@ThisFunktional talks with Courtney Burrell, Rome Flynn, Ciera Payton, Ciera Payton, Quin Walters A MADEA FAMILY FUNERAL

Written by Jesus Figueroa

Actors Courtney Burrell, Rome Flynn, Ciera Payton, Ciera Payton and Quin Walters talk with Jesus Figueroa, @ThisFunktional of ThisFunktional.com, about their roles in “Tyler Perry’s A Madea Family Funeral.”

Multimedia powerhouse Tyler Perry steps into the character of Madea for her very last movie when Tyler Perry’s A Madea Family Funeral arrives on Digital May 21 and on Blu-ray™ Combo Pack (plus DVD and Digital), DVD, and On Demand June 4 from Lionsgate.

Written, directed, produced by, and starring Tyler Perry (Boo 2! A Madea Halloween, Boo! A Madea Halloween, Vice), the film celebrates this beloved character and film franchise by shining a light on Madea in her final big-screen performance.

Starring alongside Perry in this hilarious farewell film are Madea’s BFFs and fan faves Patrice Lovely (Boo 2! A Madea Halloween, Boo! A Madea Halloween, TV’s “Love Thy Neighbor”) and Cassi Davis (TV’s “The Paynes,” Boo 2! A Madea Halloween, Boo! A Madea Halloween)….also appearing for the first time is Tyler Perry’s new, off-the-wall character, Madea’s brother, Heathrow.

Tyler Perry revives his signature character Madea Simmons for her final film performance in this comedy to die for.

Madea and her family head out to a family reunion, but the trip becomes a nightmare when the party suddenly turns into a funeral and threatens to reveal sordid family secrets.

Only Madea can bring the entire family together and save the day in her own special way…

Bring home Tyler Perry’s A Madea Family Funeral and enjoy hilarious, never-before-seen outtakes, deleted scenes, retrospective featurettes, and even learn “Madea’s Tips for Attending a Funeral.”

The Tyler Perry’s A Madea Family Funeral Blu-ray Combo Pack and DVD will be available for the suggested retail price of $39.99 and $29.95, respectively.

Tyler Perry’s A MADEA FAMILY FUNERAL
On Blu-ray, DVD and Digital Now

@ThisFunktional talks with Roberto Duran I AM DURAN

Written by Jesus Figueroa

Boxing legend Roberto Duran talks with Jesus Figueroa, @ThisFunktional of ThisFunktional.com, about the new documentary “I am Duran.” The interview is in Spanish.

“I AM DURÁN” is directed by Mat Hodgson (The Four Year Plan, Night of the Fight: Hatton’s Last Stand) and features iconic boxing champion Roberto Durán sharing his life story with fans.

“I AM DURÁN” puts viewers in the corner of one of the greatest pound-for-pound fighters ever and shows how Roberto Durán used his “Hands of Stone” to become a national hero and beloved son of Panama.

Roberto Durán is a boxing behemoth, a titanic figure with a career straddling five epic decades who is regarded as one of the most entertaining and skilled fighters of all time.

“I AM DURÁN” tells his story, inextricably interwoven with the story of the nation of Panama.

As Roberto Durán rose, fell, and rose again, staggering between glory and disaster, buffeted by the brutal blows of his opponents and of life itself – so did his beloved Panama.

A country brought to its knees as a pawn in violent regional and international politics and suffering from the harsh yoke of dictator Manuel Noriega’s ruthless regime, in its darkest hour Panama needed a hero, a voice, and an identity.

Roberto Durán’s impact transcended boxing and politics.

Born a fighter, his success inside the ring transformed him into an icon, yet it was his flaws and failures outside the ring that made him a hero and continue to ensure that his universal appeal and popularity endure to this day.

I AM DURÁN
Available On Digital Now

@ThisFunktional talks with Arisce Wazner, Robert Sepulveda Jr. VIDA

Written by Jesus Figueroa

Arise Wazner and Robert Sepulveda Jr. talk with Jesus Figueroa, @ThisFunktional of ThisFunktional.com about attending the premiere of season two of STARZ’ VIDA.

STARZ’ VIDA premieres on STARZ app May 23 and the channel May 26.

All 10 Episodes of the Second Groundbreaking Season from Showrunner Tanya Saracho Will Be Made Available on the STARZ App, STARZ On-Demand and STARZPLAY 

“Vida” is a half-hour drama series with its second season premiering on STARZ app May 23 and the channel May 26

Estranged sisters Emma (Mishel Prada), a successful lawyer in Chicago, always pragmatic and career focused, and Lyn (Melissa Barrera), a flaky Yoga loving Vegan relying on her looks and other people’s money to get by, return home to their historically Mexican neighborhood in the  Eastside of Los Angeles when their mother suddenly dies.

Discovering a surprising truth about their mother’s identity, Lyn and Emma, who have clashing coping skills, confront their loss, relationship, old neighborhood friends and the mismanagement of the family business, unspooling old childhood traumas and hard truths.

“Vida” is a never-before-seen contemporary portal into a multi-generational Latinx neighborhood exploring complex narratives and an intersecting range of issues including sexual, cultural and spiritual identity, class and race, all under the gaze of fast changes and growing conflicts with gentrification.

In Season 1, the girls learned the truth. In the second season, they face reality as Lyn and Emma begin the monumental task of rebuilding their mother’s business while navigating financial constraints, competing developers, and the growing anti-gentrification movement.

Lyn and Emma must contemplate the relationships in their lives, including their own, and are forced to dig deep to unearth what their mother’s legacy means to them.  Ser Anzoategui, Chelsea Rendon, Carlos Miranda and Roberta Colindrez also star; Raúl Castillo guest stars.

Follow and interact with Jesus:
Twitter – @Thisfunktional
Instagram – @Thisfunktional
Facebook – ThisfunktionalLA
Tumblr  Thisfunktional
AudioBoom – Thisfunktional
YouTube  Thisfunktional
Patreon – Thisfunktional

@ThisFunktional talks with Maria Del Pilar VIDA

Written by Jesus Figueroa

Singer Maria Del Pilar talks with Jesus Figueroa, @ThisFunktional of ThisFunktional.com about attending the premiere of season two of STARZ’ VIDA.

STARZ’ VIDA premieres on STARZ app May 23 and the channel May 26.

All 10 Episodes of the Second Groundbreaking Season from Showrunner Tanya Saracho Will Be Made Available on the STARZ App, STARZ On-Demand and STARZPLAY 

“Vida” is a half-hour drama series with its second season premiering on STARZ app May 23 and the channel May 26

Estranged sisters Emma (Mishel Prada), a successful lawyer in Chicago, always pragmatic and career focused, and Lyn (Melissa Barrera), a flaky Yoga loving Vegan relying on her looks and other people’s money to get by, return home to their historically Mexican neighborhood in the  Eastside of Los Angeles when their mother suddenly dies.

Discovering a surprising truth about their mother’s identity, Lyn and Emma, who have clashing coping skills, confront their loss, relationship, old neighborhood friends and the mismanagement of the family business, unspooling old childhood traumas and hard truths.

“Vida” is a never-before-seen contemporary portal into a multi-generational Latinx neighborhood exploring complex narratives and an intersecting range of issues including sexual, cultural and spiritual identity, class and race, all under the gaze of fast changes and growing conflicts with gentrification.

In Season 1, the girls learned the truth. In the second season, they face reality as Lyn and Emma begin the monumental task of rebuilding their mother’s business while navigating financial constraints, competing developers, and the growing anti-gentrification movement.

Lyn and Emma must contemplate the relationships in their lives, including their own, and are forced to dig deep to unearth what their mother’s legacy means to them.  Ser Anzoategui, Chelsea Rendon, Carlos Miranda and Roberta Colindrez also star; Raúl Castillo guest stars.

Follow and interact with Jesus:
Twitter – @Thisfunktional
Instagram – @Thisfunktional
Facebook – ThisfunktionalLA
Tumblr  Thisfunktional
AudioBoom – Thisfunktional
YouTube  Thisfunktional
Patreon – Thisfunktional

@ThisFunktional talks with Tanya Saracho VIDA

Written by Jesus Figueroa

Showrunner Tanya Saracho talks with Jesus Figueroa, @ThisFunktional of ThisFunktional.com about attending the premiere of season two of STARZ’ VIDA.

STARZ’ VIDA premieres on STARZ app May 23 and the channel May 26.

All 10 Episodes of the Second Groundbreaking Season from Showrunner Tanya Saracho Will Be Made Available on the STARZ App, STARZ On-Demand and STARZPLAY 

“Vida” is a half-hour drama series with its second season premiering on STARZ app May 23 and the channel May 26

Estranged sisters Emma (Mishel Prada), a successful lawyer in Chicago, always pragmatic and career focused, and Lyn (Melissa Barrera), a flaky Yoga loving Vegan relying on her looks and other people’s money to get by, return home to their historically Mexican neighborhood in the  Eastside of Los Angeles when their mother suddenly dies.

Discovering a surprising truth about their mother’s identity, Lyn and Emma, who have clashing coping skills, confront their loss, relationship, old neighborhood friends and the mismanagement of the family business, unspooling old childhood traumas and hard truths.

“Vida” is a never-before-seen contemporary portal into a multi-generational Latinx neighborhood exploring complex narratives and an intersecting range of issues including sexual, cultural and spiritual identity, class and race, all under the gaze of fast changes and growing conflicts with gentrification.

In Season 1, the girls learned the truth. In the second season, they face reality as Lyn and Emma begin the monumental task of rebuilding their mother’s business while navigating financial constraints, competing developers, and the growing anti-gentrification movement.

Lyn and Emma must contemplate the relationships in their lives, including their own, and are forced to dig deep to unearth what their mother’s legacy means to them.  Ser Anzoategui, Chelsea Rendon, Carlos Miranda and Roberta Colindrez also star; Raúl Castillo guest stars.

Follow and interact with Jesus:
Twitter – @Thisfunktional
Instagram – @Thisfunktional
Facebook – ThisfunktionalLA
Tumblr  Thisfunktional
AudioBoom – Thisfunktional
YouTube  Thisfunktional
Patreon – Thisfunktional

@ThisFunktional talks with Chelsea Rendon VIDA

Written by Jesus Figueroa

Actress Chelsea Rendon talks with Jesus Figueroa, @ThisFunktional of ThisFunktional.com about attending the premiere of season two of STARZ’ VIDA.

STARZ’ VIDA premieres on STARZ app May 23 and the channel May 26.

All 10 Episodes of the Second Groundbreaking Season from Showrunner Tanya Saracho Will Be Made Available on the STARZ App, STARZ On-Demand and STARZPLAY “Vida” is a half-hour drama series with its second season premiering on STARZ app May 23 and the channel May 26

Estranged sisters Emma (Mishel Prada), a successful lawyer in Chicago, always pragmatic and career focused, and Lyn (Melissa Barrera), a flaky Yoga loving Vegan relying on her looks and other people’s money to get by, return home to their historically Mexican neighborhood in the  Eastside of Los Angeles when their mother suddenly dies.

Discovering a surprising truth about their mother’s identity, Lyn and Emma, who have clashing coping skills, confront their loss, relationship, old neighborhood friends and the mismanagement of the family business, unspooling old childhood traumas and hard truths.

“Vida” is a never-before-seen contemporary portal into a multi-generational Latinx neighborhood exploring complex narratives and an intersecting range of issues including sexual, cultural and spiritual identity, class and race, all under the gaze of fast changes and growing conflicts with gentrification.

In Season 1, the girls learned the truth. In the second season, they face reality as Lyn and Emma begin the monumental task of rebuilding their mother’s business while navigating financial constraints, competing developers, and the growing anti-gentrification movement.

Lyn and Emma must contemplate the relationships in their lives, including their own, and are forced to dig deep to unearth what their mother’s legacy means to them.  Ser Anzoategui, Chelsea Rendon, Carlos Miranda and Roberta Colindrez also star; Raúl Castillo guest stars.

Follow and interact with Jesus:
Twitter – @Thisfunktional
Instagram – @Thisfunktional
Facebook – ThisfunktionalLA
Tumblr  Thisfunktional
AudioBoom – Thisfunktional
YouTube  Thisfunktional
Patreon – Thisfunktional

@ThisFunktional talks with Anna LaMadrid VIDA

Written by Jesus Figueroa

Actress Anna LaMadrid talks with Jesus Figueroa, @ThisFunktional of ThisFunktional.com about attending the premiere of season two of STARZ’ VIDA.

STARZ’ VIDA premieres on STARZ app May 23 and the channel May 26.

All 10 Episodes of the Second Groundbreaking Season from Showrunner Tanya Saracho Will Be Made Available on the STARZ App, STARZ On-Demand and STARZPLAY 

“Vida” is a half-hour drama series with its second season premiering on STARZ app May 23 and the channel May 26

Estranged sisters Emma (Mishel Prada), a successful lawyer in Chicago, always pragmatic and career focused, and Lyn (Melissa Barrera), a flaky Yoga loving Vegan relying on her looks and other people’s money to get by, return home to their historically Mexican neighborhood in the  Eastside of Los Angeles when their mother suddenly dies.

Discovering a surprising truth about their mother’s identity, Lyn and Emma, who have clashing coping skills, confront their loss, relationship, old neighborhood friends and the mismanagement of the family business, unspooling old childhood traumas and hard truths.

“Vida” is a never-before-seen contemporary portal into a multi-generational Latinx neighborhood exploring complex narratives and an intersecting range of issues including sexual, cultural and spiritual identity, class and race, all under the gaze of fast changes and growing conflicts with gentrification.

In Season 1, the girls learned the truth. In the second season, they face reality as Lyn and Emma begin the monumental task of rebuilding their mother’s business while navigating financial constraints, competing developers, and the growing anti-gentrification movement.

Lyn and Emma must contemplate the relationships in their lives, including their own, and are forced to dig deep to unearth what their mother’s legacy means to them.  Ser Anzoategui, Chelsea Rendon, Carlos Miranda and Roberta Colindrez also star; Raúl Castillo guest stars.

Follow and interact with Jesus:
Twitter – @Thisfunktional
Instagram – @Thisfunktional
Facebook – ThisfunktionalLA
Tumblr  Thisfunktional
AudioBoom – Thisfunktional
YouTube  Thisfunktional
Patreon – Thisfunktional

@ThisFunktional talks with Erika Soto VIDA

Written by Jesus Figueroa

Actress Erika Soto talks with Jesus Figueroa, @ThisFunktional of ThisFunktional.com about attending the premiere of season two of STARZ’ VIDA.

STARZ’ VIDA premieres on STARZ app May 23 and the channel May 26.

All 10 Episodes of the Second Groundbreaking Season from Showrunner Tanya Saracho Will Be Made Available on the STARZ App, STARZ On-Demand and STARZPLAY 

“Vida” is a half-hour drama series with its second season premiering on STARZ app May 23 and the channel May 26

Estranged sisters Emma (Mishel Prada), a successful lawyer in Chicago, always pragmatic and career focused, and Lyn (Melissa Barrera), a flaky Yoga loving Vegan relying on her looks and other people’s money to get by, return home to their historically Mexican neighborhood in the  Eastside of Los Angeles when their mother suddenly dies.

Discovering a surprising truth about their mother’s identity, Lyn and Emma, who have clashing coping skills, confront their loss, relationship, old neighborhood friends and the mismanagement of the family business, unspooling old childhood traumas and hard truths.

“Vida” is a never-before-seen contemporary portal into a multi-generational Latinx neighborhood exploring complex narratives and an intersecting range of issues including sexual, cultural and spiritual identity, class and race, all under the gaze of fast changes and growing conflicts with gentrification.

In Season 1, the girls learned the truth. In the second season, they face reality as Lyn and Emma begin the monumental task of rebuilding their mother’s business while navigating financial constraints, competing developers, and the growing anti-gentrification movement.

Lyn and Emma must contemplate the relationships in their lives, including their own, and are forced to dig deep to unearth what their mother’s legacy means to them.  Ser Anzoategui, Chelsea Rendon, Carlos Miranda and Roberta Colindrez also star; Raúl Castillo guest stars.

Follow and interact with Jesus:
Twitter – @Thisfunktional
Instagram – @Thisfunktional
Facebook – ThisfunktionalLA
Tumblr  Thisfunktional
AudioBoom – Thisfunktional
YouTube  Thisfunktional
Patreon – Thisfunktional

@ThisFunktional talks with Carlos Miranda VIDA

Written by Jesus Figueroa

Actor Carlos Miranda talks with Jesus Figueroa, @ThisFunktional of ThisFunktional.com about attending the premiere of season two of STARZ’ VIDA.

STARZ’ VIDA premieres on STARZ app May 23 and the channel May 26.

All 10 Episodes of the Second Groundbreaking Season from Showrunner Tanya Saracho Will Be Made Available on the STARZ App, STARZ On-Demand and STARZPLAY 

“Vida” is a half-hour drama series with its second season premiering on STARZ app May 23 and the channel May 26

Estranged sisters Emma (Mishel Prada), a successful lawyer in Chicago, always pragmatic and career focused, and Lyn (Melissa Barrera), a flaky Yoga loving Vegan relying on her looks and other people’s money to get by, return home to their historically Mexican neighborhood in the  Eastside of Los Angeles when their mother suddenly dies.

Discovering a surprising truth about their mother’s identity, Lyn and Emma, who have clashing coping skills, confront their loss, relationship, old neighborhood friends and the mismanagement of the family business, unspooling old childhood traumas and hard truths.

“Vida” is a never-before-seen contemporary portal into a multi-generational Latinx neighborhood exploring complex narratives and an intersecting range of issues including sexual, cultural and spiritual identity, class and race, all under the gaze of fast changes and growing conflicts with gentrification.

In Season 1, the girls learned the truth. In the second season, they face reality as Lyn and Emma begin the monumental task of rebuilding their mother’s business while navigating financial constraints, competing developers, and the growing anti-gentrification movement.

Lyn and Emma must contemplate the relationships in their lives, including their own, and are forced to dig deep to unearth what their mother’s legacy means to them.  Ser Anzoategui, Chelsea Rendon, Carlos Miranda and Roberta Colindrez also star; Raúl Castillo guest stars.

Follow and interact with Jesus:
Twitter – @Thisfunktional
Instagram – @Thisfunktional
Facebook – ThisfunktionalLA
Tumblr  Thisfunktional
AudioBoom – Thisfunktional
YouTube  Thisfunktional
Patreon – Thisfunktional

@ThisFunktional talks with Victoria Ortiz VIDA

Written by Jesus Figueroa

Victoria Ortiz talks with Jesus Figueroa, @ThisFunktional of ThisFunktional.com about attending the premiere of season two of STARZ’ VIDA.

STARZ’ VIDA premieres on STARZ app May 23 and the channel May 26.

All 10 Episodes of the Second Groundbreaking Season from Showrunner Tanya Saracho Will Be Made Available on the STARZ App, STARZ On-Demand and STARZPLAY 

“Vida” is a half-hour drama series with its second season premiering on STARZ app May 23 and the channel May 26

Estranged sisters Emma (Mishel Prada), a successful lawyer in Chicago, always pragmatic and career focused, and Lyn (Melissa Barrera), a flaky Yoga loving Vegan relying on her looks and other people’s money to get by, return home to their historically Mexican neighborhood in the  Eastside of Los Angeles when their mother suddenly dies.

Discovering a surprising truth about their mother’s identity, Lyn and Emma, who have clashing coping skills, confront their loss, relationship, old neighborhood friends and the mismanagement of the family business, unspooling old childhood traumas and hard truths.

“Vida” is a never-before-seen contemporary portal into a multi-generational Latinx neighborhood exploring complex narratives and an intersecting range of issues including sexual, cultural and spiritual identity, class and race, all under the gaze of fast changes and growing conflicts with gentrification.

In Season 1, the girls learned the truth. In the second season, they face reality as Lyn and Emma begin the monumental task of rebuilding their mother’s business while navigating financial constraints, competing developers, and the growing anti-gentrification movement.

Lyn and Emma must contemplate the relationships in their lives, including their own, and are forced to dig deep to unearth what their mother’s legacy means to them.  Ser Anzoategui, Chelsea Rendon, Carlos Miranda and Roberta Colindrez also star; Raúl Castillo guest stars.

Follow and interact with Jesus:
Twitter – @Thisfunktional
Instagram – @Thisfunktional
Facebook – ThisfunktionalLA
Tumblr  Thisfunktional
AudioBoom – Thisfunktional
YouTube  Thisfunktional
Patreon – Thisfunktional

@ThisFunktional talks with Roberta Colindrez VIDA

Written by Jesus Figueroa

Roberta Colindrez talks with Jesus Figueroa, @ThisFunktional of ThisFunktional.com about attending the premiere of season two of STARZ’ VIDA.

STARZ’ VIDA premieres on STARZ app May 23 and the channel May 26.

All 10 Episodes of the Second Groundbreaking Season from Showrunner Tanya Saracho Will Be Made Available on the STARZ App, STARZ On-Demand and STARZPLAY 

“Vida” is a half-hour drama series with its second season premiering on STARZ app May 23 and the channel May 26

Estranged sisters Emma (Mishel Prada), a successful lawyer in Chicago, always pragmatic and career focused, and Lyn (Melissa Barrera), a flaky Yoga loving Vegan relying on her looks and other people’s money to get by, return home to their historically Mexican neighborhood in the  Eastside of Los Angeles when their mother suddenly dies.

Discovering a surprising truth about their mother’s identity, Lyn and Emma, who have clashing coping skills, confront their loss, relationship, old neighborhood friends and the mismanagement of the family business, unspooling old childhood traumas and hard truths.

“Vida” is a never-before-seen contemporary portal into a multi-generational Latinx neighborhood exploring complex narratives and an intersecting range of issues including sexual, cultural and spiritual identity, class and race, all under the gaze of fast changes and growing conflicts with gentrification.

In Season 1, the girls learned the truth. In the second season, they face reality as Lyn and Emma begin the monumental task of rebuilding their mother’s business while navigating financial constraints, competing developers, and the growing anti-gentrification movement.

Lyn and Emma must contemplate the relationships in their lives, including their own, and are forced to dig deep to unearth what their mother’s legacy means to them.  Ser Anzoategui, Chelsea Rendon, Carlos Miranda and Roberta Colindrez also star; Raúl Castillo guest stars.

Follow and interact with Jesus:
Twitter – @Thisfunktional
Instagram – @Thisfunktional
Facebook – ThisfunktionalLA
Tumblr  Thisfunktional
AudioBoom – Thisfunktional
YouTube  Thisfunktional
Patreon – Thisfunktional

@ThisFunktional talks with Ser Anzoategui VIDA

Written by Jesus Figueroa

Ser Anzoategui talks with Jesus Figueroa, @ThisFunktional of ThisFunktional.com about attending the premiere of season two of STARZ’ VIDA.

STARZ’ VIDA premieres on STARZ app May 23 and the channel May 26.

All 10 Episodes of the Second Groundbreaking Season from Showrunner Tanya Saracho Will Be Made Available on the STARZ App, STARZ On-Demand and STARZPLAY 

“Vida” is a half-hour drama series with its second season premiering on STARZ app May 23 and the channel May 26

Estranged sisters Emma (Mishel Prada), a successful lawyer in Chicago, always pragmatic and career focused, and Lyn (Melissa Barrera), a flaky Yoga loving Vegan relying on her looks and other people’s money to get by, return home to their historically Mexican neighborhood in the  Eastside of Los Angeles when their mother suddenly dies.

Discovering a surprising truth about their mother’s identity, Lyn and Emma, who have clashing coping skills, confront their loss, relationship, old neighborhood friends and the mismanagement of the family business, unspooling old childhood traumas and hard truths.

“Vida” is a never-before-seen contemporary portal into a multi-generational Latinx neighborhood exploring complex narratives and an intersecting range of issues including sexual, cultural and spiritual identity, class and race, all under the gaze of fast changes and growing conflicts with gentrification.

In Season 1, the girls learned the truth. In the second season, they face reality as Lyn and Emma begin the monumental task of rebuilding their mother’s business while navigating financial constraints, competing developers, and the growing anti-gentrification movement.

Lyn and Emma must contemplate the relationships in their lives, including their own, and are forced to dig deep to unearth what their mother’s legacy means to them.  Ser Anzoategui, Chelsea Rendon, Carlos Miranda and Roberta Colindrez also star; Raúl Castillo guest stars.

Follow and interact with Jesus:
Twitter – @Thisfunktional
Instagram – @Thisfunktional
Facebook – ThisfunktionalLA
Tumblr  Thisfunktional
AudioBoom – Thisfunktional
YouTube  Thisfunktional
Patreon – Thisfunktional

Freelance Artist to Watch: ELLEY BURCH | [Interview]

img_2418

Good morning, loves!

I recently stumbled upon a freelance artist (Elley Burch) on Instagram that was shared by an account I follow. After seeing some of her work, I decided to reach out in regards to a pet portrait of my little fur babies & I am so glad I did!

Elley is extremely professional & an absolute joy to work with. Not to mention that her work is exceptional & I am so in love with this new piece that I get to display.

 

I got to have a chat with Elley about herself & her art, so keep reading to learn more:

1. Could you please introduce yourself for those who might be unfamiliar with your work (for now)?   😉

Hello! My name is Elley Burch and I am a freelance artist. My amazing husband and I recently got married and we are now living in Auburn, AL while he attends medical school. We often joke that there couldn’t be two people who are more different when it comes to interests and talents than we are. My husband is athletic and crazy smart (hence the medical school) while I love every area of the arts especially painting. If I could just create all day, I would.

 

2. When did you first realize you had a talent for drawing?

Since I was a little girl, my mom said I always was trying to color or make something. I just always had a love for art so my mom decided that I needed to be put into art classes to have a place for this love to grow and to transform. My teachers and family would always tell me that I had a talent but I didn’t really begin to believe it until I was in high school. Then from there everything began to take off. People would begin to hire me for small things and I would paint lots of banners and things for my cheer squad. Then and into college I made backdrops for various events and things of that sort. Slowly but surely business began to pick up and now here I am growing my skills and taking steps towards a career as an artist.

 

3. What made you decide to actually become an artist?

In some ways I always knew it was something I wanted to pursue. But it didn’t fully click until I realized that God gave me a talent for a purpose for something greater than myself. Ever since then, I have pursued every open door and am continually refining my skills.

 

4. It’s so important to support independent/new artists. It can be a fickle business.  What message do you have for other artists who are looking to make their mark?

Every aspiring artist or creative mind will always feel these two dreaded words in most conversations “starving artist”. This implies not only the lack of income but the lack of talent. Yes, at first you may not be at the skill level you desire or know that you can achieve. But that is where practice and passion come in. No matter what influences you, you must believe in yourself and continue to do what makes you happy. Paint and create things that give you joy and also stretch you! And most importantly, be open to the direction that your clients/inspiration takes you. You never know, it may have you unlock something special that you would of never found otherwise.

 

5. Do you have any upcoming projects we should keep our eyes open for?

Yes! I am working on a few ideas for brides! Without giving much away, this could be a special gift or even a special touch to any wedding. It is something very new to me and I am so excited to give it a try.

 

6. What is the best part about being an artist?

I simply have no limits to what I can create. There is no box to be put in and I am allowed to let my imagination come to life.

 

7. What are your aspirations for Elley Burch for 2019?

For 2019, I plan to expand my portfolio and gain a larger following. My desire is to not only to make beautiful and custom work for any and everybody but to provide each season and celebration with something creatively meaningful.

 

Here is a picture of the piece Elley made for me:

img_5092

 

To contact Elley, or to simply find out more, visit elleyburch.com

 

 

 

@Thisfunktional talks with Actor Esai Morales MARS SEASON 2

//embeds.audioboom.com/posts/7093521-thisfunktional-podcast-tv-esai-morales-national-geographic-s-mars-season-2/embed/v4?eid=AQAAAIb29FsRPWwA

Written by Jesus Figueroa

Actor Esai Morales talks with Jesus Figueroa, @Thisfunktional of Thisfunktional.com, about his part in National Geographic’s “Mars” Season 2.

The interview was recorded at the National Geographic’s “Mars” season 2 screening under the stars at E.P. & L.P. in Hollywood, California.

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC’SMARS SEASON 2

Mondays On The National Geographic Channel at 9/8 C

Interview: Up and Coming Music Artist – FØNX

IMG_2149

FØNX is an up and coming music artist from the UK that everyone should keep their eyes (& ears) on. His latest single ‘Come On Over’ was recently released and it’s absolutely incredible. With a jazzy, pop, soul vibe, it truly is a bop with a nostalgic feel to it. I was lucky enough to have a chat with him about his influences, his music and his life, and I can’t wait for ya’ll to learn more about him. He’s a lovely, humble musician with the drive to make music his own way. Read on for more from FØNX.

  • Can you introduce yourself and tell us where you’re from?

    I’m FØNX and I’m from the UK. I currently live in a town by the sea not too far from Brighton.

  • How would you describe your sound?

    I’d describe my sound as soulful guitar-driven, lyrical music with hints of RnB and Jazz.

  • When did you first realize you wanted to be a musician?

    I’ve always wanted to be an artist from a young age when I was listening to Eminem and writing lyrics at school. I then moved on from that and very slowly found my voice and starting song writing. I think it’s always something I’ve wanted to pursue but once I got into The Brit School some years later to study music that was when I said to myself this is what I’m going to pursue now 100%.

  • When did you begin writing songs?

    I was always writing lyrics and making backing tracks from an early age but I think I probably wrote my first ‘proper’ song when I was about 14 – which nobody ever has to hear!
  • What is your songwriting process like?

    Always random. I’ve gone through phases of being obsessed with the production of songs and thinking I’ve got to be creating the most cutting edge thing you’ve ever heard to be noticed. But, I think I’ve learned now that longevity comes from the song writing not what synths you’re using, and people connect with ‘songs’ more than anything else so I’m baring that in mind when I write now.

    I’m always recording notes into my phone with ideas so usually this is how I get ideas rolling for songs or themes.

  • Who has influenced you musically (& personally)?

    Many artists, but I’d say of late John Mayer, George Benson and D’Angelo have influenced me just in terms of being inspired by their music and their musicianship.

    My Dad has also been a big influence with introducing me to so many amazing artist’s and albums over the years. He’s also a musician so there’s always been a constant stream of music playing around me.

  • What is your favorite song to perform live?

    At the moment it’s a brand new song I’ve written called ‘Feels For You’ as it was inspired by someone I met recently. It’s always your latest creation that is your favourite as it’s new and exciting. I actually performed this song live for the first time while the person who inspired this song was in the audience…bit nerve-racking!

  • Your latest release, ‘Come On Over,’ has a mellow, jazzy, R&B vibe to it & talks about heartbreak and the struggle to move on from a relationship. How important is it for you to pour personal experiences into your songwriting and maybe drawing from the experiences of others to relate to your audience?

    It’s hugely important for me as I really don’t want to be singing songs that don’t mean anything to me. I’ve had people push me to write songs quickly in the past and you just end up writing fictitious stories which mean nothing to you and at the end of the day and I’d much prefer to know exactly why I wrote a song and who was in my mind while writing it. So I’m just taking my time and when I feel strongly enough about something I’ll write about it.

  • Do you have any upcoming projects we should keep our eyes (& ears) open for?

    I will be releasing a new single in the not too distant future which I’m very excited about as this one is definitely more upbeat than ‘Come on Over’ and I’m also busy working on an EP which I plan to release in the New Year. I’m producing the EP myself so this is taking a lot of time and patience and is something I’ve never done with the FØNX project before.

  • Where can everyone find you online?

    You can find me on all usual social media and stores but if you’re on Spotify go follow me there and if you use Facebook, Instagram or Twitter, you can also find me there at /fonxmusic.

Interview: New Boy Band 4TH AVE – Initiation EP Drops Today!

IMG_1642Hello there!

I had the chance to speak with up-and-coming boy band 4TH AVE about their new EP, Initiation, which is out today! We talk ABC’s Boy Band, how the band was formed, their musical influences, and more.

4TH AVE is made up of Camry Jackson, Jaden Gray, Marcus Pendleton and Mikey Jimenez

If you weren’t already aware, I featured 4TH AVE as one of my ‘Artist to Watch’ posts back when they were first introduced. Their sound is so organic and soulful and fun. Not to even mention the level of maturity and talent these young men possess. You can check out that original post HERE. Now, I’m not trying to say, “I told you so,” but . . . (I told you so).

  • Can you introduce yourselves to those who might not be familiar with you from Boy Band?

    We are 4 individuals who came from the show Boy Band on ABC. The judges were Timbaland, Nick Carter, and Emma Bunton. On the show every week we competed against each other in different groups throughout the season. Unfortunately we didn’t make it to the final band, but we were blessed enough to make our own, titled 4th Ave!

  • How did the decision to form 4th Ave come about? Was this something that was discussed prior to the show ending? I also want to high five you all for your maturity throughout the process of Boy Band and the unveiling of the final five.

    Thank you! After the finale, Timbaland came up to all of us on stage and said he felt that we should be a group. He knew that each of us had something special, and together we’d be unstoppable! We are so very humbled that he input his opinion into our hearts. It was the best choice we could’ve ever made!

  • What has the song writing/recording process been like so far?

    Before the show, each of us had some type of familiarity of singing in the studio, song writing, and singing front of big crowds. So when that process began to come our way it was a breeze due to the fact that we had been doing it for some time.

  • Did you get a say on which songs were going to be chosen for your first EP, Initiation? How many songs have you recorded so far?

    Yes, we had a major say as to which songs were able to be on the first EP! Of course with the help of our manager Jared Rosenberg, and Musical Director Adam Blackstone, we were able to make the eight choices as to which should be on it. In addition to that, we have recorded at least 19-21 songs!

  • What do you hope fans take away from the EP?

    From this EP, we hope that fans take away the raw emotion and passion we put into it! We want them to experience the life of the songs, just as we did when we were singing/writing them! This EP is an emotional roller coaster!

  • Since the formation of 4th Ave, you’ve performed back up for Charlie Puth on national television and you took part in a performance at the March for Our Lives event in Washington, D.C. How excited are you to finally be going out on tour with your own music and your own fans that have been patiently waiting for this for the past year?

    What an honor it was to be able to perform behind Charlie Puth on the Voice, and Vic Mensa on March For Our Lives! It’s quite unreal being that we’ve only been a band for 7-8 months, and we are so humbled. Now that we are going on our own tour, with our own music, the only thing that goes through our mind is wow this is really happening this early. We never would’ve thought the ball would get rolling this early!

  • You’ve had incredible fan interactions since your formation. How important is that to you?

    Fan interaction is our main focus. In fact we don’t even call them fans, we call them our supporters! They are so important because they keep us going, and they support us no matter what. If there is a meet and greet, they are there, if an EP comes out, they buy it, and if there is a concert, they are there, etc. So we love them with all of our heart!

  • Who are your musical influences? Who would you like to work with in the future?

    Individually we have many, but as a group they would have to be:Boys To Men, Michael Jackson, Usher, Chris Brown, Bruno Mars, Justin Timberlake, and Justin Bieber just to name a few.

  • Can you let your fans know of any upcoming projects to look out for?

    As of right now continue to share our new EP! Lookout for our first Tour, and after tour we may have quite a few surprises for you as well!

  • Where can people find you online?

    4th Ave Music on all social platforms!
    Website | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube

 

IMG_1643

 

Interview: Alternative/Pop Rock Band, SHALLOW POOLS

bluedot5_edit1
Photo Credit: shallow pools

Good morning, music lovers!

I recently had the chance to speak with SHALLOW POOLS about their band and their music. Shallow Pools is an alternative/pop rock band made up of three amazingly talented female musicians out of Massachusetts and they’re definitely a band to keep your eye on! Check out the interview and their social media links below:

  • Can you introduce yourselves and describe your roles in the band?

    Jess plays guitar, Ali plays drums and Glynnis sings and plays bass!

  • How would you describe your sound?

    We’re definitely a mix of pop rock and alternative!

  • What made you decide to transition from playing acoustic covers to playing originals?

    We started out playing acoustic covers for fun. Once we started getting more serious and playing in front of small crowds, we realized that we wanted to be playing our own music. We just had to learn to play together first before we could start writing together!

  • What was the songwriting process like?

    Jess usually comes up with guitar parts first, and then the drums and bass come after. We almost always work on melodies and lyrics last after we have a solid instrumental! We do rearrange things in the studio, but we like to have a good demo before we record.

  • How important is it for you to draw inspiration from your own experiences in your music?

    It’s definitely important! We feel more connected to these songs than any of our old songs because the lyrics are much more personal. Hopefully other people can relate to these songs and connect with them too!

  • I love seeing a band made up of strong, talented women. How gratifying has it been to see the support for shallow pools so far, and to break that stigma that alternative bands are mostly comprised of men?

    It’s amazing! We’ve had a lot of people approach us after our shows and they seem really excited about our music. Seeing young girls especially getting excited and asking for photos and autographs is the most gratifying feeling. We’re glad that we get to play a small part in breaking the stigma. There are SO MANY talented women playing alternative music and we’ve been lucky enough to meet a lot of them through playing shows.

  • What would you like listeners to take away from your music and from you as a band?

    We hope that listeners can relate to our songs and find comfort in knowing that other people go through similar experiences. We also want people to know that we really want our shows to be inclusive and welcoming spaces.

  • Do you have any upcoming projects or plans for shallow pools that fans should be on the lookout for?

    Our next single “Sinking” is coming out 8/24 and hopefully an EP in the fall! We have a bunch of shows booked over the next few months and all of the dates can be found on our social media!

  • Where can fans find you online?

    A lot of places!!

    iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify
    Instagram: @shallowpoolsMA
    Twitter: @shallowpoolsMA
    Facebook : shallow pools
    YouTube: shallow pools
    shallowpools.com

Patrick Schwarzenegger Talks About the Emotional Journey of Being in MIDNIGHT SUN

maxresdefault

Written by Jesus Figueroa

An emotionally charged “Midnight Sun” takes on the serious topic of being in a relationship with someone with a terminal illness in a respectful manner which doesn’t engulf the entire story.

Patrick Schwarzenegger is entrusted to play Charlie, the love interest who unknowingly falls for the terminally ill Katie, played by Bella Thorne.

The emotional task Schwarzenegger takes on was massive and due to the shooting schedule became much more challenging than what the script called for.

“Unfortunately for this movie its in Vancouver and you never know when you will get sunshine, so we had a sunny day on the second day, so we filmed the whole end on the second day,” Schwarzenegger said. “All the boat scenes, the car scenes, all the stuff was filmed the second day, so that was tough.”

Finding out the end to a story driven by emotion and leading to the emotional climax which ties the entire story together which couldn’t have happened if not for the trust Schwarzenegger had for Thorne and the way they worked together to best come to the the right emotions needed for each scene.

The work between the two main stars helped to make a connection, to push each other to a new level of acting which worked for the emotions they each needed to convey.

Building a trust with director Scott Speer also made for an easier time getting into the mindset for the emotions as shooting went along, Schwarzenegger said. Allowing the director to dig into life experiences made it easier to get to the emotional state needed.

“I love a romance, a love story and obviously this isn’t your ordinary love story,” Schwarzenegger said. “It deals with a character, which is portrayed by Bella Thorne, that has a real rare genetic disease called XP, in which even the smallest amount of sunlight can be proven deadly.”

Schwarzenegger was thrilled to be the character to pull Katie out of her world and help her feel like a normal person.

Although there is precautions that Katie takes to not be in the sun while keeping a semi-normal relationship with Charlie, the movie doesn’t treat Katie’s disease as a crutch to make the audience feel pity and treats Katie and the relationship with dignity.

MIDNIGHT SUN
In Theaters Now

 

@Thisfunktional Habla Con Matias Novoa ENEMIGO INTIMO

Escrito Por Jesus Figueroa

Actor Matias Novoa habla con Jesus Figueroa, @Thisfunktional de Thisfunktional.com, de su rollo en la super serie de Telemundo “Enemigo Intimo.”

Novoa habla de su rollo en la serie, tener que ser dos personajes y mas de la super serie.

ENEMIGO INTIMO
En Telemundo Lunes A Viernes De 10p.m./9c
Follow and interact with Jesus:
Twitter – @Thisfunktional
Instagram – @Thisfunktional
Facebook – ThisfunktionalLA
Tumblr  Thisfunktional
AudioBoom – Thisfunktional
YouTube  Thisfunktional
Patreon – Thisfunktional

 

@Thisfunktional talks with Colman Domingo About FEAR THE WALKING DEAD Season 3

Written by Jesus Figueroa

Since meeting Victor Strand on “Fear the Walking Dead” audiences have seen the charismatic character go through many situations in style.

FTWD_S3_3D_BD_O-CardColman Domingo has a fantastic style of his own and is able to inject some of his own personality to his character Strand from the moment he auditioned.

“I think possibly I bring a bit of myself to the character. I know I have strong opinions about this character. It seems to be he’s in alignment with what I think Strand is style wise,” Domingo said. “That doesn’t often happen. Just when I first read the description of Victor Strand I had an idea about him, how he handles himself and how he moves through the world.”

Domingo auditioned for Strand in a bold way, showing up in an electric blue Hugo Boss suit, but it seems that the style choice has continued throughout.

There has never been a character like Victor Strand in the Walking Dead universe, the upfront style of making the unpopular decision that best fits the bigger picture makes survival the priority.

As seen through season 3, Strand uses his talents to be a useful component to everyone’s survival, but still doesn’t jeopardize the safety of himself or others who could be useful in surviving.

“I think that’s challenging for people. I tell people that if you look at the receipts of Victor Strand and all that he’s done, what he has done are very great humanitarian things,” Domingo said. “He may not give alot of information up, if he doesn’t feel he can handle it, or he will may keep you a little out of the loop in some way, if he doesn’t feel there’s any value you add to it.”

The fearlessness and resourcefulness of Strand is the reason Domingo has enjoyed playing this character. The challenges of surviving and the manner in which that brings out the morality of Strand continue to keep the character evolving in the eyes of the audience.

The relationships established by Strand come into play often in the series, from the initial meet up with Nick, and later on with Alicia, to the new found camaraderie with Madison. Strand grows closer with the Clark family because each individual brings something useful to the group and separate they are all still enough to survive.

“It’s a new way of establishing a relationship between a man and a woman. Knowing that in the apocalypse all bets are off, everything that we knew about male and female relationships are challenged because now we have to come to new agreements,”  Domingo said.

Domingo loves the fact that Strand is evolving always, and is able to switch off with Madison to be the dominant personality and lead when each one finds their strengths.

The dynamic between Strand and Madison grew in season three by then and a partnership is proposed which is much more than just something romantic, its something thats grown out of a mutual respect and love to which they each motivate each other to be their very best.

“That scene at the dam. I think thats the closest Victor is to a proposal to Madison. Of saying ‘Lets become partners, lets build something together, lets establish something for you and your kids and grow something here,'” Domingo said. “Which is an apocalyptic way of looking at things. We are re-assecing these relationships.”

Beyond the personal relationships, like many genre projects, “Fear the Walking Dead” deals with topics in the political climate by putting them in a different perspective, a more extreme perspective to give a view into the horrors that the mentality of the world can lead to.

Season 3 deals with segregation, with ownership, with survivalist making their own rules and just how much of civilized society survives when worst comes to worst.

“I think we’ve been exploring things that most television genre shows do not explore,” Domingo said. “I think season 3 has been a boarder story in many ways. About trying to get back across. In some ways we are dealing with Mexican-American relations, when there’s no borders anymore and who owns land and we are dealing with race, not even subtly.”

FEAR THE WALKING DEAD
Season 3 Available Now On Blu-ray, DVD And Digital

Season 4 Premieres On AMC April 15

Follow and interact with Jesus:
Twitter – @Thisfunktional
Instagram – @Thisfunktional
Facebook – ThisfunktionalLA
Tumblr  Thisfunktional
AudioBoom – Thisfunktional
YouTube  Thisfunktional
Patreon – Thisfunktional