Command Performance

The world mourned the loss of our blue eyed soul sister Teena Marie this week. Her life and legacy, will always be remembered as a 'chosen' gift that she honored GOD with every day of her life. Teena always believed in soul music and never desired for anything but that. The life of a artist is one where you hope other's will receive your delivery and more importantly you hope that your delivery is understood. I can talk about Teena forever, I fell in love with her music as a kid in junior high school, and the love affair never ended. Her catalog is so deep with lyrical meaning, it's hard to choose just one, but what I decided to showcase today, is a tender moment in 1990 when she dropped by BET to promote her "Ivory" CD, she sang "If I Were A Bell" and the quiet storm classic "Casanova Brown" which is featured here on my blog, how exquisite was this performance, the simplicity of just a piano and Teena's voice....ooh la la, when it's real talent that's all you need. 'Casanova Brown' was about her love affair with Rick James, at the time few knew the 'true' story. If you're not aware of Teena's musical legacy, you should start with "Irons In The Fire", "Passion Play", "Naked To The World" and "Ivory"....and don't stop until you have her entire catalog.
Though her life was interrupted, the love affair with her music never has to end. Enjoy

R.I.P. Teena Marie...A True Soul Sister!!

I wrote this article about six months ago, for a special that I had in mind for Lady Tee, a artist who was honest, pure and true to the art of soul music, unfortunately the special tribute was never materialized. Ironically she was to 'resign' with Cash Money records to begin working on her 14Th CD! Rest In Peace!!

30+ years of Wild & Peaceful
Born Mary Christina Brockert on March 5-1956. The blue eyed soul singer later become known to the world as Teena Marie and some affectionately calls her Lady T. Marie was always destined for fame an early appearance on The Beverly Hillbillies tickled her dreams of stardom. She grew up in Venice California. As a young teen she with guitar in hand traveled to Hollywood to get discovered. Luckily for us a man name Berry Gordy said yes and signed her to Motown Records. A few false starts in various groups, Motown didn’t really know what to do with their eager signee. Iris Gordy came up with the idea of having label mate Punk Funkster Rick James to work with Marie, though reluctant James eventually gave in and the rest is musical history. He went on to produce her debut LP for Motown called ‘Wild & Peaceful, which included the monster hit and duet with James, called “I’m Just A Sucker For Your Love” and the quiet storm sleeper “De Ja Vu”.

Next up came the “Lady T” project produced by Richard Rudolph the husband of the late singer Minnie Riperton, though a solid project it was met with difficulty at radio, the highlight of that project produce a life time friendship with Richard Rudolph, who Marie credits for teaching her how to produce a textured richness in her music. In 1980 came the release of “Irons In The Fire” in which Marie decided to be the sole producer, she hit pay dirt with the single “I Need Your Lovin” and watched “Irons In The Fire” achieve gold status, she established herself as a force to be reckoned with. This was a great time in her life with the success of “Irons” Motown wanted Marie back in the studio. This time the triumph was even greater she released“It Must Be Magic” in May 1981 and had major success with another top ten song called “Square Biz”was all the rage and revealed another side to the phenomenal talent, this time she was rapping. Striking while the iron was hot Marie team up with label mate Rick James and went on tour selling out stadium after stadium breaking Elvis Presley attendance records as well as the Rolling Stones record in concert sales. Summer of 1981 you could not go anywhere and not hear something blazes on the radio from the “It Must Be Magic” project.


Into each life some rain must fall, trusting that Motown would honor their word giving Marie a verbal agreement to renew her contract. When that didn’t happen things turned sour and Motown and Marie ended up in litigation. Being steadfast to her beliefs, all musical artists has Teena Marie to thank for giving them contract security which is known as the Teena Marie bill, which states that if a artist is under contract without product in the market place, their record label must pay them. Sadly this would end her association with Motown, the lawsuit was held up until 1984. Teena Marie signed on to Epic Records and released her debut LP called “Robbery” in March 1984 a solid project, unfortunately the sales were not as strong as her glory days at Motown. Bound and determined to be a success Marie went back into the studio and released “Starchild” another solid effort through and through, this time around she struck gold again, and had the biggest crossover single of her career with “Lovergirl” which peaked at #4 on the pop charts and garnered her a best female soul Grammy nomination. Marie was fully back in the swing of things. Her success is quite astounding, when you consider that here is white female singing R&B music. She could’ve easily chosen to do rock music and follow in the footsteps of Janis Joplin, but that wasn’t the love that Marie had for music, she always loved soul music. Her never wavering is why she has the legion of fans that has followed her over the 30 plus years of her career. Never one to rest on her laurels, the consummate artist Marie went back into the studio to record the follow-up to “Starchild” this time she decided to really push the envelope releasing “Emerald City” which was heavily saturated in rock and Brazilian overtones, one of the guest on her project was Stevie Ray Vaughn who passed away shortly after working with Marie. “Emerald City” wasn’t as successful as its predecessor. Deciding to go back to what worked best for her Marie released “Naked To The World” which consisted of two top 10 R&B hits “Ooh La La” her first and only #1 record which was later largely sampled by the Fugee’s on Fu-gee-la and “Work It”.

Epic wanted larger successes from Marie and had hoped that would happened with “Ivory” which had the makings of a blockbuster project, unfortunately Epic released the wrongs singles at the wrong time. With lukewarm sales Epic and Marie mutually agreed to part ways. This time around Marie decided to start her own record label called Sarai and released “Passion Play” this project is truly for the die hard Marie fan. It was an independent label, which couldn’t handle the marketing and push that an artist of Marie’s caliber deserved. Deciding to leave the recording process alone for a while Marie continued to tour extensively and her fans never disappointed. She was able to make a living without having product in the market place. Always in high demand Cash Money records approached Marie and convinced her to return to recording. In 2004 La Dona was released and became her biggest LP/CD peaking at #6 on the pop charts, and quite frankly overwhelming Marie, who really didn’t know how truly loved she was. “La Dona” quickly went gold and reestablished Marie’s place and legacy in soul music. Two more releases “Sapphire” and “Congo Square” is a part of her this great lady’s tapestry and shows that her body of work, is timeless, exquisite and genuinely soulful. There is ONLY one Teena Marie and African American culture has welcomed her into our homes for over thirty years and will continue to do. Thanks Lady Tee for being a true trailblazing Soul Sister.

Biography written by Kevin Knighton

Command Performance

This performance is HILARIOUS to me, but it shows you the innocence of youth and how you can later become jaded, troubled and drugged to the life of Hollywood, nonetheless, it shows the early beginnings of hard work and dedication. Paula Abdul, though not a singer, in her prime should could dance her *ss off.

Where Were You The First Time...

That you heard the scream of Chaka Khan's classic pitch perfect vocals? Not only is she beautiful, with a gigantic piercing smile, but her legacy in music is unequaled. She can sing ANYTHING. The greatest award to longevity is the ability to continue to create new vehicles in your music to continue to charter new territory, and to not sound dated in the process. Believe it or not this little lady got her start at the early age of 17 and fronted the group Rufus for almost a decade. We will never forget the lyrics .... "I will love you anyway, even if you cannot stay, I think you are the one for me, here is where you ought to be" yes "Sweet Thing" will forever be a classic for the history books. Chaka Khan has praved the way for Whitney Houston, Sade, Anita Baker, Rahsaan Patterson, Ledisi, Natalie Cole,celine Dion, Mariah Carey, Fantasia, Christina Aguilera, Tamia, Lalah Hathaway and countless others. Her voice is still just as capitvating today as it was when she first set foot on the music scene...we love you Chaka, Chaka Khan and we'll always 'feel' for you.

Where Were You The First Time...

That you heard the voice of Anita Baker? Flashback of the times we had, some made us laugh and some made us sad...it's gets not better than those lyrics, listening to Anita Baker you always want that 'Same Ole Love'. When you hear her music its that of a familiar family friend. Her music has been the soundtrack to so many of our lives. You can always find comfort in her delivery and those timeless lyrics. She came on the music scene in the late seventies with her group Chapter Eight and in the mid eighties as a solo artist recording for the Beverly Glen record label which released her first single "Angel" and from that moment on started the love affair with La Baker!

Where Were You The First Time....

That you heard the group Sade? Sade Adu came along in 1985 with her sultry smokey vocals, and she wrapped us around her fingers, her music is classic and timeless. She records her masterpieces then she's gone with the wind to resume her life. She always leaves her audiences with anticipation of longing for her jazzy delivery. Twenty fives years later, her music has stood the test of time and she will go down in the history books as a solid consistant contribution to the world of jazz, r&b and pop culture.

Where Were You The First Time....

That you heard that magnificant voice.....and what has been your favorite memory thus far....
With record sales over 170 million copies sold Whitney Elizabeth History will go down in the history books as one of the best vocalist to have ever lived, and her contribution to the world of music can never be tarnished.

COMEDY.....

I can't help but laugh when I saw this ad, having recently watched Oprah's interview on the former president. I found the interview to be very informing and I was enlightened, Mr. Bush came across very charming, educated and he seem to possess a sense of humor about it all.

The Queen of Soul .......

Aretha Franklin has been discharged from a Detroit hospital after undergoing surgery that her doctors deemed highly successful. The legendary soul singer is in great spirits and very happy to be home where she will be resting in anticipation of spending the upcoming holiday season with her family. “My family and friends who brought me home are taking great care of me. I also have a private nurse who visits on a daily basis. I’m hoping to be strong enough to go out and see the upcoming Sam Cooke play at the Music Hall in Downtown Detroit before January 2, as well as a performance of Dreamgirls at the Fox before it closes.” God bless her.

By Chance/TGIF

Happy Friday and Happy Holidays everyone, this is my last TGIF for 2010. Time has passed so very quickly over these past two years since I started sharing my little vision. Thanks for your support and I'll see you in 2011.

If encounters are a catalyst to life and just say by chance, you happen to meet,cross paths, teach, love and nourish, then the fruits of all the labor is wisdom. To be available is to be present, to be present is to acknowledge what you're witnessing, it helps to form your quilt to a fruitful life. Awareness is the realization that everything isn't for everyone.

Family and friends can help you to weather any storm, basking in the moment means that you understand what savoring means, soaking in the master's plan, by understanding what's next for you, and the most beautiful of all is your openness to the unknown of what is in store for you. To say yes I will take on this challenge and though I may not have all the faculties at the present, but you're willingness to do the homework to learn, and to gather your team. Honestly, you're only going to be as strong as the team you surround yourself with, and that's the best sign of someone who truly knows about mandate and delegation.

In a world that is not always meant for you, or your kind, to say that if by chance we meet, we laugh, we love and live. To say that I've learned that the person that I so richly feel should be for me, but that person is unavailably absent from what's right in front of them, for you to keep pressing forward ,to finding the absolute goodness for you and that one who may not make your heart flutter, but knows how to care and keep your heart beating, that is the true stuff that makes all the circumstances and disappointing times worth our afforded luxury to say yes I'm here, and I'm living my life in this moment.

What Are You Doing With Your Life?

Command Performance

This will go down in history as one of my all time favorite Soul Train Awards ceremony tributes. When you think of Anita Baker, geniune, warm, personable and talented all come to mind. It's rare that a show can get a tribute right, but I was elated to see that Debra Lee pulled it off. Here she collected some of the top 'real' singers of r&b all A-1 talent Chrisette Michelle, Tamia, Faith Evans, Rachelle Ferrell, Kem, Lalah Hathaway, Goapele and Dionne Farris. I'm still on a natural high from this performance. When you hear Anita Baker's music you just know that the world is just a little better and brighter because of her contributions.

ICONIC

This picture speaks for itself!!!!!!!!

The Record's NOT over.....

Legendary Superstar Whitney Houston brought the house down Saturday night at the taping of BET's Celebration of Gospel which airs in January. Houston sang her hit song "I Look To You" with her friend gospel sensation Kim Burrell!

Gifted/TGIF

Happy Friday,
I'm blessed to have received another gift from GOD, I'm grateful for birthdays, holidays, new days, and for the abundance of friendships that I have in my life. I realize more and more that no one gets there alone, and in getting there, it's about taking time to stop and smell the roses, but most importantly, its the ability to stand still, and pay attention to what you see and hear, for most of us, we're always moving too fast, could it be that we're afraid to stand still. In the stillness, growth happens, meditation happens, clarity happens, the inner voice speaks when it has a full chance of being heard.

In life little things that we take for granted are gifts, the ability to read, the ability to hear, see, touch, hurt, seek and a really important thing vision, to see the future, you can touch the future, you can choose your direction to the future, beaming eyes can bestow an opulent outlook on a deem situation. We are gifts to each other, and how nice that luxury doesn't cost a monetary value, it's a beneficial gain. Living life is to inspire, it's the achievement in goals reached, it's the believability that you can get the most out of whatever you put in. We fall down but the fear in that is also a strength because we get up. We LIVE because of the gifts that we take for granted, by assuming that it has to be this way.

What Are You Doing With Your Life?

Command Performance

Two living institutions and it gets NO better, the one and only Aretha Franklin and the one and only Stevie Wonder, what a perfect musical marriage.

**I DECIDED TO REVISIT THIS PERFORMANCE AS AN ENCORE, because Aretha is heavy on my heart**

Thinking Of You!!

The Queen Of Soul Aretha Franklin doing her thing since 1957. That voice, those grammies, the spirit, her legacy, and the many memories of our lives, have largely been enriched by this ladies masterpieces. We pray for you during this moment of your life, and wish you a speedy recovery.

Circumspect/TGIF

Happy Friday,
This is the time of year when everyone becomes more melancholy. The world seems more considerate and our tolerance is very well presented in our behavior. How nice is the feeling of love and care, people will always need people, and that person who seems unaffected by it all, is the person who needs the nurture and care the most. Witnessing December is another reassurance that time waits for no one, and it brings continuous focus on your path and purpose.

We all have the tools to get to the next phase of life, your intuition will not allow the smoke and mirrors to stifle you, ultimately you have to decide when is enough time dwelling on that sit and spin cycle. History only repeats itself, because the stubborn heads continue to get it wrong, your creativity gets us to a more advanced world, and it's a refined universe that I choose to believe that can exist.

Though time passes so very quickly, not a lot has changed, in the fact that progress is slow, so again, it's about staying present, and steadfast in your views and thinking outside the box. The beauty of individuality is finding your own greatness, and journeying on in new directions. Let us all bask in this mood setting month of winter and absorb what this new decade beholds, you only get what you put in and when you put out and don't get the reward that you feel deserving, continue to do the work that is right and consciously.

What Are You Doing With Your Life?

POP Culture at a glance....and not in a glass!!

R&B crooner Eric Ben'et "Lost In Time" CD is on fire, it's truly a return to soul music, and it'a a feel good groove. The CD features Faith Evans and Eddie Levert. I hope this CD will redeem Ben'et career, seems that America gave him the shaft when he cheated on his ex-wifey Halle Berry.

The Grammy nominations came out yesterday...again the White Man supposedly saves the day. Drug addicted Eminem nab 10 nominations.....I'm mean 'really'? Lady Ga Ga received 6. Jay - Z received 6 also. Hova should win everything especially "Empire State of Mind" that song was a MONSTER, but if Grammies are true to form, they will reduce him to only the urban categories.

The Soul Train Awards tribute to Anita Baker was one of the best tributes that I've ever seen and so befitting, Chrisette Michelle, Tamia, Faith Evans, Kem, Rachelle Ferrell, Goapele, and Dionne Farris brought their A-Game, all performers sang LIVE...yes LIVE and it was awesome. R.Kelly's performance was amazing too, and it was nice to see Peobo Bryson, Jeffery Osbourne and Freddie Jackson saluting Ronald Isley.

The Los Angeles Lakers lost to Houston last night.

Is Angelina Jolie starting to lose her swag or is it me? She looks very hard and old for some reason. Her new movie "The Tourist" with Johnny Depp, doesn't look to be very interesting, but she and Depp normally kill @ the box office so maybe it's just me. I would love to see a sequel to Mr and Mrs Smith...now that movie was FIRE!!

Eva Longoria and soon to be ex hubby Tony Parker, met for lunch yesterday in Beverly Hills. I'm sure that was a very tense convo. Call me crazy, but I hope that they can work out their problems.

Rapper/Singer Ceelo sang his F*CK YOU song(which received a song of the year grammy nod) unedited on the Ellen show yesterday. That's one bitter song, but we've all experienced those lyrics. LOL

Black Eye Peas reign may be over, that whack remake of "I Had The Time Of My Life" stalled @ #12 on Billboard and their new CD will not debut @ #1. Their first week numbers are less than stellar, only moving a little over a 100,000 units which is unheard of in the month of December which is the fourth quarter and the biggest money music month. Oh well maybe their CD will have legs.

Seems that Britney Spears is dealing with a Tina Turner and Rihanna situation. Recent tabloids have claimed that Spears boyfriend has been abusing her. Say it aint so.

Command Performance

So refreshing to see real LIVE performance coming back. R.Kelly is truly a staple of R&B. I love this performance, and I had the pleasure of seeing him live this past year, and I really didn't want to appreciate his artistry, but he had me sold, and clearly every female in the building were ready to give him some pom pom. LOL

World AIDS Day....

The fight for a cure continues on. If our current administration has it's way with free health care for everyone. I wonder how quick will cures be found. Something to think about right?
We all have lost someone to AIDS or know someone who has been affected by this epidemic. Unfortunately people still are having unprotected sex, thinking that they are invincible. When you know better you do better, we must educate each other. It's your right to love yourself and treat yourself to the very best care that is possible. For anyone who battles HIV/AIDS, you are not alone, the world has not given up, tomorrow is a new day, and for those of us who lived to witness this day, and the ones who were less fortunate, we REMEMBER YOU! No rest is done, until the cure for AIDS has been found.

POP Culture at a glance....and not in a glass!!

My favorite TV show 'The Game' returns Tuesday January 11Th-2011. I can never say enough about this show, it's very cleverly written, well cast and it deals with life in a very real way, and sometimes in life there isn't always happy endings, sometimes when the dust settles you must face reality and deal.

Kanye West's new CD is selling out everywhere, but this brutha still needs to deals with his demons. His rantings and tirades are getting a bit old.

Rihanna new CD "Loud" wasn't a box office success, she debut in #3 place. She decided to generate some kind of interest in her product, the topic of her romance with Chris 'Breezy' Brown continues to come up, why because Rihanna brings it up. That situation is almost two years, old.....let's move on.

R.I.P. actor Leslie Nielsen passed away yesterday. He was 84 years old, and passed away from pneumonia.

Welcome/TGIF

Happy BLACK Friday!
In the spirit of giving and tis the season is about being grateful, without wavering in your faith. I may not have much, but what I do have I'm willing to share it with you, my fellowman. There is much to be thankful for, no matter the situation, Inner strength will always trump inner demons. You make it through gracefully enough to see another day.
In my humble state I invite you to share my world, and you're welcome to challenge my wrongs, and of course you’re welcome to feast at my table. I say thank you with reverence, because I have not made it this far on my own. Challenges continue to arise and that will never change. When your work is done, the victory is for someone else who were not as fortunate as you or I. As our light continues to shine, see it for what it truly is, which is a blessing afforded to you, accept it with grace.

What Are You Doing With Your Life?

Command Performance

When love is neglected, someone on the outside shows up,and does it better than you, this song is the attempt to get love back. Kelly Price bust out on the scene and she had something to say, and she said it. I love this performance of her hit single "You Shouldve Told Me". Let this be a listen to all of you, treat your relationships right, and that way, no one will get 'it' in but YOU. Enjoy!!

POP Culture at a glance....and not in a glass!!

Black Hollywood Starlets....holding the reigns. ainger Keri Hilson and newly single actress/singer Christina Millian and holding it down for the ladies is actor/rapper Romeo getting it in Hollywood.

Barbara Walters announced this morning that she will interview President Barack Obama and the First Lady for a prime time special to air the day after Thanksgiving on ABC.

Rihanna performs on MTV’s "The Seven" in Times Square (Nov. 15, 2010) *Rihanna caused the complete shut down of New York’s Times Square Monday evening while rocking her No. 1 single "What’s My Name."The performance, for MTV’s "The Seven," marks the release of her fifth studio album "Loud,"
She told the crowd: "Thank you, New York! It’s amazing! It’s a lot of people. I’m really excited. I’m looking forward to sharing it with the world. I want everybody to get ‘Loud’ The singer also talked to "The Seven" hosts about working with Drake on the album. "[It was] really good," she said of her pal. "We know each other. We’re good friends. It’s easy for us to work together."

Jenifer Grey won the DWTS championship. Hopefully next year they producers will step their game up and actually cast stars who have no dancing abilities, it's unfair to the rest of the competition.

Grandma Moses Susan Boyle continues her reign at the top of the Billboard Top 200 with her Christmas CD 'The Gift', Rihanna debuts @ #3 with her 'Loud' CD and Nelly Debut @ #10 with his "5.0" CD.

He's BACKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKK Kanye’s Latest to Debut #1 in next weeks Billboard Magazine, Nicki Minaj #2, as Black Friday Looms
Kanye West’s Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy just got a lot brighter.
The Roc-A-Fella/IDJ renaissance hip-hop icon and awards show provocateur lives up to his own lofty ambitions with a chart-topping debut for his latest rap opus, on target for between 525-575k, surpassing all pre-release forecasts. That tops the total registered by 808s and Heartbreak, which bowed on almost the same week last year with 450k.

Those figures are based on those intrepid music retailers not being full body-scanned at our nation’s airports by the frisky TSA.
Cash Money/Universal Motown’s red-hot Nicki Minaj also bested pre-release predictions, with a total in the 375-425k range for her hotly anticipated debut, Pink Friday, though the upcoming Black Friday could render these estimates a little less accurate than usual.

Michael L. Brea, an aspiring actor who had a small part in the former hit ABC series 'Ugly Betty,' has been arrested after he allegedly stabbed his mother with a three-foot sword after a fight early Tuesday in their apartment in Prospect Heights, Brooklyn, according to online media outlets.
The 31-year-old actor is alleged to have killed his mother while screaming Bible passages, reports the Associated Press, citing police officials.
Son kills mother with sword Officers, responding to a call of a family rampage loud enough to be heard by alarmed neighbors, found the victim, identified as 55-year-old Yannick Brea, dead in her Prospect Heights home that she shared with her son and his twin brother, Marcel, who was not home during the attack.
When cops got inside the home, they found Brea kneeling with fatal lacerations to her head in a blood-spattered bathroom, the police said.
Brea had cuts to her head and was pronounced dead at the scene, Police Commissioner Raymond Kelly told the AP.


“Neighbors on the first and third floors of the Brooklyn apartment told reporters they could hear screams outside and inside the building at about 1:30 a.m. They also claim cops refused to enter her apartment for about an hour despite their pleas.
”Arrested
Officers then arrested Michael in a nearby bedroom on charges of murder and criminal possession of a weapon. They found him with a 3-foot sword believed to be the weapon used to kill Brea, Kelly said.

"In a bedroom was her son ... with a 3-foot sword," Kelly said. Michael was taken to Kings County Hospital for a psychiatric exam.

Cops not acted promptly
Neighbors on the first and third floors of the Brooklyn apartment told reporters they could hear screams at about 1:30 a.m.

They also claim cops refused to enter her apartment for about an hour despite their pleas.

"I could hear her groaning inside ... She was still alive, but they wouldn't go in," Clinton Clare, 52, who lived in the apartment below the Brea family, told the Daily News of New York.

"I heard this wild screaming," Gregory Clare, 25, who’s father owns the building. He said he heard screams of "'Repent, repent, sinner, sinner,' over and over again," and "'You never accepted Jesus.'"
Neighbors estimated police waited an hour before bursting into the apartment

"I heard a 'Help me!' shriek," said Vernal Bent, 18, who also lived in the apartment above. "Police kept knocking on the door. Knocking and knocking ... All of us kept saying, 'Open the door.'"

"They just kept saying protocol this and protocol that," Clare added. "Now a woman's dead who should be alive if only the police would have listened."

But NYPD Commissioner Raymond Kelly said that the patrol cops handled the situation properly.

"It was a barricaded situation," Kelly said. "When there is a barricade situation the responding patrol officers if possible wait for Emergency Service officers. They're trained psychological technicians; they have additional equipment that enable them to better protect themselves because you don't know the type of weapon... They take prudent precautions I believe that was prudent at that time."

About Michael and his past
Michael has no prior arrests, and no previous domestic violence incidents had been reported at the home, police said.

In addition to the now-canceled ABC sitcom 'Ugly Betty,' the Haitian-American actor appeared as a dancer in 'Step Up 3D,' a film that was released in August, and starred in a campaign for the energy drink Full Throttle.
According to The Wall Street Journal, Michael’s profile on a Haitian entertainment website says that he opened a Subway sandwich shop on Broadway in Brooklyn in 2007. He also wrote there that he gave away free turkey sandwiches in 2008 on Thanksgiving.
"I remember growing up and my mother was always feeding people who were less fortunate," WSJ quoted him as writing. "My parents raised me to always share and to give charity in the name of God!"

HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE!!!!! WISHING YOU THE BEST HARVEST SEASON WITH YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS!!!

POP Culture at a glance....and not in a glass!!

Could this rocket scientist be our NEXT president? Hmmm I'm just posing the question. She seems to have a lot of stuff to say, but not always about anything of importance. Because of her, I now know where Russia is NOT located.

Some marriages in Hollywood are working....like Samuel L. Jackson and his wifey LaTanya Richardson(30 Years), Harrison Ford and Calista Flockhart, Jay - Z and Beyonce' Knowles, Denzel Washington and Pauletta,Ginuwine and Sole', Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher, Kenny Lattimore and Chante Moore, Sallie Richardson and Dondre Whitfield, Morris Chestnut and Pam Byse ,Barbara Streisand and James Brolin, Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner, Matt Damien and Luciana Barroso. Marriage is tough work so you must give credit where it's due. Congrats guys.

According to Billboard Magazine here's a list of their Top 10 Artist of the last 25 years: Drum roll please....

1. R. Kelly
2. Mary J. Blige
3. Whitney Houston
4. Mariah Carey
5. Janet Jackson
6. Usher
7. Luther Vandross
8. Jay-Z
9. Freddie Jackson
10. Alicia Keys

ICON Cher, and singer Christina Aguilera's movie Burlesque opens this Friday. I can't gage this movie just quite yet, but for some reason, it doesn't peak my interest. I love Cher, and it's always good to see her doing her thing. I saw Christina at the AMA's and she seemed big for her, and when I saw the show on television later, she looked HUGE, but that's TV for you, always adding the extra pounds.

How adorable is Katy Perry, such a great personality, she sings LIVE, she's quickly becoming one of my favorite celeb beauties, right behind Halle Berry, Ciara, Beverly Johnson and Keri Hilson.

Chris 'Breezy' Brown gets glowing remarks from Judge Patricia Schnegg she told the 21-year-old, "Of all the probationers I have had, no one has done a better job, or been more consistent than you. You are working diligently"

PAUL MCCARTNEY TO PERFORM AT APOLLO THEATER
*For the first time in his legendary career, Paul McCartney is scheduled to perform at New York’s world famous Apollo Theater.
The 68-year-old former Beatle is scheduled to rock the Harlem venue on Dec. 13 as part of Sirius XM’s celebration of reaching 20 million subscribers, the company announced today.

POP Culture at a glance....and not in a glass!!

Beyonce' special airs Thursday Thanksgiving night. The show takes you behind the scenes and it also shows you some of her in concert.

The American Awards aired last night, the show was okay, mostly lip sync performances, thankfully people like Neyo, Katy Perry,Christina Aguilera, Bon Jovi, Taylor and Justin Bieber they actually kicked it old school AND performed LIVE!!! Big winners were Justin Bieber, Taylor Swift, Usher and Rihanna. The highlight performance was easily Neyo!

Can 'real' love work in Hollywood, earlier this year it was the fall out of Courtney Cox and David Arquette, now we're witnessing Eva Longoria and Tony Parker's divorce, and you just know that it's about to get UGLY!!!

Harry Potter cleaned up @ the box office this weekend raking in over 125 million dollars.

Dancing With The Stars....hard to believe that joke of a television show will air it's finale tonight. All I know that if Bristol Palin wins, then her mother is a shoe in as our next president of the country, hopefully that thought alone scares you enough to go out and VOTE!!!

Charlie Sheen's hotel bimbo appeared this morning on Good Morning American, truly to enjoy her 15 minutes of shame. It's clearly obvious that Sheen has his demons.

In record stores today are the highly anticipated releases from Nicki Minaj"Pink Friday", Neyo"Libra Scale" and Kanye West"My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy".

Could it be that the Black Eyed Peas are running out or creative ideas....their new single "I Had The Time Of My Life" is a remake, and I didn't care for it the first go round, and this time is no different. Let's hope that their CD has other worthy selections.

Fleeting Moments/TGIF

Happy Friday,
Weighing in, a smoker, quit smoking for years, gets dealt a hand of lung cancer, you win that battle, a routine doctors appointment forces you into another surgery that must happen today, but I'm not ready, who will watch my house, what about my job, my children, this can't be happening to me, I paid attention to all the warning signs, it's not fair, it's NOT FAIR, but this is the damn reality, and I know that it's not by design, here again at this impasse, why?

Making mistakes we must take ownership, the curve was a setback, not a defining moment. Learn from that incident, and walk away with your integrity in tact, others can't cultivate you into the image to fit their need, you are your own motivation, the life lesson is actually teaching and setting examples. This week, I paid a costly mistake, which cost me a potential job, if you don't address matters , they can haunt you, but honesty is the best way to address matters, today I know this fact to be true, twenty five years ago, I would've tucked my head in shame. Isn't wisdom and growth amazing?

Honoring Thanksgiving, both situations that I just covered, owes their strength to God, a isolated incident, we get through them never on our own, the beauty of life, it gives us a certain resilience that challenges the most difficult of situations, forcing us to reach deep into our souls pushing us to produce, taking ancillary things and looking at the important matters that hit closest to home, insisting that we address the problem NOW. Its harvest time once again, we must extend and lend our hands to those in need. Happy Thanksgiving everyone.

What Are You Doing With Your Life?

Command Performance

Eric Benet just can't seem to get over his ex-wifey Halle Berry. Enjoy this recent performance of him singing 'Sometimes I Cry'. Mistakes happen right, and redemption is the truest apology. Enjoy.

Something Fishy ........

Hollywood publicist Ronni Chasen was murdered in the early hours of Tuesday in Beverly Hills, RadarOnline.com reports. Chasen, 64, was shot five times in the chest while driving her Mercedes-Benz and crashed into a pole. She was pronounced dead at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center.

The LA Times verified the information with the LA County coroner's office, adding that police are searching for the shooter.

Fellow publicist Howard Bragman called the killing "bizarre," telling the Associated Press, "She wasn't a shady character." He also remembered her fondly to the Times, "She had been doing this forever. She had a lot of class, a lot of style and a lot of intelligence. She was just very, very well-respected."

According to Deadline, Chasen attended the LA premiere of 'Burlesque' on the night of her death. She was working on getting Oscar bids for 'Alice in Wonderland 3D' and for Michael Douglas in 'Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps.'

"We were all together last night, and Ronni was having the best time doing what she enjoyed most," producer Donald De Line told Deadline on Tuesday. "I am in shock; that this could happen is incomprehensible. Only a few hours ago we were celebrating. I'm glad she was happy last night and that she was in all her glory."

Chasen represented 'Inception' composer Hans Zimmer, producers Dick Zanuck and Irwin Winkler, and actress Natalie Wood, who died in 1981. She worked on Oscar campaigns for films like 'The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,' 'Doubt,' 'The Wrestler,' 'There Will Be Blood,' 'Babel,' 'Crazy Heart' and 'Walk The Line.' Chasen became MGM's senior vice president of worldwide publicity in 1993.

The LA Times reported Wednesday that detectives have several leads but remain uncertain of the motive for the crime. Beverly Hills police are currently seeking security videos of the shooting and subsequent crash. Sgt. Lincoln Hishino told the Times there would be a "thorough investigation."

Police told The Hollywood Reporter on Tuesday:
"On Nov. 16th 2010 at approximately 12:28AM Beverly Hills police officers received info regarding shots that were heard in the area of Sunset and Whittier, shortly after a collision was reported in the same area. Units arrived and discovered a newer black Mercedes Benz E-350 involved in a solo crash to the light pole. The lone female occupant was located in the vehicle with apparent multiple gunshot wounds to her chest. Beverly Hills paramedics transported the victim to a local hospital where she was later pronounced deceased. The investigation is in the preliminary stages and no further information is available at this time. At this time there is no suspect, info or motive for this crime."

Publicist Jim Dobson told the Times he spoke with Chasen at a party after midnight, little more than an hour before her death. "She was happy-go-lucky and gossipy and fun, just like she always was," Dobson said. "We talked about food and life, just normal things. There wasn't any sign of stress."

Morgan Freeman said in a statement: "I had the extreme pleasure of working with Ronni on 'Driving Miss Daisy.' We've been friends ever since. She is someone I greatly admired, and she will be remembered."

Chasen was an active community member who spent time with Women in Film and Big Sisters of Los Angeles.

DWTS SUCKS..Blatant favoritism, only in America!

Bristol Palen has a baby out of wedlock it's ACCEPTED! Her mother can see Russia from her window, it's applauded, she then screws up Websters and invents a word Refudiate(the correct word with meaning is REPUDIATE) and it's gets notoriety as word of the year....c'mon REALLY America. Fast forward to last night's judging of DWTS, clearly Brandy was the front runner along with Jennifer Grey, somehow America pit Brandy against Briston Palen in the bottom two, everyone in the world knows except the DWTS audience that Bristol Palen should not have made it this far. Clearly again DWTS shows that it rarely gets it right. UGH

TV Gets It Right with The Game....

The GAME returns....The BET network is doing something that the whack racist CW network did not do. The Game is very cleverly written and it tackles relationships,career, love and friendship. As life doesn't always deal you the best of hands, and happy endings are something that are better saved for fairly tales. If you want to laugh, cry and rejoice, tune in Tuesday nights on BET starting January 11Th to see what Derwin, Melanie, Tasha Mack, Malek, Jason and Kelly Pitts are up to now. I can promise you that they will keep you on the edge of your seat!!!!!!!!

Tender Mercies/TGIF

Happy Friday everyone,
We cling and grasp, as we inquire not always knowing if the answer will ever reveal itself, but we continue on, and that's about taking a leap of faith, Tender mercies are something that we've all faced in our lives or witnessed through another eyes. It's a scary place to be, and it's hard to address our fears, emotions are what make us human, and the bond that connects us to one another, is most essential.

I watched the Oprah Winfrey show a few weeks ago, and I could not move, the episode was so compelling, especially when you think that you're the only person in the world who has dealt with molestation, I never think you quite figure out the makings of a monster, once you've battle the guilt, you must champion on to tell your story, addressing doesn't always free you, and the innocence that you once had was stolen from you, owning your truth strengthens you against the enemy, and it allows you to provide a softer landing to someone who can't speak. I still have awkward moments, and truthfully, it's something that I've locked away or so I thought. When you love someone your focus is on their every move, and if you're in tuned, you can see it, now the bigger question, is do you really want to see it? Harsh realities reveal that Daddy, Mother, Uncle, Aunts, people of the cloth, next door neighbors are not always as innocent as they seem, but society hides their secret and paint them ‘normal’ and ‘worthy’. If your child is distant and removed, your job is to investigate. Not addressing it makes you a monster too.

It's your responsibility to know who you let into your child's life it is your duty, no matter who it is. If your child tells you something, LISTEN to them, females wake up, stop selling yourself short, with the dreams that he loves you, but just can't seem to find a way to be present and constructive, men who were molested it doesn't make you a punk, nor weak, keeping the secret makes you weak.. Children are vulnerable and at your mercy, if you don't want them, be the mature person and take the proper steps to ensure that a pregnancy does not occur. Feeling ashamed only keeps you angry, caged and bitter. Always know that the part you played was very small, even for the person who may have enjoyed it, when traumatic experiences happened, mentally your mind has checked out a long time ago. Even so it's still not your blame. Know who you let into your life and it's especially important who you introduce your children too. Remember children are tender, because they are at your mercy.

What Are You Doing With Your Life?

Command Performance

Tom Jones is a soul brother, and don't you ever doubt it. Staying to true to his core, and never wavering, he's timely and on point. Also he's knows something about the sista's he had a very steamy affair with Mary Wilson of the Supremes back in the day.

Short and Sweet/TGIF

Happy Friday...remember we fall back on Sunday!

As we rise, we fall, giving it your all is understanding that dreams go awry and can be life altering. Going it alone comes with a price, with that list comes struggle, angst dedication and hard work.

We live for the impact, life is about impression, to dream is the ability to accomplish, to hope speaks to the believability factor. The day gives you 24 but 32 would give you more time to fulfill the things that we put off and file into that 'tomorrow' bin. For those who are on board today reading this, we made it to see another day, for some Thursday was their final curtain call.

What Are You Doing With Your Life?

Blind Eye/TGIF

Happy Friday....
Life teaches you to pay attention to the lessons learned and wherever you go, if you take notice you can bring good to all connections whether it's to enlighten are to give courage, strength and hope. Some would say that minding one's business is the Godly way and I would say that when you acknowledge the presence of God in your life, that's the Godly way. We're braggadocios about the other good in our life, shouldn't the same rules apply when giving honor and glory?

Turning a blind eye when your witness poverty, hatred, homelessness or abuse. Pretending not to notice makes you just as guilty as the parties involved. Being a good neighbor is knowing when to stand up against all the odds, when others see but say nothing, being the one to walk out on faith. Having blinders on in your life, says that you refuse to be accountable for things of change, pro activity is there for you to rewrite history, it's happens everyday. We should be cognizant of the treatment of others, if you want to know what neglect looks like, you don't have to look very far, it's on your television screen, it's the face of the homeless, it's the neglected child it's in the face of the abused.

The eyes are always watching, the irony is which matters they choose to address, if it's not happening in the home of the elite, it's swept under the rug, luckily karma doesn't exclude anyone, as you continue to live, life surely teaches you that what you reap is surely what you'll sow. It's time for us to take our blinders off and move forward. That lovely thing call time, is always the reminder that not matter what, it's going to keep right on ticking.

What Are You Doing With Your Life?

Command Performance

Bobby Womack clearly in a league of his own. He paved the way for so many male vocalists. He is called the 'poet' because he has such a way with words and he was a 'rapper' before rapping was Hip Hop. His peers were Sam Cooke and Otis Redding and they were all friends, which makes this performance all the more befitting. Enjoy!!

Confinement/TGIF

Happy Friday Everyone....
I was talking to a relative recently and she had questions about my TGIF's. She was surprised that I had so much to say, and more astonished that they were my 'words', the more we talked the more she eluded to the thought that my words were 'borrowed'. I got a chuckle out of that conversation, and I came to the realization that though we were related, she really didn't know me very well. It's like people would love to box you and put you in a category, if you allowed them too. The more I think about life and words, and how they effect on each other, the more I understand why the cage bird sings. All in all I took our conversation as a compliment.

Breaking free from the chains and repression, allowing people to put you in a box for 'their' comfort isn't how to define your walk. The gate keeper to your success, comes from your motivation. We all must address our own demons and surviving the antagonistic people who constantly try to stifle your path and your conquests. The flow of life is walking to the beat of your own drum, and in that walk, the tread will vary accordingly. For some reason it will always matter to us, the way that we are received and perceived. It becomes a balancing act to the know what is important and what's not. Dark secrets doesn't have to be viewed as a cloudy day, being ashamed what others have taught you to feel, if you addressed the issue face on, it diminishes the enemies game.

To live a life of confinement is when you give into judgements and opinions. Trying to live up to others perceptions of you is a false hope of acceptance. Whatever your choices are . My mother use to say that if someone is talking about you, it shouldn't be viewed as a negative, if they cared enough to include you as their topic of discussion, you've obviously left a favorable impression on them. Breaking free of others thoughts allows you to live your life on your own terms. you can love who you desire without explanation and you don't have to hide in shame for the sake of others. Judgement day is coming, if you live by the rules in which your would like to be respected, by all means, give what you wish to receive, and remember to walk by faith and not by sight.

What Are You Doing With Your Life?

Command Performance

Faith Evans came on the scene blazing, people felt that she was trying to challenge Mary J. Blige for the Queen of Hip Hop throne, Evans quickly established herself as a singer and songwriter and pave her own path. Her personal life was almost as popular as her singing life, she married the rapper Biggie Smalls, and survived to tell it all. Here she's singing "Soon As I Get Home" (one of my all time favorites by her), and she reclaims any doubts that the haters might try to say about her, because her voice is ON point! Enjoy.

Living Double/TGIF

Happy Friday Everyone...

Fall is here and the beauty of change is here. This subject is that I want to touch on isn't new but its a good conversation piece nonetheless. I feel that I need to address this topic. More and more people especially females are getting blind sided by lust and for some reason their focus isn't where it should be. Life is about self preservation, and the understanding of what your journey is all about. Its about knowing your truths and keep your temple in tack and your spiritual awareness.

Dating is great and love is the ultimate tool to fulfilling our lives. I was having this conversation earlier this week about the struggle to find completion in the love and dating game. To know who you are sleeping with can save your life. The women who I was speaking with really had no clue as to what is really out there, and I was dumbfounded, as this situation and circumstance is nothing new. My famous philosophy has always been that everything that looks good doesn't taste good, and isn't necessarily good for you.

When you meet someone it's your duty to know their background, you must do your homework, because it could be a matter of life and death. Ladies if your meet a man, whether he's masculine or not, you really need to understand what is really out there. Practice safe sex, it's ridiculous to meet someone and less than three weeks or say a month, and to let someone have unprotected sex with you is absurd. HIV is running rampant and the spread of AIDS in 'Heterosexual' men, is increasing more and more everyday. The 'DL'(down low) continues to grow. Living Double is a reality for a lot of people and no one wants to speak on it. The story of Eddie Long is just one of the many, he's not unique, he's just a larger public figure than most. Please protect yourself and know the reality of where recklessness can lead. Just because you love someone doesn't always mean that they will tell your truth.

What Are You Doing With Your Life?

Command Performance

It doesn't get any better than this. Cher always delivers, and when I see Lady Gaga doing her thing, I can't help but feel that she needs to add Cher to her payroll. Enjoy this clip, from the days when show bizness was about TRUE entertainment and glitz!

Just In Time......

Designer John Varvatos latest creation the 'X-Lace' is HOT> This boots were made for walking and you can best believe that I will be rocking these all fall AND winter. Retails for 800.00 get into kids! Let's Go!

End of Era....

After 11 years of marriage, Courteney Cox and David Arquette have decided to separate.
The split was first reported by In Touch Weekly.
According to TMZ, Cox and Arquette have been living apart for a few months.

The couple released a statement regarding the breakup. "We have agreed to a trial separation that dates back for some time. The reason for this separation is to better understand ourselves and the qualities we need in a partner and for our marriage."
It continued, "We remain best friends and responsible parents to our daughter and we still love each other deeply."
Cox and Arquette have a daughter together, 6-year-old Coco.
The actors met on the set of the 1995 film 'Scream.' They married in 1999. Ironically, they are set to appear together in 'Scream 4,' which is due out in April of next year.

Cox gained widespread fame for her role on the comedy 'Friends' and currently stars in ABC's modest hit 'Cougar Town.' Arquette is an executive producer of that show and has appeared in numerous films, including 'Never Been Kissed' and 'Airheads.'

This is one of my all time favorite couples and I'm routing for them to make it. This Hollywood game is a HARD knock life. Good luck guys.

Sponge/TGIF

Happy Friday everyone.

Knowledge and admiration are things that we all aspire to have and give, our leaders and teachers are always idolized and worshipped, we watch and pay close attention to soak up wisdom and knowledge. We immerse ourselves in culture arts, politics and religion, however your flavor goes. We tend to be sponges trying to absorb as much education as humanly possible.

Soaking up the goodness of our surroundings and the creativity that we choose and allow into our lives is another form of God's beauty and grace, every encounter is a chance to educate, nurture and grow, each scenario we take away something from that exchange. Our power comes from within, we're all sponges here to immerse in thoughts and concepts that aren't always our familiar patterns, in doing so we stimulate our brain by giving it a different exercise. Growing up we've all encountered someone who have impacted our journey for the better, as sponges we can take something from each person for the betterment of self. Positive exchanges are given freely and knowing what the gift of life is about, its to share and understand the meaning of each moment.

Looking at the world around you, is it a world that you find joy? In divine order we must take into account of what we're putting in and what we're giving out. Taking all of that into accountability when you leave someone what impact did you share, was it a favorable impression, were you used as a sponge or were you the residue that washes down the drain? Remember you're only as good as the example you set.

What Are You Doing With Your Life?

Our Culture........Ebony Magazine Turns 65!!

Happy 65Th Birthday Ebony magazine!!! Ebony and Jet magazines were the staple magazines in African American homes for years, like Life magazine it was the largest size magazine in circulation. The culture of Ebony and Jet gave African Americans something to be proud of, and gave us a reason to believe, it was always uplifting and never bafoonary. Not only did I grew up in a world with the Johnson family who were the publishers of both magazines, but my parents grew up with it too. Though Mr. and Mrs. Johnson are no longer with us, their memory and legacy lives on. Whether is was music, culture, religion, beauty, fashion or politics Ebony and Jet served it up best. Here's to another 65 amazing years. Congrats.

New Music from Faith Evans....

Faith Evans returns to music today with "Something About Faith" after a five year hiatus. I don't care for the cover, but I'm certain she delivers per usual. The widow of Biggie Smalls, has weathered many storms and always comes out victorious. I can't wait to get my copy today. Notice Y'ALL I buy my music NO downloading for me.

Monica speaks Whitney and Nicky Minaj....

SingerMonica Arnold one of the baddest chick in the game paying homage to one of the baddest Icons in the game Ms. Whitney Houston and up and coming female rappy Nicky Minaj who is about to blow up the game or rap, letting the world know not to sleep on the female mc's.......big ups to Foxy Brown, Lil Kim, Eve, Salt and Pepa, Lady of Rage, MC Lyte, Missy Elliot, Da Brat,Yo Yo, Left-Eye,Queen Latifah.

some 4Th Quarter Music Releases ......

Here is Rihanna’s album cover for her upcoming album, Loud. The album drops November 16th. Though she's NOT one of my favorites, I gotta admit that the cover did catch my attention.

Another Bambi victim Taylor Swift's upcoming CD "Speak Now" has a release date of October 25Th-2010. Kanye gave her career a HUGE boost, let's see if she can maintain her popularity.

Sexy Shakira is back on the scene with her "Sale El Sol" release on October 19Th-2010

Sugarland's new release "The Incredible Machine" drops October 19Th-2010. Country music music is LIVE and kicking.

Grammy winners Kings Of Leon drops their "Come Around Sundown" on October 19Th-2010

Bryan Ferry is gearing up for his "Olympia" CD which drops on October 26Th-2010

Grandma Moses Susan Boyle releases her followup to her debut, which was the best selling CD of 2009. "The Gift" drops November 9Th-2010


Rapper bad boy Superstar Kanye West drops his "Lyrics" CD on November 16Th. I wonder what he has to say for himself this time.

Rapper Common drops his "The Believer" CD on December 15Th-2010.

Pedestal/TGIF

It's Friday ... let's get it in!
In forgiving comes healing, and the rebuilding foundation is put into place, the structured damaged is only temporary, the renewed understanding gives extra emphasis to better materials that you apply to your foundation, as hindsight is 20/20. Growing up I idolized my grandfather he was my world, and in my eyes the nicest man that anyone could ever meet, and how proud was I, that he was my grandfather. As life goes, things are revealed, and at best that perfect man, was human, and I badgered him, because I put him on a unrealistic pedestal, thinking that he was perfect and that was far from the realism, it took me quite a while to get over that, but doing my soul searching I realized that marriage, integrity and character takes much work. I exalted my Grandfather, and I now have the understanding that my 'perfect' grandfather is human and not without faults, as am I.

Take Minister Eddie Long for example there will be much incongruity on this subject, I don't know what really happened, all I know is that allegations are running rampant, people put their trust in him, he led his congregation to believe in what he believed and who knows maybe he was a false prophet, but the thing that I do know for certain is that he is a child of God, and with that said, I hope that his soul can be redeemed and I pray his repenting will be rewarded with renewed spirit and a 'better' understanding of what to do next time if he's allowed to hold such power again. His church put him on a pedestal, was it a blind eye, or did a group of people not want to see what was right before their eyes? The better question to ask is do churches give passes to their leaders who behave poorly? Adoration is an expectation that we individually put on people in positions of power. It is up to us to save the babies, teach your children the lessons of communication and truth. A child should never be taught to fear betrayal or abuse.

Putting people on pedestal greets you with disappointment as judgment is so easy to do, we've all been hypocrites before. Remember 'perfect' is a fantasy played out in our minds and on television, but when reality sets in, were all in the process to cleaning house, to get to be the purest that we can be. Sin happens everyday, but so does redemption. So for all the grandfathers, ministers, husbands, wives, sons, daughters, mothers and fathers, lets move forward without the pedestals, but with a 'newfound' understanding that forgiveness is loving, and acceptance gets you closer to that sacred place where we're trying to get to, and it's done with humility and ownership.

What Are You Doing With Your Life?

Command Performance

Glenn Lewis entire debut CD had everyone thirsting for Stevie Wonder to go back into the studio and record again. Lewis project was tight, but it was too Stevie, but imitation is the best form of flattery right? You must give Lewis credit because he has done his homework. He clearly has graduated from the Stevie Wonder school of voice. Check him out on this Stevie Wonder classic.

Plight/TGIF

The ideal of perfect is never without contradiction, to understand that the aspect of life is knowing that some rain must fall, as you'll have many mountains to climb. If the cries of joy is in the beginning I'm still puzzled why there's sorrow at the end. As a people we want what we want, is it a selfish act to want more than we give, and when we get that of what we want, for some it's not nearly enough.

From the outside looking in, have you ever noticed how easy it is to judge another persons situation, because it's not your own, learning for others mistakes is a blessing from God, a luxury called a six sense, so focus. Most people love to speak on things that they would not tolerate, but to err is human and we've all made mistakes, and are bound to make more. Show me a person who has never faltered and I'll show you someone who hasn't lived. Until you've walked in someone else shoe's, never condemn, at the end of the day when this life is over, the judgements will come from the most high.

Living is about the recovery and one's ability to forgive self, understanding what that entails is showing your true character to not only yourself but those around you. Addressing the problem without prolongation is meeting the challenges head on. Looking into a mirror and 'really' seeing yourself flaws and imperfections, that is when you are ready to live. Being down on your luck, isn't permanent, you must understand that a bad turn of events is temporary, the present shouldn't be the result of the levels that you were reduced to, a good heart, will represent no matter what obstacles comes your way, the resonance is in exuding the strength that got you through.

What Are You Doing With Your Life?

Command Performance

R&B is making a comeback, because the new breed of talent is finally starting to realize that MUCH work is required when you bypass gimmicks. Lyfe Jennings is very reminiscent of R&B great Bobby Womack. Honesty can be sexy when you understand what conviction truly represents. Enjoy!

STATUS.....

DUMB*SSES......

Reverend Eddie Long, the Atlanta Minister with a following of more than 25000.00 thousand members has been accused of molesting young boys pretending to befriend them as a father figure, to gme their confidence, only to bed them later. Over 30 boys under the age of 22 have come forward. Long had an appetite for 'very' masculine guys. Most of the incidents started when the boys were between 17-18. For SHAME on your Reverend Long.

Lindsay Lohan back in jail affair for testing dirty on two drug tests. Lohan is a trainwreck looking to happen, she obviously needs help and since she isn't willing to rescue herself and it's clear that her parents could give a damn. If Lohan doesn't get it together, she will have a date with Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplan, Kurt Cobain, Heath Ledger and Anna Nicole Smith if she doesn't get it together soon.

Paris Hilton, arrested twice in one month for drug possesion. Anything to get into the news.

Rapper T.I. and his pigface wife Tiny were both arrested for drug possession. SMH

Singer Lyfe Jennings the 37-year-old rapper was given the jail sentence in an Atlanta court Wednesday for criminal trespassing, discharging a weapon near a street, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer

All of these people have abused their celebrity, and my constant question is why do we give celebrities 'passes' for poor behavior.

Hot Ticket .... Boris Kudjoe comes to NBC

Boris Kudjoe stars in "Undercover" debuts tonight on NBC. It's a modern version of Hart to Hart. Seems like NBC is trying to get back in the business of quality television.