I'm addicted to postive progress ! !

What's good world ? ! ? ! D-Natural comin atcha again with some updates ! As I type this, I'm in the computer lab here at my school on the last day of the semester . I'm getting some much needed work done ! This week has been a busy one as usual. But then again, you guys know by now that I STAY busy, so it aint nothin new 2 tell you all that . However I've been busy in all other areas except for working on my music . Today I'm wrapping up this Spring semester here at school . You see I don't take breaks and I'm going to school year round non-stop . I'm doing it that way so I can finish alot earlier, so that I may focus more on this music career of mines . I have alot on my plate as usual but I'm loving it ! I love to grind and see the positive results unfold in front of my eyes, knowing that no one did it but ME . I'll have break next week before the next semester begins. I'm going to use the break to continue working on my first album for the year, Poetic $oul . . It's on its way ! Just trying to get it nice and perfect for ya ! ! This week aside from school, I've been practicing and getting used to my new DSLR camera . I've decided to share some of my photos with you of this weeks grind . You will see more photos here from now on, as I intend to show you my journey through my life visually as well as musically and poetically . . After all, my company is called Artistic Visionz for a reason . . Time to start showing more of the artistic side of things visually . . Feel me ? You dig ?

The week kicked off Sunday with my church's 10th Anniversary service . Above is a photo of my pastor and his wife . She gave me a nice smile for this shot ! It was a great service and you know your man got it in on my drums ! I was told that we really were off the hook ! ! I try my best, I don't know how to do it any other way . . It was funny because one of the drummers from the other guest choirs, actually got up from the audience and went all the way around the auditorium to see me play when we was in the orchestra pit ! ! When he first got there and saw my set he looked like he wasn't impressed with my drums until he heard me actually play them ! ! Then he wanted to use my sticks instead of his and I was like naw son, these are my Tony Royster, Jr. (Google him) signature sticks and they are expensive so that wasn't happening ! ! All in all it was a great service and I always like to especially demonstrate my skills to the guest choirs that come through . .

(One of the guest choirs in action)

Fast forward a couple of days later, where I decided to head downtown with a good friend of mines to the Smithsonian so I can get more practice in with my new camera on a variety of subjects ! Not to mention this was also the first place I've been to for fun in several, several months, being as though I don't go out much for leisure . I know, crazy right ? ? I just prefer to be in the bat cave working on my material most of the time, especially now & days . . However, don't get me wrong, I do enjoy going out and acting like a normal person as well . . .

Well time to pack up and head out this computer lab, so I can go home and relax before I finish up the rest of this school work . . Until the next time, stay tuned for my long overdue 1st single "Guestlist" to kick off the summer . I promise the new material is worth the wait ! As always keep the faith and keep chasing your dreams . . Peace & Love

D-Natural , AVP

Progress 2wards $uccess . . . .

Whats's good world ! It's your man D-Natural back with another installment of this here blog of mines ! ! Much love 2 all my fans, readers, followers and everyone showing mad respect 2 Artistic Visionz Productionz ! As always, I've been hard at work trying to finish my projects so I can get to the next phase of things as well as future projects . The pic above was taken yesterday a couple of hours before filling me duties behind the drums 4 choir rehearsal . For choir rehearsals, we meet at our property in Upper Marlboro, MD. On the land is beautiful house where we meet. I got there a few hours early because my band mate Norman Weeks (GOOGLE HIM) had a piano lesson to give there . Being that I'm the type of person that believes in making the best of their time, I brought my equipment and immediately set up in one of the rooms and got 2 work recording ! Lord forgive me, but it was kinda crazy yet funny recording hip-hop upstairs in the house owned by my church . After all, it is holy land and I'm up there posted up spitting explicit rhymes smh . . But hey, I gotta get it in some how . . I wanna finish things so that I can share my latest projects with all of you. I've already planned what things I wanna release this year . As an artist who is self-managed, self-produced, self-engineered, self-employed, in school, etc. . , its alot of fun wearing all these types of hats but it's alot of grinding ! ! It's all good though, its part of the life I chose and I appreciate it !



I've decided to revamp my album Poetic $oul which will be the first album I will be releasing this year. While getting the songs together that I wanted to use for it somehow life kept having me rewrite songs and look at certain beats I did for the project a different way . Now I've taken a different approach to creating it . This is all good of course, I'm glad these things happen in my artistic world so that I can deliver the freshest, most accurate depiction of me through my art to everyone ! ! I'm a firm believer in sloooow cooking the music and not rushing things . That's one of the great things about being an indie artist is that you can record, release and create what you desire . There's alot of machines out there that control artist, limit their creative freedom . This can really hurt an artist in the long wrong . But it's how alot of the industry is . I love being able to just live life, marinate in its mystery, simmer in reality and out of that my art is born . As you can see, I'm working to get Poetic $oul and my other albums (which Im all working all simultaneously) done ! Thanks 1nce again to everyone for their patience and encouragement, I will not disappoint . Word

This picture was taken right around the corner from my house . It kinda put in perspective that no matter what neighborhood you come from, you can always look up and see that the sky is the limit and Artistic Visionz will be flying high . . Look out very soon 4 singles from my Poetic Soul album as well as little surprises sprinkled here and there . . I'll keep continue to keep yall posted with the newness on everythang . .

D-Natural signing out and as always keep the faith and keep chasing your dreams . . . . peace

AVP

D-Natural, Artistic Visionz, the saga continues...

Yo!

What's up World! Its me D-Natural comin atcha 1nce again!! It's been awhile since I've personally reached out to my supporters here. So, I've decided to share a small treat with you guys.. Above is a vid of me on the drums messing around b4 the start of choir rehearsal. The drums have always been 1 of my favorite instruments 2 play out of the many, that I'm blessed 2 b able 2 play. I've enjoyed playing for my church. I'm improving my skills as a musician and as a professional. I hope you guys enjoy the vid. I be doin that more 4 all of you in the future. I also hope everyone has enjoyed my last few poems I have posted. In the past I've mentioned my upcoming poetry album " Poetic $oul " I'm apologize 4 the delay on that and my other project " The Sigh of Relief " I am happy 2 let yall know that Ill be releasin Poetic $oul in the near future after additional production is done by yours truly. You can expect to hear me perform my poetry live on the album accompanied by my original music, all produced and written by me. This album will serve as the prequel for my 1st full length LP " The Sigh of Relief " album. So look b on the lookout 4 those & other surprises. $tay Tuned...

As 4 other things... I've started my second semester of business school. I'm excited about psychology class. I look forward to learning about the mind, especially my mind! Everyday, I continue to learn about myself. I'm trying to better myself as a man, as a businessman, as a musician, as a professional. Everything brings its own challenges. My mind can be found spinning on the daily. Thoughts racing in many directions. My creative imagination running wild constantly and me goin crazy tryna balance that with my present reality. I'm learning. I am getting better at making the changes that really count. Doin the things that I know will get me ahead. The life of an artist, musician, entertainer can be exciting and at the same draining. U r passionate about your craft. U want 2 expose your art, your soul, the essence of you with your audience, but at the same time you maintain yourself n the balance. A challenge with that is making sure that you don't lose urself n your art to much that u neglect the other blessings n life like family, education, community, nature, etc.. A guy like me is just tryna making progress in winning that challenge. I expect the Artistic Visionz brand to mirror the challenge I face in life to become the best artist and man I can be. I'll continue to express this journey I'm on thru my music, my poetry, my songs, videos, essays, websites, etc.. Just tryna add some that good vibe n2 the universe...

I just wanna thank EVERYONE 4 their support and inspiration!!! Shoutout 2 all my fans and readers here!!! U have know idea how every one of u seeing any of this right now, keeps me goin!!! Look 4 brand new music and poetry by yours truly comin soon. I'll b releasin some nu random singles here and there. We'll just call these appetizers... until I start servin up the main courses!!

Until the next time, as always keep the faith! I'll b back with another post very very soon!! Peace!!  

D-Natural , Artistic Visionz

Manic Depression....



artwork by Dan Dishman



What's up world!! Its your man D-Natural, back 2 hit you with some more of my original writing. Let me 1st apologize 4 not posting in a minute. As u know, whenever you don't see me, its because iAm maaad busy. Things have been crazy but u know I can't stay away from y'all 2 long!!! Just know that I have some surprises 4 you guys and u know I'ma always hit u with more of my music and writing. I thank everybody 4 their support of this blog and my work. It means alot!! That's part of what keeps my spirits up, when I see my work being recognized and respected! But then those are those times when I don't feel my best and my mind can get very dark. Negative thoughts come and settle like unwanted house guests in my head. I have my cycles where I feel all I do is 4 nothing. I feel lonely, vulnerable and my cries go unheard. Now though I eventually pull out these rough spots mentally, I like 2 record these moments where my mind is chaotic. My music and writing will always express my true nature. Here is a glimpse into the darkness of D-Natural...

Manic Depression

By: D-Natural

Disturbance

thoughts racing

like horses

out of control

spiraling mess

confusion

ignoring self

ignoring the facts

loathing attention

but wanting help

hopelessness

is an understatement

desiring to abandon

all that is

for all that isn't

recluse

isolated madness

anxiety batters the body

and

ravishes any purity

bitter blues

are frequent

talents are used

inspired creativity

nourished by

a reality invented

creating is the only

time when he feels

whole

closest to God

at ease

and other moments

are suspended in time

self doubt

with underlying confidence

knighting himself

to impact the world

so that those can

experience his enigma

feeling as if chosen

to carry out several tasks

to unleash a power

not temperamental to any factor

however  fear

is the variable

life is only temporary

as if his mere existence is not enough

playing poker with the devil

but really wanting

the comfort of angels

to be cradled by God

like a new born baby

wishing to return

to a time

where things were simple

before reality

started raping his request

for peace

as though it is a luxury

only afforded

at intervals

of glory by grace

this is a sickness

with a complexity

of a genius design

his screws are loose

but the ones that are not

are polished with pristine quality

thus sustaining him

during times of uncertainty

ye though he walks

through the valley of death

he fears no evil

but  embracing

such a valley

with its dark corners feeling like

a sanctuary for his insanity

but at the same time hell

a paradox of truths

and the thoughts

that riot

in the tin pan allies

of his beautiful mind

scorned

Poem for K. C.

What's up world! It's your man D-Natural back again! It's been awhile since I've posted a poem. I've decided for the next couple of blogs to post some of unreleased poems straight out of the vault. This one I bring to you today was written for a co-worker at my old job. She was in a very bad relationship with her child's father. I would hear stories and even saw for myself, how he was abuse her, mistreat her, and just put her through alot of stress. Upon seeing her down one day, while I was at my desk in the office, I wrote this poem for her to brighten her spirits. And really, I dedicated this poem to all the woman out there in abusive relationships or just don't feel empowered. The relationship may be with your man, your family, your friend, whatever. The relationship maybe emotionally abusive, physically abusive, or both. This like all my poems I share here was written outta love. Enjoy and be inspired.....

"Poem for K.C."

By: D-Natural

The voice of God within me
compels me to release
these words of my soul
in this piece
for your peace

my emotions run wild
like deer in the Everglades
with sympathy for your sorrows
moving my pen
to flow
in this manuscript
of empowerment

princess
queen destined for greatness
let that which holds you back
be your sword and armor
to battle
weak tyrants
addicted  to preying
on your core

direct your energy
to the universe that equals you

want more of
what you already have inside
mother of creation
birthing nations
with your influence
creating tomorrows soldiers

set the foundation
to reign supreme
over that which is your birthright
claim that which is your dominion
useless tears do nothing
but dilute the purity
that is your concious

excuse me
for being moved
by your mood
hoping to be your muse
helping to bring back your happiness

hustle for glory
knowledge of self
and self respect
you matter

delight all humanity
with each beautiful smile

laugh  and be proud
of your    radiance

be the queen
that is
you

D-Natural in full effect for 2011!!!

What's up world!!! It's your main man checking in to hit you with the latest insights in this crazy adventure I call my life. I've been hard at work between trying to make ends meet, going to school (coming up on my 3rd week), and in the lab creating new music & poetry!!! I've been ripping and running everywhere. My legs are killing me!! It's hard when you have to walk everywhere you go on torn ligaments!! I'm not able to get my surgery yet but trust me I'm working on that!! Nothin is gonna slow me down on this grind of mines!! For those of you that believe in prayer, please pray for your man. It's hard out here for a pimp....excuse I mean producer/poet!!! However I'm looking forward to an OUTSTANDING NEW YEAR!! Things have gotten off to a rough start but I'm getting control of this plane and soaring to the stars. I've planted ALOT of seeds so I'm just working on being the best farmer I can to make sure those seeds blossom into beautiful things!!

With all that said, I'm very proud to premier my very first instrumental I made this year called " $mooth ". Check it out and let me know what you think --------->> http://soundcloud.com/d-natural/mooth You can also hear it on my lovely Reverbnation widget on the right side of this page. I also have 3 new instrumentals I've made up there as well called " Midnight ", " Explosion ", and " Y'all ". Check em out and tell me what you think! There is PLENTY more of where that came from. I'm gonna continue to release brand new material as well older material from my vaults that no one has heard! I really wanna thank everyone who has been reading my blog here!! I thank everyone from the bottom of my heart!! It's means alot!! I've been very very busy tryna pulls things together but I will be blogging more often! Just bare with me and I like I've told y'all B4  I will not disappoint! I will continue to deliver the new music as well as new poetry!!

Until the next time, I really hope you guys like what you hear! I'll be back very soon with some suprises!! Keep chasing your dreams and keep the faith! I'll do the $ame! Thanks for supporting me, D-Natural, and my brand, Artistic Visionz Productions! Cheers!!

D-Natural, AVP

Happy Holidayz from Artistic Visionz!!

What's up World!?! It's ur man D-Natural back with more to tell ya!! Just wanna let everyone know 1st that I love all of you!! Thanx for supporting this blog with your views, comments, promoting and everything. It means more than you guys will ever know!!

Well, the holidays are in full swing!! I hope everyone is out there celebrating, having fun, in good company, and most importantly loved. Just know, if nothing your man D-Natural loves you & is thinking about you!! As this year is coming to an end with the holidays to wrap it all up, I'm still reflecting. I find myself thinking of all the adventures, events, twist & turns I was taking through this year. Now I won't get into all of that again with you. All u have to do is read the last few blogs before this one to find that out if u don't know what's happened and I encourage you too! Just know that in December, on Xmas Day, as I type this on my Blackberry, I feel blessed and ready 4 2011!! I'm proud to say all of the hard work I've done which has placed me in a very unique position. I was fired from my full time job at my former employer a month ago. I really believe that was the break I needed to continue on with my Artistic Visionz movement. This reminds me of the turning point when I broke my leg 4 years ago in the Navy. I would have never imagined how much of a benefit that will later serve me. As long as you have a foundation in place and grind hard at building it, you can weather whatever storm you have to go thru. You will find that the hands you are dealt are designed to take you to the next step!! You have to be able to see it though. One of the things that will blind you from seeing it is fear. You have to trust your instincts!! You have to use ALL your resources, even the ones you think you didn't need!! Never think are to good for things. Be humble enough not to limit yourself. Have faith that the answer will come when you take life by the balls and work hard!!

These are the principles that I live by everyday. These are the principals that got me off the streets when I was starving & homeless just 4 years ago. The beginning of 2011 will find your man going to business school, working on the album I've been promising you guys called "The Sigh of Relief" EP. Its coming, believe me!!! I'm just getting inspired with new selections I want to include, all so that you get a complete product. So with my EP, business school, music videos, poetry & short story e-books, live shows, charity albums its what I've been in the bat cave putting together. I'm so excited at what I'm gonna have to bring to the table. Also stay tuned to my other blog I have on Tumblr @ Its some more insights on my journey, videos, new music and more popping of there as well. I've also got different blogs in other places Ill be doing in 2011. Keep in mind that I do this ALL myself. So I might disappear from time 2 time. Just knowan wherever I'm at, I'm somewhere chippin away, sculpting Artistic Visionz.

Alright, just wanted to touch bases with you guys and to wish you a Happy Holidayz 1nce again!! Stay tuned 4 some surprises and exciting things that I'm thrilled about! Until the next time, keep the faith & keep chasing your dreams! Ill holla!! One Love

D-Natural, AVP