magazine. Now I’m working on getting a cover someday.

Do you go through any rituals before a photo shoot, or before you attend a red carpet event?

Before filming on set or on a photoshoot/red carpet I say a few affirmations. I also make sure to either be focused if it’s for work or laugh a lot before hitting a red carpet.

Who was your role model as a child and how did that person influence your modeling aspirations?

Rita Moreno from West Side Story was my role model. That film was on constant rotation growing up. My father adored her and I wanted to be her. She was a trailblazer. She could sing, act and dance. She is gorgeous and classy. The true definition of talented. She inspired me to want to entertain.

If you weren’t modeling what other line of profession would you be doing?

If I wasn’t an Actress/Model I would probably be behind the camera directing or something. Maybe even working with animals. Growing up I did want to become a lawyer.

Any advice for young people out there aspiring to be models?

If its REALLY want you want to do. If you can’t live without it…. Don’t EVER give up. Build experience. Create the best portfolio you can and for acting start at the bottom. Do “extra” work if you have to. Most importantly always be safe!

Thank you for your time!

You’re Welcome…. Thank you for the great questions.

Property of EQ Enterprises

02.28.12
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Interview w/ Roy Jones Jr.

I had the honor of interviewing one of the greatest boxing talents of all-time

Congratulations on your recent victory over Max Alexander. How long does it normally take you to heal up after a fight?

Week

At this stage of your career, can you see yourself moving down a weight class or two?

No, only of great opportunity and budget is superb.

Outside of boxing you have been involved in tv, music, and film. Will we see you continue any of these ventures?

Would love to

How do you feel about the state of boxing?

It’s in horrible distress

When people ask why is Roy Jones Jr still boxing, what do you say to those critics?

Because I have one title that has eluded me an I want to try and get that title before I retire. 

There was a rumored potential battle between you and Bobby Gunn, that fell through as Gunn is scheduled to fight James Toney. Who do you want to fight next?

I can care less. I don’t pick names, I like to fight for the fans and I would chose any cruiser weight champ

Who is a boxer today that possesses some of the qualities that made you such a great fighter?

Andre Ward

If you had the opportunity to fight anyone past or present in any weight class, who would you choose?

Sugar Ray Robinson

Why should inner city kids start choose to box rather than play basketball and football?

Boxing is more closely related to life than any other sport. Wouldn’t say they should chose over basketball or football, but I don’t see anything wrong with trying. With boxing it teaches you in life if you get knocked down, you need to get back up

Everyone knows who you are as a boxer, but Who is Roy Jones Jr the man?

A philosophical guy that is very passionate and considerate about his actions. 

Thanks for your time. Any last comments for your fans, supporters, naysayers?

Fans: Thanks for the support you have given me throughout the years.

Supporters: thanks for being behind me, you give me the push to get up and go when days I don’t feel it.

 Naysayers: I’m sorry you feel the way you do. The ones that are concerned, thanks for your concern. The ones that are just a naysayer go do something positive in your life, so that someone can be a naysayer about you.