Museum of Light and Fusicology Form Content Partnership

The Museum of Light digital platform that explores the alchemy of the artists’ journey teams with Fusicology to create a content partnership.

Beginning this month, Fusicology, the lifestyle marketing boutique agency, will share on its sites the Museum of Light’s exclusive interviews and custom memes featuring poignant quotes about the creative process. The brands will also collaborate on new original content.

Asya Shein, Fusicology Founder and Publisher, says the brands share a common vision. “A partnership between Fusicology and The Museum of Light truly is a great fit as both brands envelop and help nurture next-level talent for the Global Soul Movement,” she says. “We felt a kinship with their team immediately and see us working together as the next step to assisting in spreading the word on the lifestyle we embrace and help market. We look forward to nurturing the collaborative efforts to help uplift and bridge the gaps and build the community.”

The Museum of Light Producer Billy Johnson Jr. is excited about working with the agency. “Our goal with The Museum of Light has always been to promote intelligent dialogue about creating art, so Fusicology is a great place for us to showcase our work,” he says. “There is such a rich quality to the features on their site and social media pages. We are honored to be working together.”

The Museum of Light Producer Joslyn Rose Lyons is grateful for the opportunity to partner with such an respected brand. “We are excited to be expanding our content and partnerships,” she says. “Our intention with The Museum of Light is to inspire and go beyond what we see. That’s where the light lives. Fusicology represents the soul of the progressive lifestyle and we are excited to be working with such an inspiring brand.”

The Museum of Light will soon announce the details of its forthcoming podcast series and, in December, will launch a 2016 countdown, highlighting its best content of the year.

The Museum of Light has produced exclusive content on the likes of Robert Glasper, Hamilton actor Daveed Diggs and Empire star and singer V.Bozeman. The project is curated by Billy Johnson Jr., Joslyn Rose Lyons, Rafael Casal, Malik Buie, Matt Smith, and Adell Henderson.

Chloe x Halle Light Up Concert

Fresh off of Beyoncé's Formation World Tour, soul sisters Chloe x Halle, headlined a back-to-school event Saturday at the Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza in Los Angeles. The teen duo's empowering message resonated with fans who arrived hours before their concert and happily waited in line for an hour to get an autograph and to take selfies with the talented artists.

"I don't let my kids listen to everything, but they can listen to you guys. Thank you," one mother told the group after taking photos for her daughter who was not able to attend.

The teens customized their setlist for the youth concert that included their songs "Drop," "Fall," and "Thunder," among others. Before performing each track, they offered inspiring words to the kids in attendance, telling them to excel in school and to pursue their dreams.

After the show, The Museum of Light was granted exclusive access to interview the singers-songwriters-musicians at the event that also featured appearances from actresses Jillian Estell (Black or White), Desreta Jackson (The Color Purple), Lil Raucy, Aliyah Maulden, and others. 

Chloe x Halle's debut EP Sugar Symphony is available on Beyoncé's Parkwood Entertainment. The Museum of Light's video interview with Chloe x Interview will be dropping soon.

You can also find this story and others from The Museum of Light at RESPECT Magazine.The Museum of Light is curated by: 
Billy Johnson Jr., Joslyn Rose Lyons, Adell Henderson, Rafael Casal, Matt Smith, Malik Buie.

Photos: Chris Contreras

Alchemy in Motown

The Museum of Light was granted exclusive access to interviews with the acts on Motown’s label at a July showcase held at Capitol Records in Los Angeles. The acts who are defined as The New Definition of Soul talked to The Museum of Light about their journey as artists and shared their reflections on alchemy.

In this special series Alchemy in Motown Mila J, Sebaastian Kole, and Kevin Ross will share their thoughts on becoming a star, not in the sense of “fame” but in the sense of alchemy.

Alchemy in Motown will be debuting online with The Museum of Light and Respect Magazine this summer!

You can also find this story and others from The Museum of Light at RESPECT Magazine.

For more info on The Light visit:
https://instagram.com/museumoflight/
https://twitter.com/museumoflight

The Museum of Light is curated by: 
Billy Johnson Jr., Joslyn Rose Lyons, Adell Henderson, Rafael Casal, Matt Smith, Malik Buie.

Photo credit above: Chris Contreras, Danez World

V. Bozeman Uses Her Art "To Help Bring Love"

"Empire" actress and singer V.Bozeman isn't just striking visually, she's walking in her powerful purpose.

When The Museum of Light recently spoke to her at the "Road to BET Experience" concert at the Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza, Bozeman explained that she wants to use her art to inspire.

"Nia Simone said it best," the "What Is Love" songstress told The Museum of Light producer Billy Johnson Jr. "If you're an artist on this platform and you don't use it, what good are you? I'm from a humble beginning. ... I know how vital that is."

Bozeman doesn't take her influence lightly. "Once people see us doing the right thing and using our gifts to being purposeful and helping the human condition it's always a more powerful statement than just being a celebrity," she said. "You have to remember that God gave you the gift so we are supposed to give it back. To help heal, to help mend, to help bring love and all those good great things."

You can also find this story and others from The Museum of Light at RESPECT Magazine.

The Museum of Light is curated by: 
Joslyn Rose Lyons, Billy Johnson Jr., Rafael Casal, Adell Henderson, Matt Smith, Malik Buie.

For more info on The Light visit:
https://instagram.com/museumoflight/
https://twitter.com/museumoflight

Sebastian Kole, La’Porsha Renae, and Kevin Ross Shine at Motown Showcase

Berry Gordy’s got to be proud of how the Motown brand continues to curate the best of the best. Torchbears Sebastian Kole, La’Porsha Renae, and Kevin Ross delivered incredible sets Tuesday night at Capitol Studios in Hollywood during The New Definition of Soul event hosted by their talented labelmate Mila J.

The Museum of Light was blessed to host exclusive pre-show interviews with the acts on Motown’sFacebook page. The artists discussed carrying on the label’s legacy, gave updates on their new projects, and even talked alchemy.

Kevin Ross opened at the piano with “Be Great” and brought even more inspiration with “Dream” and segued into Phil Collin’s “In the Air.” The trio closed the show with something really cool -- a rendition of Stevie Wonder’s timeless Motown classic, “Love’s In Need of Love Today.”

Motown let it’s Light shine last night. We were glad to be in the house.

The Museum of Light is curated by: 
Billy Johnson Jr., Joslyn Rose Lyons, Adell Henderson, Rafael Casal, Matt Smith, Malik Buie.

You can find this story and others from The Museum of Light at RESPECT Magazine.

Photo credit: Chris Contreras, Danez World

For more info on The Light visit:
https://instagram.com/museumoflight/
https://twitter.com/museumoflight

CURATING THE ALCHEMY OF THE ARTISTS' JOURNEY

Curating the Alchemy of the Artists' Journey

Veteran music journalist Billy Johnson Jr., a producer and curator for the Museum of Light, stresses the importance of discussing the artistic process. “The artists light up when asked to explain their art, their intentions, and connecting with their audience,” Johnson says. “Each of these stories are incredibly motivating.”

The Light has been in the works for a few years. When Joslyn Rose Lyons, who conceptualized the project, called me to get involved, I got the butterflies.

I said, “You mean, we’ll talk to artists about purpose? Whether they compare their work to alchemy? No buzzy moments?”

I was in.

I figured creatives prefer to discuss more substantive topics, and we found this to be true with every artist we’ve interviewed. Seeing how Pharoahe Monch, V.Bozeman, Michelle Williams, TiRon and Ayomari and so many others light up when asked to describe their creative process has been fulfilling.

Considering the need for more platforms for artists to express themselves beyond the scope of their latest promotional efforts, I’m that much more thankful to be a part of helping generate more Light.

One of the coolest aspects of The Light is how it takes shape in different forms. It’s a documentary in the works. It’s shareable inspirational quotes from artists. It’s an online interview series. It’s constantly evolving.

Another incredible part of The Light, for me, is getting to work alongside esteemed colleagues who share The Light’s vision. We’re grateful to have editorial support from RESPECT mag.

Below, meet the curators.

"There's an over saturation of salacious media coverage on the internet. The intent of this project is to add more positive affirmations into the mix. The artists we have interviewed for the light thus far have shared with us the philosophies of their triumphs and we know people will be blessed when they hear these stories. This is just a taste of what's to come... Those who are determined, fearless, and accomplished will find affirmation in the light. Those who are hopeful, apprehensive, and in need of direction, will use the light as a guide. That is our purpose."  

Billy Johnson Jr., Music Journalist + Producer
www.billyjohnsonjrpresents.com // @billyjohnsonjr

"As a leader, a student and a die hard fan of hip-hop, my responsibility as a journalist/producer is to showcase the greater good of the lifestyle, and preserve the culture that raised me. My decision to unite with influential, like minded peers to bring the light to the world was a no brainier."

Adell Henderson, Music Journalist + Editor in Chief  
www.respect-mag.com // @adellhenderson101 @respectmag

"It inspires me to explore the creative process and to understand more
about the artists' journey. The museum of light creates this space.
It's a platform where we highlight this process. All the content we
are creating here, allows people to see a glimpse of the job of an
artist and the magic that happens along the way."

Joslyn Rose Lyons, Producer + Director
www.joslynroselyons.com // @itsjoslynrose

"As history shows, it is hard not to be drawn to the light. Both in
people and in projects that resonate. When Joslyn first asked me if I
was interested in aproject dedicated to giving language and focus to
what drives the creative mind,  I realized was experiencing her
creativity at work during that very conversation, excited and
energized by the brainstorm that was stirring between us in
collaboration. Realizing that the very feeling I was experiencing in
that moment was the focus of the light project itself, how could I not
contribute? It was already happening, and it hasn't stopped since."

Rafael Casal, Writer + Producer + Performer
www.getrafael.com // @rafaelcasal

"The light represents the power of the arts. I find it fascinating to
examine the truly gifted artist, who has not only mastered the
technical aspects of their craft but is also able to connect with,
influence and inspire an audience through their artistic light."

Matt Smith, Producer + Director
www.revolutionlaboratory.com // @mattsmif

"I would be crazy to turn down the opportunity to work with the
producers and curators for this project. I make it a habit of working
with creative and inspirational people, and that’s who I'm working
with for The Museum of Light. It’s important to explore the light
and an artist's journey in order to get a greater understanding of
them, their process, but most importantly, its cool when you find
commonalities in their journey that you relate to, and that speaks to
you...That is inspiring."

Malik Buie, Director + Producer
www.redsummer.tv // @RedSummerTV

You can find this story and others from The Museum of Light at RESPECT Magazine.
 

For more info on The Light visit:
https://instagram.com/museumoflight/
https://twitter.com/museumoflight

PJ Uses Her Experiences to ‘Make People Happy’

PJ’s soulful, folky track “Gangster” is easily one of the most refreshing new songs this year. On the anthem, the Atlantic Records artist fantasizes about adopting a thuggish alter-ego, singing, “Just wanna be gangster, just seems like gangstaness is so much fun.” It’s just one of the songs from her debut album, RARE, out this Friday, that allows her to put a more upbeat spin on life’s somber moments.

When the Museum of Light asked PJ if she compared her sometimes optimistic point of view to alchemy, she took a second to think about her answer. “I never considered myself an alchemist but when you put it like that with the lead to gold,” she explains during an interview at Atlantic Records studio in North Hollywood, “I guess I kinda am.”

Incredibly humble, PJ explains the transformative aspect of her songwriting. “I take my life experiences -- my real life experiences -- and kinda like present them in a way that makes them seem not as bad or can make people happy; which is a form of gold in itself, happiness.”

PJ’s music definitely puts us in a good mood. The artist who has written songs for the likes of Fantasia and Chris Brown has also recently released a few other new records, “Can’t Stop” and “Come Down” with Ty $ign. She’s currently on tour with K. Michelle.

You can also find this story and others from The Museum of Light at RESPECT Magazine.

The Museum of Light is curated by: 
Billy Johnson Jr., Joslyn Rose Lyons, Adell Henderson, Rafael Casal, Matt Smith, Malik Buie.

For more info on The Light visit:
https://instagram.com/museumoflight/
https://twitter.com/museumoflight

Mara Hruby Shines at Summer Jazz

How can you not love Mara Hruby? The beautiful, emotive singer-songwriter blessed concertgoers at SF Jazz’s 30th Annual Summer Jazz musical festival at the Stanford Shopping Center Thursday, June 30th 2016 in Palo Alto, California. Backed by bandmembers guitarist Jon Monahan, percussionist Dame the Drummer, and bassist Mike Shiono, Ms. Hruby offered two amazing 40-minute sets that each spanned 8 songs.

Dressed in her signature vintage attire, she played some of her more somber tracks, including two Torch Songs from her 2014 EP Archaic Rapture. during the first half of the show that finished just before sunset. During the second half, she took a more triumphant course. In addition to sharing her amazing music, she also sold her homemade jams, knitted scarves, and beaded bracelets. Afterwards, new and old fans lined up to greet her.

 You can also find this story and others from The Museum of Light at RESPECT Magazine.

Tish Hyman on the Power of Sharing her Golden Backstory

Bronx native Tish Hyman achieved a career breakthrough last year when her song “Subway Art” exploded online. The song’s powerful message paid homage to multitudes of train passengers who go unnoticed everyday.

The singer, rapper and poet who has written for Alicia Keys, Diddy, and Kelly Rowland is dedicated to using her talents to inspire. “How I plan to turn my lead into gold is to expose the backstory of how I actually struggled in the Bronx from like birth to 29, and then I came to L.A. and struggled in a semi different way here,” she explains during an interview with The Museum of Light.

Tish sees a correlation between her work and alchemy. “Just like an alchemist turns lead into gold, I turn lemons into lemonade,” she adds. “I want to expose that fact that just because a person is on top doesn’t mean that they’re just there, there’s a backstory to that.”

Tish makes this connection clear on her forthcoming debut album, Dedicated To. How does she describe it? “It’s gold that other people can say, ‘Yo, she did it. I can do it.’”

We can’t wait for the album to drop.

'Just like an alchemist turns lead into gold. I turn lemons into lemonade and I want to expose the fact that just because a person is on top doesn’t mean that there just there. There’s a backstory to that. And I want to expose the backstory and how I plan to turn my lead into gold is to expose the backstory of how i actually struggled in the Bronx from like birth to like 29. And then I came to LA and struggled in a semi different way here and the opportunities I was given I took and maximized. There’s a lot to do with success and my album is showing that and that’s how I’m turning my lead into gold. It’s gold that other people can say, ‘Yo, she did. I can do it.’  - Tish

You can also find this story and others from The Museum of Light at RESPECT Magazine.

The Museum of Light is curated by: 
Billy Johnson Jr., Joslyn Rose Lyons, Adell Henderson, Rafael Casal, Matt Smith, Malik Buie.

For more info on The Light visit:

http://www.themuseumoflight.com/
https://instagram.com/museumoflight/
https://twitter.com/museumoflight

Literally, The Sun Powers Sunstock Solar Festival

Amazing. This is a must-feature for The Museum of Light. Bands radiate their light from a stage fueled by the power of the sun.

Yes, we know that you can power your home via solar panels instead of traditional electricity. But can you really generate enough solar energy for eight bands to play a festival? Just ask Sunstock Solar Festival founder and executive producer Sylar Funk.

Funk spearheaded the rare event that took place on Saturday at The Autry at Griffith Park in Los Angeles and provided a stage for his band Trapdoor Social as well as Allah-Las, Wavves, Cults, Kali Kings, The Big Pink Gateway Drugs and Yoya to share their good vibes.

Food trucks, information booths from solar companies and more supported the event that drew thousands of fans who reclined on the lawn enjoyed the music.  

It was no easy feat, but they pulled it off and are planning to take a variation of the show on the road.

You can find this story on The Museum of Light site and also online at RESPECT Magazine.

The Museum of Light is curated by:  
Joslyn Rose Lyons, Billy Johnson Jr., Adell Henderson, Rafael Casal, Matt Smith, Malik Buie.
Photo credit: Chris Contreras

Follow The Museum of Light at:
https://instagram.com/museumoflight/
https://twitter.com/museumoflight

Alchemy at BET Experience

V.Bozeman, Bilal, and Tish Hyman Talk Alchemy at ‘BET Experience’ Kick-Off

Four thousand music fans attended the BET Experience at L.A. Live kick-off concert at the Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza. The free concert headlined by platinum R&B princess Monica also featured sets from V.Bozeman, Bilal, Luke James and Tish Hyman.

The Museum of Light discussed alchemy with V.Bozeman, Bilal, and Tish Hyman. When asked if she considered herself an alchemist, the Empire actress and singer V.Bozeman reflected on inspirational words from late soul icon Nina Simone.

Bilal and Tish Hyman also explained their efforts to transform their art into works that inspire their listeners. 

This story can also be found online at RESPECT Magazine here. 

 The Museum of Light is curated by:  
Joslyn Rose Lyons, Billy Johnson Jr., Adell Henderson, Rafael Casal, Matt Smith, Malik Buie.
Photo credit: Chris Contreras

A MOMENT WITH MAJOR.

Conversations in Light: A Moment with MAJOR. 

During our exclusive Conversations in Light interview with MAJOR. at the BOE Studios in North Hollywood, the Houston native and Berklee College grad explained the powerful messages behind his two new songs. “Why I Love You” is the “definition of love personified,” and “Keep On” is a reminder to not “let nobody slow you down.”

MAJOR.’s insistence to use his music to inspire is a part of his purpose. “When one lends himself to considering the responsibility of giving people ways to live and be better, they often shine,” he shares in the above clip. “The greatest light is God himself. So when you align yourself with those principles in addition to owning your truth, that’s a strong, strong force.”

MAJOR., Mara Hruby, and PJ are a part of the Museum of Light’s third online exhibition series. Last spring, the Museum of Light launched Light Tuesdays with the likes of Michelle Williams, Joi Gilliam and Mali Music. In the fall, the Conversations in Light series spotlighted Pharaohe Monch, TiRON & Ayomari, Trevor Jackson, Angie Stone and R. City, among others.

Veteran music journalist Billy Johnson Jr., a producer for the Museum of Light, stresses the importance of discussing the artistic process. “The artists light up when asked to explain their art, their intentions, and connecting with their audience,” Johnson says. “Each of these stories are incredibly motivating.”

You can also find this story and others from The Museum of Light at RESPECT Magazine.

Mara Hruby: Finding her Light

The Museum of Light series, “Conversations in Light” that explores the alchemy of the artists' journey, recently sat down in-studio with singer/songwriter Mara Hruby at Heritage Recording Co. in Los Angeles, to discuss her creative process. On the heels of the NPR premiere of her music video for “In the Wee Small Hours,” a song from her 2014 EP Archaic Rapture, Hruby opens up about why she chose to express her heartache via covering jazz songs.

“I was writing about it on my own time but I wasn’t ready to share what my writings were about,” she tells “Conversations in Light,” “which is why I felt it was the best therapy for me to do all those jazz standard songs because it was a way for me to cycle through my emotions without directly having to talk about what mine particularly were.”

You can also find this story and others from The Museum of Light at RESPECT Magazine.