...YRB Gets Controversial...
NEW YORK – July 14, 2008 - YRB Magazine releases its Politics Issue, #84, guaranteed to spark up conversation and indefinite controversy. The issue revolves around the upcoming presidential election from the point of view of hip-hop stars, musicians, young wounded Iraqi veterans, and every day people. Featured artists and rap legend Nas takes the cover, and features include The Game, Morgan Spurlock, Serj Tankian and Emmanuel Jal. The Politics Issue is sure to press some buttons, open some eyes, and offer guidance to people craving real insight to tough issues our country is faced with.
The upcoming issue tackles the tough world of politics, and in true YRB fashion, it is a no holds bar debate. The issue covers everything from a break down of hard-hitting issues, the war in Iraq , cool ways to support your favorite candidates, and how to wear your heart on your sleeve with politically incorrect fashion statements.
The following features are broken down in the issue:
YRB Radar introduces readers to the latest up-and-coming artists in the music world. These individuals all represent different parts of the music industry, as well as different parts of the world, and will be making their mark on us soon. Artists include jazz sensation Esperanza Spalding, hipster rappers The Knux, Estonia pop star Kerli, Akon prodigy Colby O-Donis, and hip-hop rock MC's Saturday Knights.
YRB Profiles rapper Emanuel Jal, Boston band Street Dogs, reality TV winner from Survivor Africa winner Ethan Zohn and independent documentary filmmaker Morgan Spurlock to ask them tough questions about their personal views on the condition of our country, and what they are doing to help make the world a better place.
The Game talks to YRB about everything from growing up in Compton , how his California roots shape his identity and the rap he creates, as well as his run ins with the law. He discusses how he is changing with the times and how his music will reflect that.
Nas is interviewed about his 9th and most controversial album to date, and his justification behind focusing it around the "N" word. The motivation behind the album is about uniting people, regardless of race or ethnicity, while not caring who he offends in the process. He offers his political opinions and hopes for the future election.
The Voices section is sure to hit an emotional note by showcasing young wounded Iraqi veterans, and the hardships they have endured off and on the battle field. These veterans let loose by giving us a true insight as to what their struggles were, as well as how they have changed physically and emotionally as a result. Also, regular, everyday people give us their views on everything from the War in Iraq , President Bush, who they think would make the best future president, and more.
Top 20 Ways to Spark Change by Johnny Mundo offers advice to wannabe advocates of the political world to get involved and ways to achieve positive change. Ways include Going Green, Get Rowdy at a Protest, Don't End Up in Jail, and more.
As always, YRB has the sickest graphics and the best of what's new on the art scene in their Visual Anarchy section. The politically driven artwork represents the artists' views (and dismays) of our current economic status. These pieces show the struggles everyday Americans endure, from rising gas and oil prices, to oppression and widespread political corruption.
In addition to the special features in the Political Issue, YRB shares with you its album, gadget/electronic, and video game reviews keeping readers on the cutting edge of technology and music and the latest must haves they can't live without.
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Press inquires please contact Erika Shantz at Lizzie Grubman PR at erika@grubmanpr.com or 212-966-5000 xt 111
