Cast members from VH1’s “Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta” recently made an appearance in the Big Apple to talk about their experience on the reality show. At press reception, held at The Griffin Nightclub in the Meatpacking District, cast members Joseline, K. Michelle, Lil Scrappy and Stevie J dished about the popular series.
After an episode screening executive producer of the show Mona Scott-Young answered questions about the hit series, which has become a staple among viewers on Monday nights. She also squashed various rumors about the reality show including questions over whether or not the show was scripted and confirming an upcoming reunion special.
“The real is that these guys lives are extra dramatic,” she said. “We may set up where things happen but everything that is said, everything that is done is completely theirs. The show is not scripted. We have about 40-something people working on set working at any given time. It’s absolutely something that we would never be able to keep secret.”
Kicking off earlier this summer “Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta” focuses on the lives of six women and their stories about living in what is considered the headquarters of Southern hip hop music. Some of the women deal with their relationships with men in the music industry while others aspire for stardom. The series is a spinoff of VH1’s “Love & Hip Hop” based in New York which is currently filming its third season.
The series has been noted for its influence in the social media world. Droves of fans can be seen making comments throughout each episode on Twitter, Facebook and blogs.
Discussing their experiences, the Atlanta cast highlighted what it was like being filmed and allowing the world to not only get a glimpse into the entertainment industry in the South but also in their personal lives.
“My role is my role and I’ve been like this all my life,” said Joseline, who is an aspiring rapper and singer managed by co-cast member, Grammy award-winning producer Stevie J. “I got a lot of things out of the show. I got to know myself. I love the show [and] I’d do a second season.”
Singer K. Michelle said the experience allowed her to learn more about herself as well. K. Michelle also sang a verse at the reception from her latest single she recently released.
“It’s easy for you to judge other people, and think other things about people but then you start looking at yourself,” she said. “In the beginning, I did judge people and you really have to pay attention to your flaws and deal with yourself. I took that, I’m learning.”
Best known for hit singles “Money in the Bank,” “Head Bussa” and “No Problem,” rap artist and father Lil Scrappy said that the show is gaining him new fans as well and revitalizing his career. He also credits show with improving his relationship with his daughter’s mother, cast member Erica.
“A lot of people counted me out after they let me in and let me come on their stage,” he said. “I’ve signed a thousand autographs. Not one artist has turned me down, it’s like they just met me again.”
The first season of “Love & Hip Hop Atlanta” is scheduled to wrap up in late August following a reunion special at the end of the month.