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Levi Otis, a filmmaker, producer & vision of film industry!!! An exclusive interview

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Levi Otis
Leonard magazine

Journalist : Please introduce yourself!!!  –

Hello, my name is Levi Otis, I am a filmmaker

Journalist : What made you pursue a career in the film industry? 

I was in drama club while in high school where I would write and produce short plays for the students to watch during lunch, and through college I continued drama. But it wasn’t till I graduated college and moved to Californian things changed. I was in the mall with a friend and a weird looking guy approached me about doing a commercial because he like my long hair. I took his card, I was reluctant at first, but my friend told me to give him a call and glad I did because this guy was the real deal. He booked me in a Gap promo commercial. There I met other people who were actors and I started doing background work then it branched off to small roles here and there. Once day I was working production on an indie movie set where they were only paying people a slice of pizza. I did it for the credits and to network. But this person was so rude and disrespectful that people start walking off set. At that moment I knew that I wanted to create my own content and treat people with respect. By this time, I was working at a group home where the clients had more sense than the workers. I found comedy in this and created my first web series call “underpaid” I was working on another set with Doug Spearman, an actor and producer. I had met him when he was on a popular show called Noah’s Arc, he was working on his first movie and invited me to set to be background. The way he ran his set was so professional, he treated everyone with respect from the Lead to the PA and I knew that how I wanted to run my productions. This is when I knew this was what I wanted to do forever

Journalist : What qualities should film producers have?

I think the main quality would be to know your vision and be opened to making some changes along the way if need be according to budget and locations needed. And always treat your cast and crew with respect. This is important when building a loyal cast and crew

Journalist : What aspect of the career in film making do you enjoy the most?

I enjoy the concept to bringing it to life. This has some stressful moments but worth every bit of it

Journalist : What are you most proud of in your professional experience?

The way I make people feel when they see my projects, including cast and crew

Journalist : Why are you committed to discovering new directors?

I think new directors can bring new visions. Something that you didn’t even think of. And I like being in the position to give other opportunities

Journalist : What are your projects that upcoming in next ? 

KXNG D.O.P.E. I am currently shopping this, And in the next month I will be filming “The Real Nico Live” and “Case Management” season 2, then I will be finishing up writing the “BRADEN” movie

Levi Otis Levi Otis

Levi Otis – Leonard magazine official

 

 

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Entertainment

Curstin Andrews: Redefining Success in Film, One Role at a Time

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Curstin Andrews

From modest beginnings in Augusta, Georgia, Curstin Andrews has carved out a name for himself in the competitive world of acting. Now based in Atlanta, this 25-year-old artist is not just building a career—he’s building a legacy.


Starting from the Ground Up

Curstin’s first foray into acting came in late 2022 when he stepped onto set life as a background extra. While these early roles were silent, they were far from insignificant. They gave him a front-row education in the rhythm of filmmaking, helping him absorb the nuance, discipline, and dedication it takes to thrive in the entertainment world.

By March 2023, Curstin was landing speaking roles—stepping out of the background and into the spotlight. With each new project, his sense of purpose grew clearer: storytelling through character is not just a passion but his calling.


Sharpening the Craft

Determined to evolve as a performer, Curstin began formal training at Mann Robinson Studios under the instruction of Dale Jennings. His journey continued under the guidance of respected acting coaches like Louis Stancil and Lucky Johnson, both of whom helped him refine his emotional range, presence, and authenticity on screen.


On-Screen Journey

From emotionally charged dramas to intense thrillers, Curstin’s growing résumé speaks to his versatility and drive.

🎬 Feature Films

  • Pure Pain (Lead) – Directed by Toine South

  • Trapoligy (Lead) – Directed by Micheal

  • My Killer Ex-Girlfriend (Supporting) – Directed by Johnathan Milton

  • Ryder The Movie (Supporting) – Directed by Jaloni Jackson

  • Illijah (Supporting) – Now streaming on Tubi

  • House of Hope (Supporting) – Directed by Marques Womack

  • Additional credits: Twisted Love, Bottle Girl, Callie, Three the Hard Way, and more.

🎥 Short Films

  • Who’s There (Lead) – Directed by Alexis Morrison

  • Blooming Hearts (Supporting) – Directed by Jasmine Alexander

  • Love on Delay (Supporting) – Directed by Jayla Re’Shon

📺 Television

  • Ms. Pat Settles It – Co-starred in an episode by 495 Productions

  • BMF (Season 3) – Stand-in role on STARZ

  • The House & Collective Trust – Co-starred

📣 Commercial & Music Appearances

  • Appeared in an Old Spice commercial as a prom-going teen

  • Starred in Derrico’s music video Do Not Disturb


Beyond Acting: A Visionary with a Business Mindset

More than just a performer, Curstin is an entrepreneur in the making. He’s the founder of a film production company and has future plans to build a full-service studio. His mission? To create access for underrepresented voices and open doors for new talent across the South.


What’s Ahead

With fame looming, Curstin remains focused on the bigger picture. While he strives for A-list status, his deeper goal is to be a catalyst for change—both on and off the screen. Whether through impactful stories or mentorship, Curstin Andrews wants to shape a more inclusive and dynamic entertainment industry.


Curstin Andrews is not just acting—he’s architecting a future. From breakout roles in Illijah, House of Hope, and Blooming Hearts to his ambitious behind-the-camera pursuits, this rising star’s journey is just beginning. And it’s one the film world will want to follow closely.

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Billboard Top Hip-hop

The Music Industry’s Hidden Gem: James Artissen

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James Artissen

American Singer, Songwriter, Record Producer, and Audio Engineer James Artissen also formerly known as James Worthy has long considered the name to be central to his life, and identity. It represents the dedication, and the passion towards his craft. Coming from New York, the musician attributes his hometown as a major influence on his style, and sound. Born James Allen Worthy on March 28, 1992 in Queens, New York, James began pursuing music at the age of 16. During that time period James had the opportunity to meet the late great Michael Jackson at Webster Hall in New York City which inspired James to fully pursue a career in the music business.

 

After moving to Atlanta, GA the singer, songwriter, and producers first musical experience was at his high school recording studio through a music mentoring program sponsored by Dallas Austin. His initial foray into music consisted of learning the art of songwriting which later turned into music production shortly after. Artissen was also highly influenced by artists such as: A Tribe Called Quest, Whodini, Kanye West, Miguel, The Weeknd, and Pharrell Williams. While studying those artists he began to teach himself how to sing in 2009. To further his education, he attended The Art Institute of Atlanta where he received a bachelor’s degree in audio production. This helped him begin working, and placing his work with mainstream acts, and songwriters. 

 
In 2017, James transitioned from music production to artistry and began recording himself. He joined a duo group named Kings X2, and released their debut single “Wine For Me” in september of 2017. The single peaked at #10 on the US Billboard Hot Single Sales Chart for 5 weeks. Later in 2018 the group disbanded, and James released his debut solo single “Move” which features the rap group Whodini. Following up to 2019 James released his anticipated EP “Blu Leisure” which became critically acclaimed upon its release.
The project included guest appearances from: Tony Terry, Sonna Rele, Kalenna Harper, and Whodini. After its great success he released his sophomore EP “Kaleidoscopes”, and in 2023 he joined forces with rapper Big Gipp of the rap group Goodie Mob to release their collaborative EP “Gipp N Worthy”. The lead single “TOTW” peaked at #91 on the US Billboard R&B Digital Sales Chart also charting at the #1 position on the Amazon Best Sellers Chart. Within all of James’s work he has been nominated for several Grammy Awards by working with names such as: Meek Mill, Justin Bieber, Robin S., 112, Raphael Saadiq, and so many others to name. In 2024 James launched his own label imprint Humble Sound Record in conjunction with Sony Orchard. The label houses artists such as: B Angie B, Robin S., Tynisha Keli, Sophia Habib, Shaynah, and Truth Hurts.
Related Artists:

Ty Dolla $ign

Tory Lanez

6LACK

PartyNextDoor

Khalid

The Weeknd 

 

Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/jamesartissen/

https://www.twitter.com/jamesartissen

https://www.facebook.com/jamesartissenmusic

https://www.tiktok.com/@jamesartissen

Streaming:

https://www.youtube.com/@jamesartissenmusic

https://www.soundcloud.com/jamesartissen

https://open.spotify.com/artist/1cP5EevOlhJqtyk75ZEvMO?si=hLxyQlduShqK_1H26n_qqQ

https://music.apple.com/us/artist/james-artissen/1820494478

https://jamesartissenmusic.bandcamp.com

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Billboard Top Hip-hop

Marc “Mayjah” Payne Elevates in the game with New Album Levels of Payne, Featuring Rap Icon Shorty T and Kung Fu Rasta Sifu Bosco

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Marc “Mayjah” Payne Elevates in the game with New Album Levels of Payne, Featuring Rap Icon Shorty T and Kung Fu Rasta Sifu Bosco

LOS ANGELES, CA – Rising hip-hop artist and social media influencer Marc “Mayjah” Payne unveils his latest studio album, Levels of Payne, a boundary-pushing musical journey that blends West Coast lyricism, Southern grit, and Caribbean soul. With high-profile features from New Orleans rap legend Shorty T and St. Lucia’s reggae ambassador Sifu Bosco, this project solidifies Mayjah Payne’s position as one of the most dynamic new voices in global hip-hop.

Hailing from the West Side of Los Angeles, Mayjah Payne built his reputation not only as a gifted lyricist but also as a multi-talented producer and storyteller. Known for using hip-hop as his artform to speak on life, struggle, and ambition, he’s no stranger to growth. Levels of Payne reflects that evolution—a matured, sharpened sound fused with international influence and raw authenticity.

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The album’s standout track, “Don’t Mean Nothin,” pairs Mayjah’s slick bars with Shorty T’s Southern bounce and storytelling, forming a gritty anthem about surviving through adversity and rising to the top. Meanwhile, “Ashes To Ashes, Dust to Dust” brings a melodic twist as Sifu Bosco’s reggae harmonies flow effortlessly with Mayjah’s laid-back delivery, celebrating heritage, unity, and peace through music.

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With Levels of Payne, Mayjah Payne continues to expand his creative legacy. His previous projects have earned airplay on over 72 radio stations and charted Top 40 on 34 of them, and this latest release is already generating buzz across streaming platforms. Known for his high-energy performances and verified Instagram reach, Mayjah is taking this project worldwide to connect with audiences from California to the Caribbean.

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Critics are already calling Levels of Payne his most complete and ambitious work to date. “This is for the art – this is for the culture,” says Payne. “It’s not just about where I’m from—it’s about where we’re all going. Music should bring people together. That’s what this album is all about.”

Levels of Payne is now available on Spotify, Apple Music, and TIDAL. For fans of authentic hip-hop with a global heartbeat, this album is a must-listen.

Follow Marc “Mayjah” Payne on Instagram and other social media platforms @MayjahPayne and visit www.mayjahpayne.com for interviews, bookings, and press inquiries.

Watch “The Streets Don’t Love You” from the project “Levels of Payne” here below on the @MayjahPayne instagram page.

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DIwPzkCpCYF/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==

 

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https://youtube.com/shorts/4qYqCxgD4aw?si=fJSKbSiN4j3_kPci

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