Panoply/TGIF

Happy Friday everyone, ... Let's Talk about It!!!

GOD can turn any situation around, prayer works.  Hypocrites only pray in tough situations, the master sees all.  Order and decorum should be the focus, to be centered and grounded.   Everything comes in time, precisely when we understand how to exercise patience and diligence.  The people that include in your life, should share similar beliefs, who are just as driven and motivated as you, it helps the direction of your trajectory.   

Fear comes mostly from things that are not understood.   Believing is easy, when you have a calm heart.   Sincere treatment of others, is the constant gift that returns to you, falling short comes from selfish intentions.  Challenges are unforeseen obstacles, the tide will shift and change.   Everyone that we meet, has something to teach us, the exchange should be even.   Those who fundamentally want to be a part of your life, will move with intentional efforts.  Struggle teaches that Impossible situations are temporary. 

What Are You Doing With Your Life?

 http://youtu.be/diN7L28MjS8

Best' 

Kevin Knighton

https://www.facebook.com/KevinKnighton360

www.Instagram.com/KevinKnighton_Callins

Songs In The Key Of Life ..

From the Book Of Genius - Stevie Wonder ... The Grammys (22) LOVE this man, fans adore this man!!  Wonder's 1976 album Songs in the Key of Life is almost always listed on music critics' rankings of top albums of all time.  Now, 38 years later, the music legend will to take the album on tour — performing such classics as "Isn't She Lovely," "Sir Duke," "I Wish" and "Another Star" in a whole new way.

The 64-year-old Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee announced the arena tour at the Grammy Museum in Los Angeles before performing "Isn't She Lovely."

"I decided to call it the Songs in the Key of Life Performance because it's not going to be exactly, you know, just like the album, meaning the lineup, but it will work perfectly well for how it feels best live," Wonder said onstage.

Songs in the Key of Life has become a  favorite for the music elite, including Elton John and George Michael, with the likes of Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey also singing its praises.

The North American tour will kick off at New York City's Madison Square Garden, hit Toronto and then end at Oakland's Oracle Arena. Tickets are on sale NOW!!

Nov. 6: New York City, Madison Square Garden

Nov. 9: Washington, D.C., Verizon Center

Nov. 11: Boston, TD Garden

Nov. 14: Chicago, IL @ United Center

Nov. 16: Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center

Nov. 20: Auburn Hills, MI @ Palace of Auburn Hills

Nov. 22: Atlanta, GA @ Phillips Arena

Nov. 25: Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre

Nov. 29: Las Vegas, NV @ MGM Grand Garden Arena

Dec. 3: Seattle, WA @ Key Arena

Dec. 5: Oakland, CA @ Oracle Arena

(http://youtu.be/FDpITVZKBAU)

Flashback Who's That ...

Plagued with drug and alcohol addiction, was the key factors, that led to the supergroup Jodeci's demise. They were one of the most successful singing groups of the nineties.  The public couldn't get enough of them.  Hit after Hit, the group had women flooding Their Shows, The After Parties and The Hotel Lobby.  

Two sets of brothers makes up the Jodeci quartet JoJo and K-Ci Hailey, Dalvin and Donald DeGrate' hail from Charlotte, North Carolina.  Jodeci is an American band, whose repertoire includes R&B, soul music, and new jack swing. The group's name is a combination of the names from all four members: Jo-Jo, DeGrate, and K-Ci.  From 1991 - 1995 the group had three multi-platinum Albums, it seems that America couldn't get enough of them, then that 'ego' word creeped in, and all hell broke loose, the members went on indefinite hiatus after 1996. The Hailey brothers continued to perform together under the pseudonym K-Ci & JoJo, and had success on the pop charts beyond that of the original band, eventually that success dissipated, again to drug and alcohol abuse and addiction.  Today Jodeci is on the comback trail and will make their first public appearance as a group in years, as they are slated to perform at this year's Soul Train Awards, which airs November 30th on the Centric  network.

(http://youtu.be/oYwL-FzFDKQ)

(http://youtu.be/Sy6gPBix32k)

(http://youtu.be/hNw7hzm9UHM)

Remembering ...

Tammi Terrell born Thomasina Winifred Montgomery; April 29, 1945/March 16, 1970 was an American recording artist, best known as a star singer for Motown Records during the 1960s, most notably for a series of duets with singer Marvin Gaye.  

When Stevie Wonder was 16, he wrote the song, “All I Do,” with songwriting Clarence Paul and Morris Broadnax.  That same year, at age 20 or 21, Tammi Terrell recorded the song for Motown Records. It was not released, however, until 2002 in Great Britain, long after her death, in a compilation of previously unreleased songs entitled, Cellarful of Motown! This song was not placed on Tammi’s one and only Motown solo album, Irresistible, which was released in 1969, when this poor, beautiful and talented young lady was nearing her end. By the way, Stevie Wonder finally released his own version on his 1980 Hotter Than July LP and Kirk Whalum took the song to a jazzier level featuring vocalist Wendy Moten on his 1998 album, For You.

A life interrupted just as she was beginning to take flight, Tammi Terriell was diagnosed with a brain tumor. She had eight unsuccessful operations before succumbing to the illness on March 16, 1970 at the age of 24.

(http://youtu.be/JV2e0_SgXCc)

Serena's HOUSE ...

Serena Williams!!! Champions get it DONE!!! 18 time Grand Champion, Back to Back year End Champion titles. #1 Ranked Tennis female. How much does this lady have to do; to prove her greatness and her place in the history books?

'Dear racist just 'average' tennis commentators, please have a seat'.

Serena got her revenge in Singapore on Halep 63, 60 thats how you end a terrific season. Not bad for a 33 year old African American girl from Compton, Ca with a dream!!! 

#WINNING

Artifacts/TGIF

Happy Friday everyone, ... Let's Talk about it!!

Hardships are merely preparations for extraordinary travels.   Wisdom is born from hard knocks and shortcomings.   The living arena of truth, predicates that nothing ventured, nothing gained.  Empty and hollow are the artifacts from cold and unfeeling people, whose souls are damaged.    Observe your surroundings and the key players in your life, its such a priceless lesson.  Worthy is the person, who isn't afraid to reveal their core and vulnerabilities.   Routine wont ever get you the satisfaction that you seek, keep pressing forth to discover, what lies beneath the surface.  

We must raise our energy level to radiate, what we want to electrify, thats where the attraction is born.   Small minds will always try to convince you, that your dreams and desires are too big, prove them wrong!!    Getting the work done, wont come easy, it takes grit.   Many opt for shortcuts and will cut corners, but thats not where rewards lie.   Its important to know where the journey can take you, and who is the driving force.

What Are You a Doing With Your Life?

http://youtu.be/s-LXfER7GYk

Best'

Kevin Knighton

https://www.facebook.com/KevinKnighton360

www.Instagram.com/KevinKnighton_Callins

Flashback Who's That ...

Flashback Who's That Thursday:

Jaheim Hoagland was born on May 26, 1978 in New Brunswick, New Jersey. The 6'3 singer Jaheim had a rough childhood. His father died when he was very young.  A single mother raising three boys.  Crime was also part of his life. Jaheim came out of jail when he was 16, his mother died suddenly. His views on life changed and he finally grew up. His grandfather a member of the Drifters was his biggest influence.  

Jaheim started singing in local talent shows that led to appearances on the Apollo Theater where he won three times.

He was signed by Naughty by Nature's Kaygee to Divine Mill Records in 2000, and released his debut album Ghetto Love in 2001, that contained the bumping single 'Just In Case'. His second effort, Still Ghetto (2002), contains the hit "Put That Woman First" (2003), both of which achieved platinum success.  Jaheim's third album, Ghetto Classics, was released on February 14, 2006, debuting at #1 on the U.S. Billboard 200.  The Makings of a Man was released in December 2007.   In late 2009 the single "Ain't Leavin Without You" preceded his 2010 album Another Round.   After a three year hiatus Jaheim returned to the music industry with a new single titled, "Age Ain't a Factor" and a new album 'Appreciation Day' that was released in 2013.  He stands out as one of the most talented singers of his generation, unfortunately the state of the music industry makes it hard for him to be heard, which speaks to the low sales and airplay of his last project.

(http://youtu.be/Dli8qtZ_leE)

(http://youtu.be/zdkLuDMNo9I)

(http://youtu.be/rEpfuzjHvxU)

(http://youtu.be/XfHOwo6xnl4)

Rocking and Rolling ...

Hollywood Cool - This rocker was largely responsible for Elvis Presley's style.  Yeah its that old story, that never dies (clones/biters).  Any idea who this successful superstar is???

Chuck Berry ...

Rest In Peace ...

Rest In Peace Fashion mogul and designer Oscar De La Rente has died at 82 years old.  

De la Renta had been diagnosed with cancer in 2006 ... though it's unclear at this point what caused his death.  He was born in the Dominican Republic, and became internationally known in the 60s as one of Jackie Kennedy's favorite designers.De la Renta had been diagnosed with cancer in 2006 ... though it's unclear at this point what caused his death. 

Swag ...

Hollywood Royalty - Sammy, Sidney and Harry. Blazing the trail.

#Swag #HarryBelafonte #SammyDavisJr#SidneyPoitier

Hotep/TGIF

Happy Friday everybody, ... Let's Talk about It!!!

Pray for your adversaries it weakens their plight!!  Some come in the form of a false prophet.  Clearly right and wrong is not a blurred line.  Standing for truth is not always praised, and often ridiculed.  Worth comes with a certain grace, and a certain gratitude.    Curious minds are answer seekers, they must be willing to share what has been revealed.  The simple indulgence of advice, may not always be well received, but is always heard.

Downtrodden activity only happens, when you allow a door to close or make excuses for a certain type of behavior.   How we treat one another is a constant testimony of a mirrored reflection.   Sincerity costs nothing, while betrayal, can come in the form of a friend, understand your chosen circle, and review it often.  Hidden agendas' are valuable lessons learned.   The valleys hold the best keepsakes, for life's directions.  If you have no vision about your future, returning to your past is inevitable.  Visualize, stand and Hotep, your dreams shouldn't be deferred.

What Are You Doing with Your Life?

http://youtu.be/A3LaOoYBNKw

Best'

Kevin Knighton

https://www.facebook.com/KevinKnighton360

www.Instagram.com/KevinKnighton_Callins

Flashback Who's That ...

Flashback Who's That Thursday:  

Rachelle Ferrell began singing at the tender age of six years old.  Her six octaves range allows her to sing in a whistle like register, very reminiscent of Minnie Riperton.  Ferrell is unquestionably one of the most dynamic singers in contemporary popular music.  A Berklee School graduate, she earned her chops, the old fashion, talent, dedication and hard work.  

She emerged in 1992 with her stateside debut CD simply entitled 'Rachelle Ferrell' on Capitol records.  It was then the world got the introduction to this megawatt talent and her sense of phrasing, sensabiltites, range and musicianship(classical training on piano and violin).  Having to deal with the bureaucracy of the music business, most artist of her caliber are often misunderstand, mishandled, and lost in the shuffle.  Rachelle Ferrell's debut was a 'monster' loaded with timeless singles, which allowed her to tour for two plus years in support of her debut.  Her 'First Instrument' CD was released in Japan in 1990, and wouldn't see the light of day stateside until 1995, which mainstream America, assumed to be the followup to her debut, which in actuality, was the other way around.  So very misleading, and understandably didn't receive the same attention as the seemingly 'predecessor'. 

Politics again reared its ugly head.  Whatever the reasons that Capitol/Blue Note didnt get it right, Ferrell has never released a proper followup to her stateside CD, which she was clearly deservant of, fans are still 'waiting'.  Yes she has released several CD's here and there, but were only record label 'business' fillers.  Today Ferrell continues to tour extensively, but has never received the attention and shine that her talent deserves.

(http://youtu.be/ydOuf8j4AMc)

(http://youtu.be/46074dvKl0s)

(http://youtu.be/Djw0A6fKLcc)

STILL loving Lucy ...

ICONIC - 63 years ago today 'I Love Lucy' made its television debut, and America fell in 'Love'.  63 years later, Lucy STILL makes us laugh, and warms our hearts.  She was a true business woman her 'Desilu' production company, along with with her then husband Desi Arnaz, gave life to many sitcom shows, actors and changed the face of television.  

Against All a Odds ...

Boom - President Obama is on the cover of the Oct. 23 issue of Rolling Stone magazine for a story titled "In Defense of Obama" written by economist Paul Krugman. It's his eighth cover since 2008. Against popular belief, Krugman declares President Obama as one of the most consequential and one of the most successful Presidents in American history, and acknowledges the harsh and often unfair criticisms that he endures.

Affirmation

Dear Heavenly Father,

Praising GOD from where all my Blessings flow.  You are my rock and my personal Savior.  Things that I tend to take for granted, I could not achieve anything without the guiding force of you in my life.  Thank you for continuing to protect me from hurt, harm, fear and danger.  Guide and direct my path. Honor me with Favor, Mercy and Grace.  In my human imperfections, Im learning to put you first and to live in Gratitude is the only way.  For all the Blessings in my life, I do give thanks. Amen ~

Absorb/TGIF

Happy Friday everyone, ... Let's Talk about It!!

Operate from a place of power and not brokenness.  Thats what I tell myself a lot these days.  Strength comes from within, you never know what you're made of, until you're pushed to the extremes of your soul.  While both, the successes and failures, of the past are constantly attempting to alter my ego and emotions.  I know whence comes my health, my purpose and my reason.  I'm determined to keep moving forward, staying focused, hoping, still wishing and always seeking, to live to the best of my abilities.  At the end of the day whether those emotions arise again, I continue to walk tall, perseverance is my only option.

A unique messenger shared a powerful piece of information with me, broken is damaged, but can be heal.  Messages comes in all forms, if you're not paying attention,  a blessing can be blocked.  I say get behind me Satan, as I continue to pray for my foes.   I encourage you to live in the 'now' presence, not worrying about the past, or being anxious about the future.  God is ever present, loving, forgiving and accepting.   I send Love and Light to you, its the perfect movement. 

What Are You Doing With a Your Life?

(http://youtu.be/1VuKLGjrrRI)

Best'

Kevin Knighton

https://www.facebook.com/KevinKnighton360

www.Instagram.com/KevinKnighton_Callins

Flashback Who's That ...

Flashback Who's That Thursday:

"Hi we are not in right now
But if you leave your name and number
We'll get back to yoooooouu"

Those heavenly honey silk vocals came from lead singer Di Reed, Joi Marshall and Tonya Kelly better known as JADE!!  Those lovely came on the scene with a vengeance, rocking Box braids and combat boots.  Jade found their way into our hearts with hits like "I Just Wanna Love You", 5-4-3-2 (Yo Time Is Up) and their MONSTER hit single "Dont Walk Away".  Its hard to believe that the trio's reign lasted for only three years (92-95). Releasing three CD's one platinum, one gold and a LIVE cd from a BET listening party.  Having issues with their record label Giant records, the promotions and money was never right.  Eventually the harmony between the group itself took its toll, all three members went into retirement.  

These days 'Di Reed' is currently touring the world as a featured vocalist for Rod Stewart and continues her professional singing career by lending her vocal talents to support numerous music projects and industry heavyweights including Stevie Wonder, Smokey Robinson, Christina Aguilera, Elton John, Gwen Stefani, and many others.  Earlier this year, the remaining original members of Jade. 'Tonya Kelly and Joi Marshall' reunited and enlisted vocalist Myracle Holloway as a new member and released a song on Valentines Day called "Baby Luv".

(http://youtu.be/bk4zURoO3qQ)

(http://youtu.be/nsXwEAVXMDw)

(http://youtu.be/e8J7HWwQ3WQ)

(http://youtu.be/wZ9HG0nGe-g)

Incomparable ...

Singer, Songwriter and Producer Faith Evans parlayed her reality TV stint into a new chapter in her recording career.  On October 28th, Evans will release her eighth studio album, Incomparable, via a new deal with BMG.  The first single 'I Deserve It' features Missy Elliot. In the meantime take this stroll with me if you will ... back down memory lane.

(http://youtu.be/1VuKLGjrrRI)

Say It Isn't So ...

Endings - The long running often challenged television sitcom 'The Game' is coming to an end, after their 9th season is filmed on The BET network.  Presently the cast are filming season 8 and 9.  The Game television show was very innovative when it first aired on the CW network.  After three seasons the network dropped them.  Viacom/BET picked up the show.  Personally for me it went downhill from there.  Firing the two main characters, that the show was centered around (Melanie and Derwin) along with the absence of the Kelly and Brittany Pitts characters, was total buzz kill.  The show went hood on BET by added low brow' characters LimaRita, Blue etc.,  The show lost their footing.  With that being said, The Game despite the revolving door of characters, few shows have lasted for 9 years.  Hopefully BET will give this show the send off that it deserves, by wrapping things up with the original characters.  Meanwhile reruns of Tasha Mack, Malek, Jason Pitts, Kelly Pitts, Melanie and Derwin forever play on.

The GAME cast ...

Triple Threat ...

Triple Threat - Singer, Songwriter and Producer Jessie J, has written hits for Chris Brown, Britney Spears, Alicia Keys, Miley Cyrus etc., "Sweet Talker" is the upcoming third studio album by Jessie J, scheduled to be released 13 October 2014. J is the complete package with a masterful set of pipes, so very refreshing to see, especially is this 'new' age of music, where 'talent' is the last attribute.

Rapper 2 Chainz,  singer Ariana Grande, and rapper Nicki Minaj all make guest appearances on the album, in addition to hip hop group De La Soul and violinist Lindsey Stirling. Jessie co-wrote the album and worked with The-Dream, Diplo, Tricky Stewart, Max Martin, Ammo and amongst a host of collaborators from both new and old. The album was preceded by the lead single, "Bang Bang", which features American singer Ariana Grande and Trinidadian rapper Nicki Minaj was released on 29 July 2014 and was a critical and commercial success.

Affirmation ...

Thank You Heavenly Father ...

You give me the greatest understanding, beyond ALL unferstanding.  I lift my arms to you, and I surrender all.  Thanks for allowing me to grace another day, to live to testify about the beauty of you and your way.  Im a vessel to share about your goodness and mercy. This is the day that The Lord hath made ... For all the joys, luxuries and opportunities, I do give thanks. Amen ~

The Joy of God's Work ...

New Faces ... YaY Area ...

Nathan Owens, who is from the San Francisco Bay area of California, was born on March 9, 1984. He began his career with modeling. He has appeared in several issues of GQ and in many commercial/print campaigns for the Gap, Polo, Izod and Sperry. He has the distinction of being the second African-American ever to be featured in a fragrance campaign for Polo Ralph Lauren Big Pony.

After making the switch to acting, Owens began appeared in Rihanna, Nicki Minaj and Esmee Denters video. Soon after, he landed a spot opposite Nicki Minaj in her music video "Va Va Voom," directed by Hype Williams. Additionally, he served as a host of NBC's "First Look LA."

His life changed when he won the role of "Dr Cameron Davis" on the long running soap opera "Days of our Lives" in December 2012. He is on contract since then.

Determination ...

Ciara ... Dropped 60 pounds after giving birth to her son six months ago.  This beauty is back in the studio focused on the prize.  She recently ended her relationship with the ZERO rapper name Future!  Now that he's in her past.  She's focused on new horizons!!  #Winning!

Gems/TGIF

Happy Friday everyone, ... Let's Talk about It!!

Every gem is not a Diamond.  Remember its not the load that breaks you down, its the way that you carry it.  Our character good or bad comes through in all that we say and do.  Are you a gem or an imitation?  Its imperative that we are prepared, to do the work on self, its not an easy task.  Stop looking for a pass, it doesn't exist.  Maturity is growth, its called ownership.  Hiding behind the mask, is such an easy outlet, just because things fall apart, does not mean they can't come back together.

Physical, spiritual, financial are all emotional support systems.  Commit to cleanse, you must finish what you start.  Your perception and reality is fundamental in securing stability.  It can become very overwhelming, in those moments, its time to recharge, refocus and readdress.   Shine and sparkle, we're gems, designed and carved with unique layers, showing depth, by presenting the best you.  Sometimes you must allow a heart to break in order to have closure and healing. You must allow and address hurt, people only walk on you, if allowed.

What Are You Doing With Your Life??

http://youtu.be/14Xnb3JjrK8

Best'

Kevin Knighton

https://www.facebook.com/KevinKnighton360

www.Instagram.com/KevinKnighton_Callins