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Culture, MSM Online, Music

Louis Amanti: Rising Star

Photography Courtesy of AR Entertainment Louis Amanti has mastered the art of song renditions with over 450 songs and 500 shows. The humbled South Florida native hit 1 million views on YouTube just last year with his outstanding vocals on Nat King Cole’s “L.O.V.E.” Being a 24-year-old in a genre made popular by Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Nat King Cole, and Dean Martin makes this rising star stand out amongst this generation. This fall, he will release his first album with Grammy Award winning songwriter Rudy Perez—there’s no telling the amount of success Louis will reach before he reaches 25. MSM: Tell us how your passion for the classic songs from the famous crooners such as Frank Sinatra and Nat King Cole, came about at such a young age? Louis Amanti: You know that’s a question I get asked a lot, it’s funny because they tell me that when I was a little kid coming out of the hospital the day I was born “Frank Sinatra Live at the Sands” was playing in the car on the way back home. So I kinda feel like it was meant for me to sing since the beginning. With lots of credit to my grandparents, for teaching me all the great songs and artists of the great 20th century. MSM: At what age did you start singing and performing? LA: I can’t remember exactly when I started singing because the journey goes way back, but I do remember that I couldn’t stop singing at home, during baseball practices, in class and of course in the shower. During middle school at the end of the year awards, my teachers gave me an award for best singer and when I walked to pick up my award up on stage they made me sing in front of all the students and parents and the first song I ever sang in public was “Strangers In The Night,” and that’s where the bug bit me. MSM: You are just 24 years old, people your age like hip hop, dance, pop, techno, rock, music…how does it differ with you? Do you enjoy performing and listening to other types of music? LA: Absolutely, I love music that is great. Doesn’t matter if it’s hip hop or rock or EDM. Music is music and if you add quality and love to what you’re doing only greatness can come out of it. Having said that I am attracted to romantic music and there’s nothing more that I enjoy than beautiful melodies and lyrics. MSM: You have a song on YouTube, Nat King Cole’s “L.O.V.E.” which has gotten over 1 million views, tell us about why you recorded this and when? LA: I recorded “L.O.V.E.” two days before Valentine’s Day. I grew up listening to Nat and I always thought the way he would deliver a lyric and his phrasing was personal. Growing up “L.O.V.E.” was that one song I would think of as the theme song for Valentine’s Day. I recorded the song and made a nice little quick video the same day and posted it the day before Feb 14th. I am truly honored and blessed that it has touched so many people around the world. MSM: You look like a Hollywood heartthrob, will Louis Amanti get the acting bug? LA: You never know. My life is music, but I would not mind having the possibility of pursuing that one day. MSM: What’s next for Louis Amanti? LA: There’s a lot of great plans coming up. God has been good to me and I am lucky to be able to do what I love for a living. I expect to keep singing and giving the best of me for a long time. For more information, please visit www.louisamanti.com To watch Louis’ rendition of Nat King Cole’s “L.O.V.E.”, click here

LIFESTYLE, MSM Online, Traveler

South Florida: Be a Tourist in Your Own City

Written & Photographed by Alyse Mier Day after day of living in a place that is absolute paradise you may forget just how beautiful the place is or even everything it has to offer. You begin to take for granted that a car ride to the beach is only 20 minutes away, or that you never get to experience a true winter. Well it’s time to stop and truly notice your surroundings. Rather than traveling out of town this summer take advantage of some of the best summer destinations being closer to home than you might think. Fort Lauderdale A city known for its miles of beaches, boating channels and for once being the overly popular spring break destination. However, now Fort Lauderdale is becoming quite the up and coming staycation destination for many locals. Some are even beginning to refer to this city as the “Venice of America.” You can experience the city by foot or consider taking a cycle tour of the city that will stop off at some of the best local breweries and bars. If you’re looking to witness some of Fort Lauderdale’s nightlife then definitely visit downtown and head over to Las Olas Boulevard. Las Olas has become home to some of South Florida’s best dining, shopping and entertaining experiences. Last, but most certainly not least, since you will be on vacation make sure to spend a few days relaxing and soaking up the sun on the beautiful beaches this city has to offer. Hollywood Beach A quiet little area nestled between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, which makes it perfect for a quiet and relaxing weekend getaway. Stay at one of the oceanfront hotels, and enjoy some of the beachfront restaurants, bars and shops that are located along the Hollywood Boardwalk. Downtown Hollywood offers a growing arts and cultural scene, which houses murals, galleries, art installations and Arts Park at Young Circle. Convenient trolley services are offered to make it easier for you to experience everything the city has to offer. For those of you interested in taking part in unique adventures you can play a game of life-sized chess or march to the beat of your own drum at the full moon festival, Drum Circle. The wide array of relaxing activities makes this little city the perfect match for a staycation. Miami Beach This insanely popular city has become best known for its weather, beaches and most importantly its party like atmosphere. Act like a tourist by visiting some of the widely popular beaches the city has to offer. Later, visit museums and soak in some of the city’s rich history by visiting the Art Deco Historic district or taking a stroll down Española Way. Take a food tour and indulge your taste buds in some of the best and most exotic flavors. And of course experience some of the best nightlife by dancing the night away at some of the best nightclubs or visiting some of the city’s award winning bars like the Broken Shaker. Miami Beach is a true picturesque vacation location. Key Largo The northernmost island of the Florida Keys offers an array of outdoor activities that are perfect for the whole family. Take in all the natural beauty Florida has to offer and learn about our coral reefs while snorkeling, kayaking or diving at the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. You can even paddle board through the key or swim with the dolphins. For those of you looking to stay on land enjoy a beautiful garden tour at the Botanic Gardens at Kona Kai Resort. Enjoy the vast green land, which is perfect for golfing and go carting. Key Largo also offers an array of activities for the little ones too such as: fishing for fossils, jet pack adventures, aquariums and much more. This little island has proven to be the perfect place to disconnect while staying local. Key West This southernmost point of the United States is perfect for taking in a vast amount of history and having your bit of fun. Charter a boat or rent a jet ski and travel the key in style. Enjoy some snorkeling, diving and whale watching from the same boat you chartered. Be sure to take a drive down the historic 7 Mile bridge and visit the Southernmost Point. As soon as the sun begins to set make sure to visit Mallory Square to witness the absolute most stunning sunset. Then make your way over to Duval Street for a night filled with drinks, dancing, live performances and even a bit of shopping. Key West is perfect way to unwind in the presence of natural beauty and create some lasting memories.

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