Recording Artist Dj Down South Prepares For Battle With Himself In New Project

Recording Artist Dj Down South Prepares For Battle With Himself In New Project by Cyrus A. Webb for Conversations LIVE! Radio/Conversations Magazine

19 year old Chris Ervin (aka Dj Down South/Danny Montana) has been busy making moves in the music industry over the past decade. Finding his style and his listening audience, he works hard to separate himself for other independent artists while plotting his strategy to join the big boys. A native of Petaluma, CA, Ervin lives in Mississippi but has intention of being another local talent. He has his eyes set firmly on conquering the world.

In this exclusive interview he talks about his musical influences as well as how he is challenging himself through his newest project while also making a statement about his future.

Thank you for taking out the time to talk with us, Chris. Let's start with your own interests. What recording artists have had the most impact on your life?
There are many that had a big impact, such artists as, Bob Marley, Tupac, Coolio, Bone Thugs -N- Harmony, Matisyahu, and Damian Marley. Just to name a few

As an artist, how have you managed to separate yourself from the others out there?
I have a Unique voice and style of delivery. I like to give people something new to listen to, I'm always coming up with new flows and I love rapping on experimental beats, something that's really different.

If you had to describe your personal style, what would it be?
Throughout my career I've developed a style called Epic, It combines my love for old school drum patterns, and uses alot of orchestra elements in the melodies. I love it, you can catch that style on my upcoming project 'Dj Down South Vs. Danny Montana'.

One thing about hip hop is that it is not always known for sharing a positive message. Why is it important for you to give the world a variety?
Everybody has a message to share, some of them are not positive but there are some that are. America when it was being established was described as a 'Melting Pot' people from all walks of life came to America for freedom, I use freedom of speech to hopefully get across to people from all over the world, in every walk of life, and to all the generations to come how this 'Melting Pot' is from my point of view.

There are challenges with all careers. What has been your biggest challenge in getting your voice heard?
Meeting people, I have been told countless times throughout the years, 'Its not how good you are, Its who you know' So far in my career I have been struggling with meeting the right people. Though I cherish everyone Iv meet so far I would love to meet that one person who can help me get my career off the ground.

You are preparing for the release of your CD. What is the name of the project, and what can music lovers expect from it?
The CD is entitled 'Dj Down South Vs. Danny Montana' and music lovers are going to love the listening experience. The songs are great and I had a good time writing them.

The word is that you are making the CD available mainly for free download. Why did you make this decision and what do you hope will be the result?
Yeah, That is my decision it will be available for download on numerous websites. I made the decision because I am totally independent and my budget wont allow for me to press a significant amount to distribute effectively. So if I cant get it to everyone's hands through the stores the best I can hope for is to get it to EVERYBODY using the internet. I can only encourage you to burn it to a cd and let your friends, family, and co-workers to listen to it.

You have accomplished alot though you are relatively new to the industry. What advice would you give to artists coming up after you?
Know what you want, Set goals and strategies. Know what your going for and don't limit yourself to what others are doing, do what you want to do. You might come up with the next big style change.

If there was any artists you could work with who would they be?
There are a few out there that I would love to have a song with, some of them are: Matisyahu, Damian Marley, Jesse McCartney, BG Knoccout, Afrika Bambaataa, and Chubb Rock.

You are a supporter of the literacy campaigns Hip Hop and Books as well as The Write Stuff. Why is a project geared at reading something you are interested in?
Reading is very important and is something everyone should take up as a hobby. I enjoy reading myself in my spare time. I am currently reading 'Making It in the Music Business: The Business and Legal Guide for Songwriters and Performers' By Lee Wilson

Thanks for your time. How can our readers find you online or contact you?
No Problem, they can find me at http://www.MySpace.com/djdownsouth838 or http://www.djdownsouth.weebly.com. You can Tweet me at http://www.twitter.com/djdownsouth838.

Literary Soldiers Wage War Against Illiteracy

There's a powerful movement taking place across the world, and the battle that is ensuing involves everyone. It is a fight against illiteracy. One of the Generals in the war is Mississippi native 34 year-old multi-media personality Cyrus A. Webb (seen below with bestselling author Darden North at a book discussion in Waldenbooks).

"With so much going on in the world it's easy to forget how many lives are being affected by not being able to read and write well," says Webb, but he is determined to use the various platforms he is given to not only keep the awareness on literacy but bring others together to do the same.

In May 2009, ABC News reported that about 30 million Americans have trouble reading and writing. "There is no way I can reach all the people that need help," Webb admits, "but I am taking advantage of every opportunity to not only mention the problem but network with individuals who care about being a part of the solution."

Since 1999, Webb (seen below with a classroom and associates at Pearl High School in Mississippi) has been working in classrooms promoting visual and literary art and made his services available to non-profit organizations and others who wish to shine an all-important light on the subject and importance of reading. "Mississippi has had one of the highest rates for illiteracy, teenage pregnancy, obesity and high school drop-outs for a number of years," says Webb. "This is something that has to be addressed on a daily bases. Those who have been given a voice have to use it in order to make a difference and impact the lives of as many as they can."

Through his radio and television show, bi-monthly Conversations Magazine, the numerous chapters of the Conversations Book Club, his blog as well as articles and commentaries, he is introducing the world to authors of various genres and interests as well as discussing ways that those who are readers and non-readers can come together and join what Webb refers to as an "addiction to books."

He realizes that there is no one way to address the problem. "We all like different things," Webb says, "so it is our job as literary soldiers to find ways in order to reach those who are in need of help." Publications such as Crunk Magazine, Hype Magazine, S.T.I.L.L. Magazine and Nu South Magazines have also enlisted into the service to promote the importance of reading.


In order to tie all of his literary components together, Webb (seen above during a book discussion of Platinum-selling recording artist Corey "C-Murder" Miller's bestselling novel DEATH AROUND THE CORNER at Barnes & Noble) created the "Do The Write Thang" Campaign (see http://www.dothewritethang.com) Thus far Webb has joined with allies in over 30 states, including bestselling and up-and-coming authors, celebrities in tv and radio as well as recognizable names and faces in sports(including Tray Cheney of HBO's The Wire, Derrick Hargrove of MTV 50 CENT: The Money & The Power, Korto Momolu of Bravo's Project Runway, numerous cast members from VH1's I WANT TO WORK FOR DIDDY, Recording artists Nappy Roots and more). They are hosting and supporting what are called "Reading Parties" that provide networking for book lovers but also discussions as to how we can work together in order to help others. Webb is also hosting a series of town-hall style meetings in-person and through his radio show addressing issues that everyone are dealing with, offering solutions along the way.

One of the most popular tools that Webb is utilizing is a touring event called "Art, Books & Beats" (http://www.artbooksandbeats.com) During these events those involved in the various forms of the arts can come together with musicians and authors/booksellers to create an atmosphere that will attract a variety of groups that may not otherwise come together. Admission is free to these events. HunidRacks Energy Drink based out of California is the official energy drink of the literary campaign.

In order to cover travel, lodging and venue costs during this literary warfare, Webb is donating 50% of his artwork sales, 100% of his Hip Hop & Books compilation cd sales as well as 100% of his organization's newest Word Search book (available beginning Friday, August 7, 2009) to help take ocaer of the expenses. A website has also been setup using Give Forward in Chicago, IL (www.giveforward.org/thewritestuff).

For more information about the war Cyrus A. Webb and his associates are waging against illiteracy, contact Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. Also visit http://www.dothewritethang.com.

AUGUST 3-7, 2009: This week on Conversations LIVE!

Conversations LIVE! Radio ushers in a new month with new guests and exciting discussions designed for audiences of all interests. Hosted by Cyrus A. Webb, you are not going to want to miss any of these. Mark your calendar and make plans to join the conversations!

MONDAY, AUGUST 3, 2009 @ 12P.M. CST (1P.M. EST/10A.M. PST) --- Lucy R. Valena of Voltage Coffee


MONDAY, AUGUST 3, 2009 @ 7P.M. CST (8P.M. EST/5P.M. PST) --- Bestselling authors Rodney Lofton (No More Tomorrows) & Miasha (Chaser)



WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 5, 2009 @ 12P.M. CST (1P.M. EST/10A.M. PST) --- Bestselling author Stephen L. Carter (Jericho's Fall)


THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2009 @ 7P.M. CST (8P.M. EST/5P.M. PST) ---Motivational Speaker/Author Bro. Jesse Muhammad


FRIDAY, AUGUST 7, 2009 @ 7P.M. CST (8P.M. EST/5P.M. PST) --- Author Joseph W. Hoffler (PROMOTION: Denied)


To listen to any of the interviews above, simply visit http://www.blogtalkradio.com/conversationslive or listen via the switchboard line at 347.426.3645.

Missed past shows? Visit http://www.conversationsliveradio.com.

WED. JULY 29, 2009: Award-winning Group Nappy Roots on Conversations LIVE! Radio

Conversations LIVE! Radio is pleased to announce that acclaimed hip hop group Nappy Roots will be guests of the program on Wednesday, July 29, 2009 @ 7p.m CST (8p.m. EST).

Hosted by Cyrus A. Webb, the group will talk about their humble beginnings, what has kept them relevant in the ever-changing world of music and give listeners a sneak peak into what is next for them. Before leaving the group will debut their hot new single "Down & Out" featuring Anthony Hamilton.

Nappy Roots are also members of Conversations' literacy organization called Celebrealacy. They will talk about why they use their celebrity to encourage young people and literacy.

Listen to the interview live at http://tobtr.com/s/621086 or by calling the radio station switchboard @ 347.426.3645.

SUN. JULY 26, 2009: C. A. Webb Presents "A Tribute To Author E. Lynn Harris"

On SUNDAY, JULY 26, 2009 @ Conversations LIVE! Radio hosted a special presentation: C. A. Webb Presents "A Tribute To Author E. Lynn Harris". ( Listen to the podcast by visiting http://tobtr.com/s/621800.)

The world lost one of its literary giants on Thursday, July 23, 2009. New York Times Bestselling Author E. Lynn Harris died at the young age of 54, leaving a legacy that will continue in those he inspired and entertained.

Conversations LIVE! Radio took a look at his life as an author and activist with those whom he affected along the way. Among the guests for the hour were bestselling authors Tony Lindsay (CHASIN' IT), DaPharoah69 (seen above with Harris/ THE KING OF EROTICA), Latrese Carter (LIAR, LIAR), N'Tyse (MY SECRETS, YOUR LIES) and James Earl Hardy (B-BOY BLUES). Webb also shares statements by Sherrie Shepherd (co-host of The View), Bestselling authors Marita Golden (IT'S ALL LOVE) and Cheryl Robinson (SWEET GEORGIA BROWN) as well as Patricia D. Woods of Books2Mention Magazine. (see below)

MARITA GOLDEN, BESTSELLING AUTHOR OF IT'S ALL LOVE: "I will always remember E. Lynn's generous spirit. He gave of his time, his talent and his treasure in support of emerging writers
consistently throughout his life and career, He was a board member of the Hurston/Wright Foundation and was a spirited champion of the work and mission of the foundation in creating opportunities for Black writers. He gave generously to the foundation and created
opportunities for others to do the same through parties he hosted. I will miss his sense of humor, his entertaining stories and the inspiring way he lived his life."

SHERRIE SHEPHERD, CO-HOST OF THE VIEW: "I am sad that he (E. Lynn Harris) passed. I wish he and his family peace."

CHERYL ROBINSON, BESTSELLING AUTHOR OF SWEET GEORGIA BROWN: "I cried when I heard the news and as I am writing my thoughts I am still crying because he was and will continue to be my inspiration. When times got tough in this business, he was one of the authors I looked toward, someone I admired for all that he achieved and all that he gave back. I am deeply saddened by his passing. He will be greatly missed. A man who gave so much to so many, even to those he had never met personally. He made an indelible mark in the literary world by being the first to write about black gay men living an "invisible life". And he did so in a way that not only entertained but also enlightened women to a lifestyle that we knew very little of. E. Lynn Harris opened our eyes and gave us a look inside. He will continue to live on in my heart and my mind and legions of new fans will continue to experience him through the vast body of work that he has left behind. E. Lynn Harris was a truly kind and caring person who made a mark in this world. My prayers are with his family during this difficult time."

PATRICIA D. WOODS, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OF BOOKS2MENTION MAGAZINE: "My deepest condolences goes out to E. Lynn Harris' family, friends and fans. We have lost a dynamic storyteller who possessed an uncanny ability to craft novels that literally pulled readers into the intriguing world of characters that were interesting and witty, told with humor and candor, seasoned with just the right amount of unexpected twists and turns. Delivered with that sensational style that is without a doubt E. Lynn Harris' exclusive signature.
"The first novel that I read by E. Lynn was Just As I Am. I was so profoundly touched by this body of work that I read the book four times.
"Since then, I have read and made it my business to stay abreast with all of his work. We will indeed all miss him and with out a doubt take comfort from the amazing stories that he crafted, for he has indelibly made a mark in the literary world and in the lives of all who had the opportunity to read, gain knowledge and inspiration through his masterful ability to open our eyes and truly try to see life from a different perspective.
"Thank You E. Lynn Harris for the incredible journey. Rest In Peace."

Conversations LIVE! Radio thanks all of those who joined the discussion via chat and listened online. The impact of E. Lynn Harris will continue to be felt and enjoyed through those he touched with his gift, and the dialogues he encouraged will have a lasting effect on us all.

Missed other discussions on Conversations LIVE! Radio? Visit http://www.conversationsliveradio.com.

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED: "Hip Hop Under Obama: Change We Can Believe In?" forum a success

On Thursday, July 16, 2009 C. A. Webb hosted the forum "Hip Hop Under Obama: Change We Can Believe In?" on Conversations LIVE! Radio. Discussing the topic with Webb was Taj Longino, host of Talk With Taj Radio and member of the Hype Magazine family. (Listen to the discussion here: http://tobtr.com/s/596016)

During the thought-provoking hour the two talked about how the Hip Hop community after openly supporting the electing of Barack Obama as President has responded to his message. Among the items discussed were Hip Hop's attitude towards women and the overall affect on the culture of Hip Hop.

To listen to other discussions on Conversations LIVE! Radio, visit http://www.conversationsliveradio.com.

July 20-24, 2009: This week on Conversations LIVE! Radio

Shadow Play Entertainment is pleased to announce another great week of fascinating discussions on Conversations LIVE! Radio beginning Monday, July 20, 2009! Hosted by award-winning artist Cyrus A. Webb, we bring you the best in the arts and entertainment.

MONDAY, JULY 20, 2009 @ 12p.m. CST (1p.m. EST/10a.m. PT) --- Author Rick Glaze


MONDAY, JULY 20, 2009 @ 7P.M. CST (8p.m. EST/5p.m. PT) --- Journalist/Political Commentator Billy Hallowell


TUESDAY, JULY 21, 2009 @ 12P.M. CST (1p.m. EST/10a.m. PT) --- Conversations LIVE! Radio celebrates its 100th guest of 2009: Author David Price


TUESDAY, JULY 21, 2009 @ 7p.m. CST (8p.m. EST/5p.m. PT) --- Authors Kris King and Martin Levin



WEDNESDAY, JULY 22, 2009 @ 12P.M. CST (1p.m. EST/10a.m. PT) -- Author Lekesha R. Barnett


WEDNESDAY, JULY 22, 2009 @ 7p.m. CST (8p.m. EST/5p.m. PT) --- Author DaPharoah69


THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2009 @ 7p.m. CST (8p.m. EST/5p.m. PT) --- Author Rhonda R. Carpenter


FRIDAY, JULY 24, 2009 @ 12p.m. CST (1p.m. EST/10a.m. PT) --- Author Erica Spindler



All interviews can be heard live at showtime by visiting http://www.blogtalkradio.com/conversationslive or through the switchboard at 347.426.3645. The shows will be available via podcast at http://www.conversationsliveradio.com.

This week's exclusive interviews are being sponsored in part by author Mark Eller (TRAITOR), author T. C. Alexander (CONSEQUENCES OF ADULTERY), author/actor Tray Chaney (THE TRUTH YOU CAN'T BETRAY) and VITAMINWATER OF LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY.Find out more information about our sponsors at http://www.conversationsliveradio.com

Missed other interviews on Conversations LIVE! Radio? Visit http://www.conversationsliveradio.com. Want to be a guest? Contact Cyrus A. Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616.