Gangster Records headed up by Shyface is an independent label that works directly with Bianda to raise funds and awareness and foster peace and healing through music.

Indaba Music has changed my life in many positive ways. Most of that happened while I was a free member. Once I knew I would call this place home I went for the upgrade and I truly have everything I need to succeed right here. This is a wonderful community with galaxies of amazing talent and personalities, and how about giving?

Five months ago, I decided to throw the switch on a big project that just wasn't happening, yet. I went and asked Indaba members, to work for free, be right there in the mix. I asked them to donate their time, energy, talents, and they could not be happier to oblige and jump right in the first hours the session was started. Before the first day ended, there were 25 musicians from all parts of the world, stems and ideas were everywhere, it was more like an online party and a months long jam session.

These amazing artists gathered to collaborate on an epic song with lots of change-ups and flavas. We had high expectations, those were surpassed midway.. The finished product was a magic song, a gift and homage to Mantis and everyone at Indaba Music. They don't bullshit, they change lives on the daily. Lastly, that same song, Indaba Love, will be used to fuel a fundraiser for Multiple Sclerosis, 100% of proceeds going straight to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

The project also had some other magic to give us. Our band Bianda was formed naturally between members who worked closely together and everyone kept it fun, it was an amazing experience. So much so that the band members have pledged a lifetime of 50/50 splits with charitable causes. For every dollar the band earns, half goes directly to the agreed upon charities.

My story? Not as exciting as Indaba Love, but it's me..

One day, at the age of 6 at a large family gathering, there were more than a dozen kids and cousins all causing their own brand of trouble. I did my share of misbehavin, but on that day, I got really silly and I all charged up. From what I can remember, I was allegedly freestyle flowin while I boogied down in front of the cheering and booing group of kids. One cousin of mine, CJ was entertained and into my set lol. In all this chaos, he called me "MC Shyface" he declared the name with vigor. He and others are still calling me that for more than 5 presidential terms.

At a young age I realized I was cursed with being able to play by ear. Before 11 I did go on to play the trumpet and tenor saxophone strictly by note - when I was in school. I can basically pick up any instrument and play almost any song, but the painful sounds before I find and remember the keys. I have rhythm but my body refuses to let me play acoustic drums.

I began learning about music and DJ-ing before I was 10. I've owned many keyboards over the years, from before the first small Casio that recorded samples. These days I keep a Novation and Akai MPD24 midi controllers. I've produced the old skool way, on a giant but dope Roland MV-8800 workstation, and several software DAWs. My main setup is Reason+Record, Pro Tools 8, and Acid Pro

I'm interested in hearing and making all types of music with all types of people from anywhere in the world. It makes it even more interesting, if it doesn't give you jet-lag in your studio chair, with the time differences.

Tons of talented artists here, big ups to everyone here doing their thing. You're Already Living Your Dreams.

Shy

I'm flexible, though I do prefer online collaboration. I can be a helpful addition to just about any project.