Getting Close UP!

We've officially come to the end of Season 6 and what a season it was!!! Returning guest Joey Marlow (episode 3) and Dose of T.H.A (episode 4 and Season 5 Retro Show host) are here to wrap of the end of the season on Part 2 of the Getting Close S6 Retro Show. We also reflect on a guest who couldn't make it back due to some sentimental reasons, our episode 5 guest, Sentimental Creatures. We also take a look back on some our most favorite GCU! Game Times highlighting Tea with Teash Podcast, King Kihei and IndieFemme Productions. Make sure you don't miss it.  Season 7 will air July 17th - 7pm.  You can also viewed the video version of this episode on our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/7nGH0ipvY18 

Hayden Poling of Tea Leaf (episode 11), Malek Azrael (episode 10) and the Canna Chemist herself, Kim Kambron - Jones of Thraxx Pastry came back to let us know what's going on with them since they taped their episode,on part 1 of the Getting Close S6 Retro Show. Danielle also gives a special mention to Comedian Charles Randolph! You can see the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/b7-e1nGIlxo       

We've come to that time when we've reached the end of the season and dare I say we've saved the best for last (naw, cause we've has some great guest throughout this entire season), nonetheless, our finale guest grew up in Kansas City, went to USC on a full ride scholarship came back to KC to study theatre, then made her way to the bright lights of the big city, NY. Finally after a long cross-country drive from NY back to LA, started a multi-media production company with her sister. Welcome Melanna Gray of IndieFEMME Productions. Providing a safe place for women actors, filmmakers, directors, writers and all around creatives of many kinds, this production company has also expanding into African American Ancestry; giving a platform to sustain the history and culture of African American people during a time when those who shall remain nameless, are attempting to erase it. You can see the video of this episode on our YouTube channel:https:https:  //youtu.be/ZtlBs-I3kRQ  

Welcoming to the purple chairs, we have the band,.......Tea Leaf.   This band blew us away when they hit the stage.  From their soulful sound to their heart-felt lyrics, this band was an unexpected thrill.  Note:  we were not the only ones, the sound guys were back there partying with us! Lucas, Nick and Hayden sit down with Danielle to really give us what is behind the songs (oh and the name as well).  They talk about their recording process, how they manage the financials and finds out who each individual is  that make up this sound.   You do not want to miss this episode. You can see the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel:  https://youtu.be/DNCLzFYZh0E    

I know you've heard the saying "Art Imitating Life", but I'm going to pin a new cliché for this artist "Life Dictating Art". Whether the song is about his own experiences or he channels someone else's, the only way to truly know this book of secrets is by reading the pages within. I introduce you to Malek Azrael front man of the band Malek Azrael and the Vibes. Danielle and Malek have one of the most personal interviews we've had since S6E1 Stephonne. Though naturally shy, Malek is extremely vulnerable and transparent, giving insight into his youth, feelings of isolation, insight into where the music comes from and the navigations of being the front man of a band who's collective talent is undeniable. You don't want to miss this interview. You can also check out the video version of this interview on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/iP6W9_6F_m0 

"Dreams are aspirations one has a deep desire to achieve."   Our next guest is a man of many dreams, but his aspirations are becoming reality.  Welcome to the purple chairs comedian, author, film maker and now adding rapper to his arsenal, Charles Randolph. Charles reached out to us on Instagram and we were happy to oblige.  Danielle and Charles sat down to dig into the mind of a creative with many talents in just enough time to get an invitation to the premier of the debut of his first attempt in making a movie, "Open Mic".  Opening the door for other local talent, which opened his eyes to new endeavors for his children's books. This creative is making it all happen!!! You can also check out the video version of this interview on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/PU9BTbxKkMM 

Close your eyes, take a deep breath and begin. These are the instructions you will receive when attending a concert or healing service led by Xion Sound Waves. This group is a spirited bunch seeking their independence from the constraints of the traditional religious regiment, instead pursuing a way to freedom in a collective and personal relationship of inclusivity within their beliefs. Check out this episode to get a deeper insight into Xion Sound Waves. You can also check out the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel:  https://youtu.be/ybrx93Y1-1k 

From Hawaii to California, to Kansas City, Mo, the journey to becoming His Majesty must be ordained.  All hail the King.......................King Kihei. Danielle and King Kihei get into the depths of what it takes to build a kingdom on the foundation of music, community activism and entrepreneurship.  Focusing on all of the things King Kihei does besides music, this interview is sure to give you deeper insight into what is behind his lyrical decree.  Make sure you check out this interview.  You won't want to miss it. You can also check out the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel:  https://youtu.be/aC-6TMF5T3k   

Oh I get so high, when I'm around you baby........................... one of my favorite songs by Toni Braxton, which is appropriate for our next guest. Meet the Canna Chemist herself Kim of Thraxx Pastry. Kim prepares a delicacy of shrimp and grits, but her twist is effusion (not during the taping of the show). Creating delicious delectables with cannabis combined in the sauces, the rubs, the pastries, the drinks................the Ox tails?????? Kim and Danielle have fun time in the GCU! kitchen cooking up a storm, then sitting down over the meal to talk about the journey of a kid chef's journey to create her own creative menu and the up and downs along the way. Make sure you check this episode out. You can also check out the video version on our YouTube Channel:  https://youtu.be/3DURdfwrx4o 

You know how they say you shouldn't work with family or friends, well whomever said has never met the members of Sentimental Creatures. Sara, Lukas, Isaiah, and Caleb are the closest you come to defining thicker than blood (two of them are engaged).  Their chemistry is unmistakable, their collective talents unmatched, and their videoed antics are hilarious. Danielle and Sentimental Creatures sit down in the purple chairs to dive into their beginnings, their songwriting and we also find out who is the most sentimental out of the Sentimental Creatures. You can also check out the video version on our YouTube Channel:  https://youtu.be/n0apTyaFEB0 

Whether it's on a stage performing against infectious beats, or on a sound stage playing a character in a movie, our next artist in the purple chairs is charismatic as well as business minded. Welcome Dose of T.H.A (The Hassan Assassin). Danielle and Dose dig into the business of being an artist in the social media age and how the internet critics can break some and give strength to others. You will surely learn a lot from this episode. You can also check out the video version on our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/_wf5wJ7Zba0?si=fhVE9-d6A-MQ_9_3 

Joey Marlow is one of our most interesting guest we've had in the purple chairs. With a PHD. in the dark and gruesome, stemming from a wonderful childhood of Halloween play, his creativity is beyond measure (check out his music videos). An accomplished pianist, vocalist and lyricist, a make up artist specializing in special effects and hair stylist who owns his own salon. What doesn't this guy do? You can also check out the video version on our YouTube channel:  https://youtu.be/Y5jb4lMayWg 

Baby you know where to go to get some tea, and so do we, welcome to the purple chairs, host of the Tea With Teash Podcast, Teash. Teash gives it all to us, letting us sip on what it means to be an independent podcast host who started only 2 years ago. From the bitter and the sweet to the tart and the tasty, Danielle gets the tea on Teash. Such a good interview, make sure you let us know what you think, ALL TEA! You can also check out the video version on our YouTube channelhttps: youtu.be/Y5jb4lMayWg    

T'S A NEW SEASON...............Season 6 is going to introduce us to a lot of great artists and creatives, but non more than our guest who is kicking off the season with an in depth introspective of self, spirituality, purpose, destiny and truth. Welcome to the purple chairs Stephonne! Danielle and Stephonne get so deep, I couldn't help but to think I had witnessed a realization of calling manifested through song. This is one episode you surely do not want to miss. You can check out the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/4bTs3qvF2Dk     

We've come to the end of season 5, and what a way to end it. Markus Raines, Caleb Fankhauser and Desmond Mason make up our panel of music producers. Whatever you need to know about being a music producer, you will be sure to find the answers in this episode. You can check out the video version of this episode on our channel: https://youtu.be/6XkjOzsvM84    

All hail the King.........King Dari that is. Danielle welcomes him to the purple chairs for the eleventh episode of season 5. From church boy to student to writing a song that is going to change the  Kansas City landscape, Danielle and King Dari get into some deep industry conversations that will bring some awareness of things to consider in this independent artist community. You can also see the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/loaIN38h0cg      

Episode 10 features a group of childhood friends who've found commonality and creativity playing together in their band, The Blast Monkeys. Check out this interview to find out some of the tricks of the music business trade.  Having issues with collaborating, keeping up with social media content or just figuring out how to communicate to each other .  This episode will surely give some insight into those answers and more. You can check out the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/yzZd5_Vtzx8?si=WHdFIOX-n-1SZbDV       

Our next guest is yet another creative who studied sound engineering in college (noticing a theme?) and is an exceptional musician! Alex Thomas has blessed us with his presence in the purple chairs. Alex and Danielle get into his beginnings in music, his inspiration to change a major in jazz to sound engineering and his world wide exposure to different experiences that have shaped who he's becoming as a well rounded, humble talent. You can also check out the video version of this episode on our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/zaNymd-keUs   

Starting out as an actor at a very young age he gravitated to live performance like a moth to a flame, let me introduce you to Cam Burns. Cam calls into the show from St. Louis, Mo to get in it with Danielle as they talk the beginnings of a dream that morphed into a reality. Now writing and producing his own music while going to Webster University to study songwriting and sound engineering, Cam is a phenomenal creative with a unique viewpoint of his artistry. You can also check out the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel: hhttps://youtu.be/NykAKxuueqo    

Well this isn't the first time you've seen this guest in the purple chairs, he also hosted our Season 4 Retro Show. Let's welcome host of SprinkleSumSalt Podcast, Mr. Bump Jonas. Giving us insight into the motivation that fuels his desire to provide a platform for the hiphop community, he and Danielle get into the depths of his origin story, which provides the foundation for everything else he does. I f you've ever been on his podcast or performed at The Mecca, then you will not want to miss this episode. It is sure to let you have a better understanding of your host. You can also check out the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/J3tKi29duG0?si=Zdpwke2sgnq_VBGr   

We've had a lot of artist with alot of experiences as they are running the race to obtain their dreams. In this episode we have Sweet Caroline Skye who has been in the game for a minute, and the experiences she shares with us is a darker side of the industry than we've heard thus far. Going now by the name of Bae, she and Danielle talk a lot about her early years with dreams of becoming a star and how the traumatic circumstance she was faced with tried to crush her spirit. The one thing about Bae is nothing is going to stop her. Armed with her drum, you will be sure to see her in a city near you.  You can also see the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel at: https://youtu.be/2D94ewJaba4     

Content creator, fashion designer, entrepreneur and the Morehouse College Official Host Isaiah Evans also know by his YouTube page ‪@zaisteppa‬ Being only 19, this young man has been places others are trying to get. Starting his content creating at the early age of 11, he has produced videos of his match making talents (make sure you check out his Game Time, you'll understand what we're talking about) to his displays of college shenanigans, all combined with his faith based lifestyle. Danielle has such a great time with Isaiah as she interviews him all the way from Hotlanta! Make sure you check out this inspiring interview! You can also see the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel at: https://youtu.be/DqQe4K55Jr0?si=DBEBYLL48hsRcsmd   

Bedazzled, Repurposed, Customized and in Honor Of describe the DIY fashions from Trunks Up Apparel. Designer Terrae Porter sits down with Host Danielle Cox to give us a glimpse into the inspiration that lead to his aspirations into the fashion industry. In partnership with his brother Trin, the two have managed to let memories so dear live on through their philanthropy. You can also see the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel at: https://youtu.be/lUMoNQ1ktRs    

Imagine waking up one morning and realizing your aspirations of a perfect life has been overcome with dreams of runways and recording booths. Our guest for episode 3 is singer, songwriter and fashion designer Noye'. Danielle and Noye' get close up and personal as they discuss childhood trauma giving way to melodic storytelling written not only for her own projects but the desire to lend her stoke of the pen to others. You can also see the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel at: https://youtu.be/R0Kvi7VZObg     

If you've ever talked to Danielle you know that she has an affinity with two specific creatives...............authors and artists. Welcome to episode 2 of season 5 which introduces us to Kitty, a well known artist here in the Kansas City area, known for collaborative live art sessions at concerts and open mics around town. She introduces us to some of her own unique creations and gives some insight into the inspirations that become her art. You can also see the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel at: https://youtu.be/PFg5Yk_KYrw?si=TOHsavAkgOlXG_8P    

Season 5, Season 5, Season 5, Season 5, Season 5, Season 5, Season 5 Can you believe we started this talk show 2 years ago, trying to find guest amongst people we know?  Now we have a whole community of creatives that we can call upon to tell their unique stories and display their unique gifts.    Our first guest of Season 5 is a well known artist in the community and someone who has become a member of the GCU! family.  Please welcome Joshua James Warren of Joshua James and The First Aid Kit. Don't miss this episode!  Danielle and Joshua James really Get Close UP! diving into his creative process, working with talented musicians, and gives a taste of what's to come in the coming months.  It's a great look into the mind of a "folk singer" You can also see the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel at: https://youtu.be/UJeYBNruCFk    

We've reached the end of season 4, ending with a creative who's walk through life led down the black and white path of Kansas straight to the yellow brick road to Dream Street. Betting on himself, Lucas Carpenter uprooted his comfy, cozy, safe surroundings to follow his dream to be come a film producer; leaving Kansas for the bright lights of NY. Lucas and Danielle touch on his inspiring journey. From miraculously overcoming from birth, to maintaining that same strength and determination to fulfill his life's ambitions. You can also see the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel at:  https://youtu.be/WRHyuqsrswM?si=_8Ebsow6Buj82TcC  

There is such a negative connotation when referring to someone a two faced, but what about when someone is referred to as the man with one thousand and one faces? Well let's meet him...............welcome to the purple chairs Michael McQuary. Host Danielle Cox and Mr. Michael McQuary go back in time to the days of old Hollywood, the New York Club Kid scene and the years of impersonation that have defined Michael as the great talent he is. You'll be enthralled with his stories of his journey, make sure you check out this interview! You can also watch the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/cCuViqTjb-g    

Bugzy Beast, Gnotezz, King Kihei and Antonio J are the special guest who makeup the S4E9 Panel Show. You can only image what it’s like bringing 4 different rappers with different experiences at different places in their career to talk on all the different topics that define who an artist is. Host Danielle Cox and our 4 guest present to you………theRapper Panel. You can also see the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/8OkEoF35cKU?si=7o73oKMc4Y_d0yr_    

If you remember the Band Leader panel show from Season 3 (episode 11) then you will surely remember our S4E8 guest, songstress Frankie Lynn Shorez. Host Danielle Cox and Frankie getting into new conversations regarding building a fan base, being an artist and manager, new singles and being the odd woman out in a family of athletes; culminating in the ability to take all her experiences and wrap them up in deep, thought provoking, healing lyrics. You can also see the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/eNLXPY7m1wo?si=RyD6jedhfBRGq_Hf    

How do you come up with a name like Delilah Sugarwood, well it involves a bird, a condominium and some great advice from a friend. Tune into this episode and find the answer to the riddle as Host Danielle Cox and Delilah Sugarwood embark on an exciting transformation that helps us understand the magical, colorful world of Delilah Sugarwood! You can also see the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel:  https://youtu.be/ndc8LBvnatY  

Batman has his gadgets, Tony Stark has his technology. Who do you get when you combine both with music,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,Jansen Wooten. In the wake of Danielle's summer illness guest host Antonio J steps in to introduce us to the newest superhero of sonic compositions, exploring the different instruments (some purchased and some home made) and the training and techniques acquired to master each. This is a different take on exploring the world of an independent artist. You can also check out the video version of this episode: https://youtu.be/RtT9GDShQo8  

Season 4, episode 5 brings a new ingredient to the GCU! recipe. Meet Chef Christina Clark. Her egg rolls, her, dumplings, and oh to taste her fried rice (she made it in the studio during this episode); it's no wonder she is the at the top of the food chain when someone is looking for a personal chef. Danielle and Christina talk about the decisions to pursue a career in the creative design of food and her aspirations of taking control of her own destiny. You can also check out the video version of this episode: https://youtu.be/HWbrkU9txVM    

Have you ever met someone who can do it all? Well let Danielle introduce you to Markus Raines. He's a rapper, he's a singer, he's an actor, he's a producer, he's a writer (shall I go on?). Having all of these talents under his belt, you can only image where this interview goes. Danielle and Markus get deep down into each and every one of these EGOT defining gifts with a very deep insight into an artist mind, body and soul. You can also check out the video version of this episode: https://youtu.be/3zMri0fUjrU    

Zach, Aaron and Duncan are our special guest.  Together their individual musical gifts create an eclectic sound that will take you through a time warp of musical vision.  Welcome Cat Voltron! Danielle and the boys explore the origin of how their name was chosen  and how it defines their sound  and style.  They dive into the music and the business behind it.  You also may get some news about a new EP that should drop right around when this episode is airs. Make sure you check it out when it comes out!! You can also check out the video version of this episode: https://youtu.be/B6RdbayNYeE    

Today's artist is a phenomenal talent. Andrea Tribitt is a singer a songwriter, an entrepreneur, a motivational speaker, a counselor, a mother, a sister and mentor all wrapped up with a new start on life. Danielle and Andrea talk about her creative nature, her being a part of the grammy award winning gospel group "The Sound of Blackness" and venture into her other creative endeavor such as "Drea's Naughty Nuts" If you are in need of inspiration, and realization of self-worth, then you will really enjoy this interview. You can also check out the video version of this episode: https://youtu.be/Gc5HCdqn36Q      

And we are back!!!  Season 4 opens with a unique individual of whom Danielle describes as an "Experience".  Welcome Luke "Skippy" Harbur of Music by Skippy. Beatbox professional, singer, songwriter, music producer, theatrical producer and the list goes on and on.  Growing up with a rare condition but given a second chance at life to become the showman we meet today, Danielle and Skippy dive deep into the music business and the unique creative experience known as "Music by Skippy" You can also check out the video version of this episode: https://yohttps://youtu.be/1d2NaK4eEZM  

Welcome to the end of season 3! We would like to thank you guys for supporting our efforts as we work to give the creative community a voice. Episode 11 is something new that we tried as we gathered several Kansas City creative to talk about what it means to be a Band Leader. Join Host Danielle Cox as she sits down with Jamogi, Joshua James, Rachel McMillan and Frankie Lynn Shorez to find out what it takes to guide other musical creatives. You can also check out the video version of this episode: https://youtu.be/9T8jVUzNtLo?si=mJaeFlA_SXvZ45Q_  

Have you ever wondered what success is? Songstress, actress and bandleader LeShea Wright helps us to understand, it's not about the money, but the ability to do the things you love the most! Danielle and LeShea talk about the early beginnings of being a part of a musical family and finding a way to become an individual powerhouse talent.  Check out episode 10 of season 3.  This interview is sure to open your eyes to a versatile talent known as LeShea Wright. You can also check out the video version of this episode: https://youtu.be/_5ax6_Otm0g    

Episode 9 brings Danielle face to face with one of the most fearless artist, unafraid to share all that he is through his musical poetry. Let's welcome Real As Ever. Whether he is rapping or singing, you can't deny the taking a walk through the journey of his life as you listen to each song. You are surely to find solas in knowing that you aren't the only one who has had lived through the multiple chapters that are outlined as our day to day. You can also check out the video version of this episode: https://youtu.be/x51BM0TeeXw    

All the way from Florida, our guest on episode 8 is a songwriter, producer, singer, and one-man band who goes by the name "Misty Island" Let's meet the man behind the band, Brandon Davis. He and Danielle talk musical influences and how creating a sound that others don't understand has helped him find his tribe, You can also check out the video version of this episode: https://youtu.be/OHdH54FhPJM    

Season 3 Episode 7 features a new creative we've not yet featured on the show. Welcome videographer, businessman and owner of fN Scene Productions; Michael Drone. Danielle and Michael sit down to talk about betting it all on oneself and the tenacity and determination to turn your creativity into a sustaining source of life giving sustenance. You can also check out the video version of this episode:  https://youtu.be/DZ0YKA8LZbw  

You are creative............ You are independent................ You walk to the beat of your own drum.................. Ever have trouble describing yourself? Look no further, our guest today falls into the above categories, defining his personality as "Swoovi" Host Danielle Cox and Zack "Swoovi" Hoskins get into the depths of how you can also become Swoovi. You can also check out the video version of this episode:  https://youtu.be/hmldMmT6gGQ

Ever thought about starting your own fashion line?  Ever wonder what it takes to make it happen?  Check out this episode of Getting Close UP! as host Danielle Cox sits down with CEO and designer of Pacific Coast Supply Clothing, Brandon Kennedy. Brandon shares with you his transformation from dancer, rapper to now a fashion designer You can also check out the video version of this episode: https://youtu.be/_fgSGniA1h0  

Welcome to Season 3 Episode 4 as host Danielle Cox explores the home town of President Truman; finding a community based, non-for-profit haven for creatives. Russ Hill is the sound engineer and event coordinator for live events at the Englewood Arts center; where many of the musical guest that have appeared on our show have performed. Check out this interesting and informative interview.  You can also check out the video version of this episode:  https://youtu.be/-xuMLCBTvsY

Getting Close UP! S3E3 finds us exploring another Oprah moment with singer, songwriter Delaney. Mother with mental challenges, growing up with abandonment issues, and being plagued with self-doubt of her own gift; host Danielle Cox and Delaney get into the depths of her psyche to understand where all the emotions come from in her music and lyrics. "If you want to get to know her personally, all you have to do is listen to her songs." You can also check out the video version of this episode: https://youtu.be/ljII1x9BgZI    

Getting Close UP! S3E2 brings us face to face with a new artist with an eclectic style and sound. Meet Baby Augi. Growing up with no notion of pursuing music, Baby Augi finds himself at a crossroad that opens his creative inclinations to help others by telling personal stories of his own plight. Host Danielle Cox and Baby Augi take an in-depth look at his journey and give you an insight of how life becomes art. You can also check out the video version:  https://youtu.be/jMMi37--yeU  

Welcome to Season 3 of Getting Close UP! We start off this season with a very talented cast of talented characters who make up the band Psycho Mismatch. Each member coming from a different musical background, each member plays multiple instruments and each member holding on to a dream to use their talents for the love of using their talents. Host Danielle Cox and Psycho Mismatch explore the definition of this band and how their gift in music is used to create something totally new. You can also check out the video version of this episode:  https://youtu.be/upw8UXDs3cM  

We've come to the last show in season 2. Episode 10 features grammy nominated singer, songwriter, producer and now educator........Jo Blaq. With a plethora of industry experience; producing artist like Arianna Grande, Jill Scott and Justin Bieber (just to name a few), Danielle and Jo come together to talk his return to settle in his home town of Kansas City and his endeavor to share the industry knowledge he has gained by education the youth in the art of creating and producing song.

Talented, Original, Innovative, Unafraid, Unique, Uninhibited, Self-Aware are just a few words to describe our S2E9 guest; Zee Underscore. Growing up in a musical family, going to a performance arts school and finding her voice while pursuing a career some might think of as contradictory to her creative nature, this independent creative sits down with Danielle in an episode of discovery (or what I refer to as Danielle's Oprah moments). Welcome singer and songwriter Zee Underscore to the stage!!!