In this week’s Indie Soul, a book that details the real life problems of growing up on the wrong side of Baltimore, and popular radio host/event promoter using her celebrity to make a difference.
Anthony Leslie, Jr.: At first glance when you meet Anthony, you think that this a quiet man with little to say. Once you speak with him, you begin to learn that he has a lot to share with the world, especially about Baltimore. “When I wrote this book, I knew there would be some controversy because of the content. But I wanted to share my story so that I can breathe. There is a lot on my chest I wanted to release and I am sure that there are many like myself, and I wanted to let them know, there is someone just like them and that they can make it,” states Leslie Jr.
The book chronicles real-life situations that many Baltimoreans have experienced. In Anthony’s book entitled “The Naked Truth…The Journey From Within,” he shares his struggle with drugs, sexual abuse and identity, and finally his relationship with God. “I know what I went through, I don’t want others to experience what I did and if this book can help someone, then it has served its purpose.” To purchase a book, please visit Amazon.com.
Civ Jones: The 12-year veteran of media is co-host of the “Midday Show” on Magic 95.9 with Tim Watts. She is also one of the most innovative promoters in the city of Baltimore. “I want to do things that are out of the box” says Jones. Civ Jones is very aware that she is a role model not just for the hip-hop generation, but for women, especially those working in media. “I am very conscious of who I am and what I represent, and I want to set an example for those females coming up to know that you have to know your self-worth.”
That’s exactly what Jones is trying to get across with her next event, “From Niggas To God Performance & Art Exhibition.” “The title is controversial to many,” she says, “but it is the only way I could get the message across. That word means ignorance and we as blacks need to realize that we must move on from that and recognize that we are God’s and not ignorant.”
The event will host an art, hip-hop, and spoken Word performance. The sole purpose is to create a celebration to connect attendees to their personal divine Source through music and art. The event is March 29, 2014 at 7 p.m. at the Warehouse in Baltimore, Md. For more information: www.civjones.com.
Indie Soul welcomes your comments and questions. To contact Phinesse Demps, call 410-366-3900 ext. 3016 or 410-501-0193 or email: pdemps@btimes.com. Follow him on Twitter @lfpmedia.