Thursday, June 30, 2011

Damon Jamal Interview

Damon Jamal Interview
#DirectorsWeek


Tell us about yourself. Whats your name? Where are you from?
-My name is Damon Jamal and I'm from the Bay Area. I was born and raised in Berkeley but lived in all different parts of the Bay from the East Bay to the South Bay. I've been living in Oakland for the past 7 years so that's what I represent.

What does the word "based" mean to you?
-To me, being Based is about doing creative things on your own, and doing those things well.

How did you get into the directors chair/behind the camera? What inspired you and still inspires you?
-Originally I wanted to be a screenwriter, so I wrote a few screenplays and shopped them around Hollywood. There was some interest, but I couldn't get the greenlight that I was looking for. During this process, which took a few years, digital video began to get better and cheaper. I was in the music business, and some of the artists I was working with needed commercials and other webmedia to help promote their projects. This was back when myspace was crackin. I looked for affordable companies with good quality that could make this happen, but I couldn't find any, so I just took the same $ that these companies wanted and bought a cool little 3-chip (SD) camera and started doing it myself. That turned into it's own business and eventually artists from all over the Bay were asking me to shoot music videos for them.

I'm inspired by things that are visually different like how Spike Jonze had Pharcyde rapping backwards (in order to later play it forwards for a dope visual effect) or creative execution like how George Lucas took miniature models and turned them into space stations and other interstellar spacecraft. I'm also inspired by business minded film models like how Tyler Perry has his own compound in ATL and writes/produces/directs everything himself and does not need to go outside his compound for anything except to deposit checks.

What upcoming projects are you working on, any particular one special to you or one your excited for?
-Upcoming projects includes the next edition of In Yo FACE TV, which is a DVD we're putting out every quarter which is simply a collection of music videos that I directed. 27 music videos back to back. No commercials, no interruptions. Also I'm working on my first feature film. After having won many awards for my music videos and short films, I'm finally in a position where I can create an actual 90 minute original motion picture so I'm extremely excited about that. I am directing/producing a modern day version of the 80s hit "The Breakfast Club".

Overall, whats your favorite video that you've ever created?
-Very difficult to pick my favorite video. I've shot over 175 so how do you say which one of your 175 kids is the best one? My favorite hood video is E-40 "He's a Gangsta" because I was able to incorporate all the cameos into the storyline. That's one of the hardest things to do because artists always want their homies to get their shine on but it messes up the storyline if some random cat is suddenly popping up on the screen with a peace sign. It's like "ummmm where'd HE come from??". My favorite video visually was Shake da Mayor's "Reality Show" because we were able to show everything Shake was rapping about succinctly and make it look TVish. Other then that, my favorite simple studio video is Philthy Rich f/ E-40 "Feeling like Pac" because I was able to capture the mood with some nice lighting techniques and although it's all shot in a studio it keeps viewers glued to the video for the entire time.
Are there any artists out there you would like to work with, but haven't got the chance yet?
-There are a lot of artists that I'd like to work with but honestly I'm not really trippin. Although I love shooting music videos and it's the most fun I've ever been paid for, my goal is movies and that's what I'm focused on. If I only worked the same artists I've been working with I'd be perfectly happy. That's not to say that I wouldn't want to do a video for Jay-Z, or Kanye, or Snoop -- that'd be dope. But it's not something that I'm actively trying to do. Every video I've shot is because the artist came to me and said they wanted to shoot so I'ma just keep rockin with that same energy and we'll see what happens...

Besides your own videos, whats a video out right now that really caught your eye?
-I can't think of any music video that really caught my eye recently but I'll say the production quality and look of Belly is something that I aim for in the future as I make high quality movies for the new generation of moviegoers. How come Hype Williams never did another movie? Belly was dope. He should be doing a movie every year. I guess it's coo though ... I'ma try to pick up where he left off..

What is something that people don't know about you?
-Something that people don't know about me is I'm a nerd. I guess cuz I shoot so many hood/gangster videos people think I'ma a certain type of way but most of my videos don't really reflect my personality. Science fiction and fantasy is my favorite genre but I just don't get offered projects that have a budget which can take advantage of that...

Whats some advice you can give the people that want to get behind the camera and into the directors chair?
Advice for future director's is this: shoot/edit every week. Study and improve your craft. Read up on lenses and lightning. And please don't get into it if you're just tryna hit a liq. Do it because you love it, otherwise you're just messing it up for everybody else like what happened to rap.

Where can people find more about you?
-Our website is www.InYoFaceFilm.com and that has EVERY SINGLE video I've ever shot as well as a couple short films I did. My email is damon@InYoFaceFilm.com and my twitter is @DamonJamal & Facebook -- although my facebook recently got full so you can check my other facebook page here.

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Chris Morocco Interview

Chris Morocco Interview
#DirectorsWeek


Tell us about yourself. Whats your name? Where are you from?
-Chris Morocco, and I am a director and photographer from Richmond, CA. I run my own production company, Movements In Media (MIM), and we specialize in everything media, from production to talent marketing. Swag.

What does the word "based" mean to you?
-I used to hear a lot of people use it to describe being drugged out, which is funny to me because the idea of being different and creative was so foreign to people that it meant you were loaded. To me it means being so clean that you are on a different level than everyone else. Anyways, shout out to Lil B - the basedgod himself.

How did you get into the directors chair/behind the camera? What inspired you and still inspires you?
-In the 8th grade I had an assignment to make a movie using special effects and really since then I knew I wanted to make videos. In high school I also got into making my own music. That lasted awhile, but I eventually ended up on the other side of the camera. I made my first music video in college for a local rapper out of Oakland. I graduated with a degree in audio and video production, however I am mostly self-taught. I took a couple months out of college to cop my own equipment and get my business plan together and have been making videos ever since.

My inspiration comes from a few different places. First up, my dadʼs career of 30+ years in the entertainment industry. Longevity in the industry is more rare than it is common, but he found his niche. It really helped me see you canʼt count on a career in entertainment by being basic, or even good – you need to set a standard for great and even beyond that. Thirty years from now I want my name to be associated the growth of video entertainment, creative freedom, and professionalism.

And simply, creating art and the fans that appreciate my work keep me inspired.

What upcoming projects are you working on, any particular one special to you or one your excited for?
-Of course. The project Iʼm most excited about right now is the video production summer camp Iʼve put together with my team. Weʼll be swagging high school students, ages 13 to 18, with production fundamentals during a weeklong hands on session. In addition to the camp Iʼm juiced about the expansion of my company. Brittany Sims, our resident producer and marketing director has signed on to develop our media management department. Brian Christ (with the protégé swag) and Charles “House” Ellis and the rest of the team are bringing new energy into the company. Trying to make a label of creators outchere.

Overall, whats your favorite video that you've ever created?
-This is a tough question, depends on the day, but I always enjoy shooting with my brothers Starting Six. “Thirsty” was my start so an automatic classic… and “Yogi” was the cleanest set I ran. Cast and crew had a lot of fun; we did it real big. It really just depends though.




Are there any artists out there you would like to work with, but haven't got the chance yet?
-Still want to shoot one for Lil B & The Cataracs. Iʼm down with the youth movement so maybe someone like Wiz. I am into different genres too, so maybe someone like Frank Ocean or The Weekend, other than that maybe some house/pop folks like Deadmau5, Nina Sky, Afro Jack, Benny Benassi, LMFAO, etc. Or we could bring Dipset back, and I could shoot a banger.

Besides your own videos, whats a video out right now that really caught your eye?
-A couple lately. The Party Anthem video by LMFAO is bananas, real fun. I also like the Tyler The Creator “Yonkers” joint; epitome of simple yet complex. Chris Brownʼs “Beautiful People” video is super settled and pretty funny.

What is something that people don't know about you?
-I am a teacher. Besides the summer camp series Iʼve been hired to speak at various schools about my career path, education and media. Giving back is really important to me.

Whats some advice you can give the people that want to get behind the camera and into the directors chair?
-I would remind them to be professional. It sounds like a given, but people forget that part. Just because weʼre in the entertainment industry doesnʼt mean weʼre 18 crazy. A lot of us are businessmen and women. Iʼd also remind them to treat every project like a challenge, and not to be complacent with their experience. Like I said, longevity is clearly a struggle in this business, so you got to keep striving to be better.

Where can people find more about you?
- Official Site
- Personal Site/Blog
- Twitter
- Facebook

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Aris Jerome Interview

Aris Jerome Interview
#DirectorsWeek

Tell us about yourself. Whats your name? Where are you from?
-Aris Jerome from the Bay. Residing in LA.

What does the word "based" mean to you?
-Based to me means anything that is original and stands out.

How did you get into the directors chair/behind the camera? What inspired you and still inspires you?
-Creating will always inspire me. All I needed to do was get my hands on a camera. Which I did randomly and I just ended up loving it.

What upcoming projects are you working on, any particular one special to you or one your excited for?
-People are used to seeing me with a low budget doing gorilla style shoots. Get ready to see what I can do with a shoot that is more put together. $$

Overall, whats your favorite video that you've ever created?
-That's hard to say because I learned something new from every shoot I've done. I'd have to say Loud Pockets though. When I sent the treatment to L he loved it and we got to shooting instantly. He trusted my vision and that video definitely got the attention it deserved.


Are there any artists out there you would like to work with, but haven't got the chance yet?
-I would love to work with Hailey Williams. She's dope.

Besides your own videos, whats a video out right now that really caught your eye?
-Tyler the Creator - She feat. Frank Ocean. That video was out of the ordinary. That's what creativity is all about.

What is something that people don't know about you?
-A lot of people don't know me in general. Shoutout to Based Update for reaching out and picking my brain.

Whats some advice you can give the people that want to get behind the camera and into the directors chair?
-Just shoot every chance you get. Don't wait.

Where can people find more about you?
-I have a facebook and a twitter all under Aris Jerome. Or you can follow my Blog.

Monday, June 27, 2011

Chris Simmons Interview

Chris Simmons Interview
#DirectorsWeek


Tell us about yourself. Whats your name? Where are you from?
-Greetings my name is Chris Simmons. I'm from Fremont, CA home of the textsbooks and the grey people. Shoutsout to Fremont. I am 18 years of age and also a high school graduate. I like to play video games add my xbox gamertag: ChriSimmonsWOO thanks.

What does the word "based" mean to you?
-"Based" means a lot to me. I say it about 15 times a day (guesstimate) and my definition would have to be, rare/the act of being yourself and not caring/something dope. Stay based..based update.

How did you get into the directors chair/behind the camera? What inspired you and still inspires you?
-So basically me, Aris and my friend Danny went out to vegas with Big Rich to shoot a music video. Aris drove about 9 hours and in those 9 hours he drank 2 five hour energy drinks and a redline. He said his heart felt like it was beating a million times per second. So he couldn't shoot when we first got to vegas. It was now my turn.. I took the cam and shot a scene... And thats when i realized i can do this also. So after continuously working with my cousin Aris, yes Aris Jerome the legend is my cousin. I learned so much. He got a text from Nic Nac the illest out, asking if he could shoot a video for the six on November 26th. Aris told him it was his birthday and he would be celebrating with friends. So Nic asked... What about Chris? (I was in the car at the time) I was ecstatic i never thought about even becoming a director or filmmaker. Shoutsout to Nic Nac for birthing my career. Thank you. I then shot Starting Six "On Me" my first music video ever which accumulated many views super quick. I feel blessed. Many people inspire me such as TAJ, Colin Tilley and Aris. Seeing them do their thing and live out their dream is amazing and inspiring to me, I wish to be like them one day.

What upcoming projects are you working on, any particular one special to you or one your excited for?
-I have a video coming up for the hit song "Up" by LoveRance ft. IAMSU & Skipper. I'm real excited to drop it. Also if anyone knows how get advertisements on their youtube please show me (@chriSimmons) because when this drops it should get HELLA views.

#Overall, whats your favorite video that you've ever created?
-My favorite video so far would have to be Jay Ant - "Go To" which is still unreleased....because @jayantmusic_TPK (hit him and tell him to drop it!!) is taking forever to release it..... If anyone wants to see it hit my twitter @chriSimmons females only...lol.

Since that video isn't released yet, check out a video Chris Directed that I am sure you have all seen before by Starting Six.



Are there any artists out there you would like to work with, but haven't got the chance yet?
-Many artists..too many to name..too keep it short, I would love to work with Taylor Swift. I love her. Also Kanye of course, just meeting him would be dope he seems like a real intelligent and artsy type of person..legend. And Linkin Park theyre DOPE.

Besides your own videos, whats a video out right now that really caught your eye?
-Gucci Gucci! Its very based. And also the new Jill Scott video by TAJ. The song made me feel happy and watching it even made me more happy. Its amazing how music and visuals can bring out emotions in people.

What is something that people don't know about you?
-Hmmm, Im not sure. How about that Aris is like my brother? I grew up and lived with him up until he recently move to LA.

Whats some advice you can give the people that want to get behind the camera and into the directors chair?
-Keep shooting! And use your BRAIN.

Where can people find more about you?
-Follow me on twitter @chriSimmons. Im addicted to twitter i swear. And hit me up! I love talking to people it raises my self esteem. I dont have a website yet but i will soon. And Im also a photographer lets take some photos people!!! Shoutsout to everyone i love you all.

Wednesday, June 22, 2011

DefamNation's Summer Release

DefamNation's Summer Release
DefamNation "DefamNation's Summer "86'ed Across The Land: Collection" Summer Delivery is now available. The offering displays a more mischievous approach while keeping their staple in raw aesthetic. The brand has consistently grown with each year shouting their message of power, ownership and never losing their focus of overthrowing empires. The collection is lean but offers a variety if tanks, tees, fitteds and online exclusives. Bounded by the scourge of god. Founded by the achievers of colossal."

Check out the Lookbook Video


Now available through their webstore and select retailers.
Defamnation.com


Friday, June 17, 2011

Young and Hungover Mixtape

Young and Hungover Mixtape (YG, Bobby Brackins, Ty$)


Make sure to download this Young & Hungover (Hosted by DJ ill Will & DJ Mustard) mixtape. It is 100% worthy to be in your music collection and car.

Click Here to Download

Thursday, June 16, 2011

Bobby Brackins ft. Ty$ "Go To Work" New Video

Bobby Brackins ft. Ty$ "Go To Work" New Video


You already know you can check out more on Bobby Brackins through this site, just click the tags and check out the interviews from the interviews tab.

Since 8.17.10 my Official The Based Update YouTube will have any videos that are posted on the site from now on will be uploaded there. This way you can have all the videos at hand at one single place. So be sure to subscribe to the page and put the word out.

CLICK HERE TO SUBSCRIBE TO The Based Update's NEW YOUTUBE!

Wednesday, June 15, 2011

Bobby Brackins New Video "Fillmore Slim"

Bobby Brackins New Video "Fillmore Slim"


You already know you can check out more on Bobby Brackins through this site, just click the tags and check out the interviews from the interviews tab.

Since 8.17.10 my Official The Based Update YouTube will have any videos that are posted on the site from now on will be uploaded there. This way you can have all the videos at hand at one single place. So be sure to subscribe to the page and put the word out.

CLICK HERE TO SUBSCRIBE TO The Based Update's NEW YOUTUBE!

Thursday, June 2, 2011

Young Murph New Video "Shut It Down "Ft. Nio Tha Gift

Young Murph New Video "Shut It Down "Ft. Nio Tha Gift


If you haven't checked out Young Murph's Interview on this site CLICK HERE to check him out. Hopefully I can get in a interview with Nio Tha Gift this summer.

Since 8.17.10 my Official The Based Update YouTube will have any videos that are posted on the site from now on will be uploaded there. This way you can have all the videos at hand at one single place. So be sure to subscribe to the page and put the word out.

CLICK HERE TO SUBSCRIBE TO The Based Update's NEW YOUTUBE!

Bobby Brackins New Hit "Lesbian"

Bobby Brackins New Hit "Lesbian"


Bobby continues to create good music with his newest single "Lesbian." This is definitely something to download to add to your music collection. As you know in his "143" song, one of the most memorable lines many people remember was "I don't even care if you a lesbian." This song plays of that line. Enough said. Click Download.

Click HERE to download Bobby Brackins - Lesbian
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