Disilgold: Explain your latest venture to the Disilgold audience and how all is going?
Keston: Definitely the KESTON KARTER CALENDAR 2007 is my focus. The sales are going great. In 2008, I plan to take my media campaign to the next level with spots on BET, radio and tv. I am also, doing print ads for Loreal’s men’s line of hair products
Disilgold: How long did it take you to complete the 2007 KESTON KARTER CALENDAR? It is the best calendar I have seen to date since ALAYE MEN'S CALENDAR, and many viewers from a diverse audience agree. I see that you are advertising the calendar everywhere.
Keston: It took a course of 5- 6 months because I was working and traveling in between photo shoots. I had other jobs, and in LA, Miami. . all. while holding down a combination of 12 shoots.
Disilgold: Did you have to do any kind of preparation exercise wise for the shoots?
Keston: I definitely had to shed al bodyl fat and get real cut up.
Disilgold: Hope you do not mind me asking, but are the muscles real?
Keston: All natural. . . hahaha... (laughing)
Disilgold: Well, I just wanted to hear your reaction. So what’s the secret to maintaining those power abs Keston for our audience getting ready for spring break?
Keston: Humhumhum...(smirking) You got to go for that sticking point and pump up your workout, increase weights, go at it a little harder each time, and by varying up your routines because your body becomes accustomed to the same exercises and won’t respond to those exercises after a while. You know, switch up your routines. Eat the right foods! But— not everyone’s physique will respond to the same foods or same workout as someone else. You have to do what works for you and proves results.
Disilgold: What exercises do you do for abs?
Keston: I do three combinations of exercises each time from leg raises to hanging from a bar and raising my legs from side to side, but that is not enough. You have to concentrate. It’s all about mentally focusing on the exercise you are executing.
Disilgold: I can imagine that it is difficult for many people to focus, but you are very motivating. Thanks for sharing those tips. Are you doing a fitness DVD soon?
Keston: Yes, a Fitness DVD is certainly on the works!
Disilgold: Oh wow, that’s another million dollar selling product. So what were the most rewarding moments you have experienced while working on the KESTON KARTER CALENDAR 2007 project? It has got to be exciting to work on a calendar.
Keston: Well, honestly . . . it was stressful. I did the cover for the calendar in October and it was real cold that day with no shirt on and the water was freezing. Modeling looks glamorous, but it is not easy at all.
Disilgold: I am going to change the topic right now. Film and music are calling you. You look like a star made for the movie screen. How did this goal start for you and what film projects have you worked on thus far?
Keston: Film was actually my origin and how I got started. I was trained in theater and arts. My acting coach was Susan Baston. Many actors don’t have the opportunity to be taught by Susan Baston. She has coached people like Tom Cruise, Jamie Fox and Jennifer Lopez.
Disilgold: What was her method of getting you prepared for new roles?
Keston: She taught me to dig deep down into your past experience and regardless of your training, you have to bring what you have got to the table!
Disilgold: Is there any kind of role you won’t do?
Keston: I won’t do anything degrading, but I like a role that is challenging and shows my versatility.
Disilgold: How did you develop your fashion style? Your calendar has never before seen photos, and there is this one photo that just makes some of my guests heart beat of the Disilgold estate when they see your calendar on my office wall. The March photo in the denim vest with matching jeans is creative. Should be in a jean ad Keston....
Keston: (Laughing...)Yeah, I’d like that.
Disilgold: All kidding aside, the calendar is done with class. How do you know which photos to select and do you dress like you look in your calendar photos everyday?
Keston: Well, if you are on tv every day . . . you’re reaching a lot of people so your style may reflect a style to suit the mainstream, but when you are reaching the underground, that is not as vast so I would say the calendar really reflects me, but no I would not walk the street without a shirt. I have always been an individual. If I like the trend or style, I like to be the person outside the box, but different.... very simple, but versatile.
Disilgold: So where do you work out? Is it a real gym and how many days do you work out? I know many guys have a gym at home. Also, is it Unisex.
Keston: Yes, it’s a real gym. My gym caters to a unisex audience and its’ open until 11pm. Sometimes I will remain active for 7 days straight, but other weeks I am there 5 days out of the week and either rest on the other days. But– if I do go to the gym on my off days, my workout is very light.
Disilgold: Well, the other day before the interview I was flipping through your calendar and I will be honest. There is this one photo I am not fond of in your calendar because you look like a real player. I hate that picture. I'm sorry Keston, but the other photos are real nice.
Keston: No, that’s okay. I am open to critical feedback and criticism. That’s how you grow and I hope you will tell me what photo it is you’re referring to.
Disilgold: Well, I am not going to tell you, okay?
Keston: Okay. (silent)
Disilgold: Now do you plan on touring and if so, what major cities are you planning to travel to or make guest appearances? And-- you know this touring business can be hectic. Are you ready for all blessings coming your way?
Keston: Yes, I am ready for my blessings. I have been working hard all my life, and I wasn’t born with a silver spoon in my mouth. I am working on the KESTON KARTER CALENDAR 2008. I don’t have kids so I am using this time to focus on my career.
Disilgold: Where do you see yourself as a model, actor, musician 10 years from now? Do you see the big screen, you on the red carpet at award shows like the Oscars or am I taking your journey too far right now?
Keston: No, you are not taking it too far. I do envision myself there. There are certain steps you have to go through, and for various levels of my career, I can say that I committed until I reach that point.
Disilgold: What tips can you provide to young males looking to break into multi-faceted industries as you're tackling and has it been a struggle for you? I know there has got to be some pitfalls in this business. You can be as honest as you want to be Keston.
Keston: Well, the first thing is what basically works for me. You have to be your support system. You have to believe in yourself, have faith in a higher power, and if things are to be and what you want in life is there, there is nothing you cannot achieve. You have to believe yourself. It’s hard being your own backbone.
Disilgold: What other projects are you working on right now and how do you settle down to work on them?
Keston: Well, I am currently in a short called "Guilty Until Proven Innocent" directed by Benedict Hadley. I take my work one step at a time. It’s hard to take on 5 projects, so I concentrate on one project or one character at a time.
Disilgold: Who are your top mentors that have inspired you the most? I know this is a hard question.
Keston: At the end of the day it’s hard to name drop. I admire actors like Denzel Washington and Sean Penn, but I have learned from my experiences that mentioning the word, MENTORS, is a very prominent word. Basically, mentors are there for you and always out to support for you. They come and go . . .honestly!
Disilgold: That I do understand, but their impact on our lives is everlasting. When and what do you do to relax when you are not working? You must spend hours in the gym. There is a photo of you in the gym on www.myspace.com/KestonKarter . Is that how you look when you go to the gym?
Keston: Normally I have on a shirt, t-shirt or vest.
Disilgold: What are some of your exercise rituals for maintaining optimal fitness?
Keston: Knowledge! Educate yourself before stepping into the gym.
Disilgold: Do you have a favorite location for just getting away and kicking back? Sorry to be real nosey, but that's my job.
Keston: A real location.? well.... uh... no not really . . .I guess my bed is the best place to relax. I am always moving. It’s real hard to say, but I would love to go back to Trinidad.
Disilgold: Do you feel it is important to pay homage to your heritage?
Keston: Definitely. I was born in Trinidad so I like to stay in touch with my heritage, and I love the sense of nationality.
Every culture has different ways of life. I am happy to be Trinidadian. You have to be proud of you, be a trendsetter, make your country look good. It’s good to have positive representation from where you come from.
Disilgold: I know this is a hard question. What three words best describe yourself?
Keston: This is a really hard question. One of the first things is "versatile".... (thinking intensely)..... "open-minded".... (without hesitation)......"very caring".
Disilgold: Are there any hidden jewels or talents that you possess that many of our readers would never guess? I hear you performed at the Apollo and are a musician. That makes you a triple threat now.
Keston: There is nothing I cannot do. I would like to explore different options, compose, direct. I like to think there is no telling what I can possibly do in this lifetime.
Disilgold: Where can folks buy your latest calendar and is there another one in the works? I think you have a multi-million dollar empire in front of you. Do you realize this and if so how are you preparing for this rapid success.
Keston: I do realize this and am I am already working on gaining international distribution for my calendar. People can purchase the calender from the distributor online at www.kestonkarter.com. It’s delivered right away.
Disilgold: Where can folks meet you and what city do you reside in?
Keston: I am currently in New York. I will start touring in LA, Chicago, and New York in 2008 and by the end of this year. People can catch me on and the calendar will be at your local beauty stores as well.
Disilgold: What have been some of your toughest personal obstacles you've faced?
Keston: Losing my grandmother in 1999.
Disilgold: I know that feeling. Sorry to hear that. Where did she pass Keston?
Keston: She passed in Trinidad.
Disilgold: Well, I see you respect and treasure family. Your tattoo on your arm in the calendar pays respect to your mother and I think that is real nice.
Keston: Thanks Heather.
Disilgold: Well, Keston...this portion of our interview requires brief responses. Are you ready to" Get PerSOULnal" Interview?
Keston: Yes!
The "Get PerSOULnal" Interview
Disilgold: What time do you awake every morning?
Keston: It varies....
Disilgold: What is your motivational fuel in the morning?
Keston: I would also say knowledge. I am my own motivation and motivate myself.
Disilgold: What early morning rituals have you followed for many years?
Keston: I drink a protein shake daily.
Disilgold: What are your favorite foods to snack on while working?
Keston: Protein bars.... West Indian foods, rice, pizza.. I eat whatever foods I want...
Disilgold: Do you watch television or listen to the radio and if so, what do you watch or listen to mostly?
Keston: Movies, tv.... all different types....
Disilgold: What is your favorite book of all time?
Keston: I would say....Morning, Noon and Night by Sidney Sheldon.
Disilgold: What is your favorite male and female actor/actress of all time?
Keston: Denzel Washington.....hum.... I have to get back to you on that one.
Disilgold: Do you plan on writing a book soon?
Keston: I definitely will write a book!
Disilgold: What is your everyday outfit?
Keston: I wear whatever I am feeling that day.
Disilgold: What is your best memory?
Keston: My mother holding me in her arms in Trinidad.....and rocking me back and forth as a kid.
Disilgold: If you could inspire a child, what would you say?
Keston: Definitely to believe in yourself. You can be whatever you want to be. You can do it, and whether it’s a scientist, doctor, lawyer. Don’t let anybody tell you different!
Disilgold: What is your favorite motto?
Keston: There are a quotes on the calendar that are my favorite. The calendar is a major reflection of who I am. I put more time in finding the right quotes than anything. This was important to me.
Disilgold: Yes, that is what I noticed firsthand. The first quote is from James Langston Hughes and than there is MAYA. I was truly inspired. What is your favorite time to relax and stop working?
Keston: When my work is done.
Disilgold: Share a secret noone knew until now.
Keston: Wow... I don’t know.. That’s a hard one. I will have to come back to that one.
Disilgold: Who do you get compared to the most and why?
Keston: Arghhh...
Disilgold: Keston, you grunt like those guys at the gym...I am adding your personality to this question and letting it be known that you’ve been doing this before every question of this interview.
Keston: Hahahaha... well, I get compared to Christian Keyes or Shemar Moore physical appearance wise.
Disilgold: Their weight fluctuates for roles. Are you willing to gain or lose for a role if need be in rapid time?
Keston: I will do what I have to do if a role calls for it.
Disilgold: What do you particularly like about the people you've met on your journey to success?
Keston: Well I have met a lot of kind people. KAMLA BUTLER is my agent. She is genuinely good people.
Disilgold: It’s great to have an agent and congratulations on all of the venues for 2007 and 2008. Now Keston, if you could leave a quote of advice to people in general, what would it be and to who?
Keston: My audience. Without them there is no me.
Disilgold: What roles are you looking for on the big screen very soon?
Keston: I’m versatile, but looking for roles that do not make it obvious that I am an African kid. I want people to see me by my physical being and range of abilities. I want to step out of the box with my acting.
Disilgold: What is your favorite thought at the end of the day?
Keston: Ummm, that I am healthy for another day and that things could be a lot worse.... There is always tomorrow.....
Disilgold: Keston I enjoyed this interview very much. In 2007, we branch into new media entities that directly influence the literary market, and what a great way to begin with the YOUnity Guild Male Calendar of the Year. DisilgoldSOUL Magazine wishes you a tremendously successful year and following. Your calendar has taken off and please let us know when the 2008 KESTON KARTER CALENDAR arrives.
Keston: I will certainly do that. Thanks for the interview Disilgold.
Reflections from Founder: It’s Keston’s Karter’s time to shine. Look out for him. Keston has a great personality, and talent in many multi-industries. He’s bound to reach the top. Support the Keston Karter Calendar at www.KestonKarter.com.
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