Getting Close UP!

Episode 10 features a group of childhood friends who've found commonality and creativity playing together in their band, The Blast Monkeys.

Check out this interview to find out some of the tricks of the music business trade.  Having issues with collaborating, keeping up with social media content or just figuring out how to communicate to each other .  This episode will surely give some insight into those answers and more.

You can check out the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel:

https://youtu.be/yzZd5_Vtzx8?si=WHdFIOX-n-1SZbDV 

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Our next guest is yet another creative who studied sound engineering in college (noticing a theme?) and is an exceptional musician! Alex Thomas has blessed us with his presence in the purple chairs.

Alex and Danielle get into his beginnings in music, his inspiration to change a major in jazz to sound engineering and his world wide exposure to different experiences that have shaped who he's becoming as a well rounded, humble talent.

You can also check out the video version of this episode on our YouTube Channel:

https://youtu.be/zaNymd-keUs 

Starting out as an actor at a very young age he gravitated to live performance like a moth to a flame, let me introduce you to Cam Burns.

Cam calls into the show from St. Louis, Mo to get in it with Danielle as they talk the beginnings of a dream that morphed into a reality. Now writing and producing his own music while going to Webster University to study songwriting and sound engineering, Cam is a phenomenal creative with a unique viewpoint of his artistry.

You can also check out the video version of...

Well this isn't the first time you've seen this guest in the purple chairs, he also hosted our Season 4 Retro Show.

Let's welcome host of SprinkleSumSalt Podcast, Mr. Bump Jonas. Giving us insight into the motivation that fuels his desire to provide a platform for the hiphop community, he and Danielle get into the depths of his origin story, which provides the foundation for everything else he does. I

f you've ever been on his podcast or performed at The Mecca, then you will not want to miss this episode. It is sure to let...

We've had a lot of artist with alot of experiences as they are running the race to obtain their dreams. In this episode we have Sweet Caroline Skye who has been in the game for a minute, and the experiences she shares with us is a darker side of the industry than we've heard thus far.

Going now by the name of Bae, she and Danielle talk a lot about her early years with dreams of becoming a star and how the traumatic circumstance she was faced with tried to crush her spirit. The one thing about...

Content creator, fashion designer, entrepreneur and the Morehouse College Official Host Isaiah Evans also know by his YouTube page ‪@zaisteppa‬

Being only 19, this young man has been places others are trying to get. Starting his content creating at the early age of 11, he has produced videos of his match making talents (make sure you check out his Game Time, you'll understand what we're talking about) to his displays of college shenanigans, all combined with his faith based lifestyle.

Danielle has such a great time with Isaiah as she interviews him all the way from Hotlanta! Make...

Bedazzled, Repurposed, Customized and in Honor Of describe the DIY fashions from Trunks Up Apparel.

Designer Terrae Porter sits down with Host Danielle Cox to give us a glimpse into the inspiration that lead to his aspirations into the fashion industry. In partnership with his brother Trin, the two have managed to let memories so dear live on through their philanthropy.

You can also see the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel at:

https://youtu.be/lUMoNQ1ktRs  

Imagine waking up one morning and realizing your aspirations of a perfect life has been overcome with dreams of runways and recording booths.

Our guest for episode 3 is singer, songwriter and fashion designer Noye'. Danielle and Noye' get close up and personal as they discuss childhood trauma giving way to melodic storytelling written not only for her own projects but the desire to lend her stoke of the pen to others.

You can also see the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel at:

https://youtu.be/R0Kvi7VZObg   

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If you've ever talked to Danielle you know that she has an affinity with two specific creatives...............authors and artists.

Welcome to episode 2 of season 5 which introduces us to Kitty, a well known artist here in the Kansas City area, known for collaborative live art sessions at concerts and open mics around town. She introduces us to some of her own unique creations and gives some insight into the inspirations that become her art.

You can also see the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel at:

https://youtu.be/PFg5...

Season 5, Season 5, Season 5, Season 5, Season 5, Season 5, Season 5

Can you believe we started this talk show 2 years ago, trying to find guest amongst people we know?  Now we have a whole community of creatives that we can call upon to tell their unique stories and display their unique gifts.   

Our first guest of Season 5 is a well known artist in the community and someone who has become a member of the GCU! family.  Please welcome Joshua James Warren of Joshua James and The First Aid Kit.

Don't miss this episode!  Danielle and Joshua James reall...

We've reached the end of season 4, ending with a creative who's walk through life led down the black and white path of Kansas straight to the yellow brick road to Dream Street.

Betting on himself, Lucas Carpenter uprooted his comfy, cozy, safe surroundings to follow his dream to be come a film producer; leaving Kansas for the bright lights of NY. Lucas and Danielle touch on his inspiring journey. From miraculously overcoming from birth, to maintaining that same strength and determination to fulfill his life's ambitions.

You can also see the video version of this...

There is such a negative connotation when referring to someone a two faced, but what about when someone is referred to as the man with one thousand and one faces? Well let's meet him...............welcome to the purple chairs Michael McQuary.

Host Danielle Cox and Mr. Michael McQuary go back in time to the days of old Hollywood, the New York Club Kid scene and the years of impersonation that have defined Michael as the great talent he is. You'll be enthralled with his stories of his journey, make sure you check out this interview!

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Bugzy Beast, Gnotezz, King Kihei and Antonio J are the special guest who makeup the S4E9 Panel Show.

You can only image what it’s like bringing 4 different rappers with different experiences at different places in their career to talk on all the different topics that define who an artist is.

Host Danielle Cox and our 4 guest present to you………theRapper Panel.

You can also see the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/8OkEoF35cKU?si=7o73oKMc4Y_d0yr_

If you remember the Band Leader panel show from Season 3 (episode 11) then you will surely remember our S4E8 guest, songstress Frankie Lynn Shorez.

Host Danielle Cox and Frankie getting into new conversations regarding building a fan base, being an artist and manager, new singles and being the odd woman out in a family of athletes; culminating in the ability to take all her experiences and wrap them up in deep, thought provoking, healing lyrics.

You can also see the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/eNLXPY7m1wo...

How do you come up with a name like Delilah Sugarwood, well it involves a bird, a condominium and some great advice from a friend.

Tune into this episode and find the answer to the riddle as Host Danielle Cox and Delilah Sugarwood embark on an exciting transformation that helps us understand the magical, colorful world of Delilah Sugarwood!

You can also see the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel:  https://youtu.be/ndc8LBvnatY

Batman has his gadgets, Tony Stark has his technology. Who do you get when you combine both with music,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,Jansen Wooten.

In the wake of Danielle's summer illness guest host Antonio J steps in to introduce us to the newest superhero of sonic compositions, exploring the different instruments (some purchased and some home made) and the training and techniques acquired to master each.

This is a different take on exploring the world of an independent artist.

You can also check out the video version of this episode: https://youtu.be/RtT9GDShQo8

Season 4, episode 5 brings a new ingredient to the GCU! recipe.

Meet Chef Christina Clark. Her egg rolls, her, dumplings, and oh to taste her fried rice (she made it in the studio during this episode); it's no wonder she is the at the top of the food chain when someone is looking for a personal chef.

Danielle and Christina talk about the decisions to pursue a career in the creative design of food and her aspirations of taking control of her own destiny.

You can also check out the video version of this...

Have you ever met someone who can do it all? Well let Danielle introduce you to Markus Raines.

He's a rapper, he's a singer, he's an actor, he's a producer, he's a writer (shall I go on?). Having all of these talents under his belt, you can only image where this interview goes.

Danielle and Markus get deep down into each and every one of these EGOT defining gifts with a very deep insight into an artist mind, body and soul.

You can also check out the video version of this episode: https...

Zach, Aaron and Duncan are our special guest.  Together their individual musical gifts create an eclectic sound that will take you through a time warp of musical vision.  Welcome Cat Voltron!

Danielle and the boys explore the origin of how their name was chosen  and how it defines their sound  and style.  They dive into the music and the business behind it.  You also may get some news about a new EP that should drop right around when this episode is airs. Make sure you check it out when it comes out!!

You can also check...

Today's artist is a phenomenal talent. Andrea Tribitt is a singer a songwriter, an entrepreneur, a motivational speaker, a counselor, a mother, a sister and mentor all wrapped up with a new start on life.

Danielle and Andrea talk about her creative nature, her being a part of the grammy award winning gospel group "The Sound of Blackness" and venture into her other creative endeavor such as "Drea's Naughty Nuts"

If you are in need of inspiration, and realization of self-worth, then you will really enjoy this interview.

You can also check out...

And we are back!!!  Season 4 opens with a unique individual of whom Danielle describes as an "Experience".  Welcome Luke "Skippy" Harbur of Music by Skippy.

Beatbox professional, singer, songwriter, music producer, theatrical producer and the list goes on and on.  Growing up with a rare condition but given a second chance at life to become the showman we meet today, Danielle and Skippy dive deep into the music business and the unique creative experience known as "Music by Skippy"

You can also check out the video version of this episode:

https://yohttps://youtu.be...

Welcome to the end of season 3! We would like to thank you guys for supporting our efforts as we work to give the creative community a voice.

Episode 11 is something new that we tried as we gathered several Kansas City creative to talk about what it means to be a Band Leader.

Join Host Danielle Cox as she sits down with Jamogi, Joshua James, Rachel McMillan and Frankie Lynn Shorez to find out what it takes to guide other musical creatives.

You can also check out the video version of this episode: https...

Have you ever wondered what success is? Songstress, actress and bandleader LeShea Wright helps us to understand, it's not about the money, but the ability to do the things you love the most!

Danielle and LeShea talk about the early beginnings of being a part of a musical family and finding a way to become an individual powerhouse talent.  Check out episode 10 of season 3.  This interview is sure to open your eyes to a versatile talent known as LeShea Wright.

You can also check out the video version of this episode:

https://youtu.be...

Episode 9 brings Danielle face to face with one of the most fearless artist, unafraid to share all that he is through his musical poetry. Let's welcome Real As Ever.

Whether he is rapping or singing, you can't deny the taking a walk through the journey of his life as you listen to each song. You are surely to find solas in knowing that you aren't the only one who has had lived through the multiple chapters that are outlined as our day to day.

You can also check out the video version of this episode:<...

All the way from Florida, our guest on episode 8 is a songwriter, producer, singer, and one-man band who goes by the name "Misty Island"

Let's meet the man behind the band, Brandon Davis. He and Danielle talk musical influences and how creating a sound that others don't understand has helped him find his tribe,

You can also check out the video version of this episode: https://youtu.be/OHdH54FhPJM

Season 3 Episode 7 features a new creative we've not yet featured on the show. Welcome videographer, businessman and owner of fN Scene Productions; Michael Drone.

Danielle and Michael sit down to talk about betting it all on oneself and the tenacity and determination to turn your creativity into a sustaining source of life giving sustenance.

You can also check out the video version of this episode:  https://youtu.be/DZ0YKA8LZbw

You are creative............

You are independent................

You walk to the beat of your own drum..................

Ever have trouble describing yourself? Look no further, our guest today falls into the above categories, defining his personality as "Swoovi"

Host Danielle Cox and Zack "Swoovi" Hoskins get into the depths of how you can also become Swoovi.

You can also check out the video version of this episode:  https://youtu.be/hmldMmT6gGQ

Ever thought about starting your own fashion line?  Ever wonder what it takes to make it happen?  Check out this episode of Getting Close UP! as host Danielle Cox sits down with CEO and designer of Pacific Coast Supply Clothing, Brandon Kennedy.

Brandon shares with you his transformation from dancer, rapper to now a fashion designer

You can also check out the video version of this episode: https://youtu.be/_fgSGniA1h0

Welcome to Season 3 Episode 4 as host Danielle Cox explores the home town of President Truman; finding a community based, non-for-profit haven for creatives.

Russ Hill is the sound engineer and event coordinator for live events at the Englewood Arts center; where many of the musical guest that have appeared on our show have performed.

Check out this interesting and informative interview.  You can also check out the video version of this episode:  https://youtu.be/-xuMLCBTvsY

Getting Close UP! S3E3 finds us exploring another Oprah moment with singer, songwriter Delaney.

Mother with mental challenges, growing up with abandonment issues, and being plagued with self-doubt of her own gift; host Danielle Cox and Delaney get into the depths of her psyche to understand where all the emotions come from in her music and lyrics.

"If you want to get to know her personally, all you have to do is listen to her songs."

You can also check out the video version of this episode: https://youtu.be/ljII1x9...

Getting Close UP! S3E2 brings us face to face with a new artist with an eclectic style and sound. Meet Baby Augi.

Growing up with no notion of pursuing music, Baby Augi finds himself at a crossroad that opens his creative inclinations to help others by telling personal stories of his own plight.

Host Danielle Cox and Baby Augi take an in-depth look at his journey and give you an insight of how life becomes art.

You can also check out the video version:  https://youtu.be/jMMi37--yeU

Welcome to Season 3 of Getting Close UP! We start off this season with a very talented cast of talented characters who make up the band Psycho Mismatch.

Each member coming from a different musical background, each member plays multiple instruments and each member holding on to a dream to use their talents for the love of using their talents. Host Danielle Cox and Psycho Mismatch explore the definition of this band and how their gift in music is used to create something totally new.

You can also check out the video version of this episode:  h...

Season 2 Episode 7 introduces you to rapper, storyteller and now..........singer, Bugzy Beast!

Join Danielle and Bugzy in this hilarious interview (maybe Bugzy should try comedy to) as they get into the ins and outs of defining someone wanting to embark on a music career vs. just being a rapper.

I hope you walk away with a better understanding of the drive and commitment it takes to forge a path in this industry; and don't forget to pay close attention to the expectations when another artist wants to collaborate with you.....great insight!!!

Getting Close UP! Season 2, Episode 1 welcomes Antonio J; rapper, songwriter and producer.

Join Danielle as she gets up close and personal with Antonio J; digging deep into motivations, oppositions and the influence family has on the path that has been laid to express self-reflection in rhythm and rhyme.

As we are quickly approaching the end of Season 2, our Episode 8 allows us to switch up from music to a different type of creative.

Steven Hooks Jr. is an entrepreneur, owning. his on Image Consulting, Event Planning, Production Company.

Join Danielle and Steven as he allows a glimpse into his world as he delves into his beginnings, challenges, triumphs, culminating into his future endeavors.

Season 2 Episode 5 introduces us to comedian and promoter Barton Richardson, better known on stage as B-Rich.

Traveling across the world, from comedy venues to Def Jam comedy specials, B-Rich shares intimate details about what it takes to be a stand-up comedian; dropping gems of knowledge for any of you out there trying to break into the business.

Don't miss this episode, it is truly one of the most informative interviews thus far.

Getting Close UP! Season 2, Episode 3 welcomes Alan Kneeland; owner of The Combine at 2999 Troost Ave, Kansas City Mo, and the first African American President of The Greater Restaurant Association.

Danielle and Alan have an in-depth conversation about having passion that intertwines with a dream that results in establishing. your own business that feeds the most hungry connoisseur of pizza to also investing in the local independent artist and creative community.

Check out this episode and make sure you visit The Combine and get some of the best pizza in KC; oh and don't forget to...

Season 2 Episode 6 introduces you to a singer, songwriter, producer and entertainer who's ambition and vision cannot be contained in a musical box.

Danielle and Jamogi go memory deep into how, growing up as a church boy, moving from California to Kansas City and a family migrating from Belize to the US, has influenced his musical creations.

This episode is sure to inspire anyone with aspirations of becoming an artist or creative regardless of the outlet.

Talented, Original, Innovative, Unafraid, Unique, Uninhibited, Self-Aware are just a few words to describe our S2E9 guest; Zee Underscore.

Growing up in a musical family, going to a performance arts school and finding her voice while pursuing a career some might think of as contradictory to her creative nature, this independent creative sits down with Danielle in an episode of discovery (or what I refer to as Danielle's Oprah moments).

Welcome singer and songwriter Zee Underscore to the stage!!!

Season 2 Episode 4 brings to you a dynamic musical duo; Melinda Edlin and Oliver Hughes make up the group Madness & Melody.

Accomplished singers and songwriter in their own right, found themselves on a colliding path of devastation and unfortunate that brought then together to combine their talents and tales that create a unique melody all their own!

Join Danielle as she gets into what makes them a great collaboration.