{Photo: Hanna Rochelle and INXS drummer Jon Farriss}

By Shontel Horne —

Hanna Rochelle knows a good idea when she sees one. The Moscow-born, L.A.-raised singer/songwriter turned her love of lyrics into an enterprising fashion brand with her line Lyric Culture, ( sold at Bloomingdale’s and Nordstrom), a surprisingly simple concept jotting the iconic words of Bob Dylan, John Lennon and Pink Floyd on everything from t-shirts to bracelets. What started off as a small scale project has grown to include two other lines: Lyrix, sold exclusively at Claire’s targeting teen girls and Lyric Nation for Walmart using lyrics from country and Christian music superstars.

The funky, rock-infused line has been incredibly well-received both my music companies and the entertainment industry, with everyone from Halle Berry and Fergie to Brad Paisley donning pieces from the music-centric collection. The L.A. resident gives us an incredible insight into the making of her brand, and what’s next to come.

CM: Lyric Culture has been around for about 7 years now, where did the idea come from?
HR: I was in the recording studio with a pretty famous producer named Jack Douglas. He’s pretty legendary, he found Cheap Trick in a bowling alley and he did all of the early Aerosmith stuff. He was also the last guy in the studio with John Lennon before he was assassinated. It was like 2 in the morning, and I started writing my own lyrics on my jeans. It looked kind of cool, so I went home and tricked out a pair of my old jeans with Don Henley “Dirty Laundry” lyrics. I wore them to the studio the next day, and Jack said “Those are really cool, I think Steven Tyler would wear jeans like that.” He took a picture, sent it to Steven, and fast forward three years later I’m doing “Dream On” pajamas at Victoria’s Secret. INXS at the time was doing that show “Rock Star” on CBS to find their new front man to replace Michael Hutchence, and they were recording next door to me and said, “Oh can you make us a pair with ‘Devil Inside’ and ‘Suicide Blonde’ lyrics?” And I thought if all of these musicians are liking this, then there’s got to be an idea here.

CM: So where did you go from there?
HR: I went out and I started acquiring the rights to these music catalogues. At the time when I started the business in 2005, no one had taken lyrics and licensed music with just the lyrics. Taking the actual words and separating them from the song and creating a whole line of merchandise around them had never been done before. It was really good timing for me to go out and do this. As a songwriter myself I though this was really cool and I could generate new revenue streams for musicians. I had no experience in manufacturing or the apparel trade. The company was started on the floor in my living room with a hot glue gun and a sharpie, and now it’s grown.

CM: Which music company did you approach first?
HR: I think the first deal that we did was with Warner. After that within a few months I had pretty much all of them: Sony, Universal, EMI, all of them signed on. And now we have close to 100 different licensing deals.

CM: Were you surprised they were so open with letting you use these iconic lyrics?
HR: It was really good timing. I didn’t really even have samples when I walked in there, but I understood the music business. There’s always room for a great idea when there’s chaos in an industry. When one or two of them signed up, then the rest of them all said yes.

CM: So what has been your biggest challenge?
HR: We’re working with some of the greatest words in the world. These are the most legendary words ever written by some of the world’s greatest poets from John Lennon to Bob Dylan. I always tell my graphic designers “You have to really think about what you were doing, are you bringing the words to life visually?” That’s essentially what we’re doing. It doesn’t matter if it’s a scarf, or a jacket or a ring. We are bringing the greatest words in the world to life on a product, and I’ve always told all of my designers that the product needs to stand on its own. You could absolutely ruin it; you can’t just throw words on a t-shirt and hope that it works.

CM: How long have you lived in L.A.?
HR: Actually I grew up in L.A. since I was 11 in Chico and El DeBarge’s house. My parents are classical musicians, hardcore classical musicians. I grew up around it, and it was so ironic that when they moved to L.A., they ended up buying Chico and El DeBarge’s old house. But before that I lived in Texas and before that I was born in Moscow. We moved to the states when I was 2 years old.

CM: Where do you live in the city?
HR: Right on the cusp of West Hollywood and Beverly Hills, just off the Sunset Strip.

CM: Where are some of your favorite places to go in the city?
HR: I love the Petit Ermitage. I love going there for brunch. It feels very European. I love the rooftop that they have there. It doesn’t feel like I’m in LA. I feel like I’m somewhere in Europe.

Canadian actress Neve Campbell is rockin' her Lyric Culture shirt

CM: Do you have a favorite music venue in L.A.?
HR: Hollywood Bowl for sure. I love anything that’s outdoors. When I got married, we had a rehearsal dinner at the Hollywood Bowl and Earth, Wind and Fire performed. It’s probably one of my favorite music venues ever. For classical musical I love Disney Hall. The sound there is amazing.

CM: Just about everyone has worn something from your line, are there any artists that you would love to see wear a Lyric Culture piece?
HR: We haven’t had Lady Gaga wear anything; I would love for her to wear something. And also, Katy Perry. We haven’t done anything with their lyrics, but I would love to do something with them.

CM: What do you have in the works for the rest of the year?
HR: We haven’t actually done anything with The Doors yet, but we’re planning too. Pink Floyd was a big request for the last two years and that’s why we’re doing a massive collection; it’s coming out at Bloomingdale’s and Hard Rock in February. It’s everything from military jackets to hats and scarfs and cufflinks. The Pink Floyd collection definitely feels like Pink Floyd, it’s totally psychedelic and very mystical. We also have the INXS collection coming out and that one is very dark and gritty. It’s very similar to Michael Hutchence’s lyrics. And we have a bunch of new designs at Walmart.

CM: What are some things you’ve learned since starting Lyric Culture?
We had these great catalogues of country music, and although Bloomingdale’s and Nordstrom weren’t really interested in doing anything with Rascal Flatts, Walmart was so excited about it. What we realized is that there is a market for every different type of music, that’s the beauty of our brand. Everybody loves music. Lyrics are such an important part of people’s lives. It’s almost like the soundtracks of their life. People are always requesting special songs that they want to make a statement with.

CM: As a musician, how would you describe your sound?
HR: I would say it was pop with soul. If I were to open for anybody, I would love to open for Sade or Annie Lennox, but I don’t do it anymore since this has become more than a full time job. It consumes me completely. But it’s great because I get to work with these amazing musical artists that I would have never been able to collaborate with as a musician.

CM: Can you pick a favorite lyric?
HR: “You may say that I’m a dreamer, but I’m not the only one.” My motto has always been dream big, it’s just as easy as dreaming small. It takes the same amount of effort to dream that you want huge things versus small things. Sometimes it’s more difficult to dream small. That’s why I love that line. Everybody dreams, everybody has dreams. That’s what John Lennon encapsulated with his words. There’s something about it that brings all kinds of people together.

Meet Marcia Prentice. If you watched HGTV’s docu-reality series “Design School” which aired in 2010, you may have seen her in action. The show follows a group of elite interior design students from FIDM who are given challenges to test out their design skills in the real world.

One of her very first home renovations was house flipping (buying a house with intent to sell)—tearing it down and re-designing it in a matter of just one week—an impressive feat. She hosted her own short sale on The Foundary and guest contributes on various reality TV design shows. Marcia also currently writes for a handful of Apartment Therapy Media sites and maintains an ongoing writing position with other venues, such as Lamps Plus.

A graduate of FIDM and still under 30, Marcia is one the most hard-working and ambitious women around—and she does this all in four-inch heels! Read on for her thoughts about life in LA.

20 Questions with Marcia Prentice About Life in LA

1.) How long have you been an Angeleno?

9 years

2.) What part of Los Angeles do you live in?

Miracle Mile

3.) What turns you on the most about this city?

The weather and lack of bugs!

4.) What turns you off the most about this city?

Hmm…traffic or the abundance of actors/waiters.

5.) Favorite place to eat Sunday brunch?

Sante La Brea (even though I think they are now closed). I miss the best oatmeal pancakes I have ever had.

6.) Most overrated venue?

The tourist stretch of Hollywood Blvd.

7.) Who is your favorite local artist?

Furniture designer Brandon Morrison, who owns the local store WhyrHymer.

8.) If you were going to move, what would be your next destination?

That’s a tough one, probably Italy.

9.) Name something you wish would change here?

The real estate prices. You know how hard it is to save up for a down payment on a house, when the average house price is above $500,000.

10.) Favorite time of year in LA?

Summer, for sure.

11.) Where to go for the best happy hour?

Don’t drink, so you should probably ask another Angeleno.

12.) Best flea market?

Rose Bowl

13.) What is the best exhibition you’ve seen here?

The gallery exhibitions at Obsolete.

14.) Where is the best place to go on a first date?

Dinner on the beach.

15.) Favorite of all the “tourist” spots?

The beach never gets old.

16.) Best venue to see a live show?

Hollywood Bowl or the Staples Center.

17.) Name a hidden LA gem that has not been taken over yet.

Outdoor movies at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery.

18.) If LA had a subway system like NY or bus system like San Francisco, would you use it? Or would you stick with your car?

In LA we love our cars. I would stick to driving my own car (sorry green enthusiasts).

19.) Biggest (but most true) cliché about LA?

There is skinny and then there is LA skinny.

20.) What mark do you want to leave here?

The most creative (and in high demand) interior designer in the city.

Sean Yashar, a native Angeleno, is the powerhouse behind the innovative brand consultancy, The Culture Creative. Combining knowledge and creative foresight, Sean fills a white space for content creation in the design, lifestyle and luxury goods industries. A self-described “modern artisan” on a mission to save the world from the mundane, Sean’s ideas are from the future, but he still loves the smell of paper and the feel of a pencil.

Sean has a very unconventional approach to living, and this forward thinking is what drives the success of his business. He is way ahead of his own time and the most edited person I know. Everything in his life has purpose and aims at some direct meaning—that is, there is nothing that exists in Sean’s life “just because.”

During a recent conversation, Sean explained his attraction to design, for which his sentiments relied heavily on the idea that style and magnificence does not just exist in fashion. The artwork that we collect and the contents of our home environment are not just an extension of ourselves, but are stories that dictate a certain relevance to our daily lives. Sean has found a niche for this idea, bringing a certain gravity and opulence to this vision.

20 Questions with Sean Yashar About Life in LA

1.) How long have you been an Angeleno?

29 years, born and raised.

2.) What part of Los Angeles do you live in?

Miracle Mile.

3.) What turns you on the most about this city?

A metropolis coexisting with nature. I call it, surf ‘n’ turf.

4.) What turns you off the most about this city?

Hours of operation and the pairing of Juicy jumpsuits and Uggs.

5.) Favorite place to eat Sunday brunch?

Café Stella in Silver Lake.

6.) Most overrated venue?

Hollywood and Highland.

7.) Who is your favorite local artist?

Icon: Ed Ruscha. Contemporary: Alex Prager.

8.) If you were going to move, what would be your next destination?

Abbot Kinney, Venice.

9.) Name something you wish would change here?

Café culture. For being a city with perpetually sunny days, we don’t have enough outdoor dining when compared to NYC or Paris…or even SF and Seattle, for that matter. I’d like to see rows of bistro tables lining the sidewalks, and cafes that are open later than 11pm.

10.) Favorite time of year in LA?

Autumn…crisp, clean weather and intense colors in nature. Perfect for a drive at dusk on PCH.

11.) Where to go for the best happy hour?

I’ve got a few: the rooftop at the Shangri La Hotel in Santa Monica, The Tar Pit on La Brea, St. Felix and Cecconi’s in West Hollywood.

12.) Best flea market?

I prefer auctions. Try A.N. Abell in the City of Industry.

13.) What is the best exhibition you’ve seen here?

Anything at L&M Arts in Venice. Paul McCarthy’s show last year, “Three Sculptures” was everything.

14.) Where is the best place to go on a first date?

A tie between Figaro Café in Los Feliz and Ado in Venice. First dates should be casually romantic, and both these venues have that kind of vibe.

15.) Favorite of all the “tourist” spots?

Malibu. Where health meets wealth.

16.) Best venue to see a live show?

Spaceland, Silver Lake. They’re known for breaking new acts…so many great bands had their first LA performances there. I remember the Scissor Sisters performing a free show years before they blew up.

17.) Name a hidden LA gem that has not been taken over yet.

Larchmont Village.

18.) If LA had a subway system like NY or bus system like San Francisco, would you use it? Or would you stick with your car?

I can’t say I wouldn’t use it, but I can say that LA is best with a car. Something about taking a drive to the beach or through the canyons couldn’t be recreated with a transit system.

19.) Biggest (but most true) cliché about LA?

Botox barbies and an overall youth-obsessed culture.

20.) What mark do you want to leave here?

If you ask me, LA is straddling the line between being important and passé. With my firm, The Culture Creative, I’m doing my part to bring more cultural significance to Los Angeles. We have all the right ingredients to be a power player, but somebody’s gotta get in the kitchen, and make something fresh ‘n tasty!

With a curious mind and unquenchable thirst for knowledge, Candace can always be seen on the computer doing research to learn everything she can about a topic that interests her—for one, if you ask her to fix your computer, she knows how. Read on to find out more in her words.

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CM: How did you get into modeling?

CE: I was very much an artsy type, if you will. I had an obsession with fashion. I wanted to be a fashion designer when I was young and would often sketch create my own designs, but then I grew a huge fascination with modeling.

CM: When did you know you wanted to go into modeling?

CE: Moment I knew I wanted to be a model was when I was watching Victoria’s Secret runway….I was 5. Growing up, I remember going home just balling my eyes out because I wasn’t able to watch these shows.

CM: As a model, do you keep a tight reign on your diet? What do your daily meals consist of?

CE: As a model with a slow metabolism, I do not have diet. But, I am very cautious of the things that I eat and consume. For instance, I do not eat lots of meat due to the processing and treatment of animals in slaughter houses as well as farms. My daily meals consist of wheat cereal, bagels, orange juice, water, cream cheese sandwiches with tomatoes, plenty of vegetables, avocado wheat chips, nacho dip, and Mexican traditional cooked dishes like chorizo.

CM: Did you ever have an obsession with body weight when you were little? Many magazines and media like to Photoshop models to make them look thinner and more beautiful than they are. What is your opinion on this and the effects it has on children?

CE: I never had an obsession with my body weight. In terms of photo editing in magazines and the awareness of children, it really depends on the parent and whether or not they are teaching their children that it’s simply fictional and not reliable. Also, I am not entirely sure about the effects on children, but I am positive that children can distinguish skinny from obese and that being healthy is the key to beauty.

CM: What are some of your modeling experiences?

CE: I started in Detroit when I was about 16. Started working with Jonathan at City Wide Productions, and that’s when I started doing runways from there. I traveled to East Lansing and had a fascination for modeling and took it upon myself to submit different headshots, different body shots to companies and I was discovered by this guy named Ryan who does commercials for Detroit. I shot a commercial for Dental Goldenbaum (dental care). Then I went to NYC and did same as a freelance artist, submitting headshots, doing print work and there I landed here in LA. I don’t intend to stay here for very long. I don’t know if I fit the criteria as a model here…I’m going to be featured in another print mag and fashion show for a clothing line called 8th and Olive.

CM: Do you watch America’s Next Top Model?

CE: Sometimes. I admire Tyra Banks. She’s one of my idols. I take notes when I watch. I actually auditioned to be on the show. I’m still waiting. October is when they announce the contestants.

CM: Did you grow up in a strict household?

CE: My parents were very strict. As a result, it forced me to grow this exterior of rebellion and being a part of a rebellious click in high school…I would do things to see if I could get away with it like tape up the camera in the hallways or write my name on the wall. But I was very punctual and ambitious and goal oriented as a kid so it was very easy for me to get good grades…But yes, now I’m thankful!

CM: Do you think about God or the existence of a higher being?

CE: I do believe that there is something or someone that created this universe and everything that we’re sustained in. It’s funny because I used to pray as little girl, “Please bless me with bigger boobies.”

CM: How did you become a computer technician?

CE: To me, a computer technician is knowing every single thing about a computer. Any different processors—Mac, PC, OSS, and just knowing different components and knowing how to use them in any given circumstance. Just dealing with a lot of different software like editing, video, final cut pro, it just really fascinated me because at school I would be editing for people. I just wanted to know everything there was to know about a computer and technology in general! Sometimes I’d sit at home, watch YouTube videos to keep me entertained and learn.

CM: So you’re self-taught and if there’s something wrong with my computer, you could fix it?

CE: Yes!

CM: What are your dreams? Where do you want to be in 5 years?

CE: OMG, I’m going to get my notebook out just because I write my goals of what I want to accomplish. I have a lot of goals—20. These goals are really detailed which means I need to be that much more focused on maintain these goals.

CM: What mark do you want to leave in this world?

CE: I want to leave a remarkable mark. I want to be an influential person that talks about politics (I love politics). I want to be leaving marks everywhere in terms of environment, culture, understanding people, how people live lives on a daily basis.

CM: What’s your news source?

CE: BBC & NPR. I like to do a lot of research at home. Third world countries and their perspectives on America.

CM: Who’s your favorite artist?

CE: Erica Badu. I like all types—Weazer, Tygo, Radiohead…In fact, I’ll sing you one of those songs.

CM: What do you do during your spare time?

CE: I don’t do typical things….but I like to do multiple things at once. I’ll do a photoshoot when I get bored, I’ll send out emails to clienteles. I like to write songs, poetry, I like to research—that’s what I’m all about.

CM: What are some issues in politics that capture your attention?

CE: The health issue that we have. Food corps and knowing that the chicken is real from restaurants. I don’t like fast food. I’m more of a vegan. I don’t like killing animals. I really take pride in things I eat. When I see nutritional facts, I think how much of it is really true? You have to go the extra mile to say, no this actually has trans fat in it.

CM: How did you feel when Obama came into office?

CE: Wow, this is incredible. As a global citizen I realize since the world so huge for one person to do.

CM: What do you like to read?

CE: I love reading newspapers, novels, facts and statements. I enjoy research. I like seeing what the government has in store for me. I like reading facts about people in prison, economic situations. It’s good to get people’s opinions.

CM: Do you like to cook?

CE: Yes, I like to cook Mexican dishes, because I’m like 25% Mexican. I’m fluent in Spanish. I love speaking in Spanish.

CM: How did you learn?

CE: I had Hispanic friends who taught me in college. I also studied two years in college and four years in high school. No one else in my family speaks Spanish. I also like Mandarin—I learned a little from friends in college—living in the dorms for two years.

CM: How do you make income just starting out in the industry?

CE: I’m financially unstable right now but I’m just happy that I’m living. I could care less about money. They say people who don’t have money worry the most but it’s not true.

CM: Three passions in life?

CE: Modeling, knowing who I am and how that affects people, and business.

CM: Advice you’d like to give?

CE: Don’t take no for an answer and strive for what you believe in. Knowing what you want to with your life is essential. You will know what your destiny is and you’ll be inspired.

By Annie Suh — When raw talent surfaces, it doesn’t stay hidden for long no matter what the barrier. A new Asian American hip hop/R&B group is proving this point as they take the reins on the global music scene, and they’re getting much love here as well. Aziatix (pronounced “ey-zhee-attics”) released their debut album back in March and hit #4 on the U.S. iTunes R&B/soul chart and #1 on Korea and Taiwan’s music charts with a Facebook following of more than 20,000 in such a short span of time.

Not since Far East Movement topped the charts on Billboard has there been an Asian American group of comparable prowess to fill a void in the American music industry where certain factors such as the perceived low marketability of Asian Americans is often a common hurdle to burst through.  Breaking into the mainstream U.S. music industry has always been a challenge for Asian Americans, but Aziatix is ready to make that possible. “At the end of the day it’s all about the music. The music is what’s going to break all that diversity, transcend all color lines and language barriers,” group member Nicky Lee tells us. The new hip-hop/R&B group consists of three high caliber artists who have had successful solo careers prior to Aziatix, which was founded by well-known Korean-American producer Jae Chong.

The trio is made up of Eddie Shin (the one sporting long, flowy locks), a songwriter from Boston who made his debut in Korea with self-produced album “Just My Way”; Flowsik, a rapper, songwriter and producer from Queens, New York who collaborated with Ice-T to create one of his popular tunes, “Hate”; and Nicky Lee, an LA native who is an actor and famous musician in Taiwan. He also received a “Best Male Singer” in the Mandarin Pop Music Award in 2007.

Aziatix took the time out of their hectic schedule promoting their new album, Nocturnal, and spoke with Collaj about the group’s dynamics, how they formed and what songs they like crooning along with in the shower. Read on to find out what each member has to say in their own words.

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{Check out Aziatix’s newly released rock-mix video “Be With You”}

CM: What are your backgrounds? Did you each study something completely different before entering the music biz or wanted to be something else as a child?

Nicky : I got discovered singing in church at the age of 17 right before high school graduation…I grew up in a tough neighborhood so as a child I always wanted to be a police officer so I could protect the kids.

Eddie: Growing up I wanted to be a basketball player but I never had enough talent. I’m proud to say that as a member of AZIATIX we have some talent, and we also have great teamwork.

Flowsik: I was born and raised in New York. My love for music grew ever since I was about 5 years old. I would perform and sing songs in front of family and friends in both English and Korean, and everyone always had a great time. I played the trumpet and the baritone horn in a concert band, jazz band, and a marching band for about 10 years. I studied English Literature in college. Honestly, I always wanted to be an artist throughout my entire life.

CM: Competition in this industry is undoubtedly crazy. What are your thoughts on entering the U.S. market especially as Asian Americans, who are still not truly accepted as mainstream in the music/entertainment industry?

Nicky: At the end of the day its all about the music. The music is what’s going to break all that diversity, transcend all color lines and language barriers.

Eddie: And all we focus on is just trying to do what we do best which is to be ourselves, and to make good music.

Flowsik: I concur with big bro Nicky, gyea!

CM: So what’s the story of how Aziatix formed? Did you each know each other prior to the group?

Nicky: We all met through Jae Chong. We were all doing different things, I had just finished my 5th mandarin album. Flowsik was in Korea doing some tracks with Jae. Jae asked me to sing the hook and the song came out just crazy…I met Eddie few months down the line and there was a song that all three of us got on which came out really cool….one song led to two…two led to three…and now we are gonna conquer the universe!…haha

CM: How did you end up working with Jae Chong? What is the group dynamic like?

Nicky: Jae discovered me singing in church. I’ve been working with big bro Jae since 1997. Very thankful that he gives us the freedom to make the music we wanna make…he’s our mentor and big brother…

Eddie: I actually met Jae Chong and Nicky through Flowsik. We played basketball together.

Flowsik: After big bro Jae and I worked on JYJ’s “The Beginning” album, we’ve realized that our chemistry is flawless.

CM: Describe each member of Aziatix in one adjective.

Nicly: Eddie, chill. Flowsik, smooth.

Eddie: Flowsik, onion-like (lotta layers). Nicky, charismatic.

Flowsik: Eddie, spontaneous. Nicky, funny!

CM: Eddie, we see that you do a lot of the song writing and composing with Jae. How do you begin the process of what you’re going to write and how involved is everyone in the editing and producing process?

Eddie: We all write together. As for me, I try to get really comfortable emotionally. That’s key. I try to really relax when I write because if I try too hard, the song comes out contrived. If I can’t write it in a couple hours, it’s just not your day. I actually come up with a lot of my stuff in the shower, just humming to myself.

CM: Where was the last place you performed and how has your response been with non-Asian fans?

Nicky: LA. Response was amazing….that’s the power of music….doesn’t matter where you’re from or what your background is…music brings the whole world together.

Flowsik: The fans were amazing! Great to see them in Hollywood and we’re looking forward to seeing more of our fans!

CM: What does Aziatix group’s usual day-to-day look like?

Nicky: Depends on what we are doing that day but everyday is an adventure…always cool being in different places of world and singing for all the people.

Eddie: Different everyday. These days, we’re busy promoting and meeting a lot of new people in new places.

Flowsik: If we go inside the studio, we are there throughout the whole day. Having dinner together after a studio session is always a ritual.

CM: Flowsik, Nicky and Eddie: What songs (besides your own) do you like singing to in the shower or singing covers for?

Nicky: Michael Jackson and church hymns.

Eddie: Babyface and old Korean folk songs.

Flowsik: Every morning is a different genre. Katy Perry one morning, then it’s Korean ballads, then Neyo and Usher songs.

CM: Where do you guys like to hang out and what do you like doing on your spare time? Are you always together or disband when “work” is over?

Nicky: Flow and Eddie live in Seoul, and I live in Taipei…So when I’m with the guys
I try to spend as much time with them as possible.

Eddie: We live together, breathe together, die together. Just kidding. But yeah, even when we’re not working we always hang out and have fun.

Flowsik: The Hangang river in Seoul is very chill. I really enjoy being around the waters, very relaxing.

CM: What’s the latest project you’re working on?

AZIATIX: We are still in the middle of promotion for our “Nocturnal” album. But we are always working on new music so keep a look out.

CM: As a group, what do you want your soul message to be to your fans and audience members? What mark do you want to leave for people?

Nicky: I hope our music can spread love and touch souls.

Eddie: I just want people to have fun listening and singing along to our music.

Flowsik: That everyone needs a dream, and striving for your dream is what makes life worth living.

CM: Any advice or message for the readers of Collaj?

AZIATIX: Thank you guys for the love and support. Much love to every single one of you. God bless y’all. Aziatix all day!

Facebook.com/aziatix | Twitter@aziatix | www.aziatix.com | YouTube

Russell Brown is not your traditional Acupuncturist. He doesn’t believe in all the clichés that normally accompany Americans who wax philosophical about Eastern traditional medicine. Hesitant to even own a pair of billowy yoga pants, he finds it deranged when Americans use words like “Namaste” and “Love and Light.” Russell towers over you with his dark hair and blue eyes, and has a tattoo of soaring birds covering his entire left arm—not what you’d expect to see at a doctor’s office. But don’t let his striking façade fool you—he is a true healer.

Graduating from UC Berkeley, Russell worked several years in the entertainment industry. One morning, over breakfast with his brother he overheard someone discussing acupuncture. After a bit of prodding, he made the decision to change his entire career. “After working several years in feature film development on such near-Academy Award winning films as The Fast and The Furious franchise, Not Another Teen Movie, and Cruel Intentions, I pendulum-swang the other way and quit my job on a whim to become a licensed acupuncturist.”

Approaching the practice of this medicine in a much different manner than his peers, Russell’s office offers a very different appeal than the every day acupuncture office. There are no zen fountains that annoyingly drip in the background, and the whole space is designed like the inside of a home. The office of Poke Acupuncture is a curation of artwork, books, vintage décor and furniture and fresh flowers. During your treatment after he fills you with needles, you will be wisped to sleep to the sounds of Ryan Adams, Iron + Wine, and Jose Gonzales (no cheesy Asian flute and harp music here). “I try to employ more of the science that grounds Traditional Chinese Medicine than the faux-Asian zen-ness, woo-woo hippie-ness, or strip-mall sketchiness that would personally make me uncomfortable as a patient.”

The irony of inserting a needle directly into the painful part of your body seems scary to most people. However Russell is careful and very thoughtful to explain the process of his treatment. He has many ideas and suggestions about how to remedy various ailments. Visiting Poke will surely surprise any non-believer, and I promise you’ll enjoy the experience.

20 Questions with Russell Brown About Life in LA

1). How long have you been an Angelino?

My whole life. I was born and bred in the Valley.

2). What part of Los Angeles do you live in?

I live in Hollywood, by Runyon Canyon.

3). What turns you on the most about this city?

Sitting outside at breakfast in January. Eat it, NYC.

4). What turns you off the most about this city?

Year-round sunshine can often make me feel like I have the responsibility to be social and friendly every day when I could actually use a good month or two of hibernation, like all of nature’s creatures.

5). Favorite place to eat Sunday brunch?

GRUB in Hollywood. Grub is to bacon what some famous artist is to really really tasty, greasy but sweet art.

6). Most overrated venue?

Drai’s on Hollywood Blvd. 4 inches of cloth does not a dress make. Also, I didn’t die for the Street Art exhibit at the MOCA. It was huge yet I still walked away learning very little about the art form.

7). Who is your favorite local artist?

Karis Wilde, mind-boggling hula hooping performer. Google her. Amazing. John Arsenault, next huge photographer.

8). If you were going to move, what would be your next destination?

My license prohibits me from leaving California so I’d go with San Francisco.

9) Name something you wish would change here.

I’m done with SUVs. There is NO reason to be excessively contributing to the gasoline crisis so that you can have more cargo room for your Dirty Chai. The jig is up on this trend.

10). Favorite time of year in LA?

Every time of year in LA is the same. THAT’S why we live here.

11). Where to go for the best happy hour?

The Log Cabin.

12). Best flea market?

Anyone who says the Rose Bowl has never been to the Pasadena City College Swap Meet. It’s the same vendors but free AND in the shade.

13). What is the best exhibition you’ve seen here?

Josh Beckman’s SEA NYMPH at the Machine Project last fall. He built an actual ship wreck in a Echo Park’s finest performance and educational space, complete with a crystal cave inside the deck.

14). Where is the best place to go on a first date?

Coffee at Café Tropical in Silverlake, then a stroll around the Reservoir, with a little bit of making out in the Silverlake Meadow. Yes, that was a real date and it was magic.

15). Favorite of all the tourist spots?

Disneyland. But go on Super Bowl Sunday, which is secretly Disneyland’s least-trafficked day. Damn, did I just say that out loud?

16). Best venue to see a live show?

I do love the Hollywood Bowl. It’s so… civilized.

17). Name a hidden LA gem that has not been taken over yet.

The Classroom LA in Echo Park. Terrarium building classes every Saturday, amongst other genius crafting classes. They are doing such a great thing for the community there.

18). If LA had a subway system like New York or bus system like San Francisco, would you use it? Or would you stick with your car?

I’d use it if it went somewhere I actually needed to go. I don’t need to go from Culver City to Union Station.

19). Biggest (but most true) cliché about LA?

Hipsters bringing kale salad to potlucks. I was at a BBQ in Echo Park this weekend that served seven different types of kale salad and one box of cookies.

20). What mark do you want to leave on the world?

The reason I became an acupuncturist and opened Poke is to be able to serve the community and offer a hand to help each other out. We all exist in separate little cars here in LA but, in fact, we are all rivers racing to the same ocean.

For more info on Poke, visit PokeAcupuncture.com

{Adam Russel; Photo courtesy of Brian Overend}

“I approach screenwriting the same way I approached writing poems in my black and white speckled composition book in sixth grade. The end goal is to evoke emotion, any emotion, within yourself first (if you’re not feeling anything from your writing no one else will), then with the audience (in that case it was my classmates). Once you have that initial attention the hope is that there is something meaningful being conveyed, something lasting to leave people with. I’m not quite sure what the deep message was back in sixth grade, but I hope at this point what I say resonates.”

Born and raised in Connecticut, Adam Russell is a writer/director based in LA and received his BA in Film and Media Arts from Temple University in Philadelphia where his short film Lucky Day earned him the Best Student Film Award at the 2008 Connecticut Film Festival.

Adam’s newest passion project is a film titled For Who I am. Adam is someone who truly expresses his enthusiasm of community, and the benefits of raising awareness about certain local or even global issues. Not only does his self-proclaimed “visceral connection” to this city keep him inspired and “constantly adapting”—but he’s found his niche in writing and aims to bring visual fortitude to these ideas.

Most recently Adam joined the fundraising website KickStarter.com and raised 150 percent of their set goal to fund their new film. In his promo video he even states what an incredible atelier of artists he’s gathered to bring this production to fruition.

He’s joined photographer Brian Overend, to create a narrative focused on today’s society seen through the dissolve of a modern relationship. “If I had to sum up the theme in one word it would be: perception. It is at the core of every conflict, the heart of every character.” In the video promo, Adam and Brian both talk about the mood and tone of the film—which is somehow reminiscent Derek Cianfrance’s Blue Valentine.  The topic of love or lack thereof is never simply described; it’s often thrilling yet addicting, overlooked by self destruction and sometimes never brought to light until years later.

A synopsis: “A woman tries to salvage her marriage to a man overcome by self- absorption. In doing so, she wrestles with intense bouts of jealousy over her husband’s deceased ex-wife and her lingering presence. This project isn’t just a story about a troubled marriage, it is a commentary on today’s society, the complexities of human interactions, and how they both effect one and other; issues that we can all relate to in different ways.”

20 Questions with Adam Russell About Life in LA

1). How long have you been an Angelino?

I’ve called Los Angeles home for 4 years now.

2). What part of Los Angeles do you live in?

The Bermuda Triangle. It’s hard to describe, especially to someone unfamiliar with the area, so I’d say Mid-City. Technically, it’s Carthay Square.

3). What turns you on the most about this city?

Out of every city I’ve lived in L.A. for some reason has grabbed me and isn’t letting go. I equate it to being in a rocky relationship. No matter how dysfunctional it may be, there’s something visceral that’s connecting you. I think it has a lot to do with the sense of inspiration, stimuli, diversity, and the sense that this place, so young historically, is constantly adapting – always capable of being molded for the better.

4). What turns you off the most about this city?

Inaction. Maybe it’s not exclusive to this city; there’s an overarching theme there that could last pages and pages. I guess a shining example of this would be the lack of Public Transportation. Personally and professionally, I’d have to say “meetings for the sake of meetings”.

5). Favorite place to eat Sunday brunch?

Still investigating this in my new neighborhood. I’d say Aroma Café in Studio City if I had to choose.

6). Most overrated venue?

For being an audiophile, and amateur musician always surrounded by music, I’m definitely behind on exploring all the venues. I think I’ll be kind to those not-so-great ones and just say so far I enjoyed The Troubadour most. Reminds me of some intimate spots back East.

7). Who is your favorite local artist?

Painter Hans Walor. His work is currently displayed at C.A.V.E. gallery on Abbot Kinney. I think it may have been partly due to the circumstances, but his piece: “She Paints the World With What She Sees,” really moved me.

8). If you were going to move, what would be your next destination?

This has been on my mind lately. I think it would be a foreign country. Somewhere in South America: Brazil, or Argentina. If not there then probably to Europe. I think I ultimately want to wind up in NorCal when I’m older and ready to get away. However, I’m open to go wherever the wind takes me, I guess.

9) Name something you wish would change here.

Again, Public Transit is a given, so maybe the disparity between classes, which effects nearly everything, especially the school systems. There are a lot of charities trying to help underprivileged schools. I’ll plug one I’ve participated in: Young Storytellers Foundation.

10). Favorite time of year in LA?

The beauty of LA is that there are seasons they just aren’t as drastic and overwhelming as some other parts of the country. I certainly don’t miss shoveling snow for hours on end. That being said, I’ll go with summer. You can’t beat the outdoor concerts, beach life, screenings at Hollywood Forever Cemetery – so much going on. There always is though, right?

11). Where to go for the best happy hour?

The best one I’ve seen/been to was Gyu-Kaku. It was pretty much 99 cent beers all night. However, there are plenty of dives that are consistently cheap, which is ideal for us starving artists.

12). Best flea market?

Melrose & Fairfax. I’m sure there are better ones. Any recommendations?

13). What is the best exhibition you’ve seen here?

Salvador Dali at the LACMA. I want to go see the Tim Burton exhibit that’s going now too.

14). Where is the best place to go on a first date?

Dating in L.A. can be painful. However, there’s certainly no shortage of places to go. It’s all dependent on the person, and how creative or romantic you want to go. Lunch at the Getty Center Garden is always nice, or for dinner and drinks: Edendale in Silver Lake.

15). Favorite of all the tourist spots?

After four years I’m still discovering new things, so why go with the standard tourist destinations. I try to avoid these at all costs, yet there are a few spots that just can’t be ignored. I must say though, The Griffith Park Observatory, looking out at the entire city, especially at night, is special.

16). Best venue to see a live show?

Any venue that happens to highlight that particular genre. Singer Songwriter: Hotel Café or The Mint.  Seeing a band? Troubadour, or Satellite, (it’s still tough to call it that, cause it’s formerly SPACELAND. The new name just reminds me of the DMB song and that’s painful. Great venue though).

17). Name a hidden LA gem that has not been taken over yet.

Well, that would kind of defeat the purpose now wouldn’t it. This place deserves all the business it can get so, Paper or Plastik Café on Pico. It’s more than just a coffee shop. You’ll see. It’s become my new spot.

18). If LA had a subway system like New York or bus system like San Francisco, would you use it? Or would you stick with your car?

Metro all the way. Part of my reason for moving out of the valley and into the city was to walk more. I have a friend who has lived here just as long and has NEVER owned a car. I don’t know how he does it. It can be done if you’re motivated and patient enough to take the bus and the few rail lines. Eventually it will get there. Lots of places are bike friendly too.

19). Biggest (but most true) cliché about LA?

People drive everywhere. A block might as well be a trip to Santa Barbara. Living the valley this whole time was like living in another state to most.

20). What mark do you want to leave on the world?

The mark I’m trying to leave is simply doing my part, what ever that may be, to help those in need, to promote a free and peaceful world, one that embraces progress and everyone who is willing to do the same. If doing my part happens to fall in line with my passions, and creating moving pictures is the vehicle, then I could only be so lucky.

Yvon Nguyen, Event Director at My Petite Planner

Yvon Nguyen may be small and petite, but don’t let that fool you. She’s got drive, ambition, (a compassionate heart) and serious systematizing skills—which we all covet. After working successfully in a marketing/sales position for a few years, she decided to use her skills and number one passion to start her own event planning company—My Petite Planner.

Many people talk about dreams but only a few take action and she’s one of them. To be an event planner, you need to get nitty-gritty with the details and need more than organizational and time management skills. What’s required: an eye for creativity, negotiation and interpersonal skills, tact, multitasking abilities, and the ability stay calm under stress and pressure without pulling your hair out. With a few years under her belt and staff members to assist her, Yvon is ready to take her company to the next level. Read on to find out more in her own words.

—

Nationality: Vietnamese-American

Education/background: Marketing & Human Resources

Favorite reading material: Work-related messages and emails

Drink I always order at Starbucks: Iced Caramel Macchiato upside-down with whip cream & caramel on top

Pet Peeve: When people don’t mean what they say & when they don’t recycle

—

CM: So My Petite Planner was started by you. Could you explain the name and the process of how it all started?

YN: I loved playing with puzzles since I was little. Event & Wedding planning is like putting together a puzzle. They all start with small pieces in the form of a task, checklist and time-line. On the day of the event, all the pieces come together and it’s an amazing feeling. With my friends and colleagues, I’ve always been the one that volunteers or being volunteered to put an event or party together, whether it’s for a friend’s baby shower or an office party. To build experience, I started planning small events on my own for friends and co-workers while learning and assisting event & wedding planners. Eventually, I decided to combine my passion for event planning and my entrepreneurial spirit.

The name was not easy to come up with. I played around with a few ideas but some sounded too boring or corporate while others just sounded like I’m about to jump out of a box with animal-shaped balloons (Prestige Planning, The Happy Guru). I finally decided to go with My Petite Planner because it’s personalized. When clients meet me for the first time, I can see the “ohhh” moment in their eyes when they realized that My Petite Planner is literal. It’s awesome! Personalization is important because that’s what I bring to the table. I guarantee personalized service for my clients because they all have different goal, need and vision.

CM: How do you find and get clients?

YN: From referrals and facebook!

CM: Is this your full-time job or do you have side gigs?

YN: Event and wedding planning is my full-time passion. Although I always get approached with side projects, and once in a while something would peak my interest. I think it’s a great learning tool to be working with different sets of responsibilities. You can also gain exposure and cross-marketing benefits by reaching out and working with others outside of your industry. However, My Petite Planner remains and continues to be my number one priority.

CM: What are the hardest challenges you face in running your own business?

YN: As a small business owner in this economy, there are definitely challenges. Many still see event and wedding Planning as a luxury service only accessible to the rich and famous. They don’t necessarily know that in many instances, hiring a planner is a necessity and very affordable. Another challenge is the journey to establish my own identity and recognition in this industry being the new girl on the block.

CM: What was your most memorable event you and your team coordinated for?

YN: It has to be our grand opening event. It was absolutely nerve-racking and exciting! We organized a successful networking mixer with many industries involved and sponsorships by Wells Fargo, Gamut Media, Formula99 Web Designs and Posch Restaurant in Irvine. It was in the form of a business mixer and an expo with booths and spaces set up to display our vendors and sponsors’ products and services. As a small business owner, I recognize the vitality of a business depends on continuous growth and exposure through marketing and networking. Therefore, it was an appropriate way to announce the beginning of My Petite Planner.

CM: Do you feel like you’re balancing your work and personal life pretty well? Please elaborate.

YN: Many of my friends would probably say that I can do better. Right now, it’s like a crazy blend of work and personal life. Since my mobile phone is my best assistant and sidekick, I find myself always working. I can be out with friends and I would daydream about work, talk about work and then open up my phone and work. There’s no 8 to 5 structure when you run your own business. You work when you need to, when you want to, when you can and when you’re free.

CM: If you weren’t an event planner, what would you be doing?

YN: A food critic and writer! Are you guys hiring?!

CM: What topics and subjects are you the most passionate about?

YN: Human trafficking and children sex slaves. It is beyond my comprehension how these depravities can exist in today’s society. It is absolutely tragic!

I’m also very passionate about adoption. When I’m ready, whether I have my own children or not, I will adopt and I encourage everyone to adopt. There are so many children in need. If you are able and have room in your heart, please adopt because that is one child’s life that you can directly impact and change for the better. If there’s ever any doubt if you can love an adopted child as your own, please don’t. I believe we are all capable of selflessness and falling in love.

CM: What makes you the most happy? (Work or personal)

YN: I am most happy when the people I love and care about are happy, worry-free and proud. Corny but absolutely true.

CM: Where do you and your friends like to hang out or do in your spare time? Any favorite food spots in or around LA County?

YN: We love to eat, get together for Happy Hour and throw dinner parties when I have time. My latest food obsessions are the Boiling Crab in Westminster and Anjin in Costa Mesa. I also recently discovered amazing foie gras at Manhattan Steaks & Seafood in Orange! When I’m not eating, I’m a music lover and I like to bust a move whenever possible.

CM: If someone could grant you a wish and you could choose to have any skill or talent in the world, what would it be?

YN: The ability to read minds. I can rule the world with that talent.

CM: What are your favorite websites?

YN: Hmm, Facebook for socializing and networking; Google because that’s where I start all my researching projects; WeddingWire and Yelp for obvious reasons.

CM: Who or what inspires you?

YN: Generally, anyone who has an aspiration, works hard and succeeds inspire me. Specifically, my parents and my younger brothers inspire me everyday to want to become a better person, daughter and sister. I want to be a good role model, someone that my brothers can look up to and most importantly, I want to make them proud.

My favorite quotes are “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent” by Eleanor Roosevelt and “Happiness is not having the best of everything, but making the best of everything you have.”

CM: Do you consider yourself a spiritual person?

YN: According to the author Stephen R. Covey in The 8^th Habit, “Spiritual intelligence….underlies the things we believe in and the role our beliefs and values play in the actions we take. It is, in essence, what makes us human.”

I try to live “right” and without regrets, do what I need to to be an accomplished and happy individual without bringing harm to anyone. I try to be considerate and demonstrate empathy without letting anyone take advantage of my compassion. Lastly, I truly believe that I won’t be complete unless I have my family’s unconditional support and eventually the unconditional love of that one person that I want to spend a lifetime with.

CM: What’s your best event planning tip for Collaj readers, whether they’re planning a wedding or even something as small as a birthday?

YN: Prioritize! Any event can be as complicated or as simple as you want it to be. Whether you’re planning a birthday or wedding, there will be a list of tasks and responsibilities. Prioritizing what’s most and least important can help you focus, establish time-line, organize checklist and most importantly, manage your budget.

Another crucial tip is don’t forget to enjoy the process. Organizing an event can be overwhelming and stressful, but try to relax and remember why you’re planning it in the first place. If all else fail, hire a planner!

To find out more about her company, visit MyPetitePlanner.com

John Saint-Denis; Photo Courtesy of Stephen Busken

I met John Saint-Denis when I showed up at his lovely design-centric home for a photo shoot for Apartment Therapy. Everything in his flat is sexy, masculine and as regal as can be. This is no surprise for a well-respected figure in the design world, who knows way more than a thing or two about interior design, merchandising, and retail marketing of luxury brand furniture and goods.

John comes from an Italian and French lineage with a degree in communications/linguistics, and has studied art history in Florence at the Uffizi. He previously served on the board of Avenue of Art and Design in West Hollywood and is a founding board member of La Cienega Design Quarter, and has recently co-founded the La Brea Highland Associate of shelter businesses.

John’s most recent venture is paving the way for Creato Finito Home’s new brick and mortar showroom on La Brea Avenue. He has taken the upper hand at designing and curating pieces for the store, where he has held events such as Brandon Herman’s opening photo exhibit. He was also a co-host for a major benefit for the Human Rights Campaign, auctioning off artwork and goods for a cause. It’s these sort of events, his accomplished design know-how, mixed with his very humble charm–that have turned him into one of the most well respected men in Los Angeles.

20 Questions for John Saint-Denis: His Take on the Best of LA

1). How long have you been an Angelino?

I’ve lived in Los Angeles since 1987. I came here for a summer job after finishing college back east with the intent of staying a few months.  A few months has somehow turned to 24 years.

2). What part of Los Angeles do you live in?

I live in an area I like to call the La Brea/Highland Romantic district. It’s kind of between Hancock Park and Miracle Mile. Some people call it South Hollywood. Most of the streets and buildings between La Brea and Highland, south of Paramount Studios were designed by set designers and built by the studios in the 1920’s as fourplexes and duplexes and larger courtyard multi-family buildings. They were crafted by set designers who were inspired by the palazzi of Italy, chateaux of France, and Moorish townhouses of Spain. At that time, LA was a booming film town because of its magical bright natural light, and it enjoyed a hope of a new renaissance with the new art form of film. The designers of these buildings clearly referred to renaissance Europe when building this part of town. It’s a perfect neighborhood for me.

3). What turns you on the most about this city?

Well, so many things. I love all cities. Major American cities in particular tend to be crossroads of the world with great food, art, design, cutting edge thought and plenty to see and do. LA is the best of all that. While being one of the most open and politically liberal places on earth, it’s not as militant about it as other Western cities. Of course the climate, the enchanted gardens, the modern architecture as well as the traditional, the odd blend of single family homes and skyscrapers on the same block, make it a never ending rule-breaker of a city. I love that Los Angeles is typically hated by San Franciscans and New Yorkers, but Angelinos never hold a grudge and love those other cities in spite of their scorn with no shame of their own wonderful city.

4). What turns you off the most about this city?

The cars. In this wonderful climate people ought to be walking more and enjoying their own neighborhoods. Just too many cars!

5). Favorite place to eat Sunday brunch?

Larchmont Bungalow. Simple hearty good food, charming environment, nice people. In that order.

6). Most overrated venue?

Mozza. Its good, but not worth waiting a month for a table and investing two months salary in a meal you can get for 8 euros at any corner café in Rome.

7). Who is your favorite local artist?

At the moment, Brandon Herman, a photographer working out of a studio in Chinatown who makes modern portraiture. Modern and edgy, but not abstracted or minimalized.

8). If you were going to move, what would be your next destination?

Tuscany. Probably somewhere in or around Florence. My mother is from Italy, and I’ve traveled most of the country, went to school for a summer in Florence and it’s always felt like a second home.

9) Name something you wish would change here.

I wish developers would focus on redeveloping underused, ugly or decaying one-story buildings on the main boulevards of the city, rather than expanding further and further out.

10). Favorite time of year in LA?

Late summer after a rainy spring, like this year. I like it hot and lushly green.

11). Where to go for the best happy hour?

Home. I’m not much of bar person. Sitting in my garden after a work day with friends drinking a bottle of wine is about the happiest hour I can think of.

12). Best flea market?

The Rose bowl is probably still the best, but being a collector and provider of vintage furniture, I’m not giving away all of my secrets.

13). What is the best exhibition you’ve seen here?

Recently I’ve enjoyed Art in the Streets at MOCA which took graffiti artists’ work into a gallery setting. The quality of the art was astonishing. I’ve always been opposed to graffiti, but now I’m just opposed to graffiti that’s not good art. I learned the difference between vandalism and a fascinating and growing body of real work.

14). Where is the best place to go on a first date?

Ca’Brea Restaurant on La Brea. It’s quiet enough to talk and get to know each other, but lively enough for it to be “okay” during a lull in the conversation. Also, their wines are really great and reasonably priced. Wine always facilitates a good date, but don’t drink more than your date!

15). Favorite of all the tourist spots?

Santa Monica Pier. After decades in LA, I still feel like I’m on vacation when I’m walking on the pier. There’s something about the sounds of the arcades, and birds and the fishermen, and the fabulous view north towards Malibu at sunset!

16). Best venue to see a live show?

Hollywood Bowl, hands down. I love it season after season. Although the purity of Lloyd Wright’s original design is somewhat eclipsed by the most recent renovations which include way oversized speakers, the basic idea and experience is still wonderful.

17). Name a hidden LA gem that has not been taken over yet.

I love Angelino on 3rd Street. Not to be confused with Angeli on Melrose or Angelini on Beverly, both great, but Angelino’s food is the real thing, the staff is super friendly, its affordable and easy. I hope I don’t spoil that.

18). If LA had a subway system like New York or bus system like San Francisco, would you use it? Or would you stick with your car?

I’d definitely use it. In fact, I do use what little subway we have, as well as the bus system. As Los Angeles becomes denser, accessibility to beautiful buildings, to art, to great food, to great shops will increase. More people means more economic and cultural opportunity, but there is just no room for more cars, and who wants them all over our walking paths anyway?

19). Biggest (but most true) cliché about LA?

None of it’s true. I won’t propagate negative clichés. LA has smart, educated people, fantastic buildings, and wonderful culture in abundance.

20). What mark do you want to leave on the world?

My passions are in creating environments where meaningful relationships flourish. I hope to leave some of the great people I’ve met in this city, connected to one another. I hope to promote and celebrate their work, to make spaces, both physical and emotional where talented individuals, business, art and design can thrive.

For one, her creativity is not just limited to making music but it also shows itself in the production of her artistic YouTube videos. Clara’s genre can be best described as feel-good indie/folk/pop with a bit of jazz undertones. Her debut album The Art in My Heart is colorful compilation that leaves a good taste in your mouth like sprinkled cupcakes.  Here is Clara C in her own words…

CM: Is music what you always wanted to do since you were little?

CC: Yes! We have multiple video clips of toddler Clara running hogging karaoke mics, interrupting productions by crawling on stage and trying to steal the mic, etc. A career in music seemed so unobtainable growing up because everything you see on TV seems like it was done in some faraway planet, but I grew up and realized that I had all the power to do it on my own. Some hard work and a dash of luck and you’ve got yourself your dream come true.

CM: How do you keep yourself grounded after getting all this attention, winning first place in Kollaboration, touring, etc.?

CC: Mama raised me to be very humble at all times. Personally, nothing’s uglier to me than someone who’s cocky and rude. I absolutely refuse to be that way no matter what’s going on in my life.  Also, at the very base of things, I am another human just like anybody else. By seeing everyone as my equal, I leave myself very little room to have a big head.

CM: What does your day to day look like?

CC: Every day is different. For the past three months or so, I’ve been touring everywhere playing a gig in a different city every week. Some days I’m running around doing interviews and playing for people in big networks while juggling all the little tasks that nobody thinks artists deal with. Other days, I’ll tend to my personal life and spend time with family or go to Disneyland with friends. Another unit of my day may be spent songwriting and honing my craft. There’s always a million things to do. At first, my manager and I kept freaking out because our to-do list never seemed to decrease, but we’ve accepted that that’s just how it’s gonna be. To be honest, in this kind of career, being insanely busy is a huge blessing in disguise!

CM: Do you have any funny stories about fans or strangers you’ve met while on tour or performing?

CC: Hahaha…yessss we have our share of the crazies but for the most part, all of my fans are loving, sweet and sane people. That’s something I’m very, very grateful for. My fans are the bestestestest!

CM: Where does your biggest inspiration come from in making music?

CC: Anything can inspire me from documentaries and photos to heartbreak and happiness. Sometimes, I can be sitting in a park and be inspired to write a song. Anything that moves me is usually immediately channeled into a song. Art begets art. I consider myself an artist and I am fueled by other art no matter what form it comes in.

CM: Your videos, photos and artwork are so creative. Do you have a partner in the production process or this all you?

CC: There have been friends who have helped me along the way with bits and pieces but at this point I’m looking to hire some partners because after I get an idea, the recording, editing, filming, mixing, directing is all done on my own. A team is vital to any project and it’d be nice to not run around so frantically every time I have a project.

CM: Do you have a favorite quote, motto or phrase that you strive to live by?

CC: ”Be the change you wish to see in the world.” I believe Ghandi said it?

CM: What do you consider to be your three passions in life?

CC: Music, food, people!

CM: What do you like to do in your spare time or where do you like to hang out?

CC: I love love love Disneyland. The funny thing is that all my life, I used to hate it! I was more of a rollercoaster/thrill kinda gal and spinning around in teacups and riding boats around didn’t sound too appealing to me. But now…I ride that teacup thing at least twice a month! I also make Hulu tons of money because I rotate about 7 different TV shows right now. Modern family, community and happy endings are my favies! Another thing I love to do is cook! I’ll get some girlfriends together and we’ll attempt to make a fancy risotto or bake a brioche =).

CM: What’s your favorite restaurant?

CC: Woah woah woah. That’s one difficult question. I think I’m incapable of naming just one so I’ll list some off. Father’s Office in Culvery City makes the best gourmet burger I could dream up. Din Tai Fung in Arcadia has the yummiest soup dumplings ever. I love myself a nice steak at Lawry’s with bread pudding and creamed corn. Ikko sushi in Costa Mesa is Japanese cuisine at its finest (well at least in America). I can go on and on and on but if I name another restaurant I might accidentally leave this interview and go get my grub on…

CM: What’s your current favorite song or musician?

CC: I love Feist! Everything about her and her music is truly great! John Mayer will always hold a very deep and secure spot in my heart.

CM: Where can people buy your album and latest songs?

CC: iTunes, BigCartel (physical copies)

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Clara C is currently working on a new album slated to come out in 2012. Check out her official page at ClaraCMusic.com.