Celebrity Sightings – February 2017

 Ladies and gents, we have quite a showstopper this month, with a lineup of legendary men in music.  Both have left their mark on a generation, though in two very different genres and audiences.
Spotted by Santa Clarita native and business owner Jake Kassan, Kayne West was walking through an airport when Kassan asked for a quick selfie.  A rapper, songwriter, record producer, fashion designer and more, Kayne West is nearly a household name.  More than his music is well-known by now, as his reputation often precedes him.  West has been widely publicized for speaking out in controversial fashion, as well as for his marriage to Kim Kardashian, who is the mother to their two children, North and Saint.  Born in Atlanta, Kayne’s rise to fame started with a producer position for Roc-A-Fella Records, where he produced hits for artists including Jay Z and Alicia Keys.  In 2004, he broke into the spotlight with a solo rapper career when he released “College Dropout.”  He went on to release critically acclaimed records, all six of which have all gone platinum.  Kayne has won more than 20 Grammys during his music career, and he has even more nominations.
Also of musical fame, Richard Allen Ream, better known as Rikki Rockett, of Poison was spotted by Felicia Lozano at Billy Beez in Valencia.  Known for tearing up the drums, Rockett experienced significant fame while with the glam metal band.  Poison has sold more than 45 million records worldwide, as well as 15 million records in the United States alone.  With 10 singles charted on the Billboard’s Top 40, including six Top 10 singles and the No. 1 hit “Every Rose Has Its Thorn.”  Originally from Pennsylvania, Rockett worked as a hairdresser, lifeguard, dishwasher, suit salesman and emergency medicine technician until he founded Poison along with lead singer Bret Michaels.  Rockett has been credited with significant contributions to Poison’s albums.  He also is a rocket-building enthusiast and has been since childhood.
Keep up the good hunt Santa Clarita.  Stay tuned for more celebrity sightings, as there are many more to report!  You never know which star you may run into.  And don’t be shy – snap a photo with your favorite celebrity and be sure to share your brush with fame with us.
Email your submissions to contest@santaclaritamagazine.com!