Thursday, April 30, 2009

100 Days and Going Strong...


President Obama and his first 100 days in office. Taking on the world and it's many issues, addressing them head on, and doing a incredible job. Still much work is in order. Striving for a better america under his leadership, we will get there.

Command Performance


Sade's performance of 'Is It a Crime' is restraint personified. It's hard to believe that the group has been together over twenty five years gracing us with lovely jazz silhouettes. 1985 Best's new artist has continued to keep their sound fresh, live and innovative. Sade has always left their fans wanting more, and it's easily proven, when you realize though, it's been over twenty five years...yet they have only released five full length CD/Lp's of original material.

Wednesday, April 29, 2009

What's his talent, and why do we care?


Where did Perez Hilton come from? Who left the door open? Perez is miserable with no life, so he keeps tabs on others. I guess we have O.J. Simpson(because we ALL watched that trial) to thank for tabloid journalism and television. At some point we must take a stand!!! Today I SAY NO TO PEREZ HILTON

Sunday, April 26, 2009

So Long Maude, So Long Dorothy, Goodbye Bea Arthur!



Bea Arthur passed away Saturday April 25-2009, in her Bel-Air home, after battling cancer. She was 86 years old.
THANKS FOR THE LAUGHTER!! R.I.P.

Saturday, April 25, 2009

Tell Me Mother/Happy Birthday


Happy 63rd Birthday Mommy...
Mother I never thought that I would be living in a world without you. I never knew I could survive in a world without you. I think of your everyday, wondering if I'm making your proud. Hoping that I'm becoming the man, that you hoped me to be. I hear your voice speak to me 'MUCH' louder than it ever did when you were here on earth. I love that you're still having your say, having the last word, and being right about it. Because of you, I'm learning to be humble, which isnt always a easy task. I'm being more present with GOD, and I'm still working on the 'patience' thing :)
Im glad that you were my Mother, and Im eternally grateful, for the time that we had, in my mind it was too short, but realistically 200 years would not have been enough time. The only child in me, would always want just 'one' more day to hold you in my arms, to kiss your face, and tell you how much I love you, how much I appreicate you, how much I admired you, and how very lucky I was to be able to call you Momma. HAPPY BIRTHDAY to you, HAPPY BIRTHDAY to you. I know that I will see you again, and I can't wait to hear about all your travels. Rest In Eternal Peace. Love your favorite boy.

Friday, April 24, 2009

Seize The Moment/TGIF

Hello Everyone, and Happy Friday to you!

We're on the verge of summer where things are light and carefree, so in that vein.

Let's take time to speak on the here and now. It's your time to seize the moment. Take it all in, moan by moan and minute by minute. This is your time to capitalize on visions accomplished. Opportunities that you conquered. A time to salute yourself for the good that you've thus far achieved. It's also time to take inventory of where you need to go and where you need to be. Continue steady on course. Be proud of your decisions and choices in your life good or bad.
For instance this past weekend was the Miss Universe pageant. Miss California was the runner up. The question that was presented to her, was did she believe in same sex marriage. Her answer was no. Some felt that she lost the pageant because her answer. Isn't she's entitled to feel however she chooses? Good or bad, she made a choice, like we all do. You must stay true to your convictions.

Opportunity comes and goes. What are the things that really matter to you now/today? Will these things always matter to you? Does life experience matter in the big scheme of it all? I say yes. Experience and testimony tried and true, is a part of the school of hard knocks, Life goes by so very fast. Take a quiet moment in your day today, to really be present with yourself, and really focus on you. Meditation can happen in one moment, with great results if you allow yourself to be still.

The job will be there, or not relationships will be there,or not, bills never go away, all the things that you worry about, wont stop life from happening. Are you grateful, are you hopeful? Are you worthy? Serious questions, and yes, guess who have the answers? YOU!! Don't let life's fallacies take you to a place that you don't want to be. It's your MOMENT today, seize the chance. It's okay to dream of abundant measure.

What are you doing with your life?



P.S.S. For you L.A. heads check out Rahsaan Patterson LIVE in Huntington Beach tomorrow Aprill 25-2009. If you haven't experienced him LIVE, you're in for a treat, and for those of you who have...well the labor of love continues. Two shows 7 & 9pm
Location: Huntington Beach Library-7111 Talbert Ave-Huntington Beach, Ca.
For more info call 714-377-7574 or 323-864-8690.

The GAME returns tonight on the CW with all new episodes. Check your local listing for air times.

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

What's her talent, and why do we care?


Lady Gaga, I don't get it. Imagine a bootleg version of Cher, Madonna, Julie London, Cyndi Lauper, Gwen Stefani and Pink all rolled up into one. This poor imitation of flattery should send all of them royalty checks, with an apology, stating 'I have NO reason to be'.(LOL) Lady Gaga, how about Lady Gag....hmm that amazingly sounds better and closer to the reality of it. She's a 'NO NO NO'.

Friday, April 17, 2009

Structure/TGIF

It's Friday, and I just got paid....remember Johnny Kemp?

Happy Friday everyone.

I find myself often disappointed about the lack of structure in the workplace and in my person interactions with people. Losing my mother has changed my views on many things, and it's also made me a much more serious person. I don't laugh like I use to, or should I say, the same things are not as funny, as they once were. (Don't get me wrong, I have much to be grateful for, and many things to laugh about) I find that my focus is more on the consistency and quality of my life for the future. Simple things like punctuality is 'very' hard for some, but not for me, and the lack of prompt attentiveness pisses me off. Of course I have to retreat, and realize that I'm 'not' without fault, as I'm only human too :)

Having a word, seems to be even harder. I come from a very strict background, where structure was a part of my day to day life. It use to drive me crazy, the rules of my parents, hell I was going to bed at 8p.m. until I was seventeen. And let's not go there about homework and chores.

As a person, I've come to realize that I'm very governed to rules and regulations. Strict probably better defines me. When I was little I can recall how much patience my mother had in dealing with me, life and day to day situations, be it the workplace or the choices she made in the best interest of our family.

Being in management was always the position best suited for me, or so I thought. Now some years later, I've revisited that thought. I've since come to the realization, that's the title I no longer want. To be accountable for others and their actions, can be taxing. Some might say that I've opted for the easier way out. Why should I be accountable for someone who doesn't want to adhere to the concentration of their life, and choices. Am I wrong for thinking 'structure' gets you closer to the gratification executed. Is accomplishment personal or can it be for everyone involved? I think we 'all' get to this state in our own time and space, this seems to be the path that I'm own now. The twenties were easy, and carefree, thirties became more serious as I faced loss be it death, love, friendship or career changes. They say that your forties things become so much clearer, and I'm starting to think this is the path, I'm approaching. It's invigorating, and scary, but in a good way.

I no longer feel the need to be understood. At this point people know who I am, and the representation, has been presented. After all, when this life if over, what truly matters is the people that you've positively impacted, your memories will live on, as long as people remember you. None of this we get to take with us, yet some times we cling too tight to fundamental....at the end of day is it worth it? Structure I think, helps you to have clarity, and with structure come organization...and couldn't we all benefit from being more focused on what matters most?

What are you doing with your life?

Thursday, April 16, 2009

Command Performance


Few entertainers are in the league of babs. She has always handled her career with much savvy and dignity. When you have standards and are a female in this business, some try to put a negative spin on it. Perfection comes at a high price. The performance captured is timeless, and it's simplicity makes it exquisite. Taken from her second network television special "Color Me Barbara' singing 'Starting Here, Starting Now' it addresses new love and new beginnings, and four decades later, it's a topic the we're still discussing and exploring. Class will always win over splash, substance gets you through to the long haul. BRAVO Barbara Streisand BRAVO !!

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

IRS wants you!!

Whether youre due a refund or owe. The IRS is expecting to hear from you TODAY, without fail.

Whats his talent, and do we care?


Okay is it just me, or the world? Are we really comfortable having Al Sharpton taking a stand for the 'entire' african american race? I can see his being friends with James Brown, and his entourage, after all they did have the 'hair' thing in common, but THATS IT. James Brown was a earned LEGEND.

Realistically what is Al Shapton's claim to fame? He has NO talent, and no tact. He tried to run for president 'BOO'. Ironically TVONE gave him a TV show, discussing urban issues. Not a good call by Cathy Hughes, the owner of TVONE. When I see people such as a Al Sharpton, trying to speak and represent a culture that he obviously only knows one aspect about, I take offense. As a african american, I know my history, culture and ancestry. We have 'MUCH' more to offer and 'MANY' qualified to represent african american culture.

So 'BOO' to you Al Sharpton. How about you get together with Jesse Jackson, and get 'REAL' jobs. I for one dont get where you came from, and more importantly, where you are going.

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

When Crazy Get's Sentenced to Jail/Phil Spector


Two trials involving one legendary music producer. The first jury couldn't reach an unanimous decision, (WHY I'll never know) but the second found Phil Spector guilty of second-degree murder in the shooting death of actress Lana Clarkson.

Six years after Clarkson was found dead in the foyer of Spector's mansion, the diminutive 69-year-old now finds himself in a Los Angeles jail cell after he was convicted on Monday. His sentencing is scheduled for May 29 where he faces at least 18 years to life in prison barring a successful appeal.

Spector, wearing one of his signature suits with a long black coat, red tie and red handkerchief, had no obvious reaction. His 28-year-old wife, Rachelle, sobbed(just like Jesse Jackson did on election night...both know how to work a camera opt. Neither tears were sincere) as the verdict was announced. Spector was led out of the courtroom by sheriff's deputies and remanded to jail immediately.

Thursday, April 9, 2009

Clean Up Time/TGIF

Hey Everybody... It's Good Friday.

'Many Christian churches celebrate Good Friday with a subdued service, usually in the evening, in which Christ’s death is remembered with solemn hymns, prayers of thanksgiving, a message centered on Christ suffering for our sakes, and observance of the Lord's Supper. Whether or not Christians choose to “celebrate” Good Friday, the events of that day should be ever on our minds because the death of Christ on the cross is the paramount event of the Christian faith.'

Today I'm going to do something a little different. Being that Easter is Sunday, and the signifigance of the Day. I decided to share something that my late Mother wrote. She taught me everything about God and the bible, how to fellowship and she taught me how to treat and care about people. Her time on earth, though very brief it was very full and expansive. I miss her every day. Enjoy...

From the pen of Evangelist Hazel Caroline....

'Clean Up Time'
This is the day the Lord hath made, I will rejoice and be glad in it. I will take one day at a time, One step at a time, moment by moment. We must take time to be holy. We do not want to get ahead of our own indwelling Christ. As we become quiet let us rest in the thought that God
is here and he is active. We are attuned to the power line of our father, mother, God.

This power is all loving, all knowing and all wise. And in the power we live and move and have our being. Self must decrease in order for God the father, God the son, and the holy ghost to increase in our lives. We must examine ourselves, We must lean on this power to restore our souls. We must lean on this power to witness miracles in our lives today. We must stop putting limits on God and give him something to work with.

Stop making excuses why you can't do this or that. You do not have a valid reason not to trust God in everything you say and do. He is a rewarder to all those that digestly seek him. You can find him within. Dont be without him. Let God work in and through you. Let God have his perfect will, not permissive will. Get your rec in order. Establish a good name for yourself.

Be ye not deceived for God is not mocked, for whatsoever you sow you shall also reap. It's harvest time. We can win this race if we keep on running. Lord, help us to establish a good report, Help us that our name is written in the book of life.



P.S. May God bless us all.

Command Performance


Marvin Pentz Gaye the ultimate performer. A class act. Marvin Gaye was largely responsible for the 'concept' idea for albums. His 'Whats Going On' project is a timeless capsule. Though he never won many accolades for his talents, the owner of one grammy. Yes only one grammy...very strange. His vocal capablitlies were that of a Nat Cole, Frank Sinatra, Otis Redding, Jack Jones, Ray Charles a rare company of men. Ironically he wanted to showcase his sytlish talents, so he recorded a project full of standards, and entitled the project 'Vulnerable'. Berry Gordy felt Marvin would ruin his brand name, opted not to release the project, though recorded in 1966, motown's founder didn't release the project until 1996, twelve years after his death. Such a pity.
Marvin was often troubled, but such a tender sensitive soul, who always cared about the state of the world. His command performance of 'Whats Going On' speaks to his consciencious nature.

Wednesday, April 8, 2009

What's her talent, and why do we care?


Tiffany Pollard, a complete BIMBO. Hollywood continues to hire D-list talent, and some are given reality television shows. America are we that desperate?

Monday, April 6, 2009

Black Love


B. Smith and Dan Gasby have been married since 1992. Not only are they husband and wife, they are business partners and great friends. Having a successful marriage in the entertainment business takes much work, time and dedication. When asked the secret to a successful marriage, B says you must always be friends, and other important element her quote 'not only is he my husband, my business partner, my best friend, He's also MY LOVER'.
They seem to have the right blend for true love and devotion. If you're ever in the New York city area....you must dine at B. Smiths on Restuarant Row. It's fine dining at it's best.

Friday, April 3, 2009

Expectation of Self/TGIF

Hello Everyone...
Friday, Friday, Friday,
Thanking the creator, for being ever loving, ever present and ever forgiving.
Easter is right around the corner, Winter is OFFICIALLY over.

I often wonder if we meet the challenge that we're presented with, being here on earth. For some reason often times we try to live up to other's expectations of us. Image, productivity and status, is what helps to shape our country, and largely who we are to become. My parents provided me with a safe canvas and led me to believe that I could be anything that I wanted to be, if I set my mind to it. Good or bad, I have them to thank for my overabundant ego of self :) On my worse day I find many reasons to love me. Unfortunately everyone doesn't have that belief, and do not always get to the same destination.

Some of us come from broken homes and excel, while others come from happy homes and fail. Parents want the best for their children, and also have their expectation. Sometime it could be, that they are living vicariously through you. Not all stories have happy endings. The journey has a rhyme and a reason. The thing is to pay attention to the purpose. With expectation comes disappointment. To have someone say to you that it doesn't matter what people think or say, is highly doubtful. On some level we 'all' care.

Are we going to succeed at everything, hmm probaly not. For instance, that homeless person living on the streets, do you think they expected an unfulfilled dream?

Playing grownup games, gets you grownup results, same goes for childish games. Let's teach our children, that shouldnt be an 'expectation' it should be a 'requirement'.

All of this is temporary...and with a blink of an eye...poof!!!

What are you doing with your life?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GWU6hwzUAfY

P.S. Check out The Game it airs tonight, on the CW.

Thursday, April 2, 2009

Command Performance



This Amy Winehouse performance is a classic. It comes from a happy and healthy time in her life. Before 'real' stardom, when gigging was fun, and not a chore, or a do or die obligation. Before the five Grammy awards ... flash forward a few years, the struggle and stress has taken it's toll on Amy, yet you can't deny her talent, and artisty. Amy get well soon .... we're all waiting for your next masterpiece.

Wednesday, April 1, 2009

I Remember Andrew Hallet/R.I.P.


April 4/1975 - March 29/2009
Recently my old neighbor and friend Andrew Hallet of Angel fame, passed away at the tender young age of 33. He was always full of life, he could sing his ass off, and never met a stranger. He was a rare breed.
I introduced him to the brilliancy of singer Rahsaan Patterson's music. He loved his music so much, I eventually took him to see Rahsaan, Chaka Khan with Rufus and Earth Wind and Fire. He was so stoked, we drank, danced and had a great time. I will miss you my neighbor and buddy. Rest In Peace Andy.

Andrew Hallett, played demon Lorne on fan-favorite series Angel, has died of heart failure at the age of 33.
The actor passed away at Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles on Sunday night with his father Dave at his side.
He had struggled with heart failure for several years and been hospitalized several times before this incident.

What's her talent, and why do we care?


Another non talent in Hollywood. Just like Kim K, this bimbo's claim to fame is a porno with her exboyfriend. Born into the wealthy Hilton family. She opens her mouth, with nothing intelligent to say. Hollywood seems to love a dumb blonde, instead of taking a chance on someone that might be able to make a difference in the world, and actually teach us something, other than being on ALL fours.