February 12, 2023 • 34 mins
Kristen Thomasino's video interview with Music Producer Raffles van Exel about efforts to use the entertainment industry to raise awareness & funds for social change with his new song, "Why Oh Why," is just the tip of the iceberg of social good movements.
The Social Good Magazine Show is brought to you by Thomasino Media LLC with content produced by show host Kristen Thomasino.
Reprinted with permission from Platinum Star PR - About the Featured Artists:
- CeeLo Green is a five-time Grammy Award Winning singer-songwriter-producer, television personality, actor, entrepreneur, pop culture & fashion icon. CeeLo Green first came onto the music scene as a member of the southern hip-hop group Goodie Mob. After CeeLo’s success with Goodie Mob, he reinvented himself & formed Gnarls Barkley with deejay-producer Danger Mouse to release the 2006 worldwide hit “Crazy”, which reached #1 in various singles charts worldwide. Following Gnarls Barkley, Green put his time back into his solo career as CeeLo Green & released the 2010 album The Lady Killer, which featured his hit single “Forget You / F* YOU” that achieved certified Gold in the United States & Denmark & achieved platinum status in Canada, New Zeal&, & the UK: & multi-platinum status in Australia. Completed four seasons as a coach on NBC’s hit show. He developed his own production company Emerald Productions in partnership with Primary Wave Music.
- French Montana is a multi-platinum selling, Grammy nominated producer & philanthropist & trend-setter. His fusion of classic East Coast rhymes, wavy swagger & international ambition have elevated him to the forefront of the game on a global scale. French Montana became the first African born & Bronx raised male artist from the mecca of hip hop to go diamond with his track, "Unforgettable" (ft. Swae Lee), earning numerous platinum & gold records, & over 70 million singles sold. Since then, tracks from his certified gold album MONTANA have cumulatively tallied nearly 1 billion streams in pre-release He was named one of GO's best dressed men at the 2019 Met Gala & Global Citizen's first rap-ambassador.
- Fantasia is a Grammy-winning American R&B singer, songwriter, & actor, breaking onto the scene in 2004 as the season three winner of “American Idol.” A vocal powerhouse, Fantasia followed her win with the release of her platinum selling debut album, Free Yourself, & became the first artist in the history of the Billboard Hot 100 chart to debut at #1 with her first single, “I Believe." Since the release of Free Yourself, Fantasia has gone on to release six additional studio albums including her self-titled sophomore effort, Back To Me, Side Effects of You, The Definition Of…., Christmas After Midnight, & Sketchbook. She starred in the "The Color Purple" on Broadway. Barrino will reprise her role as Celie in the upcoming movie musical adaptation of "The Color Purple" to be released in December 2023. "I am super excited that my brother Ricco Barrino's ad libs adds some heat on "Why Oh Why," said Fantasia.
- Kenny Lattimore, the Washington DC native is a Grammy Award nominated singer/ songwriter who was featured in Michael Jordan's documentary, where Jordan called Kenny the best male vocals in the industry. With a career spanning over two decades, highlighted by his 1996 breakthrough single “Never Too Busy” & the wedding staple “For You,” Kenny has garnered Grammy & Soul Train Award nominations, Top 10 singles, Top 20 R&B albums & an NAACP Image Award for Best New Artist, while staying sincere about giving his heart & soul to communities through music. Kenny is a humanitarian who uses his life & platform as a tool to inspire others to pursue excellence & elevate positive conversation about art, culture, family & faith.
- Emily Estefan is a Grammy-nominated musician, songwriter, producer, actress,
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Kristen Thomasino (00:00):
The social good magazine show is produced by Thomasino Media LLC and hosted by Kristen Thomasino. The social good magazine show is a beacon of hope for global communities filled with inspiring stories that illuminate pathways to success. By sharing transformational concepts and taking action oriented steps towards progress, we can collaborate on reducing suffering together and enjoying the journey along the way. So let's use this magazine and show is our roadmap and opportunity to guide each other in discovering victory over adversity.
(00:31):
I'm just staring at Catalina behind me here. And it's been a good a good spot for me. I've been creating like this crazy collection of like multiple pieces and technology as well. And then all theselike advocacy projects. So I have appreciated my spot here in San Pedro, because I can just look right at Catalina on this side. So
Raffles van Exel (00:54):
I just came back from San Pedro. Oh, cool. I was there two
Kristen Thomasino (00:58):
days ago,
Raffles van Exel (00:59):
we did two radio interviews one with the BT, in Santa Maria. And then we drove to San Pedro, because we did we do there? To look at my picture. Sure. Because we took me with Joe Joe lowpass.
Kristen Thomasino (01:25):
Oh, fantastic. So you've been super busy? It seems. Yeah.
Raffles van Exel (01:34):
Promotion of the song. Yeah.
Kristen Thomasino (01:37):
Super exciting. So I mean, this is like, a very interesting production number one, just because of the type of production that it is. And the number of I mean, my goodness, like all the pieces, like what a complex division, you know, wow. So super exciting to talk to you about that. And I'm really glad that Marie brought us together. And, you know, she shared with me the press release, and I've watched, you know, on YouTube now the song a number of times, because it's just so moving and like, visually, like stunning. And, you know, just the sounds itself are amazing, right? Like, just to listen to auditory wise, but to watch too. It's like, oh, it's just like a visual paradise. And, you know, you're,
Raffles van Exel (02:32):
you're being moved
Kristen Thomasino (02:33):
by the words, you know, as well, like, so it's just fantastic. That's just my view on I wanted to share.
Raffles van Exel (02:42):
I love it. I love it. I mean, and thank you, because I mean, I think I can never hear it enough, you know, because we still have question marks, you know, what do people think about it? Is it good enough? You know, and again, it's not about awards, or notice, or notoriety. But it is always I think with every artist, there is still a little question mark, you know, like, is it good enough? Are people gonna like it? You know, so, it's always good to hear. Thank you so much.
Kristen Thomasino (03:17):
Yeah, just, just phenomenal. And the other thing I just really appreciate about it, too, is, you know, the purpose than the message and really just, you know, some of the stuff that I read, like, as well, like, you know, in the press release, you know, it's just beautiful, and like what you're trying to address, really, you know, especially with all the current events, right of our time, I kind of say current events, because we've seemed to have gotten into quite a few current events in many fronts, and that's, you know, why I got inspired to create, you know, the collection that I have, and then also my publication that is going to be a, you know, an ongoing, one that I publish twice a year. And this particular one is really special, because this is my 20 this will be my 21st publication that I'm publishing in 2022.
Raffles van Exel (04:16):
So your legal No, exactly the one.
Kristen Thomasino (04:21):
Right. But this one's been really fun, because I've been, you know, traveling around and meeting lots of people in California, I come from the East Coast. But I did a lot of work in data science and financial technology with community building. And that's really my background is thinking about, you know, how do we make our economy stronger? You know, what technology could we do? How do we bring together the right people? And you know, so often our artists and others, right can really rally people and differently and so you know, music for me is also very important because like, I had like a long rehabilitation, I fell down 15 feet of stairs in like January of 2016. So I had like a lot of issues when my body declined. And I learned a lot of things about how to rehabilitate my body. And so, you know, there's just things that like people who struggle with like, you know, right side weakness, like, I used to have that. And I also have full body weakness at one point. So I had to, you know, relearn a lot of different skills. And what it taught me though, in this time was, Wow, we need to be teaching more things about social good, and how do we create, you know, safety and security for people so that they can grow and thrive? And where are those people that are continuing, especially with current events during it's happened, it's still want to make an impact and aren't just like, oh, you know, we're done, you know, or whatever, we're gonna just go off and not do anything, or speak out or make pieces that move people to inspire people to change, right? We're ready to take action. So your project is just so beautiful. So I'm just so blessed to you know, one interact with you and talk with you about it. And then also, you know, to interview you, for this next volume, there's a
Raffles van Exel (06:30):
lot I mean, even thank you for even considering us, you know, when and I agree with you regarding music. I mean, I even tell people music is a world language. You know, it doesn't matter what language you speak. I mean, it's funny. One of my dear friends, his cousin was in from, I think, Dominican Republic. The kid doesn't speak a word English, but knows the lyrics to every song. Wow. Amazing. Yeah. So, and that's why it's showing music is a universal language. And we always say if there is something going on in the world call upon the artists. You know, and I'm hoping that with a why or why we can make a difference. You know, I mean, I personally feel I can't change the world myself. But I can make a start one person at a time, you know, I will say, one person, one street, one city, yes. One village, one state, one country, one world. Exactly.
Kristen Thomasino (07:55):
You and I are on the same page, I've, my part of the work that I did before, that I mentioned to before with my accidents and stuff is just related to how we create fair systems and how we trade and transact easily and effectively, and how we create ways to communicate. And to your point, music is this beautiful language, right? And that's really, you know, the thing I look at, you know, especially like, for you, like, we kind of think about this, you know, that passion that you have about the songwriting. And, you know, you're, you have such an amazing career. Like, you know, you get kind of brought into this, you know, project with this vision. Like, just as a songwriter. I mean, in general, like, what did you just wake up and you're like, okay, it just poured out of your head. Are you like, what happens to
Raffles van Exel (08:55):
you know, what? No, you know what, it's so weird, honestly. I think this song was done within 3040 minutes. You know, I mean, it really started with why, you know, I was like, I wanted to do and children's project, I was like, I really want to do something for the children. And then I was like, what is the first thing a child ask you when you tell them don't do this? Don't do that. But why? Why? Sure. And I was like, why? Oh, why? That's how it started. And I mean, don't get me wrong. I can't take credit solely myself. You know, because yes, I started it. Then a friend of mine, don see, he came on and brought a couple of ideas. Then when the song was finished for us, I mean, in my mind, but um, not a rapper, you know, I don't write raps. Right. So I mean, writing lyrics is lyrics writing or rap is a part of lyrics. But I don't have that flow that the rappers have you see, for me it has to be grammar correct and those kinds of things. But for a rapper, they swallow a certain Ward, or they into, you know, their their explanation or their tone on a specific word. It takes another part of the art of writing, but I called French Montana I think at 11 o'clock in the morning. Yeah, that same day around 9pm. We were in his house home studio, you know, and he said, Hey, guys, give me give me 10 minutes. Within 10 minutes, he came back and he had the rap written and record this. Amazing, amazing he was, and he was like, what'd you think about this? And I was like, I mean, because I thought, you know, because he asked me some questions about the song. And I was like, he's like, Okay, give me. We came back. And he was done recording that I was like, What did I miss, you know, and that's how I mean, that's how y your y came about. It's a, it's a labor of love. I mean, once it was written, I called CeeLo. I said, Hey, CeeLo, this is what I have in mind. This is what we're planning. He's like, Yo, I love it. Love it. I want to be a part of it.
(11:56):
Called Kenny Lattimore. Kenny was like, Hey, man, I'm leaving in two days. I love what you're standing for. We need it right now. Can we do something tomorrow called engineer called the studio? Kennyin the studio gun. You know, I mean, honestly, the word no managers, agents, attorneys involved. It was all you know, a domino effect, a labor of love. It really was. My, my best friend she called Sheila E. And before we know it, Sheila II was at her home studio putting percussions on it. She then called Emilio Estefan. You know, I mean, Emilio Estefan, only 22 Grammys, you know, and he had me had that small little group, you know, Gloria Estefan and the Miami Sound Machine, you know, Richard is gonna get you rhythm is gonna get you, you know, and he brought the whalers but Marley's Wailers, they played guitar, drums, keyboards. So it was a, it was literally a domino effect, a snowball the right direction, you know, from Oh, and then I called Narada. Michael Walden. Narada is a three time Grammy Award winning producer twice, Producer of the Year. And he produced a small album called The bodyguards. You know, I mean, let's see, our only sold 18 million and counting. I had to look at the plaque behind me because that's the plaque from the bodyguard, a platinum I had to look at so I mean, so it basically only sold around 18 million and counting so small album, you know, you know, with a little song, I will always love you, you know, classic Come on, but no,
Kristen Thomasino (14:14):
this is just amazing. I mean, like, the, the thing that I'm seeing hearing, it's just and thank you for sharing this process with me because it's just fascinates me, you know, seeing and learning how people come together to create these visions. And this just sounds like I mean, you just are like, one like you are a super connector. So you have these fantastic talents around you and you have felt this vision and you connect with other folks and then you're just tapping this network and it's like, you can see this project coming to life literally.
Raffles van Exel (14:54):
And fast. I mean, you know, and and then the weirdness thing So while we were maybe halfway done with the song, the Grammys announced the new categories for next year's Grammys. And they created a category song for social change.
Kristen Thomasino (15:18):
No. Perfect.
Raffles van Exel (15:21):
We were like, say what? I mean CeeLo and I texting French, Montana and I texting. You know, we're like, isn't that what we're doing? So, I'm online looking at all the qualifications that you need, you know, for it. We checked all the boxes, all of them. So we were like, Oh, my God. And again, I'm, we never did this. Thinking about a Grammy, you know, because y o y has nothing to do with the Russian Ukrainian war, but it has everything to do with it. Why a why has nothing to do with gun violence, but it has everything to do with it. Why or why has nothing to do with bullying? But it has everything to do with it. Why or why has nothing to do with the LGBTQ, but it has everything to do with it. You know, it is really a cry from the kids asking us the grown ups. Why you're why can't we get together? Why you're Why must we fight forever? Why? Oh, why? Let's give peace a chance right now. You know, I mean, life is short. People don't understand that. You know, life is short. I mean, what just last week? I mean, last month, we lost another potential up and coming world artists take off. You know, the rapper? I mean, getting shot at a bowling alley in Euston or, I mean, I'm not into politics, but even what is the name? Pelosi, her husband being attacked in his own house with a hammer. I've seen lately. You're afraid to go anywhere? Because of the craziness that we live in right now. It's not a crazy world. But this crazy time? Well,
Kristen Thomasino (17:29):
I absolutely agree with you. And when you look at what just happened on Wednesday, you know, they cleared the Abbey. Did you hear about that? Because? Yeah, so there was a gunman that they spotted on a camera, and then they cleared the Abbey? Slow. I know they didn't get him. So be careful out. Yeah, but read the news. I do have a friend that's a event promoter that does the Wednesday night there in you know, she said that it was you know, less intense than what the news said. But, you know, they sent everybody home and everybody's safe. But just be aware of that, you know, just
Raffles van Exel (18:11):
just just, I'm getting goosebumps just you telling me that because I literally live around the corner. You know, so, but But again, it is it is ridiculous that you can't go have a good time. I mean, shooting at a theater shooting at a shopping center shooting at schools. I mean, come on. I mean, what and you know, and that is really what why your why is about you know? I don't even know. I mean,
Kristen Thomasino (18:49):
so let me ask you a question. You know, the, when we look at, you know, what's been happening, right? We're all trying to create safety and security again, in our communities. And so part of that is, you know, how we have time and spaces for entertainment, and music again. And, you know, many years ago, I was part of a campaign called music everywhere. And that was out of Charlotte, North Carolina. And I was in the business leaders side of it supporting so we could have music again, everywhere and in the streets. People wanted to go back out again after there was civil disruptions and various. So what I kind of wonder is, you know, you know, you've selected some different, you know, groups to work with you were able to get the artists and then you found 50 Children, right, in an ad. AD is an ad. Oh, I'm sorry, ad.
Raffles van Exel (19:53):
No, no, that that's the best one. It started with. 50 Wow. Okay. Narada Michael Walden in San Francisco, put another 10 kids on it. And then Emilio Estefan in Miami, put another 20 Some kids on it. I was like
Kristen Thomasino (20:15):
her, she got all over children. So this is a great message again of safety and security, but also coming from the entertainment business. Right? Yep. And, you know, this is a partnership, right, that happens within community and the inspiration. So you got 80 children from all these different areas to work a fantastic when you looked at other groups, right, that you could you know, help with this, I noticed that you picked a few different groups to partner with Doctors Without Borders, Save the Children and MusiCares. Can you tell me like what, you know, why did you choose those organizations?
Raffles van Exel (20:58):
Well, I, we chose them. But those are not the only ones that I'm hoping to surprise. I'm hoping with Y O Y, to really be able to write huge, large checks. To many organizations, we are not looking to make a dime of the music and the song. I mean, I've been blessed, my partners, they've all been blessed. All the artists involved have been blessed. But I started with music care, because you know, music is close to my heart, and is the foundation from the Grammys, to a good music, educational life and be if there is a flooding like Katrina, in New Orleans, and some of the older musicians lost all their instruments and all those kinds of things. And especially that part of the music, you know, blues jazz, where the artists doesn't make a million dollars of concerts, you know, they're all struggling, again, especially the older ones, so that music care could jump in. And still, you know, replenish equipment, instruments, donate instruments to schools. And that was because music is close to my heart. Doctors Without Borders. I mean, it speaks for itself everywhere they go to help anybody and everybody and save the children. You know, I mean, Save the Children is an organization where my partner is a board member. And it was not solely that she's a board member, but it is also they fight against child trafficking. You know, I mean, I can't believe that we live in 2022. I mean, we can say we live in 2023. and child trafficking is still a thing. You know, but they also help with food, education and safety in the world. You know, but like I said earlier, I mean, why your why is not again, it's not about Roe versus v. Wade. It is not about the LGBTQ, but it is about the LGBTQ, it is not about you know, it is about everything. Don't get me I have many of foundations that I have in mind that I had, if I had to name them all, it wouldn't be a whole press release. No names, because I want everybody to be happy. I've been blessed in life. I have an
(23:48):
amazing life. And I wish that I could let it rub off to everybody. I mean, I don't get mad. I'm never depressed. I'm never said I don't wake up with a headache even with my other businesses, you know,if the deal happens, it happens. If it doesn't, oh, well up to the next you know, I'm not going to be wasting a week a month of my time. Like oh my god, I needed this deal. You know, if it's not meant to be it's not going to happen. And take a look at why you're why it's meant to be it went smooth sailing, no hurdles no hiccups no headaches, you know it was meant to be
Kristen Thomasino (24:37):
I love that. It's just phenomenal you know when you look at the the organization's and but also just the broader mission and the desire to give back. This is super important. There are people that I've met that I've interviewed for the magazine that that give back in any way that they can right to community and to create community. And I've included you know, veterans and others that take care of other veterans. And you know, this story of, you know, what you put together and just with this team, this vision of 80 children, oh my
Raffles van Exel (25:19):
god, labor of love, Amy. And then don't don't get me wrong. But you know, some of the artists might not like it when I say it, but it's like, for me, the kids are the stars. They are the stars of the project, and CeeLo, French, Montana, Kenny Lattimore, Fantasia, Emily Estefan, they are just the features
Kristen Thomasino (25:44):
they are so they are so important. But what is the meaning to the kids to watch this? Right. And that's what I think you know, kids need right now they need some positivity, they need to see examples of people's to these great artists that you've gotten to participate. Wow, for them to also see them as role models and examples. Correct. So important right now and
Raffles van Exel (26:10):
for the kids to know. Yeah, kids to know that they had a chance to sing with the CeeLo to be on a track with a French Montana, or, you know, I mean,
Kristen Thomasino (26:24):
you've created this beautiful, you know, effect of just blossoming out positive outcomes. Right. And yeah, I mean,
Raffles van Exel (26:34):
last, was it last year, last Friday, we did the jingle ball, Kiss FM jingle ball here in LA. And we had a group of kids dancing on the stage. And one person was like, oh, but why did you choose those kids? Because was it perfect? No, it was nice. But what people did not understood, I could have gone with the kids that dance for the Debbie Allen, dance school and those kinds of things. But they stand on stages all over the US. I purposely chose a little dance school in Compton in Gardena, because I thought those kids would never have a chance to stand on any stage. And especially not a stage that size of Kiss FM I Heart Radio. When those kids stood there on that stage, they lit up. I mean, they could not believe it, that they were on a stage. So power for me that that alone is what money could not buy. You say money buys a lot. But not happiness. I mean, it can buy you happy. But not happiness. Especially when it comes out of the pureness of the heart. And those kids, they shine too bright like a diamond. Oh, wait, I'm quoting Rihanna. No, but But yeah, I mean, their parents coming over and hugging me and texts and thanking me, the kids, you know, standing in front of the step and repeat with I heart radios logo, you know, I mean, it was
Kristen Thomasino (28:33):
beautiful. Well, you're empowering. And that's what I love about this, you know, because we've had various things that have happened in our communities and lots of different messaging and things that people have had to process. And it's been traumatic for so many people. So it's wonderful to see these experiences being created for so many. And in that empowering sense of, Well, come over here, you know, let's let's Yeah, let's use, you know, some of the good hard work that we've built in our careers, and now share that with these young children and inspire them. I mean, I can't wait to see I mean, I'd love to see you follow these, you know, the stories of these children. You should do it as a documentary. Something. Yeah, yeah. Packed him. Yeah.
Raffles van Exel (29:27):
Yeah. No, because, again, when we had the first group of kids in the studio in LA, I also asked him, I said, What do you want to become, you know, what do you want to be? And one was like, Oh, my God, this is the nicest experience, you know, and we're behind the big board, and they're like, oh, what does this button means and what does that mean? Can I push that one? I said, No, no, push them one and get them to be able to push it. They will. You know, again, it's a live live is an amazing thing. Life is a beautiful thing and pay it forward. You know, if you have a chance, how good is it being a multi millionaire or a multi billionaire and being miserable, or dying? or dying with $2 million? I mean, dying with $100,000 on your account. Oh, wait, dying with $10,000 on your account is already a waste. I told my parents I said, If I die broke, don't feel bad for me, I used
Kristen Thomasino (30:34):
exactly.
Raffles van Exel (30:35):
You know, there is no need for greed, there is no need for jealousy, there is no need for aid. I mean, love is what we are born with. Love is that thing that is in our heart, what we are born with.
Kristen Thomasino (30:53):
hate this thought. This is just such an amazing conversation. And I you know, I look at the world. And I think that more and more of these types of messages are going to continue to come out in inspiration. You know, it just starts to create like that, you know, tidal wave effect, you know, it's just like, once that wave, it's gone. And
Raffles van Exel (31:23):
the time? Yeah, if I can affect one, you can affect one together, we have to affect it, too. But those two effects for those 416 Those 16 was 16 times 1600 60 plus 36. Plus, you know what I mean? Let it become a domino effects.
Kristen Thomasino (31:46):
Yeah, absolutely. So, um, you know, just a good question, because I'm gonna put this in the, you know, in the interview as well, right, but, so how can others really, you know, support your social good mission
Raffles van Exel (31:59):
right now? join the bandwagon. You know, all our information is on artists for global unity.com and our social media and I mean, it doesn't cost anything. I'm like, snap a picture with the peace sign. You know, vote your time to peace. tag us in it. And you've done something I don't need money. I mean, we're not looking for donations. We're not looking for handouts. You know, our merch we got our merchandise by the way. I got to meet your sizes because we got all
Kristen Thomasino (32:36):
awesome shirts and T shirts, we got hoodies,
Raffles van Exel (32:43):
we got shirts, we got the T shirts and
Kristen Thomasino (32:49):
you know, you mentioned that these things are all going to these different partners that you all have selected, which is just beautiful. Look at that. You got all the names of the artists on there. Oh, that's wonderful. Look at that. I love the artwork on that too. That's beautiful. Thank
Raffles van Exel (33:06):
you. Everybody's telling us they're like man that makes us think about retro the 80s and that's what we want to do you know, Oh, I love it living collars. You know?
Kristen Thomasino (33:21):
Yes, I love it. You know after all these you know different things and the things that have happened with the closures and stuff like that. You know, having you know new stuff, sometimes new colors, new paint, all kinds of different things can brighten up community.
(34:04):
The social good magazine is designed to inspire others to make a difference in their communities. Created by Kristen Thomasino. This show and magazine showcases the stories of people making a positiveimpact in their neighborhoods and beyond. Whether it's through volunteering, fundraising, or simply lending a helping hand. These individuals remind us that we can all make a difference. The social good magazine is the perfect tool for anyone seeking inspiration to get involved in their community.
The social good magazine show is produced by Thomasino Media LLC and hosted by Kristen Thomasino. The social good magazine show is a beacon of hope for global communities filled with inspiring stories that illuminate pathways to success. By sharing transformational concepts and taking action oriented steps towards progress, we can collaborate on reducing suffering together and enjoying the journey along the way. So let's use this magazine and show is our roadmap and opportunity to guide each other in discovering victory over adversity.
(00:31):
I'm just staring at Catalina behind me here. And it's been a good a good spot for me. I've been creating like this crazy collection of like multiple pieces and technology as well. And then all theselike advocacy projects. So I have appreciated my spot here in San Pedro, because I can just look right at Catalina on this side. So
Raffles van Exel (00:54):
I just came back from San Pedro. Oh, cool. I was there two
Kristen Thomasino (00:58):
days ago,
Raffles van Exel (00:59):
we did two radio interviews one with the BT, in Santa Maria. And then we drove to San Pedro, because we did we do there? To look at my picture. Sure. Because we took me with Joe Joe lowpass.
Kristen Thomasino (01:25):
Oh, fantastic. So you've been super busy? It seems. Yeah.
Raffles van Exel (01:34):
Promotion of the song. Yeah.
Kristen Thomasino (01:37):
Super exciting. So I mean, this is like, a very interesting production number one, just because of the type of production that it is. And the number of I mean, my goodness, like all the pieces, like what a complex division, you know, wow. So super exciting to talk to you about that. And I'm really glad that Marie brought us together. And, you know, she shared with me the press release, and I've watched, you know, on YouTube now the song a number of times, because it's just so moving and like, visually, like stunning. And, you know, just the sounds itself are amazing, right? Like, just to listen to auditory wise, but to watch too. It's like, oh, it's just like a visual paradise. And, you know, you're,
Raffles van Exel (02:32):
you're being moved
Kristen Thomasino (02:33):
by the words, you know, as well, like, so it's just fantastic. That's just my view on I wanted to share.
Raffles van Exel (02:42):
I love it. I love it. I mean, and thank you, because I mean, I think I can never hear it enough, you know, because we still have question marks, you know, what do people think about it? Is it good enough? You know, and again, it's not about awards, or notice, or notoriety. But it is always I think with every artist, there is still a little question mark, you know, like, is it good enough? Are people gonna like it? You know, so, it's always good to hear. Thank you so much.
Kristen Thomasino (03:17):
Yeah, just, just phenomenal. And the other thing I just really appreciate about it, too, is, you know, the purpose than the message and really just, you know, some of the stuff that I read, like, as well, like, you know, in the press release, you know, it's just beautiful, and like what you're trying to address, really, you know, especially with all the current events, right of our time, I kind of say current events, because we've seemed to have gotten into quite a few current events in many fronts, and that's, you know, why I got inspired to create, you know, the collection that I have, and then also my publication that is going to be a, you know, an ongoing, one that I publish twice a year. And this particular one is really special, because this is my 20 this will be my 21st publication that I'm publishing in 2022.
Raffles van Exel (04:16):
So your legal No, exactly the one.
Kristen Thomasino (04:21):
Right. But this one's been really fun, because I've been, you know, traveling around and meeting lots of people in California, I come from the East Coast. But I did a lot of work in data science and financial technology with community building. And that's really my background is thinking about, you know, how do we make our economy stronger? You know, what technology could we do? How do we bring together the right people? And you know, so often our artists and others, right can really rally people and differently and so you know, music for me is also very important because like, I had like a long rehabilitation, I fell down 15 feet of stairs in like January of 2016. So I had like a lot of issues when my body declined. And I learned a lot of things about how to rehabilitate my body. And so, you know, there's just things that like people who struggle with like, you know, right side weakness, like, I used to have that. And I also have full body weakness at one point. So I had to, you know, relearn a lot of different skills. And what it taught me though, in this time was, Wow, we need to be teaching more things about social good, and how do we create, you know, safety and security for people so that they can grow and thrive? And where are those people that are continuing, especially with current events during it's happened, it's still want to make an impact and aren't just like, oh, you know, we're done, you know, or whatever, we're gonna just go off and not do anything, or speak out or make pieces that move people to inspire people to change, right? We're ready to take action. So your project is just so beautiful. So I'm just so blessed to you know, one interact with you and talk with you about it. And then also, you know, to interview you, for this next volume, there's a
Raffles van Exel (06:30):
lot I mean, even thank you for even considering us, you know, when and I agree with you regarding music. I mean, I even tell people music is a world language. You know, it doesn't matter what language you speak. I mean, it's funny. One of my dear friends, his cousin was in from, I think, Dominican Republic. The kid doesn't speak a word English, but knows the lyrics to every song. Wow. Amazing. Yeah. So, and that's why it's showing music is a universal language. And we always say if there is something going on in the world call upon the artists. You know, and I'm hoping that with a why or why we can make a difference. You know, I mean, I personally feel I can't change the world myself. But I can make a start one person at a time, you know, I will say, one person, one street, one city, yes. One village, one state, one country, one world. Exactly.
Kristen Thomasino (07:55):
You and I are on the same page, I've, my part of the work that I did before, that I mentioned to before with my accidents and stuff is just related to how we create fair systems and how we trade and transact easily and effectively, and how we create ways to communicate. And to your point, music is this beautiful language, right? And that's really, you know, the thing I look at, you know, especially like, for you, like, we kind of think about this, you know, that passion that you have about the songwriting. And, you know, you're, you have such an amazing career. Like, you know, you get kind of brought into this, you know, project with this vision. Like, just as a songwriter. I mean, in general, like, what did you just wake up and you're like, okay, it just poured out of your head. Are you like, what happens to
Raffles van Exel (08:55):
you know, what? No, you know what, it's so weird, honestly. I think this song was done within 3040 minutes. You know, I mean, it really started with why, you know, I was like, I wanted to do and children's project, I was like, I really want to do something for the children. And then I was like, what is the first thing a child ask you when you tell them don't do this? Don't do that. But why? Why? Sure. And I was like, why? Oh, why? That's how it started. And I mean, don't get me wrong. I can't take credit solely myself. You know, because yes, I started it. Then a friend of mine, don see, he came on and brought a couple of ideas. Then when the song was finished for us, I mean, in my mind, but um, not a rapper, you know, I don't write raps. Right. So I mean, writing lyrics is lyrics writing or rap is a part of lyrics. But I don't have that flow that the rappers have you see, for me it has to be grammar correct and those kinds of things. But for a rapper, they swallow a certain Ward, or they into, you know, their their explanation or their tone on a specific word. It takes another part of the art of writing, but I called French Montana I think at 11 o'clock in the morning. Yeah, that same day around 9pm. We were in his house home studio, you know, and he said, Hey, guys, give me give me 10 minutes. Within 10 minutes, he came back and he had the rap written and record this. Amazing, amazing he was, and he was like, what'd you think about this? And I was like, I mean, because I thought, you know, because he asked me some questions about the song. And I was like, he's like, Okay, give me. We came back. And he was done recording that I was like, What did I miss, you know, and that's how I mean, that's how y your y came about. It's a, it's a labor of love. I mean, once it was written, I called CeeLo. I said, Hey, CeeLo, this is what I have in mind. This is what we're planning. He's like, Yo, I love it. Love it. I want to be a part of it.
(11:56):
Called Kenny Lattimore. Kenny was like, Hey, man, I'm leaving in two days. I love what you're standing for. We need it right now. Can we do something tomorrow called engineer called the studio? Kennyin the studio gun. You know, I mean, honestly, the word no managers, agents, attorneys involved. It was all you know, a domino effect, a labor of love. It really was. My, my best friend she called Sheila E. And before we know it, Sheila II was at her home studio putting percussions on it. She then called Emilio Estefan. You know, I mean, Emilio Estefan, only 22 Grammys, you know, and he had me had that small little group, you know, Gloria Estefan and the Miami Sound Machine, you know, Richard is gonna get you rhythm is gonna get you, you know, and he brought the whalers but Marley's Wailers, they played guitar, drums, keyboards. So it was a, it was literally a domino effect, a snowball the right direction, you know, from Oh, and then I called Narada. Michael Walden. Narada is a three time Grammy Award winning producer twice, Producer of the Year. And he produced a small album called The bodyguards. You know, I mean, let's see, our only sold 18 million and counting. I had to look at the plaque behind me because that's the plaque from the bodyguard, a platinum I had to look at so I mean, so it basically only sold around 18 million and counting so small album, you know, you know, with a little song, I will always love you, you know, classic Come on, but no,
Kristen Thomasino (14:14):
this is just amazing. I mean, like, the, the thing that I'm seeing hearing, it's just and thank you for sharing this process with me because it's just fascinates me, you know, seeing and learning how people come together to create these visions. And this just sounds like I mean, you just are like, one like you are a super connector. So you have these fantastic talents around you and you have felt this vision and you connect with other folks and then you're just tapping this network and it's like, you can see this project coming to life literally.
Raffles van Exel (14:54):
And fast. I mean, you know, and and then the weirdness thing So while we were maybe halfway done with the song, the Grammys announced the new categories for next year's Grammys. And they created a category song for social change.
Kristen Thomasino (15:18):
No. Perfect.
Raffles van Exel (15:21):
We were like, say what? I mean CeeLo and I texting French, Montana and I texting. You know, we're like, isn't that what we're doing? So, I'm online looking at all the qualifications that you need, you know, for it. We checked all the boxes, all of them. So we were like, Oh, my God. And again, I'm, we never did this. Thinking about a Grammy, you know, because y o y has nothing to do with the Russian Ukrainian war, but it has everything to do with it. Why a why has nothing to do with gun violence, but it has everything to do with it. Why or why has nothing to do with bullying? But it has everything to do with it. Why or why has nothing to do with the LGBTQ, but it has everything to do with it. You know, it is really a cry from the kids asking us the grown ups. Why you're why can't we get together? Why you're Why must we fight forever? Why? Oh, why? Let's give peace a chance right now. You know, I mean, life is short. People don't understand that. You know, life is short. I mean, what just last week? I mean, last month, we lost another potential up and coming world artists take off. You know, the rapper? I mean, getting shot at a bowling alley in Euston or, I mean, I'm not into politics, but even what is the name? Pelosi, her husband being attacked in his own house with a hammer. I've seen lately. You're afraid to go anywhere? Because of the craziness that we live in right now. It's not a crazy world. But this crazy time? Well,
Kristen Thomasino (17:29):
I absolutely agree with you. And when you look at what just happened on Wednesday, you know, they cleared the Abbey. Did you hear about that? Because? Yeah, so there was a gunman that they spotted on a camera, and then they cleared the Abbey? Slow. I know they didn't get him. So be careful out. Yeah, but read the news. I do have a friend that's a event promoter that does the Wednesday night there in you know, she said that it was you know, less intense than what the news said. But, you know, they sent everybody home and everybody's safe. But just be aware of that, you know, just
Raffles van Exel (18:11):
just just, I'm getting goosebumps just you telling me that because I literally live around the corner. You know, so, but But again, it is it is ridiculous that you can't go have a good time. I mean, shooting at a theater shooting at a shopping center shooting at schools. I mean, come on. I mean, what and you know, and that is really what why your why is about you know? I don't even know. I mean,
Kristen Thomasino (18:49):
so let me ask you a question. You know, the, when we look at, you know, what's been happening, right? We're all trying to create safety and security again, in our communities. And so part of that is, you know, how we have time and spaces for entertainment, and music again. And, you know, many years ago, I was part of a campaign called music everywhere. And that was out of Charlotte, North Carolina. And I was in the business leaders side of it supporting so we could have music again, everywhere and in the streets. People wanted to go back out again after there was civil disruptions and various. So what I kind of wonder is, you know, you know, you've selected some different, you know, groups to work with you were able to get the artists and then you found 50 Children, right, in an ad. AD is an ad. Oh, I'm sorry, ad.
Raffles van Exel (19:53):
No, no, that that's the best one. It started with. 50 Wow. Okay. Narada Michael Walden in San Francisco, put another 10 kids on it. And then Emilio Estefan in Miami, put another 20 Some kids on it. I was like
Kristen Thomasino (20:15):
her, she got all over children. So this is a great message again of safety and security, but also coming from the entertainment business. Right? Yep. And, you know, this is a partnership, right, that happens within community and the inspiration. So you got 80 children from all these different areas to work a fantastic when you looked at other groups, right, that you could you know, help with this, I noticed that you picked a few different groups to partner with Doctors Without Borders, Save the Children and MusiCares. Can you tell me like what, you know, why did you choose those organizations?
Raffles van Exel (20:58):
Well, I, we chose them. But those are not the only ones that I'm hoping to surprise. I'm hoping with Y O Y, to really be able to write huge, large checks. To many organizations, we are not looking to make a dime of the music and the song. I mean, I've been blessed, my partners, they've all been blessed. All the artists involved have been blessed. But I started with music care, because you know, music is close to my heart, and is the foundation from the Grammys, to a good music, educational life and be if there is a flooding like Katrina, in New Orleans, and some of the older musicians lost all their instruments and all those kinds of things. And especially that part of the music, you know, blues jazz, where the artists doesn't make a million dollars of concerts, you know, they're all struggling, again, especially the older ones, so that music care could jump in. And still, you know, replenish equipment, instruments, donate instruments to schools. And that was because music is close to my heart. Doctors Without Borders. I mean, it speaks for itself everywhere they go to help anybody and everybody and save the children. You know, I mean, Save the Children is an organization where my partner is a board member. And it was not solely that she's a board member, but it is also they fight against child trafficking. You know, I mean, I can't believe that we live in 2022. I mean, we can say we live in 2023. and child trafficking is still a thing. You know, but they also help with food, education and safety in the world. You know, but like I said earlier, I mean, why your why is not again, it's not about Roe versus v. Wade. It is not about the LGBTQ, but it is about the LGBTQ, it is not about you know, it is about everything. Don't get me I have many of foundations that I have in mind that I had, if I had to name them all, it wouldn't be a whole press release. No names, because I want everybody to be happy. I've been blessed in life. I have an
(23:48):
amazing life. And I wish that I could let it rub off to everybody. I mean, I don't get mad. I'm never depressed. I'm never said I don't wake up with a headache even with my other businesses, you know,if the deal happens, it happens. If it doesn't, oh, well up to the next you know, I'm not going to be wasting a week a month of my time. Like oh my god, I needed this deal. You know, if it's not meant to be it's not going to happen. And take a look at why you're why it's meant to be it went smooth sailing, no hurdles no hiccups no headaches, you know it was meant to be
Kristen Thomasino (24:37):
I love that. It's just phenomenal you know when you look at the the organization's and but also just the broader mission and the desire to give back. This is super important. There are people that I've met that I've interviewed for the magazine that that give back in any way that they can right to community and to create community. And I've included you know, veterans and others that take care of other veterans. And you know, this story of, you know, what you put together and just with this team, this vision of 80 children, oh my
Raffles van Exel (25:19):
god, labor of love, Amy. And then don't don't get me wrong. But you know, some of the artists might not like it when I say it, but it's like, for me, the kids are the stars. They are the stars of the project, and CeeLo, French, Montana, Kenny Lattimore, Fantasia, Emily Estefan, they are just the features
Kristen Thomasino (25:44):
they are so they are so important. But what is the meaning to the kids to watch this? Right. And that's what I think you know, kids need right now they need some positivity, they need to see examples of people's to these great artists that you've gotten to participate. Wow, for them to also see them as role models and examples. Correct. So important right now and
Raffles van Exel (26:10):
for the kids to know. Yeah, kids to know that they had a chance to sing with the CeeLo to be on a track with a French Montana, or, you know, I mean,
Kristen Thomasino (26:24):
you've created this beautiful, you know, effect of just blossoming out positive outcomes. Right. And yeah, I mean,
Raffles van Exel (26:34):
last, was it last year, last Friday, we did the jingle ball, Kiss FM jingle ball here in LA. And we had a group of kids dancing on the stage. And one person was like, oh, but why did you choose those kids? Because was it perfect? No, it was nice. But what people did not understood, I could have gone with the kids that dance for the Debbie Allen, dance school and those kinds of things. But they stand on stages all over the US. I purposely chose a little dance school in Compton in Gardena, because I thought those kids would never have a chance to stand on any stage. And especially not a stage that size of Kiss FM I Heart Radio. When those kids stood there on that stage, they lit up. I mean, they could not believe it, that they were on a stage. So power for me that that alone is what money could not buy. You say money buys a lot. But not happiness. I mean, it can buy you happy. But not happiness. Especially when it comes out of the pureness of the heart. And those kids, they shine too bright like a diamond. Oh, wait, I'm quoting Rihanna. No, but But yeah, I mean, their parents coming over and hugging me and texts and thanking me, the kids, you know, standing in front of the step and repeat with I heart radios logo, you know, I mean, it was
Kristen Thomasino (28:33):
beautiful. Well, you're empowering. And that's what I love about this, you know, because we've had various things that have happened in our communities and lots of different messaging and things that people have had to process. And it's been traumatic for so many people. So it's wonderful to see these experiences being created for so many. And in that empowering sense of, Well, come over here, you know, let's let's Yeah, let's use, you know, some of the good hard work that we've built in our careers, and now share that with these young children and inspire them. I mean, I can't wait to see I mean, I'd love to see you follow these, you know, the stories of these children. You should do it as a documentary. Something. Yeah, yeah. Packed him. Yeah.
Raffles van Exel (29:27):
Yeah. No, because, again, when we had the first group of kids in the studio in LA, I also asked him, I said, What do you want to become, you know, what do you want to be? And one was like, Oh, my God, this is the nicest experience, you know, and we're behind the big board, and they're like, oh, what does this button means and what does that mean? Can I push that one? I said, No, no, push them one and get them to be able to push it. They will. You know, again, it's a live live is an amazing thing. Life is a beautiful thing and pay it forward. You know, if you have a chance, how good is it being a multi millionaire or a multi billionaire and being miserable, or dying? or dying with $2 million? I mean, dying with $100,000 on your account. Oh, wait, dying with $10,000 on your account is already a waste. I told my parents I said, If I die broke, don't feel bad for me, I used
Kristen Thomasino (30:34):
exactly.
Raffles van Exel (30:35):
You know, there is no need for greed, there is no need for jealousy, there is no need for aid. I mean, love is what we are born with. Love is that thing that is in our heart, what we are born with.
Kristen Thomasino (30:53):
hate this thought. This is just such an amazing conversation. And I you know, I look at the world. And I think that more and more of these types of messages are going to continue to come out in inspiration. You know, it just starts to create like that, you know, tidal wave effect, you know, it's just like, once that wave, it's gone. And
Raffles van Exel (31:23):
the time? Yeah, if I can affect one, you can affect one together, we have to affect it, too. But those two effects for those 416 Those 16 was 16 times 1600 60 plus 36. Plus, you know what I mean? Let it become a domino effects.
Kristen Thomasino (31:46):
Yeah, absolutely. So, um, you know, just a good question, because I'm gonna put this in the, you know, in the interview as well, right, but, so how can others really, you know, support your social good mission
Raffles van Exel (31:59):
right now? join the bandwagon. You know, all our information is on artists for global unity.com and our social media and I mean, it doesn't cost anything. I'm like, snap a picture with the peace sign. You know, vote your time to peace. tag us in it. And you've done something I don't need money. I mean, we're not looking for donations. We're not looking for handouts. You know, our merch we got our merchandise by the way. I got to meet your sizes because we got all
Kristen Thomasino (32:36):
awesome shirts and T shirts, we got hoodies,
Raffles van Exel (32:43):
we got shirts, we got the T shirts and
Kristen Thomasino (32:49):
you know, you mentioned that these things are all going to these different partners that you all have selected, which is just beautiful. Look at that. You got all the names of the artists on there. Oh, that's wonderful. Look at that. I love the artwork on that too. That's beautiful. Thank
Raffles van Exel (33:06):
you. Everybody's telling us they're like man that makes us think about retro the 80s and that's what we want to do you know, Oh, I love it living collars. You know?
Kristen Thomasino (33:21):
Yes, I love it. You know after all these you know different things and the things that have happened with the closures and stuff like that. You know, having you know new stuff, sometimes new colors, new paint, all kinds of different things can brighten up community.
(34:04):
The social good magazine is designed to inspire others to make a difference in their communities. Created by Kristen Thomasino. This show and magazine showcases the stories of people making a positiveimpact in their neighborhoods and beyond. Whether it's through volunteering, fundraising, or simply lending a helping hand. These individuals remind us that we can all make a difference. The social good magazine is the perfect tool for anyone seeking inspiration to get involved in their community.
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