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Native American Music Awards embrace Chinese star Ayi Jihu
Chinese star Ayi Jihu makes history presenting at the Native American Music Awards with Angela DeMontigny and Terri Lynn
On the American side of the Border with Canada a stones throw away from Niagara Falls in the Seneca Casino and Hotel complex, Native American and Canadian artists celebrated the best of their culture, music and vibe at the 14th NAMA (Native American Music Awards). They were joined by Chinese Star Ayi Jihu, herself a Yi Native, to pay tribute and award those from their community who had shone most brightly in 2012.
Chinese star Ayi Jihu at the Native American Music Awards
Like many of you reading this, we had no idea the native American Indian community even had an award ceremony. We were oblivious to the Native American music scene and we had no idea what to expect. What we discovered was a vibrant Native American music community and scene and it has amazing artists who would top any chart in RnB, Hip Hop, pop, blues, soul as well as it’s own distinct music and identity.
Having been to quite a few award ceremonies around the world, the first thing that struck me about the NAMA’s was the people that attended it. The moment you walk into the building you are aware that you are surrounded by characters, personalities, talent and passion. There was not a tux in site. Everywhere you looked people were saying something with what they were wearing, the diversity in the way people dressed gives you a clue to the distinctiveness in the style and music of the event itself. You will see everything from Traditional native regalia to ‘blinged out’ street style and all in between and for some reason which we could not quite figure out, it just works. It’s beyond just being cool, it’s interesting and for the most part very real.
Top Native Fashion Designer and Stylist Angela DeMontigny styles Chinese Star Ayi Jihu for NAMA awards
Ayi Jihu was styled by Top Native designer Angela DeMontigny. She is no stranger to this event and has dressed many of the native community’s biggest stars. It is her relationship with Chinese star Ayi Jihu however that is finally getting her the recognition she deserves and the dress she designed and styled Ayi Jihu in was definitely a show stopper.
Silver Fox and Kaya
The rich diversity and style at the NAMAs was evident everywhere and gave us a hint of what was to come on stage.
Ayi Jihu and Angela DeMontigny were presenting an Award together with Native Star Terri Lynn. Terri Lynn who is also styled by Angela DeMontigny looked stunning in her designs on and off stage. She was nominated in several categories.
Terri Lynn with her husband prominent native artist, Robert Davidson
Haida Native Music star Terri Lynn with her husband Robert Davidson at the NAMA’s
The NAMA’s showcased many genres of Native American music from the traditional to the new. Artists like Jana Mashonee who performed with rapper ‘The Boy Illinois’ represent the pop side of the Native American music scene. She has won several awards in the past.
Chinese star Ayi Jihu with Top Native designer Anglea DeMontigny and Jana Mashonee at the NAMA’s
rapper the boy illinois at the NAMA’s
Chinese star Ayi Jihu with rapper the boy illinois at the NAMA’s
The traditional artists and music at the NAMA’s also makes this event a little different. The Native American Music community has some amazing vocalist and performers.
Traditional Native artist perform at the Native American Music Awards
The grooves and melodies from Native American Music seem to have many elements that we hear in popular music today. The use of the drum is also very similar to how drums are used in African culture and music as well as Asian Music and culture.
Traditional Native American artists performing at the NAMA’s
Thrown up in between the traditional and the new are artists like Indian Elvis.
Indian Elvis performs at the Native American Music Awards
We had access to all areas at the NAMA’s and found the spirit and friendliness of the Artist, organizers and fans beyond anything we had experienced before. It made us wonder why the Native American Music community has remained such a secret. The talent in their ranks is comparable to much we have now also.
Chinese Star Ayi Jihu with Indian Elvis, Native Star Terri Lynn and Top Native Fashion Designer Angela DeMontigny
Native Legends like Russell Means star of oscar winning movies like ‘Last of the Mohicans’ (Who sadly passed away) where honoured at the event. The wife of Russell Means picked up his award.
Pearl Means wife of Native legend Russell Means accepts an award on his behalf
Ayi Jihu met with many of the award winning Native artists at the NAMA’s.
Ayi Jihu with Pearl Means wife of Native American legend Russell Means
Hoop Dancer Tony Duncan who has performed with several major well known stars on their videos and was introduced to the world by Nelly Furtado won who won the Artist of the year award, was an example of the talent, dignity and humility of many of the Native American artist we saw on the night.
Chinese star Ayi Jihu with Tony Duncan ‘Artist of the year’ at the Native American Music Awards 2013
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- Native American Music Awards, some of the stars, winners and faces
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- Native American Music Awards, some of the stars, winners and faces
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- Ayi Jihu at the Native American Music Awards
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- Native American Music Awards, some of the stars, winners and faces
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- Ayi Jihu at the Native American Music Awards
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- Native American Music Awards, some of the stars and faces
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- Native American Music Awards, some of the stars and faces
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- Tony Dunan performs at the NAMA’s
Watching Ayi Jihu alongside Native Fashion Designer and Haida star Terri Lynn present at the NAMA’s was a nice bit of history, but to us it was also a clue as to why the Native American music scene has not perhaps realised it full potential as yet. Artist like Nelly Furtado are far and few between, when you see just how much talent there is within the Native American community you realize that getting themselves out there in the right light (for them) is perhaps their hardest battle.
Star Nelly Furtado at the Native American Music Awards
We spoke to Ayi Jihu after she award ceremony and asked her how she felt about being the first Chinese artist to do what she did and what she felt about the NAMAs?
Chinese star Ayi Jihu speaks at the NAMA Awards with Native Designer Angela DeMontigny and Native Star Terri Lynn
“Firstly I want to thank Terri Lynn and then the NAMA’s for inviting me here and making me feel so welcome and at home. I also want to say a big thank you to Angela DeMontigny who not only styled myself and Terri Lynn but who also made this whole thing happen. I feel privileged to be here. I feel a great responsibility to represent my people well and I see the same thing here among the Native American music community. I was not on stage for very long and I did not say very much, but I was aware of the significance of everything and just hope that my presence here will turn a few eyes towards the Native American community in a positive way as well as help people all over the world see that we are all in fact just one people. Sounds like big words but it is so true.
Ayi Jihu with Haida Native singing star Terri Lynn and Top Native Fashion designer and stylist Angela DeMontigny at the NAMA awards.
Everyone I met here was so interesting and kind. I did not feel like an outsider or someone who was here for the first time. I felt very much at home. There are many things my people [Yi People of China] have in common with the Native American community, from our love of music to the strong connection we have with our culture, history, traditions and our land. It’s a shame that these types of events are not broadcast to the kids of the world so they can see there is more than one way of being, more than one way vision of how things can be.
I hope the Native American Music community will invite me again and others like me to participate in their celebrations so that the world begins to take notice of all they have to bring to the table. I have seen some truly amazing artist tonight, singers, dancers musicians and comedians. They are so very talented these people.
Buddy Big Mountain at the Native American Music Awards
I had a great time, learnt a lot and I have been inspired by much I saw and experienced. There is a great passion within the Native American music community. Nothing seems to be done just for the sake of it or just to sell stuff. There is a meaning and a reason behind every word and action when they perform and sing. I love this.”
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- Native American Music Awards
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- Chinese star Ayi Jihu with Top Native Designer Angela DeMontigny and her daughter
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- Native American Music Awards
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- Native American Music Awards
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- Native American Music Awards
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- Native American Music Awards
For more information about Ayi Jihu visit her website www.Ayijihu.com
You can find out more about Top Native Fashion designer and stylist Angela DeMontigny by visiting her website www.AngelaDemontigny.com
Find out more about Haida Native singer Terri Lynn here
Discover more about the Native American Music scene and the NAMA’s here
Chinese star Ayi Jihu making moves to Asian market with Young Native Fashion line by Angela DeMontigny
The combination of Chinese Star Ayi Jihu and Top Native designer Angela DeMontigny turned many heads when it was first announced several months ago. The Young Native line by Angela DeMontigny is set to feature styles and designs with a native flavor and eventually an Asian Twist.
Since the world first got wind of Young Native demand for the clothes has been high and Angela DeMontigny has had to work around the clock to supply those wanting a bit of the Young Native swagga. With 2013 now upon us Angela DeMontigny is hoping to get the opportunity to really develop her Young Native collection. With Ayi Jihu as the face and Ambassador of Young Native the Asian community especially the Chinese are beginning to take note.
This elegant High End Collection of designer wear is exactly what the Chinese love and with the Native twist it provides something that is a little new. Angela DeMontigny is after all Cree Indian and Ayi Jihu is Native Chinese, so it does not get any more real than that.
Angela DeMontigny will also be doing some special promotions over the Christmas period (seen below):
ANGELA DEMONTIGNY/YOUNG NATIVE HOLIDAY PROMOTION:
Get this handbag and a Young Native ‘Tree of Peace’ Candle free!
This Young Native Tree of Peace candle comes free with the handbag above in a special promotion lasting up until Dec 31st 2012
The PERFECT HOLIDAY BAG!! This glamorous version of the Possible Bag can also be worn 3 different ways…as a wristlet, a cross body or shoulder bag or an evening bag. Made from full grain metallic gold leather and gold acid wash hair on hide from Italy, the 2 leather braided chain straps come in a long and short length. Fully lined with 2 zip pockets, cell phone holder and fringed leather zipper pull.
Check it out now online order before 31st Dec 2012 at www.angelademontignyonlinestore.com
Jackson Wristlet hand bag Colours: Burgundy or Gold
comes with FREE Young Native Crew Neck Eagle Tee Colours: Chocolate
Tshirt sizes: S – XL
Delivery: 3-4 weeks
This Tee comes free with the Wristlet handbag above in a special promotion lasting until Dec 31st 2012
*Free Shipping NOT included with this promotion. In order to receive a free Young Native Tee, orders must be placed BEFORE Dec. 31st, 2012.
Young Native Tee sizes/colours available first come, first serve. Sizes requested may not be guaranteed.
Get them online at www.angelademontignyonlinestore.com hit the promotions link!
2013 will see Angela DeMontigny really put the Young Native line on the Map. Being in demand has it drawbacks. There just is not always enough time and with the Fear Chaser Movie, her own new unique Angela DeMontigny collection and Young Native time is at a premium.
Check out Young Native Fashions online at www.YoungNativeFashion.com you can also like them on facebook at www.facebook.com/youngnativefashion
The Asian Fashion market ever hungry for the finest of designs and brands from the West will surely pay close attention to Angela DeMontigny and her Young Native brand especially with Ayi Jihu as her Brand Ambassador. The fusion of native design and Chinese Yi ethnic influences is a bold and original view which the world needs to see. What we are seeing now is a mere glimpse of the possibilities that Angela DeMontigny wishes to explore with her Young Native line.
Global News Ink will keep you informed on Young Native, Angela DeMontigny and Ayi Jihu
You can take advantage of the promotions or buy online at www.angelademontignyonlinestore.com
Join Young Native on Twitter @youngNativStyle
For more information about Chinese Star Ayi Jihu visit her website www.Ayijihu.com
Follow us @globalnewsink
East meets Far East dawn of a new world musical order with Ayi Jihu and Aron B
Global News Inc had exclusive access to the filming of the brand new Aron B video co-starring Chinese star Ayi Jihu. Watching the action behind the scenes of this ambitious music video it became clear that the dynamics of the world music scene are drastically changing and at the forefront of the revolution are artists like Aron B and Ayi Jihu.
Initially, what one may see is a straightforward music video featuring collaboration between two young stars; nothing more, nothing less. However, the reality is that the power of this pair; one from India, the other from China, is atomic. Both have opted not go the traditional route or play traditional games, rather, remain independent. Both have forged a massive following – leading a new, much overdue, wave in this industry. This strength of independence and diversity is genius. Independently they have great strength, but in combination, they will command the attention and interest of billions of people … before even arriving West.
At a greater depth one then realises, the entire project has virtually negated the middleman. All direction, film/crew production, and marketing are all in house. Aron B carefully controls and directs the operation and has chosen another capable maverick artist to play at his side bringing all that she [Ayi Jihu] has to offer. It is a merging of ambitious, open hearts and minds; two individuals who can empathize with each other about the dedication and passion necessary for “going it alone.” This melding of all it takes to succeed professionally is apparent in the chemistry that is exuded between them on set. No “Divas” or “Egos” are present; rather, two trailblazers sweating side by side; cutting a path through the cartel that is referred to as today’s music industry.
Aron B, working with Shlepp Entertainment Ltd, put a young dynamic team together including new vibrant players like: Its Branded and Insignia Media Productions. Aron B is also well supported by his own people, most notably his family, assisting him in his own vision. For those who are not familiar, when Indian people get together an infinite amount of man and girl power is on the periphery.
Aron B’s vision and direction are by no means small either. Shooting with the highest quality equipment, as well as using the top professionals available, he has approached this more like a film than a music video. While most artists are content to stand in front of a green screen and move about a bit, this shoot takes on the look of a potential blockbuster. Whatever the outcome one can do little but admire his swagga and investment in himself and the project.
And Jihu partnering in this video adds to Aron B’s vision. A “true born” Chinese artist, she is unique as compared to most Canto artists who are introduced in multitude and never go beyond their own territory. Urban, sexy, beautiful, and extremely talented, Jihu, consumes the camera too – and there is no effort. It’s a natural vibe that draws even Western eyes an ears, and in doing so, provides no other reaction than the pulsing beat and complete pleasure.
And what about the track itself? Those in this profession can appreciate the fact that while on a video shoot they have no choice but to hear it over and over again. Usually after a few hours, one is looking for the nearest bullet or axe to put into the sound system. However, in this case, it gets. Aron B is an undeniable R&B singer; no playing around here. He has stayed away from dance infected R&B and planted himself in the roots of his craft with a track that is sure be a hit with the purists and perhaps the public too. While not able to speak about the Indian market, this song would easily knock many of the so-called R&B tracks currently infesting the charts right off their mark. It is infectious, catchy, radio friendly; it is performed with heart and style, and it just kicks in a club; making one want to bump his or her head “old school style” after listening a few times – unable to stop singing along. This track is also noticeably aimed at the West more than any other Aron B track that has come before. There is nothing obvious to tell you this is an Indian Singer in its music, vocals or approach.
As good as this is, it takes a lot more than having a great track to have a hit or success; even radio play for that matter these days. As much as the West likes to communicate that it is a level playing ground for everyone around the world, it is not. Let’s face it, how many Indian or Chinese artists do you hear on your radio or see perform via the airwaves? Speaking from inside the industry, it is evident how difficult it is to get things beyond the “gatekeepers.” Everyone is willing to take an artist’s money and do very little for it and what is replied by them when nothing happens is some excuse about the audience not taking to its look or vibe.
Basically, if an artist, even at the highest caliber is not white or black; which are what music consumers are accustomed to, no one really cares or really takes notice. If this level of artist brings the flavour an audience will get with, the “gatekeepers” are still present to work harder to stop diversity from breaking through rather than see it for what it is – quality at its best with the potential to reach the world rather than one or two continents. Mostly it is about control and the East and Far East scare the western music machine because they do not have control over it.
Aron B and Ayi Jihu realise completely what they are up against, however, playing it safe is not how an authentic artist creates something larger than life. This collaboration is without question a compelling case for everyone in the world to take notice. The numbers (following in their perspective countries) are already there. With the fan base growing steadily in India and China, the West has no alternative but to pay attention. Additionally, the differences and distances between the East and the West are tightening daily.
Talent, tenacity, independence, global awareness, and support from family and fans – in the billions – is catching these two artists up quite rapidly.
It has been indicated that Aron B will be featured on Ayi Jihu’s new single bringing their pairing full circle, and this is not a one-time go. The two powerhouses have plans to continue working together in a concerted effort to crossover their millions of fans. Speaking to Shlepp Entertainment Ltd CEO Stevie Eagle E, he stated, “working with an artist like Aron B is a critical part of our strategy. We turn down collaborative offers from many artists around the globe, some of whom are well known names, because we are intentionally building something different. We are opening new doors and causing some discomfort to the established powers. And, this is not due to arrogance. Music is global and should be seen as such. Because we are breaking barriers, it often means our progress is seemingly slower, however, we have a long-term view and plan and so far we are on track.
Working with someone like Aron B was to us just another step in the right direction. He is one of the few players who parallels Ayi Jihu’s potential. It was a perfect match and they are both very driven and talented people who are prepared to take on not only the West, but also their own people. They are not doing this in the traditional manner, however, with every step ahead, there is never a look back. Once this all comes to fruition, the world cannot help but take notice. We will have arrived with a one way ticket.”
Aron B has been off the scene working on his craft for almost a year and is determined to come back with a bang, bigger and better, which will ignite his following. He wants to crossover on his own terms. His new track will be released this year and it is believed to be an extraordinary hit, not only due to the music, but also for what it stands for. Ayi Jihu continues to rise and expand her fan base as well. Next year will see her first movie role, her new album and single, and various TV shows in America and Europe. Her super powered Fear Chaser project is set to reach another level as well.
It is the dawn of a new era and the beginning of real change in the global music industry as these two invisible giants are on the musical and Entertainment horizon.
For more information on Ayi Jihu visit her website www.Ayijihu.com
For more information on Aron B visit his official website
Check out Aron B on Wiki
Chinese star Ayi Jihu shines at Indian wedding
Chinese star Ayi Jihu was seen in London at her friend Sima’s Indian wedding. These are the first exclusive pictures of Ayi Jihu at the wedding.
Ayi Jihu was wearing a beautiful Sari made by the bride’s mother.
Ayi Jihu told us many people said she look Thai in her outfit. She also said she had a fantastic time and enjoyed the very, very, hot food.
For more information on Ayi Jihu visit www.Ayijihu.com
Pictures courtesy of Duncan
Fear Fighting – All about Fear Chaser by Ayi Jihu – Brand new video!
Rising Chinese iconic star Ayi Jihu released a new video today explaining much about her growing Fear Chaser project that has caught the imagination of Millions worldwide. The Online video game of Fear Chaser starring Ayi Jihu and based on her concept was played by upwards of 25 million kids worldwide.
Ayi Clears up many misunderstandings about Fear Chaser in her video while telling us what to expect in the future as the project grows. 2012 is a big year for Fear Chaser with production breaking ground on the Short Movie, As well as her Fear Chaser Album. Also Ayi is expected to be performing Fear Chaser live in a technologically groundbreaking way; We are awaiting more details on that one.
In the video Ayi not only speaks about what Fear Chaser is but how it started and what it stands for. She explains a little about Fear Chaser being more than just a movie, but also a way of life, a movement, encouraging people all around the world to acknowledge and confront their fears.
Ayi also speaks about the ethnic and cultural influences that inspire Fear Chaser and make it slightly different from superhero figures that have gone before. ‘Anyone can be a Fear Chaser’ Ayi says. The different cultural and ethnic influences in Fear Chaser are displayed in the Re-designed Fear Chaser costume for 2012. Angela DeMontigny, native Canadian designer and stylist to Ayi Jihu is a top Fashion designer and she played a real part in helping Ayi and Co expand the Fear Chaser vibe to embrace even more cultures.
Watch the full video below:
For more information on Ayi Jihu visit her official website: www.Ayijihu.com
For more information on Fear Chaser visit: www.fearchaser.com
For More information about Angela DeMontigny visit her website.
Native Canadian Fashion Designer to create Fear Chaser clothing range
The wait is finally over. The brand new Ayi Jihu Fear Chaser outfit is here. Designed by Native Canadian (Cree/Chippewa/Metis), Angela DeMontigny. The new Fear Chaser design is set to give the Superhero look a new ethnic and Native twist.
Angela DeMontigny, one of the world’s top Native Canadian Fashion designers met with Ayi Jihu at A Celebration of Women Foundation Inc event in Canada in 2011. The two hit it off straight away and soon after, Ms. DeMontigny was officially announced as the Stylist and designer for Ayi Jihu and Fear Chaser. Ayi Jihu and Shlepp Entertainment Ltd were keen to have a unique eye cast on the styling of Ayi and Fear Chaser and Angela proved to be the perfect person to realize their vision.
The stunning design totally transforms the Fear Chaser image encapsulating all the unique elements embodied in the Ayi Jihu Fear Chaser story. The unique, ethnic and colourful design will challenge the way superheroes are viewed in Western cultures. We managed to get Angela DeMontigny on the phone and speak to her about her design, Ayi Jihu and Fear Chaser:
Angela your Fear Chaser design is stunning, how did you come up with it?
Thank you. For me, once I got to know Ayi Jihu and Stevie Eagle E and understood what She and Fear Chaser was all about, the idea practically formed itself in my head instantly. I already knew Ayi as a Woman of Action and part of ACOW (A celebration of Women Foundation Inc). It was obvious to me she was no ordinary performer or person. Her charitable and philanthropic work speaks for itself, but it was in coming face to face with her and talking to her that I really began to understand the full picture of what she and Stevie were trying to achieve with Fear Chaser. Once you understand what they are all about and the messages they are trying to get across, it’s amazing and for me the design came quickly.
The main challenge for me with the design was coming up with something that Ayi herself could wear. Ayi is Fear Chaser. It’s a bit different to Angelina Jolie playing Tomb Raider. Ayi and Fear Chaser are one and the same, so anything I designed had to be something she herself would want to wear.
Your design seems to have strong influences from several cultures can you talk us through it?
I tried to incorporate as many Yi influences as I could to represent Ayi’s heritage as well as the other cultural elements that are part of Fear Chaser (Native American, African, Indian, etc.) without looking TOO traditional yet still retaining a cool ethnic vibe, some sex appeal and of course functionality….she has to be able to MOVE when she’s fighting all those nasty demons!
This costume will be the foundation from where all other future outfits (for related Fear Chaser performances, events and products) will be based upon.
As a native designer (Cree/Chippewa/Metis) from Canada, I totally relate to wanting to dress in a very unique and original way that expresses who I am and where I come from. I’ve tried to do this for Ayi and Fear Chaser….I think the combination of these influences came together in a very exciting way and completely represents who she is. She loves it and that to a certain degree is the most satisfying thing for a designer.
There are quite a few accessories that go with it can you tell us more about them?
Well as I said before the Fear Chaser costume is a combination of ethnic influences from traditional Yi clothing and Native American to African and Indian. The accessories combine these traditional ethnic influences: Wrist Cuffs, Belt (Medicine Wheel) and boots: Native American -Beaded/Jewelled Headpiece: Chinese/Indian – Necklace: (not shown) Chinese/Native American – Spear: African. There is Traditional Yi embroidery on the skirt panel and the striped design on the top which is combined with Native American/tribal geometric patterns and beaded fringe.
We noticed the Fear Chaser Medicine Wheel emblem on the belt of your drawing, was this also a part of your inspiration when designing the costume?
The colours on the Fear Chaser costume are based on the 4 colours of the Medicine Wheel, which is a big part of Native American and other cultures. Red is the more dominant colour and is very important in many cultures (especially Chinese and Native American) and symbolizes protection, sacredness, power and good luck.
How do you see the future for yourself and Fear Chaser developing?
Since I started working on this, things have already developed quite rapidly. I am now the Cultural advisor for North American Native content on Fear Chaser as well as the head stylist and designer, not just for Fear Chaser but also for Ayi. It’s a great responsibility because I am very respectful about my culture and heritage and she feels the same about hers. I feel happy to be able to help them work with it and to also guide them so that the audience will be given an opportunity to experience a small but real glimpse into these cultures. I have been lucky enough to read the early drafts of the Fear Chaser story and there are a lot of North American Native references and teachings in it as well as other ethnic influences . I guess the most obvious is the Medicine wheel. I am happy to have been a part of helping them with that part of the story as I feel it’s important for people to learn what that symbol represents…it is the embodiment of our connection to everything and everyone….all races, all of creation. Fear Chaser is an amazing story… nothing quite like it has been done before, while at the same time it seems to be similar to so many great things we all already know and love.
As I mentioned before this is more than just a costume for a super hero It’s a lifestyle and brand and a whole range of clothing and accessories that truly represents Ayi Jihu. I see a bright future working with Ayi, Shlepp Entertainment Ltd and Fear Chaser. Our visions and desires are on the same path. It’s an exciting time right now.
Finally we asked Angela how she sees the rest of the year panning out.
Well it’s an exciting year ahead for me on several fronts. I am in the process of building my own brand and business which is going very well. With regards to Ayi and Fear Chaser, there is so much going on there it’s impossible to say what will happen. All I can say is that it looks amazing, her schedule this year alone is quite breath taking. Right now it is the calm before the storm and so we are all preparing like mad for the summer. Her live shows, Anime and gaming events, TV shows and film schedule will keep us all on our toes I’m sure. Stevie (CEO of Shlepp Entertainment Ltd) and I have spoken many times and we are both the same when it comes to taking one day at a time and staying grounded. That said, he has great expectations for Ayi this year so we shall keep working hard, building sure and slowly and see how it develops.
We spoke briefly to Stevie Eagle E CEO of Shlepp Entertainment Ltd about Angela DeMontigny and Fear Chaser he told us the following:
Angela has been a huge asset for us. Her vision and understanding of Ayi Jihu and Fear Chaser has made working with her so easy and so much fun. Basically; She gets it. We have great plans to expand all she is doing into retail and other areas. This year has already been amazing for many reasons, but the tail end of the year starting from this summer is just looking out of this world for us so we are working our socks off now to be prepared. The Anime event which is coming at the end of summer at the Las Vegas Convention center is going to be huge and will see Ayi Jihu and Fear Chaser take the live experience to a 3D level on stage. What we are planning is out of this world. Getting the Fear Chaser costume right was a big part of the whole thing and Angela got it right.
The PR and Marketing for everything will kick off in several weeks and we’ll be doing some really cool things. We want to get the fans involved as much as possible in the development of Fear Chaser. One of the things we are doing is running competitions allowing people to participate by writing, drawing or designing certain parts of the Fear Chaser story or image. If you look closely at Angela’s design you will notice that the wrist bands are blank. She purposely left them this way for the competition. We want kids to design the pattern or artwork that will go on these wristbands and in doing so complete the Fear Chaser outfit and write their name in history. We shall be running other cool competitions just like this. The next month or so is key as we are doing our best to be prepared for all that is coming and it’s quite a bit. New songs, new videos, the short movie and the short story are just some of the things being worked on right now.
We asked Stevie Eagle E why he went for a Native Canadian designer?
Anyone who knows anything about me knows I am global in my thinking. I am always looking out for special people in all lines of work to collaborate and work with. All they have to be able to do is their job and do it on a high level. If like Angela they are Native Canadian or American Indian, African, or Chinese then that just adds flavour to the mix for me, because I am going to get everything that the top regular folk do with an extra twist. I am gonna get a different vibe and that is what I am looking for. I hate anything that’s typical or predictable. I am looking for people from left field who have that x factor that can make things happen and plug into our vision because we have a global vision with a global artist who wants to work with these kinds of people and explore it all. Ayi is different so it allows us to be different. Unlike many others we are free to do what we want to do. The only criteria is you have to be hot! and Angela DeMontigny is a hot fashion designer!
For more information on Ayi Jihu please visit her website www.Ayijihu.com
Find out more about Angela DeMotigny
Find out more about Fear Chaser
New Ayi Jihu Fear Chaser emblem revealed for 2012
Chinese star Ayi Jihu and Shlepp Entertainment Ltd released the first pictures of the new Fear Chaser emblem exclusively to GNI on Easter Sunday. Ayi Jihu’s Fear Chaser is getting a serious makeover ahead of the Short Movie going into production early summer 2012. We have also now been informed that the Fear Chaser short movie, working title; Birth of Fear Chaser may well be in 4k 3D!
Ayi Jihu has been working closely with writers on the Fear Chaser short story to be released as a book later this year just ahead of the short movie. We spoke to her about the New Fear Chaser emblem, what it stood for and also asked her about the new Fear Chaser outfit being designed by Native American Fashion Designer Angela DeMontingy.
‘The new Fear Chaser emblem is based on a Medicine Wheel and Native American concepts, teachings and ideas. Although to be fair several other cultures also have medicine wheels. It’s divided into four parts and each part represents something. The whole medicine wheel represents all the qualities, attributes and distinct abilities of mankind and combined we are whole. The Medicine Wheel used in Fear Chaser does not follow any distinct pattern. Each segment represents an animal, power, attribute and ability as well as a warrior from different parts of the world. I don’t want to give to much away but lets just say that as Fear Chaser she is able to tap into these abilities and attributes through her Medicine Wheel emblem. It’s really very cool and I learned so much studying medicine wheels and the different cultures that use them especially Native American cultures it was fascinating. Fear Chaser and her powers will be a combination of many different cultures from all over the world. The short story is fantastic I think people will love it and I think it is unique. The Short movie script is being written based on the short story. I can tell you it’s very deep and complex but also very real. Stevie call it ‘Friction’ a mixture of Fact and fiction it’s kinda crazy really.’
We asked Ayi about the new Fear Chaser outfit being designed by Angela DeMontigny and where on the outfit the emblem will be?
‘All I can say is wow! Wait till everyone sees the new Fear Chaser outfit, it’s amazing, so unique and so me really. Angela did so much work on this and it is just perfect. When I saw it, which was just recently. It was not what I expected it was completely different and I loved it. I won’t say too much about what it looks like now as I know Shlepp will be revealing it soon, but I can tell you it has strong Yi influences in its design as well as strong ethnic and Native American Indian influences. It is beyond cool. The Fear Chaser emblem is on the belt right in the center too. I can also reveal that the Fear Chaser emblem is not just cosmetic. It’s a tool which Fear Chaser uses to summon her different powers. I don’t know if I should say too much more though. Working with Angela has been just amazing, because she just gets it. She is like me in many ways both of us are breaking new ground her as a Native American designer and me as a Chinese artist.
‘There are several sides to the Fear Chaser costume. There is the movie, the live show and then the merchandise so everything is being put together now and I am very proud of what we have done so far. I just hope that everyone else feels it as much as we do.’
Ayi Jihu is planning several Major shows in the USA for late summer. We are told these shows will bring some spectacular elements into the live show such as 3D. Right now Ayi Jihu is concentrating on her new album and preparation for the summer. Finally we asked Ayi how she felt about 2012.
‘So Far it has been a mixture of fantastic and heartbreaking. Although the work has been amazing there have been some crazy things happening outside of work, friends passing away and deaths in the family and so it has been bitter sweet in many ways. I have really grown this year and I am throwing myself even harder into the work. It’s all about being prepared now and so I am working very hard. Everything looks fantastic but you never know, things can change in a moment and so I try not to think too far ahead, I just work hard and I am grateful for the progress I am making. It’s all about the My Fear Chaser side this year and I want to continue fighting my fears and getting better. I want to help people do the same. I am very excited about this year, but also nervous because there is so much happening and things can go wrong. That said I stay positive and keep working hard.’
For More information on Ayi Jihu visit www.ayijihu.com
For More information about Fear Chaser visit www.FearChaser.com
Taste of Life article March 2012 Edition – The global phenomena that is Ayi Jihu
Ayi Jihu Feature in ‘Taste of Life’ Magazine March 2012
For more information of Ayi Jihu visit www.Ayijihu.com
1000 Calories and lovin it – Ayi Jihu
I had to share with you my experience of eating at Rubys Diner in Palm Springs. It was a typical winter Palm Springs night, not too cold and I was out with Kevin from Elan Vital. He wanted to take me somewhere where I could indulge a bit as when I am working I have to be very careful what I eat. But every now and then a girl just needs some junk food or some Chocolate, right?
The video kind of says it all, I did not even stop to breathe eating my 900 plus calorie milkshake, and when I say eating, I do mean eating. It’s so chock full of goodies you need a spoon for most of it. It’s like liquid Ben and Jerry’s
Ruby’s is a cool place, good old American comfort food and lots of it. I would not recommend making it a habbit but every now and then a few hundred calorie indulgence is just what the doctor ordered. I think I may have to steal the bike they have hung up in the Diner to work of my indulgence though.
Thanks Kevin
Ayi Jihu Sandstorms and Red Tails
Ayi Jihu and co had to brave some quite serious weather on their way to watch Red Tails at the Fox Cineplex in Banning.
On the way to the Cinema they witnessed what seem to be Huge Sand Storms twisting in front of them.
It was not long before the twisting Sandstorms in the distance where right upon them. ‘It was a bit scary’ Ayi said. ‘The car was swerving a bit and Rage was really trying to keep it under control, When the sandstorms hit the car you could feel and hear it. It was like someone pouring salt all over the car at speed. The crazy thing was as scary as it was it was so very beautiful too. You just could not stop looking at the beauty the weather was creating, from rainbows to dramatic godly skies, we just kept point things out to each other.’
Ayi Continued: ‘When we got back to the hotel it was a mess. The whole town was a mess. Lights out, trees down, debris all over the place. Wow Palm Springs took a bit of a battering!’
Ayi Jihu said the movie was worth the drive although when they were going to the cinema they considered turning back. As luck would have it they did the right thing as the storm was heading into Palm Springs and Banning was hardly touched by it.
The staff at Los Arboles hotel worked around the clock to return the boutique Hotel to its former glory.
For more information on Ayi Jihu please check her website www.ayijihu.com.
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