Six Years Strong: Celebrating 41 Issues of Where It Begins

Wow—what a journey it has been! Six years ago, I set out to create something meaningful, a platform where stories could be told, journeys could be shared, and voices could be amplified. Today, I’m humbled and overjoyed to reflect on the milestone of my 41 magazine issue—a true testament to passion, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to storytelling.

The 41 issue of Where It Begins closes 2024 with an iconic cover featuring the phenomenal Ebony Steele. An award-winning radio and television personality, Ebony graces this edition with her brilliance, sharing insights into her career and unveiling her exciting new book. Having someone of her caliber headline this milestone issue feels like the perfect culmination of a truly remarkable year.

This issue isn’t just about celebrating Ebony Steele—it’s also a showcase of incredible talent. Inside these pages, you’ll find features on inspiring individuals who are making waves in their fields, breaking barriers, and sharing their testimonies with the world. Each story reminds me of the power of perseverance and the beauty of beginnings, reinforcing why I started this magazine in the first place.

2024 has been a whirlwind—a year of growth, challenges, and unforgettable moments. Each magazine issue this year has carried its own unique theme and purpose, from highlighting rising stars to shedding light on topics that matter deeply to me. And while this 41 edition marks the end of the year, it’s also a fresh beginning.

I can’t help but wonder what 2025 has in store. New faces, new stories, and new milestones are waiting to unfold. With every turn of the page and every new idea, Where It Begins continues to evolve, and I couldn’t be more excited about the possibilities that lie ahead.

As I step into the new year, I do so with gratitude—grateful for the readers who’ve been on this journey with me, for the incredible individuals who’ve trusted me with their stories, and for the endless opportunities to inspire and be inspired.

Here’s to 2025 and all the magic it will bring. Thank you for being part of this journey. Let’s continue to grow, dream, and create together!

https://issuu.com/cecewibnet/docs/wib_august_2024_0004?fr=xKAE9_zU1NQ

The Emperor of Sound

Book: The Emperor of Sound

Author: Timbaland with Veronica Chambers

By: Cece Hymes

Got a chance to read this book about Timbaland and his journey and life. I enjoyed learning more about his journey and how he and Missy got together to make music. He talks about growing up and how he got into the industry. I love that he stayed consistent. I had heard years ago how one of the members of the group Jodeci was evil and made them do all kinds of crazy things. I hate that they had to go through this trying to make it. So I definitely would like to give Timbaland and Missy their flowers. No matter what you went through you made it work and got through tough times. I appreciate you for telling this side of the story. It’s not easy being in this industry. Glad that Timbaland’s parents stored God and prayer in him.

I knew Pharrell and Timbaland were great producers, but this showed how they got into the business. They found their way and had a plan. That pushes me to not give up on my business and to keep being consistent and moving in the right direction. After I read about the girl Dana and Aaliyah I wanted to give Timbaland a hug and tell him everything would be ok. I know it was hard and having that on your conscience I would not have known what to do or how to feel in a situation like that.

When Timbaland and his wife got together I was glad she was different. I always say that your best friend is your soulmate. To have someone that loves you for you and wants better for you is hard to find these days. When Timbaland finally got it together glad she was still around and took a chance. When you can talk for hours and communicate about everything it’s a great feeling.

This book was a good read, not too big and if you are a fan I would definitely read it. He tells a lot about how he hooked up with a lot of artists to make beats for them. He worked with a lot of people. I got a chance to interview V. Bozeman before and do an article on her in my magazine (Where It Begins) and I think she is a talented artist. I love her voice. Timbaland took a chance on a lot of people. You can tell he has a big heart. I love the relationship that he and Missy had. It was like they were brother and sister and didn’t leave each other behind. They helped one another get to the top.

I hope he has another book and talks about Verzuz and how it got started and why they sold it. I would also like to know what’s next in the making. Let me reach out to see if I can get an interview. I love learning about people’s journeys and how they got to where they are today. Timbaland has put in the work he and Missy deserve nothing but great things.

This was a great book, make sure to check it out. If you have already read it let me know how you liked it. Make sure to Follow me at Cece.Atl and Cece Book Club.

Interview with Anna Black

Check out the interview we did with @annablack72 the author as she talk about her books and projects Anna Black

To see entire interview

Watch “Where it Begins interview with Anna Black” on YouTube
https://youtu.be/XqDFLTlSKYU

To listen on podcast
https://open.spotify.com/episode/2ftUmpx477gLNHTkF2e70e?si=YE5-J4w_SYygwAWA5oqk6w&utm_source=copy-link

Anchor
https://anchor.fm/where-it-begins/episodes/Where-It-Begins-interview-with-Anna-Black-eii02b