Diamond in the Rough 2013 National Artist Talent Search- Chris Kirkpatrick, Josh Grabelle, & Earl Cohen

New York, NY - Gypsy Diamond is looking for the next “Diamond In The Rough,” and they are turning to ReverbNation to find the artist! All 2.8 million artists on ReverbNation are eligible to submit their music at www.GypsyDiamond.com and be entered to win a record label contract, production deals, and other sponsorship prizes.

This opportunity will consist of three rounds:

• Round 1 - Artists can submit to the competition via ReverbNation.

• Round 2 - 50 artists will be chosen as Semi-Finalists for review by a panel of judges:

Chris Kirkpatrick

Singer, dancer, entertainer, and voice actor best known for his 

work as a founding member of ’N Sync.

Earl Cohen

Three-time Grammy-winning producer whose credits are on 

more than 85 million records worldwide.

Josh Grabelle

Co-founder of Gypsy Diamond who has sold over 2 million

albums on his labels, Trustkill and Bullet Tooth.

• Round 3 - 25-30 finalists will be invited to perform at a showcase in New York City in September. The showcase will be judged by a panel of record label executives and industry heavyweights. After the showcase is complete, Gypsy Diamond will evaluate all of the finalists on a strict list of criteria. If the label finds their “diamond,” an opportunity for an exclusive record contract will be made available to the selected artist.

____________________________________________________________

Sometimes stars align and magic leads the rest of the way. These three musical masterminds came together on September 28th at the legendary Webster Hall in NYC in search of a "Diamond in the Rough". I was lucky enough to attend this exclusive event and get up close and personal with the innovative panel of judges and the developing talent as they create and shape our futures through the power of music. 

Grammy Award Winning mix engineer, Earl Cohen's credits include a "who's who" of today's top artists in the music industry. We are talking Pink, Lady GaGa, Whitney Houston, Destiny's Child, Will Smith, Jessica Simpson, Cyndi Lauper, Usher, Tina Turner, I mean do you need me to continue? It was such an honor to be in his presence let alone get the chance to speak to him directly in regards to his thriving passion for artistry and the process of creating ever lasting music.

Josh Grabelle, the man I owe the biggest thank you for allowing me to be a part of such an amazing event, has been a true pioneer in running and launching new record labels, signing artists, and opening the door for all different types of musicians in every genre to release their music. 

And then we have Chris Kirkpatrick, to which I need to preface by stating that I not only believe the world is in debt-ed to him for being the founding member of the greatest boy-band this world will ever know, but I happened to be a big fan. I need to go goon for a moment, and repeat my closing argument to anyone who claims BSB came first therefore are better...They may have had a hit single in the US first, but Nsync perfected it. Ps. Their Christmas album is untouchable by any grown man's standards! Moving along...

This showcase of talent drew a crowd of people rooting for their underground favorites to get that deal!

Many artists already have an existing fan base through social media platforms and touring, however, this was another opportunity to reach more people and have other fans take notice!

I and other fans had no problem spending this beautiful fall day in-doors because we were able to listen in on intimate performances from artists bearing their souls in front of the music industry's heavyweight judge panel. 

 I have to give a shout out to Brett Young, one of my personal favs, and yes, obviously he is easy on the eyes but in all seriousness the boy can sing and write a song! He was able to really connect with crowd and create those rare moments with the audience. 

http://brettyoungmusic.com/meet-brett-young/

http://brettyoungmusic.com/portfolio/on-fire/

There were so much talent in one room and the performers all shared that X Factor quality. I do not know how the judges chose. I was just happy I was not the one making the decisions as my friend and I hung on every performance we saw from the top finalists. 

I watched the judges as they gave enormous amounts of credit to the brave finalist's, some of which were as young as 15 years old. They gave inspiring feedback and serious critiques to encourage the artists on how to grow and reach full potential. And who knows possibly be the next person you download on your itunes... You can see by the look on their faces how impressed they were with the talent among them and what a difficult decision this was going to be.

The team behind Diamond in the Rough Talent Search

Backstage Interview: Now I was able to interview the judges in what was only suppose to be a few moments of their time but turned into an awesome lengthy conversation about music and a moment that I will always treasure. 

I try to keep my interviews as casual as possible as I find the readers of these posts tend to favor the humbling moments of embarrassment behind the recording...so for the "serious" side and formal interview I will be sharing it with other media outlets. Keep your eyes peeled.

Now the funny stuff...

After the interview wrapped I joked with everyone about how they were looking at the next Diamond in the Rough and that they would have to watch out for me in 2014...

Who knows? What is to stop me? 

Music is one of my biggest passions and after all despite my Fran Dresher-esque voice and thick Jersey accent I can surprisingly carry a tune...

See these faces?

Of course I needed to get my photo with guys! 

Only one big problem...

It is horrible to admit but since Chris Kirkpatrick knows the truth I feel obligated to share.

The night before I was covering another Red Carpet event in NYC. 

I had packed an overnight bag with me so I was able to stay at a friends apartment and go straight to the next gig. Only I made the classic ditsy girl mistake. 

The dress I wore the night before did not require upper under garments if you catch my drift. And what did I pack with me for this casual day time affair...my WHITE TANK TOP. 

FML. 

When it came time to take photos I went into complete panic mode. With the mixture of the lighting and flash bulb photography I was doomed. Chris noticed my mini freak-out. He investigated to Lauren, one of my best gals, and my sidekick at the event. 

Without hesitation she blurted out,

 " Oh, she isn't wearing a bra and is worried everyone will see her areolas." 

(Which as a side note, I happen to think is a beautiful name for a girl if it didn't mean the darker pigment surrounding your nipples.) 

And I also shared that tidbit publicly with him as well. When I get nervous, I get awkward. CLEARLY. Anyway...

Ummmm, ex-squeeze me, baking powder? Did you just tell Chris Kirkpatrick what I think you did?

But then he did the most gentlemen like thing a person could do...

He completely by-passed the comment so no one else would hear and gave me his sweatshirt for the photos!

So yes, that is me in the above photo wearing Chris Kirkpatrick's sweatshirt and now you all know why. 

Honestly, though what a class ACT and stand-up guy.

And although I felt a moment of mortification I was so happy my friend was their to keep me comfortable and myself throughout my overwhelming awkward nerves. We all shared favorite movie quotes and had a really great time behind the scenes.

I could not let the moment pass and needed to completely fan out for a sec. Do not worry, I asked his permission first. Again, he completely understood and allowed me to make a fool of myself. I convince myself he loved every minute of it.

"Do you know when I get drunk at bars I entertain innocent bystanders by accurately manipulating every dance move to every single one of your songs that reached #1 on TRL until retirement was forced upon the video? Oh, you don't...Well everyone in the Jersey Shore/Tri-state area/even Sorrento, Italy is aware of that fact. Would you like to see?" 

YUP.

Special Thank You to Josh Grabelle for not only being a driving force in the music industry but using your success and talent to help others make their dreams become a reality. You truly know the importance/power of music and artist creativity.

  This annual event through Reverbnation is an outlet for artists to reach their potential, submit their work, and reach the top music industry professionals for inspiration and growth!

A Bronx Tale/Chazz Palminteri Comes to Atlantic City : December 28th 2013

Twenty years ago, legendary Bobby DeNiro, 

and yes I'm calling him Bobby, 

saw a one-man show that changed him. 

He made his directorial debut bringing 

the childhood story of 

writer, actor, Tri-state hero, Chazz Palminteri, to the 

big screen!

A Bronx Tale is one of those movies that stands 

the test of time. 

It is carried along through generations as it 

echoes the simplicity and complications of life moments 

that shape who we are and who we will become forever. 

The lessons of this film are monumental 

as they transcend deeper than the surface 

and connect with everyone 

who has been touched by this film. 

It is more than just a coming of age, it is about 

relationships, trust, talent, choices, respect, fear, love, etc. 

It is about an era and world that once was...

A world we long for, and one we will never let fade away. 

You cannot miss this Holiday Event...

His story, his life, his iconic performance and unbelievable one man show, Chazz takes on every character leaving the audience in awe. 

This is certainly not a reflection of a man with wasted talent as Chazz Palminteri delivers an epic ride of his life and allows us an opportunity to go back to a place and time we once knew. The music, the laughs, the memories, we will never let end!

#1 Show in LAS VEGAS come to:

Atlantic City's 

TRUMP TAJ MAHAL 

8:00PM

DECEMBER 28th 2013

For tickets today call TICKETMASTER: 

1-800-736-1420

Below are the photos from A Bronx Tale: One Man Show at Count Bassie Theater in Red Bank, NJ in July...

I cherish these photos and the moment

I was able to share with my family this special night!

Take Notes as Melissa Gorga Gives Tips on How to Love Italian Style...

Love Italian Style

The Secrets of My Hot and Happy Marriage

By: Melissa Gorga

In recent weeks I have had the pleasure to sit down with Melissa Gorga and surprise guest, hubby Joe Gorga at the Freehold, NJ Barnes and Noble book signing for Love Italian Style…

I have had the amazing opportunity to speak with them both before, ( as my Live Out NJ video interviews highlight ) but in an unanticipated twist, I was really able to see them interact with fans and help document their moments with fans at length- 

Before diving into my exclusive interview with the hot couple, envied by millions, I have to share how beyond gracious they were to every fan who waited to capture a glimpse and few moments of their time. They went out of their way to extend ample time with each person and really get a chance to connect with every fan. 

I have been lucky enough to work with many celebrities of all walks of life at showcases, events, red carpets, etc. and do not be fooled by the glitz and glam, for most individuals in the entertainment business this is a job just like anything else. When camera’s turn off, or when interviews come to a close, time is up and people shift gears. Melissa and Joe displayed none of that throughout my 5 hour duration with the couple.

I am very thankful for my extended time with the couple and being able to watch them relate and have fun with their fans. 

Joe Gorga, my God, Joe Gorga, what’s not to love? The man is full of fun and heart. He hams it up for the crowd from time to time but they cannot get enough. It is so charming and endearing to see him love the attention but to also take it with a grain of salt. He has pure shine around him and you can see deeply that he is a rare breed of man. It is sometimes hard to argue who is luckier??!!

Then you have Melissa… I mean do I need to even go into how beautiful she is? She embodies class and elegance, yet you can see her warm heart brighten the room, while still being completely down to earth. 

When you see them both together, it is so obvious that any negativity around them is jealousy or a complete misunderstanding of what they stand for. Beautiful individuals, beautiful couple, beautiful children, and beautiful hearts. That’s right, I am just going to keep saying beautiful. 

Now back to the task at hand: 

There is a reason young Italian women are raised to be strong and independent but still maintain old school values and traditions. I know to some it may seem to be contradictory, but I can assure you it is anything but. We do it all, share it all, and that is our fulfillment.  As women we want to feel treasured but have our men act and feel like men. Now that does not mean to be a passive homemaker who does nothing but “serves” a man, it means providing the environment that a man wants to be a provider for. Most importantly providing for each other and for the family as a whole. Through honesty, support, loyalty, and passion, we dive into loving Italian style…

JESSICA:  The last time we spoke you were in the process of writing Love Italian Style. It was at Montville’s Posh Fashion show, hosted by you and Kathy (Wakilie). I had the pleasure of interviewing Joe on camera and it is evident he not only supports you but completely adores you.  It is clear you are doing something right! What is the Major motif or key point you are trying to get across with this book?

MELISSA: Treat your man like a King and he will treat you like a Queen. People fail to realize a King can move one square at a time, while the Queen can zip across the board…Who is to say the King means better than the Queen. 

JESSICA: I love that! And that is precisely where I was going with this…I knew we were going to understand this take on it. You have taken a lot of criticism for that comment. I personally feel like people got a bit carried away because they do not understand exactly how it was meant. How would you like to address that? 

MELISSA: Thank you! Exactly. This book is me sharing my story, my values, and my relationships. It is the foundation for how we operate and why this works so well for us because that is the top question I was being asked from women and other fans. I do not expect everyone to understand nor am I telling anyone that this is how they should handle their own relationship or be in their own lives. This is just what works for us and I stand by that. I am happy and he is happy and our family dynamic thrives this way. 

JESSICA: Understood. Do you think the context in which it was taken warrants the extremity of negativity that has surrounded it? Or at risk of sounding hypocritical?

MELISSA: These are some Barbara Walters type questions, you go girl! ( She chuckles in a playful tone ) To an extent I can see why some may find it hypocritical but again I have always been a working girl. I paid my way through school and always worked hard. I continue to work hard. This has never been about catering to your every man’s wish and being nothing but a servant. This is about figuring out what your partners needs are and wanted to be the person that is able to do that for each other because that is how I believe to show him my love everyday. 

JESSICA: ( At this point I feel pretty comfortable to throw in what I like to refer to as my a**hole sense of humor) It’s like I always say…we are all feminists till the check comes! LOL ( Joe, Melissa, and I all have another chuckle. They completely understood I was trying to make them laugh at the criticism.) 

Both genders in 2013 are so independent I found it refreshing to read about your take about scaling it back a bit and how men and women can show affections differently. 

MELISSA: Thank you. That was my ultimate goal to offer an insight that had worked so well for long-lasting marriages and what I have learned in my own experience because Jesus knows it is not always easy!

JESSICA: This mindset do you believe it is a generational thing? A New Jersey thing? Or a cultural thing?

MELISSA: Def. an Italian thing! Not to say other cultures do not have some of those old school values and traditions, but growing up it is what I was exposed to and learned from within the Italian culture. 

JESSICA: Okay! So let me throw this one at you…I am 27 years old, single, my first CD was Jagged Little Pill, very hardworking and independent as most girls around my age have to be…What advice would you give to young ladies on the cusp of discovering themselves and their potential life mates with new attitudes, and technologies shifting the dating world so much?  And do you ever worry about Antonia entering the modern day dating world as it can clash so much with some of those traditions?

MELISSA: Well…

JOE: Hold on I will take this one, Antonia isn’t dating till she is in her 30s! 

MELISSA: (ha-ha) Joe always teases…But yes, I worry with certain things, but Joe has also done a wonderful job of putting the fear of God in poor Antonia when it comes to boys so we aren’t quite there yet for thinking on those terms! Lol But to answer your other question, I understand that modern day dating, with social media, and easy access to many different forums of dating makes things very difficult. I do believe though it is a good test for weaning out the frogs so to speak. As long as women value themselves in that world, they will get a valuable in return. 

JESSICA: On a fun note- what is a typical date night like for you and Joe?

MELISSA: Well me and Joe try not to separate to much period, as you can see he is here with me right now. But we like to just have dinner maybe dancing…Any kind of alone time where we get to share and connect. That is what feeds our passion. We just have to work on making that special time for one another to show that appreciation. 

JESSICA: Last one, I promise. And I say this with love…How the HECK are you juggling all this? Wife, Mother, Author, T.V, Music, Endorsements, Appearances, maintaining how hot your bod is!?? I say this woman to woman, it’s borderline annoying, you are making us look bad! LoL

MELISSA: (Ha-ha) Thank you! Thank you! It certainly is tough to make time for it all. I would be lying if I made it seem perfect. However, it is about priorities. Being a mother and wife will always be my number one. It is the most important thing to me and it is where my happiness will always lie. In order to do that sometimes some of my other passions have to take a backseat and that is okay with me. I am truly blessed to be in a situation which allows me to live my dreams in so many different ways. I would never have been able to do that if I didn’t have Joe! He has given me my family, and made all my dreams come true!

JESSICA:

Thank you so much for your time! I love the book and I really believe it to be such a relatable and relevant read for how we all support and love in our relationships. You guys rock and God Bless!

 

Christina Milian Exclusive- Talking DWTS, Pauly D, Viva Moscato, Next Adventure!

Beyond excited to share with you my one on one exclusive with my Girl Crush since I first heard Dip It Low, Christina Milian. Gracious enough to take time out of her super busy schedule between DWTS, New Music, and the face of Viva Moscato Wines, here is the scoop straight from Christina herself...

I must admit, I am beyond excited to be speaking with the gorgeous Christina Milian, singer, actress, host, business woman, mother, what else can we add to the list? No, but really, how are you doing it all? I’m getting tired just saying it.

Thank you so much!  You know when you are passionate about something, it never feels like work.  Being a mom and the work that I do, I am so passionate about it so it all comes naturally for me.  I truly feel blessed with everything that I have in my life between family, friends, music, business.  I love it all.  

You have so many amazing things happening right now that we will get into…But, I’m sure you get offers thrown your way all the time, what drew you specifically to Viva Moscato & Viva Diva Wines? Are you a wine connoisseur/advocate? Or perhaps became one after having a toddler? (Insert Playful Connotation) Who by the way, Violet is absolutely perfect!

I was at the MTV Movie awards gifting suites and Viva Diva Wines was there.  I met Robyn, who is the publicist for the brand and she thought I would be a great fit for the brand.  Once I tasted Viva Diva, I loved it and also wanted to be a part of the company.  In talks with Anthony from Specialtly Marketing Group, now my partner, we decided that I would be equity owner and the face of the brand.  I think our passion and goals come together in the building of this brand and together we have all really made a great team.  I wouldn't call myself a connoisseur but I do love wine.  It was my first experience in the alcohol world was with different wines.  Thank you, Violet has a way of making me smile and laugh every single day.  She is truly my world.

You are a top fan favorite from the start of announcements on DWTS, do you feel pressure because you are already a staple in the music industry to conquer this?

I don't feel pressure, I guess it's more excitement.  It's a challenge being on DWTS and I love to challenge myself.  I am fortunate for work with Mark Ballas this season and hope we make it to the end.  

What made you decide now was the time?

I believe now is always the time for new opportunities.  I was taking a break from The Voice to work on my music and then when this opportunity came up, I couldn't pass it up.

Is there anyone you are super excited is on the cast this season or perhaps even scared of competing against this season?

I am excited to be surrounded by a great cast of people.  You always learn from your surroundings so I am looking forward to this journey.

We hear you have a new song with Jersey Shore’s very own DJ Pauly D about to release? How was it working together? How do you feel your music has evolved? And/or how have you?

Pauly is great!  I loved working with him.  I have a new album coming out in 2014 that I am so excited for everyone to hear.  I have had the pleasure of working with some great producers.  My music much like life has evolved so has my music and myself.  As we grow, we learn more about ourselves and our lives and what we value and I think that you hear that in my music and my career and my life.

On behalf of myself and all of your super fans & followers we thank you tremendously for taking the time out to connect with us during this busy time. We look forward to seeing you dance the night away, with our fingers on the dial button and ready to vote!
Best of Luck this season!
Check out the video for Moscato Wines!

https://plus.google.com/101839644521497195011/posts/PaXCVzzHziC

Special thank you to Robyn at Illumination PR for setting up this exclusive interview and always delivering top of the line services for your clients and media outlets. 

Ladies Night Out* #Bridal Expo

Contact Jessicamarieschirrip@gmail.com

For more information and to be a part of this night of Beauty!

Brides and Bridal Party

Special Promo

$10 off

Oprah and I Have Interviewed the Same Guy...

The title speaks volumes. That is what I kept saying over and over to myself moments after I had the privilege of interviewing legendary Keenon Ivory Wayans moments before his second stand-up show of the night at New Brunswick, NJ's very own iconic Stress Factory.  The Stress Factory has been a home and playground for the best comedy acts in the biz.
Regulars include appearances from Andrew Dice Clay, Louie Anderson, Artie Lang, Jim Bruer, etc.

Keenon Ivory Wayans is the head of the Wayans Family Dynasty.
A comedian, actor, director, writer, he is best known for hosting and creating the ground-breaking "In Living Color" series guiding comedy heavyweights through four seasons. An innovator of sketch comedy with a strong emphasis on highlighting black culture, Keenon gave some of the greatest breakout stars a chance/start in entertainment.
Names like Jamie Foxx, Jim Carey, Jennifer Lopez, and, well I mean do I need to continue name dropping?

I believe Keenon to be the revolutionary leader at a time in American culture where we had never seen this kind of credit given. A game changer to the core, I was honored to be able to sit with him and dive into the true essence of comedy and honesty.
Plus, I mean how much fun must the holidays be in that multi-talented family all noted for their artistic and comedic talents!!!