Mr. Donny Rucker grew up in Nashville TN, and attended college at TSU. Soon after college, Mr. Rucker enlisted into the U.S. Coast Guards in Alameda, CA. During this time Mr. Rucker spent days and nights writing movie scripts. But one in particular stood out called, Sunrise Riot. Not being able to get funding for this particular script, Mr. Rucker decided to get into the Concert Promotions business, as a way to finance his projects on his own. This was the birth of Fifth World Productions in 1976. The name was later changed to EntertainmentPac LLC, which has promoted everyone from Barry White, Marvin Gaye, Gladys Knight, etc. EntertainmentPac is a global concert and entertainment promotions company with its core focus on music, professional sports and special events. Mr. Rucker has formed a partnership and friendship with the legendary Joe Jackson (father of the famous Jackson family.) This pair has branded many events across the country, and they still today continue to think outside the box in their business ventures. How many can say that they have done anything for 30 years, and more importantly than that, been successful in that 30 year process? Well Donny Rucker can definitely speak in the affirmative when it comes to his career as the premiere promoter.
After such a long run, most would retire and look back at all the successes they have had. Not Mr. Donny Rucker. He has reinvented himself and is taking his Midas touch on an international playing field. DubaiDon, Chief Promoter for DubaiDon Promotions, LLC has built one of the most innovative and world class team of entertainment specialists, promoters, and entertainment business professionals to develop and promote the latest and greatest entertainment and professional sports events. HIs company is at the forefront in the next generation of global concert and sport entertainment promotions. Lookout! DubaiDon Promotions may be coming to a city, better yet, a country near you!!
Here are just a few of the people you know and love that DubaiDon has promoted!
Originally from Vancouver, BC, Rachel Suter an up and coming Pop artist lives by the words “Nothing Is Impossible” as her anthem for life.
With exotic looks originating from her British and Bolivian background, Rachel is no stranger to the stage. She first began her journey at the age of 3 appearing in TV film Non-Subject. That experience left something to be desired. At age 5, Rachel was singing in school talent shows and performing with the Canadian Ice Dance Theatre as a figure skater. Rachel began taking piano lessons at the age of 7 and wrote her first song at the age of 9.
In 2001, a local producer heard a clip of her voice on a track which she had recorded as a group project for her high school recording arts class and the two began working together. Rachel continued to build her following, performing in various open mic's and winning various singing competitions in and around the Vancouver area.
In the late spring of 2004, Rachel was asked to perform the Canadian and American National Anthems various times during the opening ceremonies for the Vancouver Whitecaps at Swanguard Stadium.
Learning at a very young age the importance of following her dreams, Rachel was not afraid to do just that so in late 2004, she packed her bags and headed east to Toronto to further pursue her career, landing opening spots for artists such as James Bryan (The Philosopher Kings/Prozzak), Dayna Manning, Sunshine State, Tyler Kyte and the legendary David Wilcox in concert.
These days Rachel shows no sign of slowing down. She is currently working on her debut album and has recently wrapped up a track featuring Moka from the multi-award winning group the Swollen Members and the two have more projects in store. Rachel is also celebrating her first songwriting placement and is continuing to hone her craft as a songwriter and producer.
Ranging from Pop, Rock to R&B and Soul, this young pianist, guitarist, singer, songwriter and producer sings it all, and writes it all. From catchy signature songs, to her amazing voice, drive and growing fan base, it is only fair to say that you'll be hearing a lot more from this true up and coming sensation!
Julian works very hard, practicing up to two hours per day, with his talent. His talent is beyond comprehension, his parents know there role is to nurture it and support Julian the best they can
Julian’s parents just wanted their children to have opportunities - to be able to try many things, to see what they liked and what they might have a particular knack for. More importantly as parents, they have the tremendous responsibility to not only nurture and support their talents, but to protect their ability to grow up as normal children.
I am delighted to present the story of one truly amazing and talented young drummer and inventor Julian Pavone.
From the Motor City, (Detroit, Michigan), five-year-old Julian began his professional music career at just 19 months old! Since then, he has performed in international venues and has been featured on numerous television shows and news shows. Unsurprisingly, Julian's amazing talents in both music and inventing have earned him numerous awards.
Even at a young age, Julian was passionate about drumming and with his parents support, worked very hard to nurture his talent for both drumming and inventing.
I hope that Julian's story will inspire our young readers to work hard at their goals too, and will inspire more parents and caring mentors to nurture their children’s talents, so they can one day realize their amazing potential and launch their dreams!
Julian’s First CD Cover (age 19 months)
He is the youngest professional drummer in the world.
He is considered by many as the “Tiger Woods of Music Industry.”
He is five year old Julian Pavone of Detroit, Michigan.
Julian started playing drums from the age of three months. Now, just 5 years old, he plays a 22-piece custom drum set with 17 cymbals and a double kick. He plays rock, funk, fusion and jazz beats with his Vic Firth Signature Series Sticks on Drums, Sabian Cymbals and Sennheiser Microphones – with all told, four companies supporting him with full artist endorsements.
Ms. Tawana Lael was born and raised in the heart of New York City. She is considered a triple threat in the entertainment industry and now she brings that flavor and energy to the south (AtlantaGeorgia). Tawana started singing in the choir in a little church in Brooklyn, New York called Greater Free Gift Baptist Church. Tawana is a gifted singer/songwriter and has performed in many well known venues in The Big Apple; such as The Apollo, Sweetwaters, and Reins. Those venues let her express her love for musical theatre because it included all three disciplines. As an actress and musical theatre artist, she has performed in several Off Broadway theatres such as The Mint, The Trilogy, The National Black Theatre, and the 23rd Street Playhouse.
Tawana's Atlanta performances include, but are not limited to, The Heritage Arts Festival at Underground Atlanta, “Newsmakers’ Live” at Uptown Restaurant and Lounge, CentennialPark, multiple college events and private events throughout Georgia and the southeast, a private gala for the Gate City Bar Association at the Georgia Aquarium. Her theatrical presence includes a workshop performance called “A Black Girls’ Song”, starring Grammy Award winner India Arie. Her motivation is knowing she can wake up every morning and do something she loves. Tawanas’ training has been with some of the best in the business. They include but are not limited to Ankh Ra, Making the Band 4 (Vocals); AlvinAileyDanceSchool (Ballet, Tap, Jazz); Melvada Hughes (Choreographer); and Hilda Willis (Acting/Career Coach).
VertiKal MagaZine agrees with Tawana that her music and positive upbringing will encourage others to dream big. She has continued to work on her music for years, and now it’s finally paying off. She wants to share her dream. "I am very fond of India Arie, because she is one of those sisters that will encourage you and your gift. She is empowering and I just love her. There’s also Ms. Phyllis Hyman, who I miss dearly. I was such a fan, and I learned so much about how to carry myself, being a tall woman; she taught me by example to stand tall and be fabulous. There’s also Patti Labelle, Regina Bell, Sarah Vaughn, Anita Baker and oh how can I forget my girl, Whitney Houston."
Tawana continues, "I can go on forever; there have been quite a few greats before me. As for my aspirations I just want to be an obedient vessel, so that the spirit can teach through me. I enjoy giving back and working with a Non-Profit organization named PAPY, which is directed by Ms Hilda Willis. It teaches theatre to inner city youth in Atlanta; strengthening their possibilities. I want to continue writing, and putting out positive music. I also want to explore the world of TV, commercials and film. I have quite a few goals that I’ve set for myself. The possibilities are endless! Oh and Shakespeare in the park…that’s a New York thing."
Charles Maurice Bailer III, 27, was born in Boston Massachusetts on September 27, 1982. Currently residing in Cobb County, Charles is a local actor trying to do his thing in the acting business. Before he started acting, Charles held a number of low end jobs such as busing tables, grocery bager, and ride operator at Six Flags. In high school Charles realized that he had a passion for cars but didn't have the slightest idea on how to work on them. So he took the next best job he could think of that related directly to cars, auto parts professional at a local auto parts store. After a few years of service in the auto parts industry, Charles got the funny idea that he could possibly try his hand out on the stage as an actor. At this point he was heavily involved in a Sunday school class that evolved into a drama team at his church. In January 2008 Charles was walking in downtown Acworth and came across a local community theatre where he met a director that was holding auditions for her show. She asked if he was an actor and he replied "I want to be." Charles went back later that night and the rest is history. Since that night in 08, Charles has performed on stage, managed, written, or assistant directed more than 30 shows and has shown no sign of slowing down. In November 2009 Charles made his television debut in an episode of Tyler Perry's Meet the Browns (Hospital scene he was Thickems'). As far as the future goes for acting, Charles would like to do more film acting and has set big goals for himself for the next few years. When Charles isn't acting he spends alot of time with his wife Kristin. They are the youth events coordinators at their church. Together they plan things like field trips, lock-ins and other social gatherings. In the summer months Charles also volunteers at a christian diversity camp called Barefoot Republic in Scottsville Ky. May it be in acting or volunteering Charles wants to do Gods work and be a positive role model to all the young people around the world male or female.
How did you get started?
I got started in my church just by attending a drama Sunday school class that developed into a drama team and I have been performing ever sense.
What is your motivation?
My motivation is believing that this is what God has called me to do and staying on this path until He calls me to do something else. Also having the possibility to provide for my family in a big way.
What do you hope to achieve?
I hope to be a positive role model for people young and old male or female all over the world.
Who are your idols, greatest influences?
One of my biggest idols would have to be Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. As one of the founding fathers of the civil right movement, he had a big hand laying the foundation for equality for African Americans everywhere. My greatest influence would have to be anybody that has pushed me to keep going and supported me every step of this great journey.
What or who do you aspire to be?
I aspire to be a great performer that can command a stage or screen without having to say a word. Somebody that can play any role and never leave the spectator comparing this role to other roles. If there were any actors that I aspire to be like they would be Terrance Howard, Denzel Washington, and Tyler Perry.
Do you do any charity or volunteer work?
I do volunteer at a Christian diversity camp in Scottsville Kentucky during the summer called Barefoot Republic Camp. This camp takes kids from everywhere: the suburbs, the inner city, the country, and various countries from all over the world and brings them together for one week and breaks down all of those social barriers and introduces them to new ways of living. The camp also encourages the kids to try new things. For example each camper has a specialty, one thing that he/ she are really good at. Then they are assigned something they would normally not choose to do. Like if your specialty is football, you would get to play football for a couple hours a day but later on you could be assigned something along the lines of photography. In the middle of that there are group devotions in the morning time and evening services everyday.
Long term goals?
My long term goals are to be a full time working actor and to entertain people weather it be in screen or on stage.
Charles who is known to his family and friends as Chuck is a man who practice what he preach.
BIOGRAPHY: Kimberly has been wowing audiences with her vocal abilities since the age of three. Some say she was born with a microphone in her hand. This native of Atlanta, Georgia gained her interest in music listening to many of the Soul, Funk, and Jazz classics in her older siblings' collections. Since then she has honed her skills playing instruments and lending her vocal and instrumental talents to many of the musical organizations on the campus of Florida A&M University. These include the Infamous Marching "100", Symphonic Band, Percussion Ensemble, Clarinet Choir, Concert Choir and Jazz Band. This is where her love for Jazz & Classical music manifested itself. As a student, Kimberly performed for many conferences, festivals, and venues across the country and abroad. Upon graduating from FAMU, Kimberly, then moved to the Atlanta area where she established herself as a performer within the soul stirring musical community, continuing to captivate audiences with her unique style and enigmatic presence. In 2005, Kimberly released her self-titled debut album, which has gained critical acclaim within the United States and abroad. She has been featured on radio stations and compilations as a result of her many talents. The vocal nuances this earthy sister brings to music are reminiscent of her greatest soul influences, imbued with a hint of Jazz. Although this musician, songwriter, and vocal arranger loves recording, she absolutely lives for performing and connecting with her audience. When you experience one of her shows, you may catch her playing percussion, dancing or battling her musicians vocally on the microphone. The vocal arrangements that come to life through her background will entice you. She lives in a world of harmony, which sets her apart from most of the vocalists this day and age. Kimberly recently moved to the Los Angeles area to begin a new chapter of her musical career. Since the move, she and her band have been performing in many venues within the Los Angeles area. You will not want to miss this soulful vocalist!
How did you get started?
I’ve been singing since a very young age. I’ve always been surrounded by music, and naturally gravitated towards it.
What is your motivation?
My family
What do you hope to achieve?
Touching the world with my music and using it as a vehicle to give back in a major way
Who are your idols, greatest influences?
I’ve been influenced by some of the greatest musicians and vocalists in the business. Sarah Vaughn, Ella Fitzgerald, Dianne Reeves, Rachelle Ferrell, Teena Marie, Earth Wind & Fire, John Coltrane… the list goes on and on.
I’ve always been greatly influenced by Jazz & Soul musicians.
What or who do you aspire to be?
Myself. Being able to express myself through music, being true to who I am and sharing my talents with all who want to hear it.
Do you do any charity or volunteer work?
I’ve worked with several organizations over the years. Habitat for Humanity, Boys and Girls Club, various women’s shelters, Hosea’s Feed the Hungry, and giving to Breast Care awareness and most recently Yele.org (relief fund for Haiti)
Long term goals?
Continue to write music, perform and connect with my fans and most of all be a driving force for my family and assist them to be the best they can be in all of their future endeavors.
How did you get started?
I’ve been singing since a very young age. I’ve always been surrounded by music, and naturally gravitated towards it.
What is your motivation?
My family
What do you hope to achieve?
Touching the world with my music and using it as a vehicle to give back in a major way
Who are your idols, greatest influences?
I’ve been influenced by some of the greatest musicians and vocalists in the business. Sarah Vaughn, Ella Fitzgerald, Dianne Reeves, Rachelle Ferrell, Teena Marie, Earth Wind & Fire, John Coltrane… the list goes on and on.
I’ve always been greatly influenced by Jazz & Soul musicians.
What or who do you aspire to be?
Myself. Being able to express myself through music, being true to who I am and sharing my talents with all who want to hear it.
Do you do any charity or volunteer work?
I’ve worked with several organizations over the years. Habitat for Humanity, Boys and Girls Club, various women’s shelters, Hosea’s Feed the Hungry, and giving to Breast Care awareness and most recently Yele.org (relief fund for Haiti)
Long term goals?
Continue to write music, perform and connect with my fans and most of all be a driving force for my family and assist them to be the best they can be in all of their future endeavors.
Submitted by Sherry Dunn
