Today’s #dailytwerk is from a woman twerkin in some nice strip shorts in the parking lot.  At the 1:04 mark, she looks back at it.

Stripe Shorts Parking Lot Twerk

Oh and just a reminder, if you want have your video featured in #dailytwerk, email your video link to dailytwerk@xxlmag.com

Also, be sure to follow @dailytwerk on Twitter.

The post Stripe Shorts #dailytwerk appeared first on XXL.

Today’s #dailytwerk is from a woman with lovely pink shorts. At the 1:40 mark, she does a handstand that should leave you speechless.

Big Booty Twerk

Oh and just a reminder, if you want have your video featured in #dailytwerk, email your video link to dailytwerk@xxlmag.com

Also, be sure to follow @dailytwerk on Twitter.

The post Pink Shorts Twerk #dailytwerk appeared first on XXL.

Today’s #dailytwerk is from a woman twerkin to Steppe N DyCe “Booty In My Lap.”  At the 2:17 mark, she gets on the floor and goes in.

Oh and just a reminder, if you want have your video featured in #dailytwerk, email your video link to dailytwerk@xxlmag.com

Also, be sure to follow @dailytwerk on Twitter.

The post Booty In My Lap #dailytwerk appeared first on XXL.

Karma Red is a rare type of model, in that she is studying to be a registered nurse, instead of studying to be on the next season of Basketball Wives. Aside from being featured in Sweets and AsIs Magazine, this Miami-based model also recently shot for the Dynasty Series, and is working on her own line of clothing. Check out our interview with this intelligent beauty.

— Bernadette Giacomazzo (@berngiacomazzo)

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

My name is Karma Red, from Miami, Fla., and I am an urban model signed to IBMM. I am in school studying to become a registered nurse. I love helping people and I am very passionate about not just my modeling career but my nursing career as well. Can’t forget that I am Haitian so I am very passionate about my culture because it makes me who I am.

What would you say is the biggest misconception about urban models? What are you doing to dispel that misconception?

I would say the biggest misconception about the urban model industry is that we’re all promiscuous. Some of us are actually passionate about it and keep it strictly business. A lot of people feel that because we are in music videos, or in magazines with swimsuits/lingerie on, that we must be “fast” women. I just make sure that I keep it strictly business and be myself on and off set. I believe that if a person wants to work with you, they will work with you regardless.

What was your greatest accomplishment in modeling?

Some of my great accomplishments wouldn’t have happened if I didn’t sign to IBMM so that’s my greatest accomplishment. Within 90 days, I had a video out that did over 200,000 views and I was featured on Dynasty Series. I also was featured in Sweets Magazine (April). I launched my website www.karmaredonline.com, where I will be selling “Karma Red” merchandise starting this summer. So I will say one of the greatest accomplishments is just being part of a team that believes in my brand.

Would you say it’s difficult, as a model, to maintain a personal relationship with a man? Why or why not?

As a model, I would say a relationship can be difficult because of the type of work that I do. It’s always something that can come up at the last minute that can take me away from our original plans. Another issue that some men might have is seeing me in various men’s magazines that their friends may buy. I look at it like this: why wouldn’t you want a model, you can show me off like “buy the issue with girlfriend in it?”

If you could give one piece of advice to aspiring models, what would it be, and why?

People will say negative things that can break you but don’t let it get to you, if this is really what you want, other people’s opinions shouldn’t matter. Your dreams are your dreams and your career is your career, so always remember that. I can honestly say that I would tell any model to work with a team, because that support system is great. So to all my fellow models, keep striving to be the best and always do your best.

The post Karma Red Gives You What You Deserve appeared first on XXL.

Today’s #dailytwerk froms from the Booty Gang. At the 1:27 mark, a dancer does a special workout that you should enjoy.

Booty Gang Work Out Twerk

Oh and just a reminder, if you want have your video featured in #dailytwerk, email your video link to dailytwerk@xxlmag.com

Also, be sure to follow @dailytwerk on Twitter.

The post Booty Gang Workout #dailytwerk appeared first on XXL.

She’s as sweet as can be—and a soon-to-be college graduate. This hostess and calendar model clearly has more aspirations than the average urban model, but while we still have her in our field, she’s definitely worthy of a feature. Check out her interview below.

—Bernadette Giacomazzo (@berngiacomazzo)

Twitter: @dominiquejolie
Facebook: DominiqueJolie
Instagram: DominqueJolie
Website: http://www.dominiquejolie.com/
Measurements: 36DD-26-40

Tell us about the projects you have coming up this summer. Which are you most excited about and why?
The upcoming projects that I have over the summer consist of hostings, photo-shoots, and acting auditions. I enjoy taking photos, playing ‘dress up’ and all but I’m really interested in acting and showing my personality on camera and projected to the big screen. I believe I can do it, I’m just afraid to do it…for the most part, I’m afraid of the rejection that I might receive or not meeting the expectations for myself, the directors, and the fan base. It would be a lot of pressure, but I don’t want to ‘wish I did it when I had the chance.’

You’re attending college. What are you attending college for, and what do you hope to do with your degree?

Yes, I’m attending college. I currently attend Morgan State University and will be graduating in May of 2014 with a degree in social work and sociology. I plan to counsel families and children in hopes of directing and owning my own adoption agency in the near future.

What would you say is the biggest misconception of urban models? What are you doing to combat that misconception?

The biggest misconception of urban models in the industry, in my opinion, is based off of personality and work ethic. When it comes to ‘personality’, most individuals that haven’t gotten the chance to personally meet the model—they assume that she is ‘stuck-up’ and/or wouldn’t be down to earth. Sometimes I feel like a fan base can forget that the model is a real person, consisting of feelings, mood-swings, bad days, or what some may call ‘off days’ (just because she doesn’t have pounds of makeup on and is under a fitted cap). Ways for the model to try to beat the odds, in this case, is to become social and take advantage of social networks by interacting with their fans and providing updates and meet and greets for the people who love their work. When it comes to work ethic, I think everyone believes that the work is easy. Not that I’m complaining, but long hours of videos, fittings for custom clothing, preparation with hair and makeup, and photo shoots are the most pro-longing and everlasting ventures that have to take place when trying to fulfill your dreams and maintain as an interest. Building your career takes a lot of practice, hard work, and dedication; as any other job.

Who is your celebrity crush, and why?

Denzel Washington has to be my number one celebrity crush. With his interviews as a reference, I think that he’s one of the most intellectual, professional, and beautiful man I’ve ever seen in my life. I like his style and the character that he becomes in every movie and love his signature ‘lickin of the brown juicy lips’… He’s just a sexy ol’ man.

If you could give one piece of advice to aspiring urban models, what would it be, and why?

To any of the aspiring models who want to be in the industry, I’d say to come into this place of work with a goal. ‘Come in, have fun, and get out.’ Believe none of what you see in the music videos nor what you hear in the lyrics. Carry yourself what how you would want others to perceive you, and keep a smile on your face.

The post Dominique Jolie is a Joy Forever appeared first on XXL.

Today’s #dailytwerk is from Ms. Minaj. Just skip to the 1:15 mark on the video and enjoy. Nicki Minaj gives Lil Wayne the lap dance of the century while performing “High School” last night during the Billboard Music Awards.

Nicki Minaj Twerks On Lil Wayne

Oh and just a reminder, if you want have your video featured in #dailytwerk, email your video link to dailytwerk@xxlmag.com

Also, be sure to follow @dailytwerk on Twitter.

The post Nicki Minaj #Dailytwerk appeared first on XXL.

Today’s #dailytwerk froms from Red Stallion. At 3:44 seconds in length, it’s an exercise in stamina and Red rises (or lowers) to the occasion.

Red Stallion Killing The Twerk

Oh and just a reminder, if you want have your video featured in #dailytwerk, email your video link to dailytwerk@xxlmag.com

Also, be sure to follow @dailytwerk on Twitter.

The post Red Stallion Killing #dailytwerk appeared first on XXL.

Check out today’s #dailytwerk for a colorful explosion in the form of rainbow leggins worn by a master twerker that definitely has skills.

The stripper pole makes its first appearance at 1:13 and if you make it to 1:43, you can check out some of her advanced booty skills – the control is mesmerizing.

Rainbow Leggins Twerk

Oh and just a reminder, if you want have your video featured in #dailytwerk, email your video link to dailytwerk@xxlmag.com

Also, be sure to follow @dailytwerk on Twitter.

The post Rainbow Bright #dailytwerk appeared first on XXL.

Twerking is a phenomenon that has seemingly inspired women across the globe to shake, rattle and roll their booties. Type “twerking” in Youtube, and there’s tons of videos for your viewing pleasure. We like to say we watch for educational purposes.

It’s not just everyday people who are partaking in this but celebrities also. Twerking is a universal-wide infectious dance that is done by shaking your buttocks with reckless abandon. XXL‘s Eye Candy team will now be highlighting the best twerking videos online every day in a feature called #dailytwerk.

To kick off XXL‘s #dailytwerk, we have curated a collection of some of the best twerk videos so far. Don’t know how to twerk? We have a bonus video at the end that will teach you how.

If you want have your video featured in #dailytwerk, email your video link to dailytwerk@xxlmag.com

Now for the videos … give us this day, our #dailytwerk …

Go follow @DailyTwerk

TwerkTeam Activate

We have everyone’s favorite duo, The TwerkTweam (Lady Luscious and Mizz.TwerkSum) twerking to “Show Out” for your enjoyment. Yes, lawd.

Follow #dailytwerk on Twitter.

The post Best Twerk Videos Kickoff Eye Candy #dailytwerk appeared first on XXL.

Domonique Brooks is perhaps best known for her work in various Gucci Mane videos, but don’t let that stop you into believing that this model on the rise is multi-faceted. In this interview, we talked about her love for 2 Chainz, and what legacy she hopes to leave behind.

—Bernadette Giacomazzo (@berngiacomazzo)

Twitter:  @DomoniqueBrooks

Website: www.domoniquebrooks.com

Instagram: Domonique_Brooks

How did you get started in modeling?

I got started in modeling a few years ago. My father actually gave me the final push to try it and I loved it!. Soon after I began booking photo shoots and events, and starring in videos.

You’ve been in a lot of videos with Gucci Mane. What is he like to work with? Do you have some interesting stories?

Everyone asks me about Gucci Mane. I have absolutely nothing negative to say about him. He was very quiet and reserved on set. He was actually very nice to me and let me charge my cell in the same room while he was getting his hair cut. Gucci is cool to me.

What would you say was your best experience in the modeling industry? What would you say was the worst?

I have had a lot of great experiences in the modeling industry. The fact that I’ve been given opportunities to work with some of the biggest stars in entertainment is very memorable for me. I am also very humbled by the amount of support I receive from my admirers and true fans. My worst experience would be witnessing young ladies compromise themselves and sacrifice their morals for attention in this industry.

Besides modeling, what do you see yourself doing on a professional level?

I have a passion for acting. I see myself in films and even interviewing your favorite celebrities as they walk down the red carpet. I’m an all around entertainer and being on stage and in front of the camera gives me a rush. I have already starred in a short film and performed in a stage play. Acting has been a great way for me to display my creativity.

Where do you see your career in 5 years?

Everyone usually says they want to be a “household name.” But I want my legacy to live on even after I’m gone. Establishing my brand is important to my longevity in this business and I intend on making that happen. In 5 years I’ll be enjoying the rewards of all my hard work.

Who is your celebrity crush, and why?

My celebrity crush would probably be 2 Chainz. He’s just a dope person. The hard work he has put in has definitely paid off. His work ethic and determination is admirable to say to the least.

If you could give one piece of advice to aspiring models, what would it be?

Stand your ground. Build your brand. Work hard at your craft.

The post Domonique Brooks Is Stone Cold appeared first on XXL.

Here’s a model that loves her ink. Treasure is a registered nurse and model from the greater Maryland area, and in this interview, we talk about the meaning behind some of her tattoos, her modeling aspirations, and how she combines modeling with nursing.

—Bernadette Giacomazzo (@berngiacomazzo)

Twitter: @1Badbish86

Instagram: 1Badabish

Website: www. YouTube.com/1Badbish86

Measurements: 36-27-40

How did you get your start in modeling?

I got started modeling when I was young. I always loved modeling, pictures and cameras. My first modeling step was at a school play in the 4th grade.  That following year I wanted to be in the Easter fashion walk at Greenbelt Plaza Mall. I wore clothes from the different stores in the mall and strutted down the runway. I became more focused on becoming a cheerleader than a model shortly after that summer was finished. But when I hit 9th grade I didn’t want to cheer anymore I wanted to walk, take pictures and be seen on the big screens. I began to take pictures of myself as I took photography class in 9th grade as my elective. After I mastered the camera I wanted to now be the model. They all just went hand in hand. I had a baby at 17 so that cut my time I had to put into my modeling career. When I got the time again a few years ago I went full force trying to do as much as I can get noticed for it. I have done music videos to runway shows. Every opportunity I try to take advantage of, and I’m still taking them and going.

Outside of modeling, what are your hobbies?

My hobbies are reading and listening to music. I love instruments and the sounds that comes from them. I try to be as involved with life as much as possible so I make new hobbies daily. I’m also in love with my sons and mommy time with my boys, going and doing fun outings on a regular basis. I love the nightlife—I love to clubs in different cities so I can see the people. And of course my love of music ties into that well. I love being seen and seeing people. When I’m home I’m a big movie buff. I don’t go to the movies as often as I would like but I try to get a view in when its a great cast or a Tyler Perry movie. Although I have just about every type of movie, I love a good love story. As long as it has a good plot I’ve seen it or will see it soon.

Tell us about your tattoos. Which was your first one? What’s the meaning behind them?

Well most of my tattoos have meanings and a few don’t, I just liked the style or colors. My first tattoo however was very meaningful—located in the top of my sleeve on my right arm, I have a Rest In Peace Tattoo that is dedicated to my son’s father, also my childhood boyfriend (Midnite). I got it right after he passed in 2004. The next day I got my Libra scales symbols because it’s my zodiac sign. I have a gorgeous Koi fish which means good luck and good fortune located on my inner arm in my sleeve. And surrounding all of that I have multiple colored leopard spots all throughout cause they are pretty. I have a line of stars to symbolize all my 8 siblings in my sleeve as well and on top is a specially designed peacock overseeing the whole arm, and of course my sons names too. My whole arm was free handed and designed by DMV artist Guss at Uptopink and its not done so watch for more to come.

Who is your celebrity crush, and why?

I don’t really have a celebrity crush, all the good ones are taken or I’m just not interested in them. A few actors have caught my eye though, but to keep hope alive I don’t wanna reveal them. Some of them follow me on Twitter.

What does a man have to do to win your heart?

A man only has to be himself to really win me over. Make me laugh and cry at the same time. But be the only one to dry my eyes. Take care of me and my family like its his own. Show me everyday that I matter and has only have eyes for me. Take me places and show me off at the best locations. Take vacations and take care of me. I may require a lot of attention but I give out 100 percent more that’s given to me. I thrive on trust. It’s the most valuable thing you can ever have. Just trust me and know that if I choose you and you choose to be with me, lets be happy. All every woman wants to do is be loved and happy.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

In 5 years I will have my own company or modeling firm for young aspiring actresses and models. I want a portfolio that’s amazing and full of accomplishments. I want to have finished school by that time, as I will be getting older. I’m seeking my BSN. Being a RN has always been my ideal career and is now my back up career if my modeling doesn’t take me to the heights that I am looking for in life. I hope to see myself in a beautiful big house looking at pictures of me in magazines from all over, looking at actress roles and hopefully getting a starring role. I love movies and always dreamed of acting. I have many dreams and aspirations, I also want to just be able to say I have had the dream I wanted come true. Not sure what’s in store for me but I hope it’s a lot.

If you could give one piece of advice to aspiring models, what would it be, and why?

One piece of advice that I would give to all girls  attempting and/or aspiring to be a well known model, or video vixen whether it’s in eye candy or not, to never forget who you are. Don’t let fame change you as a person,  I have seen this happen a lot and to people whom I thought would never change. It never helps its ultimately hurts you in the end. Even if you are already into modeling the first and foremost thing to know is know that it’s hard and to be the best you have to work hard but you are not the only one trying. So your efforts will pay off with dedication and hard work. So try your best. Never forget where you come from and never forget where you wanna go.

The post Treasure Is A Pot Of Gold appeared first on XXL.

In honor of Mother’s Day, we would like to highlight the hot hip-hop moms in the industry. We have stars from Beyonce to Kelis. All of these mothers are absolutely smoking. So please kick you feet up and take a look.

The post Who Is The Hottest Hip-Hop Mom? appeared first on XXL.

—Bernadette Giacomazzo (@bgiacomazzo)

Hailing from the mean streets of Watts, California, Kanary Diamonds has exploded onto the scene as one of Hip Hop’s sexiest female rappers. With her masterful flow, irresistible sex appeal, and ridiculously hot lyrics, Kanary Diamonds is headed straight to the top.

Both rare and exotic, this half Puerto Rican beauty knows how to get in touch with her roots recording “Candy Girl” with Tatyana Ali on the Reggaeton compilation “Puro Fuego.”

She has been featured on Mack 10’s Hustla’s Handbook with the song “By the Bar” and has collaborated with artists such as Chingy, Colby O’Donis, Yo-Yo, Glasses Malone, Kam, Lady of Rage, and others. Furthermore, Kanary’s songs have been placed in various television shows and films such as Kimora: Life in the Fab Lane, Bad Girls Club, Making the Band 4, Code Name the Cleaner starring Lucy Liu and Cedrick The Entertainer, and Waist Deep starring Tyrese Gibson, Megan Good, The Game, and Larenz Tate.

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/kanarydiamonds

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/kanaryd

Instagram: kanaryd

Website: www.kanarydiamonds.com

Tell us about yourself. Who are you? What do you do?

My name is Kanary Diamonds, and I’m from Watts, California. I’m a rapper, dancer, singer, model and actress. An all-over entertainer.

You’re a female rapper—obviously, you’re going to get compared to Nicki Minaj. Yet, your style is definitely not like hers. So, how do you respond to those people who would compare you—either to Nicki, or to other female rappers?

I don’t mind being compared at all, that’s the name of the game. Yet, I would tell them to give my music a chance.

What’s the best show you’ve ever done? What’s the worst?

The best show I’ve done was at The Rocky in Los Angeles, where I opened up for KRS-ONE. I was so honored to even share the same stage with him, and he personally invited me to perform. I was floored when he called me back on to spit a verse. That’s something I’ll never forget and will forever be grateful for. The worst show was at a club in LA where the power went out while I was performing. When the lights came back on, 3 fights had broken out while I was still on stage.

In five years, where do you see yourself in your career?

I’ll definitely be a major, nationally known artist, and probably working on my 4th major release. I’ll be on my second major movie role, and hopefully I’ll be a Grammy winner and Oscar winner…or at least nominated.

Let’s talk a little bit about growing up in Compton. We’ve heard a lot about it in early 1990′s NWA songs and similar—would you say these descriptions are still accurate, today? Why or why not? How did you survive those streets?

Well I’m not from Compton I’m from Watts—which is just a street away. But NWA painted an accurate picture of life in the hood. Nowadays, it’s still pretty hood but with more options that are being brought to the hood, like higher education and even entrepreneurship.  The hood has definitely evolved. Yet we are still plagued with gang violence, unfortunately where I’m from that’s just a way of life and that’s all most of us know. I grew up poor and street life was the easy way out, yet I have a devoutly Christian mom who kept us in line. My siblings and I made it out untainted, I can only say we are blessed.

What would you say is the biggest challenge that female rappers face today? How do you overcome these challenges?

Being underestimated, as in any career field. Just by the fact we’re considered “female rappers” and not just rappers tells it all. It’s a male dominated industry and unfortunately guys can’t think with both heads at the same time. Also, the unity amongst females is rare. For some reason, we’re made to feel like only one female rapper can exist at a time, and we foolishly believe it, so it becomes crabs in a barrel.

If you could give one piece of advice to an aspiring rapper, what would it be, and why?

Find your own voice as soon as possible. Don’t chase the current sound—find who you are. The earlier an artist does that, the better off they’ll be. You might get rejected and ridiculed at first, but they’ll catch up as long as you stay true to you.

The post Shine Bright Like A Kanary Diamond appeared first on XXL.

Tris comes to us from the Great White North–Toronto, Canada–and she’s starting to make some waves on American shores. Recommended by Kevin Weekes, the G-Unit casting director, the thick’n'creamy Tris talks about her crush on 50 Cent, being a makeup artist, and her ultimate dream modeling job.

—Bernadette Giacomazzo (@bgiacomazzo)

TWITTER: http://www.twitter.com/ForeverLoyal50
FACEBOOK: http://www.facebook.com/TrisHosten

How did you get your start in modeling?

I got my big start being cast as one of 50′s Most Wanted by my amazing friend Mr. Kevin Weekes, who took a genuine interest in me. I have done a few things in Toronto hosting parties, a few flyers and a music video by Kevin Lyttle called “Turn Me On,”  which was directed by Little X. More recently, I’ve done a Toronto based urban online magazine called Ice Angels Mag.

What would you like to do, in modeling, that you haven’t done as of yet?

What I would love to do, as of now, is to grace the cover of the top magazines out there. I’d like to experience walking down the runway at the Victoria Secret show like Ms. Tyra Banks. Being a VS angel wouldn’t be bad at all.

Besides modeling, what are some of your hobbies?

People know me as someone that once had a dream of becoming a makeup artist to the stars. Jay Manuel was someone I’ve always wanted to work with. He’s amazing. I have a passion for always wanting to bring the beauty out of people. I’m always trying to fix something on someone. I am also a reader. I’m reading this great book right now, by Louise L. Hay You Can Heal Your Life.  I enjoy traveling of course and lastly, I like meditation and yoga.

Who is your celebrity crush, and why?

Now, this is simple, although I wouldn’t call it a “crush” but more of an admiration for this man that reminds me of myself in many ways. I never really took a liking to him at first because he was just another rapper to me. But a few years ago, I actually paid attention to this man in an interview and, being an observant soul, I realized he had a deeper side to him that I never saw before. I totally related to the fact that people misunderstood him as a person, because I live that all my life. We all know his work ethic is on point but because he felt the same way about feeding the hungry as I do, I was blown away by that and realized that there’s no one else like this man around in this industry that I know of that has this passion to want to be the person that can change a life like this. I’ll stop here and tell the world that Mr. Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson is my choice of celebrity that I look up too. I refuse to use the word “crush” because, as a female that is in this industry, it comes off as being a groupie…something I am not.

What does a man have to do to win your heart?

He has to be loyal, and consistent with his feelings and actions towards me. Considerate of my feelings always, be fearless in love, romantic and gentle. Try always to be honest with me. Communicate with me no matter what. Full attention is needed and never give any female a reason to think that they can have him and that our union isn’t sealed tight. Respectful, genuine and loving to me and my daughter, Tokio. Poems are nice and I’m old school so I’m big on courting. He can’t be an attention seeker. His aura, spirit and soul must be pure. Did I say romantic?

If you could give one piece of advice to an aspiring model, what  would it be, and why?

Know yourself, because we all know, if you’re a lost soul and don’t understand yourself, how can you make it in this harsh industry? People will make you who they want you to be if you give them the knowledge that you are really just a pretty airhead. Listen to that intuition, it wasn’t given to us to ignore.

How do you want people to remember you?

Being a genuine, beautiful person from within, who loves hard and would always try to make you happy. Trustworthy and loyal. Also, being the best mother, friend, wife (when that happens) and hopefully be a mentor to someone.

The post Eye Candy Of The Week: Tris Hosten Keeps It Thick’n'Creamy appeared first on XXL.

Kathy Lantigua is, quite simply, a stunningly gorgeous woman. When she’s not showing off her assets in magazines like Show, or shaking what her mama gave her in countless videos, she’s working as the best-looking law firm receptionist in the tri-state area. In our interview, we talked about working with Chris Brown, falling in love with Bradley Cooper, and why a man needs to carry a pack of gum if he wants to talk to her.

—Bernadette Giacomazzo (@bgiacomazzo)

STATS: 36D-27-39
FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/kathylantigua
TWITTER: www.twitter.com/klantigua85
INSTAGRAM: @KathyLantigua

Take us through a typical day in the life of you. What do you do, as a model? What do you do when you’re not modeling?

My life consist of me going to the gym and heading to several castings a day. But when I’m not modeling, I’m working my 9 to 5 as a receptionist for a law firm.

You’ve done several videos for several major artists. Which was your favorite video to do, and why?

My favorite video would have to be Julez Santana featuring Chris Brown’s video for “Back to the Crib.” I had such a great time on set. I love that I got to walk the runway and  show everyone what I was working with. It was also a pleasure working beside Chris Brown.

You have an absolutely amazing body. What do you do to stay in shape?

I go to the gym Monday through Friday. I also have a trainer and I watch what I eat. It’s important to stay fit. The better I look, the more gigs I book.

Who is your celebrity crush, and why?

Bradley Cooper. When I first saw him in The Hangover,  I fell in love…I love his eyes.

What does a man have to do to win your heart?

He has to have confidence. He also has to have a sense of humor, as well.

What is the ultimate turn-off, or dealbreaker, in a man, for you?

A man with bad breath.

What would you say is the biggest misconception of you? Why do you think people have this misconception?

People think I’m stuck up. People think my life so easy. I have a bachelor’s degree and work two jobs besides being a model. I think people have this misconception of me because, as a model, they think I can get anything I want…but that’s not the case. I have a level head on my shoulders and can support myself without the aid of a man.

If you could give one piece of advice to an aspiring model, what would it be, and why?

Always update your portfolio. It’s very important that you always keep taking new pictures. That’s how us models get booked.

The post Kathy Lantigua Leaves You Breathless appeared first on XXL.

Erica of “The Bad Girls Club” season 8 hasn’t been sitting still since her season of the wildly-popular show ended. She’s a model and entrepreneur who has been out and about doing nightclub hosting gigs while building her empire. In this interview, we talked about what she’s been up to, who’s been catching her eye, and what advice she would give to an aspiring model.

—Bernadette Giacomazzo (@bgiacomazzo)

Twitter: @VenetiaBella
Instagram: Venetia_Bella

How did you get your start in modeling?

I got my start while I was filming the reality TV show Bad Girls Club. I filmed commercials for the series and modeled some of the attire that they sell on the network. From there, modeling just kind of followed me and I started to like doing it.

What would you say was your favorite modeling gig and why?

My favorite modeling gig was shooting for 50fifty Magazine—we had the photo shoot in Tampa, Florida and the weather was just so nice that it made it easier for me to relax and really feel comfortable with the camera.

Name one thing you’d like to do, in modeling, that you haven’t done yet.

I would love to shoot for XXL Magazine. It’s been one of my biggest goals to accomplish and I know that one day my dream will come true.

What would you say is the biggest misconception about you?

The biggest misconception about me would be that people think I have it all, but in reality I work so hard to have everything that I do have and I’m a natural born hustler. I’m always grinding and it never stops.

Who is your celebrity crush, and why?

My celebrity crush would be Rocko. I’ve been following his music career for years and every mixtape he comes out with I play from beginning to end with no skips. Rocko raps about real sh#t and I can respect his hunger for his passion.

What does a man have to do to win your heart?

I’m attracted to success. If a person is very goal orientated, a hard worker, and has a good head on their shoulders, that’s the total package. People want to be with others who make them want to be a better person themselves. I love to surround myself with people who are successful and who aren’t afraid to achieve their goals.

If you could give one piece of advice to an aspiring model, what would it be, and why?

I would tell an aspiring model to never give up. Some girls may sleep their way to the top, but that sh#t doesn’t last. A person who actually works hard to get the gig will be the real winner in the end.

The post Venetia Bella Is A “Bad Girl” Gone Good appeared first on XXL.

Annie Rocq comes to us courtesy of photographer Photo J, who highly recommended this thicker-than-a-Snicker Georgia peach. This Jamaican beauty, who also has her own music blog,  has been featured in Black Men’s Magazine, and her resume is slowly but surely growing. In this interview, we talked about her degrees, what she’s doing when she’s not modeling, and why 50 Cent needs to give her a call.

— Bernadette Giacomazzo (@bgiacomazzo)

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/annierocq
Twitter: @AnnieRocq
Instagram: @AnnieRocq

What do you do when you’re not modeling?

I was technically born a Southern Belle in Dunn, N.C. but was raised up north and call N.Y. my home. I currently reside in Atlanta, GA. I went to Monroe College in New Rochelle, N.Y. and achieved a Bachelor’s in Business Administration.  I run my own music blog when I’m not modeling. I love music and the artistry of it. Hip Hop and it’s culture is the focal point of my blog, especially the world of underground Hip Hop.

What has been your best modeling experience so far?

My best modeling experience is my recent addition to Black Men’s Magazine. It was a total surprise that I was accepted and it was definitely a humbling experience. That achievement has helped me to continue my hard work and keep up my work ethic.

What would you say is the biggest misconception about urban models today? What are you doing to combat that stereotype?

Being a woman in a “man’s” world is difficult on its own. However, the most common misconceptions are that an urban model doesn’t have any morals. Urban models are noticed for being sexually appealing, but that doesn’t mean we all have low standards. Some also think we only use our looks to get ahead. But many women are well educated and have high ambitions in life. How I try to avoid falling into the stereotype is by staying focused on my own craft and not getting caught up in the glitz and  glamourous lifestyle that the men in this industry tend to promise.

What does a man have to do to win your heart?

To win my heart, you have to be a genuine friend. Someone who I am also very attracted to, yet have that “carefree” feel to be myself around and not feel judged.

Who is your celebrity crush, and why?

I used to be head over heels for 50 Cent when I was in high school. I love his “thug appeal” and story. That was a while ago though. I still love me some 50, but I think my crush has subsided.

What would you like to accomplish, as a model, that you haven’t accomplished thus far?

I view modeling as a vehicle that can help me to achieve higher goals such as acting, music, and traveling.

What advice would you give to an aspiring model?

Stick to your guns and move smart. This game is not all glitz and glam. Do it for the love, not the money.

The post Annie Rocq Puts You In A Hard Place appeared first on XXL.

The summertime is right around the corner. The heat is beginning to rise. The question is, are you bathing suit ready?

After stumbling across Christina Milian’s bathing suit photo shoot by Cosmopolitan, I became inspired.

As I scour the internet I stumbled on a bunch of ridiculously hot celebrities who are beach body ready. I mean very ready. So use this as inspiration or just click and gaze at their glory. We have Beyonce, Kourtney Kardashian, Shakira, Christina Milian and many more who are all in sexy bikinis that will do more than just turn heads. Please get comfortable—I have a feeling you will be here for a while.

The post Bikini Body Ready appeared first on XXL.

DJ Kittie is no stranger to the one-and-twos, having played Tao, Lavo, and other Las Vegas hotspots for the past few years. Of course, a girl as pretty as she is shouldn’t just remain behind her turntable, so we brought her to the front and center. In this interview, we talked about her DJ-ing style, how Eminem and 2Pac inspired her, and what it was like growing up in Kansas.

—Bernadette Giacomazzo (@bgiacomazzo)

Twitter: @DJKittie
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/DJKittie
Website: djkittie.com

How did you get your start as a DJ?  
My start actually came with messing around with my friend’s turntables, DJ Vince. I was messing with them and he was teaching me some things, not knowing it would be so serious.  I picked up on it so easy and I enjoyed every second of it. After that day I ran with it and never turned back.

How would you describe your DJ style?
I’m a Party Rocker. I play everything from Ratchet to EDM, but I love my Hip-hop songs though, that’s what I do best.

Growing up, who did you look up to, and why?   
I looked up to 2Pac and Eminem. They had that “I don’t give a fuck” type of attitude and always did them no matter what; they didn’t care about what people would think or say. They were always themselves and still made it to the top.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?    
I see myself doing way more traveling and headlining in clubs all over the world. I’m also JL (of Bhood)’s DJ and I also see us traveling the world as well tearing down these venues with our dope sets.

What would you say was your best experience as a DJ? What would you say was your worst experience?        
My best experience was in Kansas City—my hometown. I had all of my close friends and family at the club screaming my name and cheering me on.  Everyone that didn’t know me was thinking “who is this chick?” It’s the best feeling when your fam is in the building when you’re rocking it!

The worst experience I had was when I first started out professionally: I grabbed the mic and yelled out “I hope everybody is meooww.”  I guess I was so nervous, the “Meow” slipped out of nowhere—the Asian side came out of me. Worst feeling ever. But now, it’s the funniest story to tell.

Who is your celebrity crush, and why?          
Nasir Jones. He’s such a cutie. How is it that he still looks the same as he did when he was in Belly? That man hasn’t aged one bit.

If you could give one piece of advice to aspiring DJ’s, especially the young women, what would it be, and why?        
Don’t stop what you’re doing. Stay focused on why you’re really doing this and don’t listen to the negative, do you. Just because you’re a female doesn’t mean you can’t hang with the big boys. I say this because in my career I’ve had tons of people that try to bring me down. You just gotta use all that negative and let it motivate you. If your dreams don’t scare you, they’re not big enough.

The post DJ Kittie on the One-and-Twos appeared first on XXL.