A DAY IN "THE LIFE OF RILEY"

So when I met my late, great soul mate Kodjoe back in 2001, he was soon to be off on a new adventure that would take him from New York City where he was a high-ranking producer for A&E Biography to breaking the color line in management at Country Music Television (CMT - www.cmt.com). Before he left, I was one of a small audience of close friends who he invited out to dinner at Shun Lee West ( www.shunleepalace.com/ ). There, I had one of several parting gifts for him (including my "heart") that was a comprehensive collection of Country music - not his favorite genre, but one I've appreciated over the years. He loved the thought of the gift and used it to armor his next couple of years, he told me.

Though during that time he left for Nashville, we took a break from our relationship after trying long-distance love (in large part because he was doing his best to focus on his work and the anticipated escape to come back home to New York City... and - let him tell it - me).

Well, he was not one to spend his time - even waiting time - purposelessly. He was instrumental in green-lighting and executive producing a documentary on the contributions of African Americans to country music. My fellow NABJ friend Karla Winfrey was the head creator and producer on this now-NABJ-Salute-to-Excellence-award-winning documentary "Waiting in the Wings" (http://www.cmt.com/shows/dyn/waiting_in_the_wings/series_about_special.jhtml). After Kodjoe's passing in March 2005, I would symbolically have the honor - later that year (October 2005) - to produce the NABJ "Salute to Excellence" Awards at which this piece was the victor. Documenting comprehensively more than a century, the special also questions why the genre historically has included few African American artists. The documentary also profiles five young African-American artists including American Idol finalist Kimberley Locke, Curb recording artist Trini Triggs, California songstress Vicki Vann, Pennsylvania native and Star Search finalist Rissi Palmer and Texas musical siblings 17-year-old Buddy and 15-year-old Tina Wright.

FAST FORWARD three years: We can report that one of the aforementioned Rissi Palmer -- with her debut single, "Country Girl" -- has become the first African American female country singer to hit the Billboard Country Singles chart in the past 20 years. It made its entry a few weeks ago at No 58. The last African-American female singer to have a single land on the Billboard charts was Dona Mason, whose "Green Eyes (Cryin' Those Blue Tears)" peaked at No. 62 in November 1987.

Look for more impressions as her self-titled debut (1720 Entertainment) is scheduled for release October 23. At the age of 19, Palmer reportedly declined a pop record deal from famed producers Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis (Janet Jackson, Mariah Carey) to pursue country, a genre and artform that she says is in her heart. Palmer consistently ranks as one of MySpace.com's Top independent country artists and has received over 760,000 plays of her music to date. Fans can hear a sneak peek of RISSI PALMER at www.myspace.com/rissipalmer.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BLACK FOLKS IN COUNTRY MUSIC!!!! A BLACK GIRL TURNING DOWN SUPER-PRODUCERS JIMMY JAM & TERRY LEWIS TO PURSUE MUSIC HER OWN WAY!!!! Sounds like the stuff of which Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s DREAM is made. So, on the heels of last night's DREAM CONCERT (http://www.thedreamconcert.com/main.html), imagine Anthony's and my tongue-in-cheek surprise when we stumbled into "THE" JIMMY JAM and his wife outside Radio City Music Hall --- just standing and perhaps waiting for their car. I took it upon myself to ask for a picture (me pointing out "I see you're here incognito, perhaps hoping not to be identified since you're without your hat." He just smiled and posed hatless.). When Anthony's turn came up, he channeled his Taurean/Janet Jackson alter-ego and requested Mr. Harris put his hat on. That way, there's no confusion with whom he's posing. While outside, I also ran into my good friend Kunle who heads up Moshood's boutique in Brooklyn (www.afrikanspirit.com).

And I stumbled into old Atlanta homegirl India.Arie ( www.indiaarie.com/ ) whose "Hope" is on my MYSPACE Profile as we speak. She seemed genuinely happy to see me and wanted to know how I was doing and what I was doing - as she was preparing to cross "Avenue of the Americas" at 50th Street to go further West. It was a very quick and connected moment.

These moments CAPPED off an already spectacular night in which Anthony and I got to enjoy India. Arie perform "Visions" with Stevie Wonder, the headliner of a star-studded concert designed to raise money to build a Martin Luther King monument on the Mall of Washington.

 

 

 

 

 

 

After Quincy Jones and Cuba Gooding Jr. presented a special award to Stevie (as his daughter Aisha and L.L. Cool J also looked on), he performed. "Love Is In Need Of Love Today" is how he started his set out. From there, he went into "Living for the City." After he and India did "Visions", he gave us "Superstition". And after Tommy Hilfiger closed the night, Stevie closed the 3 1/2 -hour show with "Happy Birthday," his 1980 song promoting the push to have King's birthday, Jan. 15, designated a national holiday. The campaign prevailed in 1983. (I recall in 1986 when Stevie and my Diana led an all-star cast in the singing of this song as conducted by Quincy Jones, who too recalled the historic moment.)

Dr. King's children Bernice and MLK III were in attendance and participated in the show, but the highlights were endless. "The Queen of Soul" Aretha Franklin preceded Stevie's set wih a spirited repertoire of "Respect"; "Make Them Hear You"; and the Gospel classic "Let Us All Go Back To The Altar". She shared pictures of herself with Dr. King as well as those of her late father, Rev. C.L. Franklin who was a Detroit delegate for much of what Dr. King engineered around civil rights in the '60s.

The rest of the bill was a melange of old and new artists - all there to lift their voices and sing! Opera diva Jessye Norman; Carlos Santana (who really got the audience on its feet with his recent hits); Garth Brooks (in a rare live turn... these days); Babyface; Ludacris; Usher (who just introduced Aretha Franklin); Wyclef Jean; Joss Stone; John Legend; Robin Thicke; BeBe and CeCe Winans; Donnie McClurkin; Kerry Washington; Cedric The Entertainer; Talib Kweli; etc. GREAT NIGHT!

$82 million had already been collected to pay for construction and maintenance of the memorial... before the show. Organizers hoped that much of the balance could be raised at the Dream Concert, where tickets ranged from $150 to $1,000. The memorial has been in the works since 1984, when the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity began to draw up plans for the project. Groundbreaking took place last year on a four-acre site along the Tidal Basin, between the Lincoln Memorial and the Jefferson Memorial. The project, which will spotlight King's themes of justice, hope, democracy, peace and equality, is scheduled to be completed before the end of this decade.

With quick glimpses of industry associates like Al Roker, his wife Deborah, and Gayle King, Anthony and I got the impression that we were in the right place. Anthony's YOGA muse Russell Simmons was in attendance as a HOST of the event (along with Hilfiger, Quincy Jones, Jel Horowitz, David Stern, and Edgar Bronfman, Jr.). His friend Diddy joined the occasion. And it was our third time in a week of seeing Mr. Simmons and our 2nd time in a week of seeing Diddy, who - along with Simmons - co-hosted an event we attended last week: ALLHIPHOP.COM's "The Rebirth of Hip Hop" PARTY! It happened on an unsuspecting night in which Anthony and I were simply to get our YOGA on at Deepak Chopra's Center and Spa at Dream Hotel, another of our favorites. ( www.wayspa.com/thechopracenter/ ). Amidst our getting grounded, we were invited to this party. Reticent at first as I didn't have a change of clothes (other than my YOGA gear) and we had done FASHION WEEK up something lovely and were a bit tired. Now, rejuevenated from our YOGA, we felt we could handle another night. I'm glad we did. I got to hang out in V.I.P. a little bit with Russell and Andre Harrell, who is working on a project with Terrance Russ, who I've shouted out a time or two here in 'A Day in the Life of Riley' (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/display/ShowJournal?moduleId=875700&currentPage=3 or http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/6/20/and-you-too-wilona-looker.html). Former Uptown Records head Harrell has announced his involvement with "Terrance Russ Presents Uptown Music and Vision". The music album venture is a series of music album compilations featuring a wide and varied assortment of new music stars. The musical genres will showcase a vast array of musical genres from rhythm and blues, rap / hip hop, gospel , jazz , and spoken word / poetry. The production's executive producer Terrance Russ has even asked me to consider contributing some talent to the project. Stay tuned.

Meanwhile, I got to further reacquaint with my Spelman sister Tanika Ray (of "EXTRA" fame) who was in attendance and happy to hang out with Anthony and me. They bonded a bit while we were in Vegas.

Also, Wendy Williams was in the house. I did my best to chat her up for as long as she could, but her people (namely her husband Kevin) wanted to keep her moving, hence our not-so-well-framed picture. I'm excited that her VH-1 special is scheduled to premiere on October 20th (http://www.vh1.com/shows/dyn/the_wendy_williams_experience/series_about.jhtml). Robin Givens is scheduled to be on (by way of the radio show). Givens stars as Wendy in the upcoming independent feature "Queen of All Media", autobiopic on our own "shock jock".

Through my friend Theo, I met some great people. Nicole Williams, one of the famous celebrity Style Agents on "Ambush Makeover" (www.stylenetwork.com/ssms-site/style.do?showId=6220).  She is the industry's new "style guru" who wants to make the world a prettier place - one person at a time. Her company, "The Face Gallery" (www.myspace.com/thefacegallery), offers makeup, hair, and wardrobe styling to various entertainment venues. Check her work out at: www.cyncitypromotions.com , click on Nicole Williams image. She's a great energy!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Also in attendance? Two of Kimora's team members from "Kimora: Life in the Fab Lane" (www.stylenetwork.com/Shows/Kimora/index.html): JAMES, one of her senior executives; and BJ, another friend of Theo. He is Kimora's Senior Publicist. Both of them were quite pleasant and sweet to talk to during the night.

Socialite with the "most" MARILYN CRAWFORD was there. She'd just flown in from Vegas by way of Santa Barbara by way of who knows where. She is a jet-setter and always in the right place at the right time (primetimeomnimedia.net/lmarilyn_crawford.html). CAN YOU KEEP UP?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

My friend Audrey's cousin Natasha was there. She's now in the video promotions department at www.zombalabelgroup.com/. Turns out she mentioned me to her boss Anne-Marie, who I met --- unrelated to her mention --- the following day via my friend Ern. Small world...

I also saw my usual suspects: Ra-Fael Blanco and his crew, including UNeQ magazine's Raymond Green and super-sexy model Miguel. And a young lady named Radiance, the daughter of my good friends Tracey and Maurice, was in the house. I haven't seen her in seven or more years. She's now a Howard University grad and beginning her career in the business. She's beautiful and was my highlight of sightings for the night, which was produced by Miata David, party planner of the stars. She did L.A. Reid and Pebbles' son Aaron's party for MTV's Sweet Sixteen (www.bittorrent.com/users/mtv/series/My_Super_Sweet_Sixteen/30f5adeb-1ac6-11dc-8f32-00e081411f3f).

Afterwards, Anthony, Theo,and I stopped by MINT (www.mintny.com) - "a fresh taste in Indian Cuisine". Though not my favored food, we enjoyed wonderful ambiance and service and if you find yourself in Manhattan (East-way in the 50s), could be a cool spot for drinks, dinner, or a party, which Anthony and I can't seem to escape these days.

We went out on Thursday night to support Nathan Hale Williams' new SPRUNG (now at "Shelter" - formerly "Luke and Leroy" - nathanhalewilliams.com/). Anthony and I went to celebrate Smoov's birthday. He's our Tweety's party-roving musical director. Also, we met up with a couple of members of Tyra Banks' GLAM SQUAD - Valente, her Emmy-nominated makeup artist, to whom we were introduced by our friend Scott, who works for Sheryl Lee Ralph. With him was Earl, wardrobe stylist for Tyra. Earl and I had never met but knew each other through his partner Vince who I met through my Chicago Carl. Now that Tyra is in New York City (tyrashow.warnerbros.com/), so are these guys. So, we're excited to have some new friends in town.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Speaking of friends in town, Ern and I got the chance to hang out with "our Carla" this past weekend. Carla, who just got married in July, came up to hang with Anthony, Ern, and me for some catch-up time.

Last I saw Carla, Anthony and I were in Atlanta (in February). I blogged about it. With that, we gave her some great times and enjoyed the ride as we did it. On Friday, we hooked up with my "Amazing Grace" Nichole who hosted a little set for all of our friends: CJ, David, Nelson, Michelle, Dawn, and Tony.

We ate lasagna and chicken 'n dumplings. Sipped lots of champagne. Watched some Katt Williams (kicking and screaming... for me, but he was speaking some truth) - (www.kattwilliams.com/).

And just enjoyed the presence and beauty of love, life, and friendship.

On Saturday, Carla wanted to do some shopping (which she always loves to do and I made sure we gave some of our $$$ back to Harlem a la my favorite boutique - www.nharlemnewyork.com).

But she, the guys, and I decided to stop through Central Park (where Diana did her legendary turn in the rain via The Great Lawn in 1983). Carla had never been and wanted to experience a little bit of the "city within this city".

We also did a nice dinner at Grand Lux Cafe (www.grandluxcafe.com/). I took Carla back to the airport on Monday morning - hoping that this weekend gave her the much-needed spiritual and energy boost for which she was longing and calling. It's always great to reconnect with good folks who are - as she says all the time - "authentic". Mission accomplished.

By the way, are you guys watching "That's So Raven!" on Disney Channel? (psc.disney.go.com/disneychannel/thatssoraven/) Admittedly, I stumble across it and like it a lot. Anthony and I tuned in on Saturday monring (or afternoon as it was a marathon). It was cute to see Anne Marie Johnson in her recurring role as a fashion designer who hires Raven as an intern. I LOVE HER... in everything - from "I'm Gonna Get You Sucka" to "Girlfriends". Also, Raven seemed to reconnect (indirectly) with one of her old "Cosby Show" castmates Geoffrey Owen (Elvin), who played Raven's platonic boyfriend's father on an episode in which he's split up from his wife played by Rae Dawn-Chong.

Fun episode! When I'm not out, I do take in the tube or the TIVO... if not Anthony.

  

15 MINUTES OF ACCESS:

 I was on "Access Hollywood"!!! I didn't see it though. My sister's friend Aquilla called her and told her that she saw me in a profile that my friend Shaun Robinson did while at the National Association of Black Journalists' convention in Vegas. She interviewed Samuel L. Jackson for his film "Resurrecting the Champ"' while there. Her crew also captured the screening at which I introduce Mr. Jackson and apparently used that excerpt in the edited piece. Thanks Shaun! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 I guess THE SECRET really works. I said I would be on "ACCESS HOLLYWOOD" or something like it on the heels of the convention. Now, if I can just get a permanent gig there. Like a SECRET??? Here it goes...

WORK THAT BODY!!!

 Last night, Anthony and I did our hip hop dance class with Tweety at Alvin Ailey. It had been a couple of weeks since we'd been (due to scheduling conflicts and travel) and we were happy to get our workout on again. We invited our friends Robert, Eddie, and Frank to join us as well. This routine was to Swizz Beatz' "No Money in the Bank" (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cS37_PtDiYo). We had a lot of fun. And according to Tweety, there's more fun and getting in shape to be had. She is offering a high-energy, hip hop workshop at The Ailey Extension (www.alvinailey.org).

AVENUE

 After our workout, Anthony, Tweety, and I got spruced up for a party downtown at Duvet ( www.duvetny.com/ ). We were celebrating AVENUE REPORT Magazine ( www.AVENUEREPORT.com ) and/or ( www.myspace.com/AVENUEREPORT ), which just released its second issue with Common gracing the cover.  Tweety's publicist and adviser Ra-Fael Blanco (www.myspace.com/2rsentertainmentandmedia) also represents the mag and he invited us all to be in the mix. Created in June 2006 by Toyin Awesu, who I got to meet last night, this periodical is for African American males who encompass all aspects of the luxurious lifestyle. Anthony and I attempted to put some of Tweety's moves to work, since we'd just left class.  I didn't land it so well. But we looked good trying. Ant in Ralph Lauren and me in American Chang ( americanchang.com/ ), the awesome designer I usually pick up from my favorite boutique N Harlem ( www.nharlemnewyork.com/ ).

 

 

 

 

 

You'll recall, American Chang nominated this blog "A Day in the Life of Riley: Pop Culture & Possibilities" as the "Best Way to Spend Your Time" this past Christmas. And our usual suspects, Mr. Raymond Green from UNeQ Magazine (www.uneqmagazine.com/) and hip hop dance expert and Tweety's contemporary Smoov (from MTV) were also in the house. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

RIGHT ON!

 As the marketplace continues to be drowning in new magazines for various demos within the urban category, I was excited the night prior to see "Right On!" editor - during my era - Cynthia Horner. As a tween and teen, I LOVED this magazine.  I'd always rush to see if Diana Ross was on the cover. Lots of times, she was. And this monthly brought me so much joy as a boy growing up. (So did and do celebrity bios). Though I don't endorse it per se, the once-biting biographer of "Call Her Miss Ross", J. Randy Taraborrelli, has just released a kinder-gentler volume on my diva's life-to-present and I couldn't resist reading it and seeing how this one shows up.  It's simply called "Diana Ross: A Biography" and is reading well so far. My jury remains out - however - given what the tone and timbre of the previous bio did to 'public opinion' about Diana Ross). 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 But I digress, Ms. Horner from "Right On!" and I were attending yet another event to which we were invited by Ra-Fael Blanco (www.myspace.com/2rsentertainmentandmedia). It was a MTV VMA Viewing Party sponsored by Pepsi ( VMA.MTV.com ). I went with my "Amazing Grace" Nichole, Anthony, and Anthony's and my favorite new couple Mara (www.PepsiBlueCarpetBash.com/RSVP) and Tommie.  Though we had a nice time, we were more entertained by each other's company at Mara and Tommie's gorgeous and roomy Harlem brownstone and our post-party dinner at Indochine (indochinenyc.com) than we were by Britney Spears' lackluster performance on the MTV VMA Awards ('Nuff said). 

Plus, our Ti-Ti was in town. So, we all gathered and truly enjoyed a classic and hip New York City night! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(And you know we had to karaoke. What can I say? It's an addiction. www.karaoke17.com ).  We too went Karaoke-ing earlier this week with our friend Delecia Sampson, who is responsible for the first set of pictures that Anthony and I took together (from New Year's Eve 2005).  She was visiting from Boston with her new beau in tow. And we enjoyed lovely brunch at Cafeteria (www.cafeteria247.com) before going into the studio. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SPARKLE: LUNCH AND LIFE

Anthony and I got to enjoy a lovely lunch recently with our good girlfriends Lonni and Marcia Pendelton. We went to Joe Allen Restaurant (www.joeallenrestaurant.com) in the heart of Restaurant Row, just across from where I used to perform lots of cabarets, "Don't Tell Mama". I thought this would be a cool spot as I once did a story on Rosie O'Donnell, who chose this spot as one of her favorites in the city (for before or after a Broadway show as it's right in the theater district). I want to shout out Marcia, who - as I've told you - does amazing work - from marketing and audience development to actual producing - in the realm of theater and arts. She is working with the 10th Anniversary of the "Reel Sisters Film Festival", which is honoring a good girlfriend of mine, Nicole Franklin with whom I've worked in NYC-TV-capacities (she as editor; me as producer), but she too carries extra-hyphenates - like I do - and is a "filmmaker" (director, producer, renaissance woman) whose stunning debut "Double Dutch Divas" received many industry prizes a few years back. She's been here in New York City for ten years and has been making things happen since I met her ten years ago at a Morehouse Manhattan Alumni Association Martin Luther King Jr. Breakfast at which I sang and at which I found out that she is a great or greater-than-great granddaughter to Kemper Harold, who wrote my alma mater Morehouse's college song "Dear Old Morehouse" (www.morehouse.edu) and served for 42 years as the chair of the music department. Harreld officially established the Morehouse College Glee Club of which I was a part during my days at Morehouse and in 1911, he served as the organization's first director.  Also being screened is “Sparkle,” featuring Academy Award-winning songwriter/actress Irene Cara. Cara will receive the Reel Sisters Trailblazer’s Awards at Sunday’s award ceremony. And I LOVE me some Irene Cara. From "Sparkle" to "Roots: The Next Generations" to "Fame" to her singing on "Flashdance" and the repertoire of material that followed that, I have been a fan. And I even watched her "comeback" on "Hit Me Baby One More Time" which she won last summer, besting a number of 'has-beens' who came back to compete (in the name of their favorite charity) with their old hits and their take on a new hit. Great midsummer replacement TV last year!!!  For more info on the film festival, which will take place at The Kumble Theater of the Performing Arts at Long Island University in Brooklyn, click on www.reelsisters.org .

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PLUM

If I'm in town, second Saturdays in New York City usually means that I am going to hook up with my boyz at PLUM (www.myspace.com/sensualhealingny) and enjoy libations and go-go dancers to boot. 

This past second Saturday was no exception. Anthony and I attended and had a blast. In that we've not been in a minute, we were pleased to see friends - old and new. From our Mario, Michael, Melvin, Carl, etc. to an 'old friend' Jason, who I've not seen in a minute. 

He and I attended Morehouse together and it's always a pleasure to reconnect with him. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Truth be told, Ant and I have been hanging out a lot lately with the fellas. On the night prior, we saw our friends Theo, Trevor, Roderick, Carl at REMOTE (www.remoteloungenyc.com) which hosted a VOYEUR party of sorts. 

Basically, the venue is chockful of video monitors, two-way phones, and other mechanisms that allow you to see via the 50-or-more cameras what's going on throughout the club. Additionally, you can talk to people in different parts of the club as well via the phone component. We had a lot of fun here. 

And last Thursday, we got the chance to attend the last of SPRUNG at "Luke & Leroy" (after we rolled by "The Ritz", also a Thursday night set for us men). SPRUNG will now be at "The Shelter" ( www.clubshelter.com/ ), a bigger venue which boasts two floors with two DJs and three bars with over seven bartenders. Something for everyone. Check out www.nathanhalewilliams.com for more information. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LEDISI: LOST & FOUND!

 SPRUNG, by the way, is doing an album release party for Ledisi's new album "Lost & Found", which debuted at #10 on the Billboard R&B/Hip Hop charts this week. Anthony and I have had a chance to get to know Ledisi and her publicist J'ai St. Laurent over the last few months. As you recall, we spent time with her after her performance at NABJ in Vegas. We joined a number of her fans - including actress Lynn Whitfield - last week at Highline Ballroom ( highlineballroom.com/ ) where she gave all she got to the sold-out audience.  And after my friend Scott, who works with Sheryl Lee Ralph, called me from his office to inquire how to get in touch with Ledisi (as he read my last blog entry), Ledisi is now booked to join Sheryl Lee Ralph and a host of divas (in October) for Sheryl's annual AIDS benefit "DIVAS! SIMPLY SINGING" where Ralph is scheduled to reunite with her original "Dreamgirls" castmates Loretta Devine and Jennifer Holliday... in song! Continuing to love LEDISI, please go CHECK HER NEW ALBUM OUT: (http://www.vervemusicgroup.com/product.aspx?pid=11745&fp=qt)  By the way, that night I met three other singers who I'm told are ones to watch. I'd like to shout them out here: Russell Taylor (www.russelltaylor.net); Abby Dobson (www.myspace.com/abbydobsonmusic); and Kendra Ross ( www.myspace.com/kendrarossmusic ).

SPEAKING OF LOST AND FOUND

My good girlfriend Camille who came into New York City to plant some roots... has left the building. We all got to celebrate before she left at The Den in Harlem ( www.TheDenHarlem.com ). 

 

 

 

 

 

 Ern and Tina joined Anthony and me. Camille's friend Cynthia came too. I am excited at what's next for Camille. Plus, she'll be back to go through the ADVANCE course of Momentum Education (www.momentumeducation.com). You'll recall, she and my good friend Mario are recent BASIC grads of this life work. Speaking of Mario, his cousin Tajamika Paxton (daughter of "Divorce Court" judge Mablein Ephriam), is a producer on the film project "A Fat Girl's Guide to Yoga" ( www.fatgirlsguidetoyoga.com/ ). It screened (and actually was a finalist) in the New York Television/Video Festival (newyorktelevisionfestival.com ) which took place at the New World Stages Theater complex ( www.newworldstages.com/ ). In the 11th hour, Mario invited us to join he, his cousin, and her cast and crew. On-hand, the cast of "30 Rock" (NBC) came to introduce eight independent short comedy films (possible development deals). We loved "Bitch", a twisted story of love under the guise of a bitchy girl who goes after a serial shoplifting hustler. We too dug "Color Me Blind" in which a college diversity group gets its first non-white member, but things don't go quite as planned at their Diversity Rally. These liberal-guilters try to do the right thing, but don't even come close. Also, "El Chisme (The Gossip)" is also a great tale of how gossips feed malicious misinformation to a naive young man about the woman he plans to marry. But our favorite happened to be the film we were there to support "A Fat Girl's Guide to Yoga", a larger, African American woman shares her too-funny struggles with yoga, which is my Anthony's favorite workout.

YOGA TODAY?

Ironically, in lieu of accompanying Anthony to yoga class, we just met up with his yoga guru, Russell Simmons, who when I originally interviewed him a year ago, continued to reach out to me - saying "Yoga today!!!". I would learn it was a line he uses on - literally - EVERYONE. Yoga is RUSSELL and RUSSELL is yoga. Last night, he wasn't in the house to promote YOGA per se, though one of his new lines of clothing, Atman, is filled with iconography from that lifestyle. When talking about Russell Simmons-Argyleculture, he alerted me that his new gear reflects the "oldest younger guy" vs. "the youngest older guy" his designs used to serve. Held at Phat Farm flagship in SOHO, this party brought out filmmaker/author Nelson George; Harlem-based flutist Bobbi Humphries; KWAME from THE APPRENTICE; and EBONY Creative Director Harriett Cole. This will be Russell's new focus as the 15-year-old Phat Farm stays afloat under Kimora. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

GIRLS! YOU ARE FASHION

Speaking of Kimora, Anthony and I got several invites during this Fashion Week. We excitedly attended the KLS Fashion Show (http://www.kimoraleesimmons.com/). Our friend Adrienne Stewart is on "Team Kimora" and invited us along with her friend Galen (who is a good industry friend of mine); my fellow Pentavaurate (dinner group family member) Stephanie Elam and her man Jeff. And the stars came out, too. From Ivana Trump to Evan Ross to Stacie J... my fellow journalists Harriette Cole (now at EBONY) and Walter Greene (of "Sister 2 Sister" fame) were in the house as well.

Earlier in the week, we went out to support my friend Joy Doss and her clients Jedda-Kahn and Zonkiri, two cutting-edge designers here in New York City. I had a good time learning what goes on in the mind behind Chief Executive Designer of Zonkiri John Lee. And it's always a pleasure to attend a JOY DOSS event which - in this case - was housed at "Te Casan" ( www.tecasan.com/ ), SOHO-based women's shoe boutique, featuring hand-crafted, limited edition footwear. And I ran into Yvette Hayward, founder of the African American Literary Awards Show at which I presented last year and have been asked to return this year (http://www.literaryawardshow.com/).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"... THE OTHER SIDE OF THE RAINBOW..."

Anthony's good friend Marcos, who does an open mic at VOYAGE Restaurant every Monday (http://www.myspace.com/onemicnite). "American Idol" finalist Anwar Robinson came out to collaborate and celebrate his mother's birthday. Quite an entertaining crew of folks, including my fellow Diana Ross fan Phil Eggleston, whose brilliant version of "Ordinary People" got the crowd warmed up (and maybe even moist! He's good... and cute too!).  And every Monday, Marcos is happy to present the best, raw talent around NYC. Calling all actors, musicians, singers, poets to Voyage, which is recommened by Time Out New York magazine ( www.timeout.com/newyork/ ).

 

 

 

 

 

Afterwards, Anthony and I popped by my friend Scott Nevins' event ( www.scottnevins.com/ ) at SPLASH ( www.splashbar.com ). Known for booking the divas, Scott got Melba Moore to come and perform for the "kids". She was also promoting her new DVD: "Live in Concert" (http://www.amazon.com/Melba-Moore-Live-Concert/dp/B000PMLIWC). She can still hit and hold those notes!!! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MULTI-TASKING

With all that I have going on, I must multi-task. One day as Anthony and I were here at home and planning our evening's agenda, I was reading my Diana Ross book, working both landline and cell phone while showing him something on YOUTUBE and while he was on the laptop, working on his own business along with whatever we were watching on TV. It was truly overload - so much so - Anthony got the camera and wanted to capture a bit of the frenzy-of-it-all. We are aiming to slow down a bit.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We've found a cute little mid-eastern spot La Kabbr (http://lighthousenews.us/restaurants/lakabbr/index.html) where we partook of that cuisine's delicacies (not exactly my favorite cuisine, but Anthony loves it!) and even partook of a "hookah", a single or multi-stemmed, often glass-based, water pipe device for smoking. Its gained fame in the Arab World, hence the offering in this restaurant, and it operates by water-filtration and indirect heat. It can be used for smoking many substances, such as herbal fruits. And we had mango. It was a lovely, easy night... until trouble came a knocking. My "Theo" called and decided to come join us. Of course, I'm joking. We love our time with "our" Theo. And he loves his time with "his Patrick", but most importantly, "his Anthony".

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Getting grounded and maintaining our center are key as we both are inside of many stresses and energy within this industry. Still, with our love for each other and our unstoppable connection to this journey of life (and some more attention on home), we know we will be alright.

"EFFIE AND MAGIC ARE WORKING"

As I am getting into ABC Family's "Lincoln Heights" (abcfamily.go.com/lincolnheights/), I observe that the young lady who plays Effie's daughter Magic in "Dreamgirls" (Mariah L. Wilson) has a small part in the wholesome, but real and gritty, one-hour drama chronicling a large family's challenges around race, crime, death, and other real-life situations. It's kinda' like a "Black" "7th Heaven". Meanwhile, Miss Jennifer Hudson has been named to co-star as Sarah Jessica Parker's character Carrie Bradshaw's assistant/secretary in the feature film "Sex & The City". I think this is a good look as it promises to be a commercial release with lots of attention. Here's hoping the part and her performance make it worth the trip. By the way, do I have Jennifer Hudson to thank for my using one of these pictures AGAIN!!!????

THIS JUST IN

At BLOG time, it's just been announced that Kennedy Center Honors (http://www.kennedy-center.org/programs/specialevents/honors/) has selected Diana Ross to be among
this year's Kennedy Center Honorees. http://www.kennedy-center.org/calendar/index.cfm?fuseaction=showIndividual&entitY_id=18315&source_type=A

This is GREAT and significant to me on a couple of fronts. ROSS is the BEST! But I too got to appear on this annual special in which legends are honored for their career achievements in the arts. It was 1991 and I performed with the Morehouse College Glee Club. I was selected as the spokesperson to pay tribute to Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Chorus Composer and Conductor Robert Shaw ( www.atlantasymphony.org/abouttheaso/legacyofrobertshaw.aspx ). CONGRATS MISS ROSS!!!!!

 

Enclosure

Hanging out with Senator Barack Obama on the luxurious tarmac of the stars McKaren International Airport before he leaves Las Vegas (with his wife Michelle and girls in tow). Hosting an event for Walt Disney that provides me a stage in the spotlight to be the “personality” that I am coupled with the “interviewer” in me coming face-to-face and talking-point-to-talking-point with the likes of comedian and radio host Steve Harvey; “Drucilla” from “Y&R” Victoria Rowell; and a host of others. Hanging out with the industry’s best, brightest, and BLACK-est – like radio/TV personality Jacque Reid; Verve recording artist and newfound friend Ledisi; “Access Hollywood” diva Shaun Robinson and her contemporaries at “Extra” (Tanika Ray); “Entertainment Tonight” (Kevin Frazier); and “Inside Edition” (April Woodard); Interviewing “Boyz in the Hood” director John Singleton and introducing my Morehouse brother and renowned Hollywood actor Samuel L. Jackson during an inspired day of film screenings.

THESE ARE JUST SOME SNAPSHOTS – anecdotally and visually – of how I spent my last week in Las Vegas at the 32^nd Annual Convention & Career Fair for the National Association of Black Journalists (“Revolutionizing Journalism, Transforming the Future”). Since this is “A Day in the Life of Riley: Pop Culture & Possibilities”, I will walk you through “each” DAY as they are chockful of treasured moments that I will cherish for a long time.

TUESDAY

On this day, I flew into Vegas. My Anthony met me at the Las Vegas airport as he had a family emergency in Denver and needed to manage that, but all settled in time for him to still join me for this unprecedented trip that I do annually (in attending the NABJ Convention). What made it new? I’ve never – as I joke – “taken sand to the beach”. The convention – for a single person – can conjure many a flirtation; sometimes a hook-up; and often a day that never ends in the way of social intercourse. But in the words of – who was it? (I can’t remember, but someone who was portraying a slave or someone from Southern Reconstruction or Depression times): “I’S MARRIED NOW” (not literally, but inside of a committed, loving relationship). Well, with that (and as Ricky from “Lucy” used to say): This year, “[I] got some ‘splainin’ (explaining) to do”. In that I Chair the NABJ Arts & Entertainment Task Force and often produce one or more of its special events during the five-day conference, I always come in a day or two early to get the lay of the land; prep my three-costume-changes a day (dry cleaning and laundry services); meet with the Board and respective convention committee folks on Is that need to be dotted and Ts that need to be crossed. This time, there would be much of that plus getting Anthony introduced to as many as possible so the week wouldn’t be all “MEET MY PARTNER ANTHONY, WHO TOO IS A JOURNALIST AND IS WORKING ON…. ” (blah, blah, blah…). Our transition day went well. We even attended the Presidential Suite of now-Immediate Past NABJ President (there was also an election this year) Bryan Monroe, who is also Vice President and Editorial Director of Ebony & Jet Magazines/Johnson Publishing Company. Last year, after our NABJ Convention, he was instrumental in including my picture with “my Dreamgirl” Jennifer Hudson in a round-up for JET that he assigned, chronicling our 31^st NABJ Convention in Indianapolis. Once that story and picture hit, I knew I had arrived with my family (and most of “the Black folks” in my life). That said, his impressive Presidential Suite on the 26^th floor of Bally’s North Tower boasted a panoramic skyview that was just undeniably gorgeous (especially at night). Anthony; one of my “Amazing Graces” Elise; and I were posing on the balcony with the backdrop of the strip behind us. Elise was there in two capacities – as media relations manager for Morehouse College and as founder and CEO of “The Producer Pod”. This was her first time meeting Anthony, which is bringing him almost full circle with having met my friends and those who are near and dear to me.

WEDNESDAY

On Wednesday, I slept as late as I could before getting up for a registration and a round of meetings, prepping for the convention fare to which I was contributing. As the day progressed, Anthony and I got ourselves together to attend the Welcome Reception, which featured a special appearance by comedian George Wallace and national recording artists Kem and Ledisi (who I’ve written about a time or two right here in “A Day in Life of Riley”). As quoted in the student newspaper “THE NABJ MONITOR”, which serves as the pulse of what is going on during our convention week, I said (in a story written by Chardae Davis, who interviewed me on the BIG-NAME stars who were scheduled to come to the convention): “To hear her [LEDISI] and see her perform is a religious experience”. Though her set may have started a little too – HEAR THIS – “on time” which meant her spotlight synergies were sort of reduced to “backdrop party ambience” as our NABJ family reunited for the first time since last year, but Ledisi performed as if they were listening and when certain heavenly notes began to cut through the chatter. By the time she did my favorite, “Imagine”, the Beatles cover, NABJ was clear that Ledisi is a force with which to be reckoned and as feedback goes, many came up to me (knowing I’m such a big fan and that one of the NABJ A&E Task Force’s own Michael K. Watts actually made the recommendation and introduction for Ledisi to perform at the convention). So grateful and happy to see us, Ledisi (and her publicist J'ai St. Laurent) invited Anthony, Michael, others, and me to dinner at the Bellagio buffet, one of the reported best in town.

But first, I had to rush to a quick dinner with a couple of Disney execs at the Eifel Tower Restaurant in the “Paris” Hotel, which is connected to our headquarters hotel “Bally’s”. Sporting my casual gear of an “original David” novelty T-shirt (featuring SMILE-y faces of multi-colored felt on the chest of it) with a cool pair of off-white jeans that I recently secured (and distressed, designer footwear that rounded out the ensemble perfeclty), I rushed from the opening reception (Ledisi’s performance) and a quick meeting with the director of the W.E.B. Dubois Lecture which Michael K. Watts and I were producing to this full-out theme restaurant that sets inside the mock-up of Eifel Tower that makes up the centerpiece of the “Paris” hotel. Imagine my shock when the host asked me if I could put on a jacket. I replied (already out of breathe for the back-to-back obligations that were behind and before me), “Of course, but I’d have to rush back to “Bally’s” to do that. (I jokingly-but-seriously pointed out that I had “… a closet of couture [Gianfranco Ferre; Misoni; Moshood; etc.] that could accommodate the dress code and wow you at the same time…”). He replied “That won’t be necessary. We have one here that you can wear, if you don’t mind putting it on.”. I agreed and this is what it looked like: A HOT MESS! The black tuxedo jacket came nowhere near my wrists, which made for lots of laughs as with Disney’s Annette Gibbs and Xiomara Wiley. I went over the script I was scheduled to present as host of an event that Disney commissioned me to do on Thursday night of the convention. A couple of kir royales, espressos, and a delicious crab dish later, it was time for me to excuse myself from Disney back to my NABJ commitments – starting with another set in the President’s Suite. This is where I hooked back up with Anthony; Ledisi; her publicist J’ai; and my Atlanta homies, including Angela, Mike, Rudy, Gail, and a host of others. While eating, Ledisi took a MY SPACE-style ‘self portrait’ of herself with my camera. Then, Anthony followed suit. From there, she wanted to shoot us. This dinner would continue the love fest that is just ever present whenever I am at NABJ. It’s always so good to see these folks. And then, like always, some knew folks get thrown into the mix and “the family” just expands. On this night, we also saw Roy Campbell, who I’ve known for years via NABJ. He’s produced many programs for the organization and – in large part – Michael and I are standing on his shoulders as we have produced many of these events now for NABJ. Formerly a print journalist (who covered lots of fashion during those days which housed him at the Philadelphia Inquirer), he currently is an event planner and producer via his own company and he has many celebrity clients, including Tyra Banks, who has used him as an expert on several cycles of “America’s Next Top Model”, including – he says – the 2^nd episode of the upcoming cycle. That’s exciting!

THURSDAY

NABJ was fortunate to have two U-S Presidential candidates agree to speak at our convention. Senator Hillary Clinton was first up. Though I wasn’t sure I would be able to get up (from fatigue brought on by day one), I did make it to the ballroom in time to be seated (Anthony saved me a seat). Though I am always not surprised at the degree to which “Hillary” is well-researched and prepared in her speeches and debates, I don’t know that I expected her to be unusually impressive. But she was. She was – as I have been telling folks – ON FIRE, punctuating her preparation with just the right touches for an audience of journalists, who cover the plight of African American men, etc. At one point, when a member and journalist began to come for her with a litany of accusations, she rejected it, but with compassion and focus, she noted (I paraphrase): “Feel free to meet my staff afterwards. They will give you some information, so that you can be EDUCATED instead of RHETORICAL”. Given the first question to Hillary was “Are you black enough?” (to preside over a constiuency – like the African American community – which has special needs), I thought after this READ (articulate handling and rebuttal of someone who was ‘coming for her’), she should have turned to the moderator Suzanne Malveaux and said (with a snap): “… and to answer your question, Suzanne? I am black enough!!!!” SMILE! After Mrs. Clinton, Michael K. Watts and I had to get ready for the program we were producing “Cause Celeb: Artists Changing South Africa and Beyond”. Celebrity activism in Africa is not new, but we had Alfre Woodard come (along with “Artists for a New South Africa” [A.N.S.A.] Executive Director Sharon Gelman) to talk about the difference that A.N.S.A. is making around this territory and to shed light on the balancing act necessary to draw news coverage and affect positive changes beyond the Hollywood personality. NPR “News & Notes” host Farai Chideya was our stellar host and it was great to work with her. From there, I did have to rush out for a quick “Disney” dress rehearsal. Then, I quickly changed into my custom-designed (READ: couture) tux done exclusively for me by designer OMAR, who carries his signature line of bespoke, tailored suits out of my favorite boutique in Harlem, “N”. I was originally fitted and secured this ensemble last Fall (for a “Dreamgirls” event), but trusted that it would get good play and exposure at NABJ. I wore it to NABJ’s round-robin of “receptions” that took place before Thursday evening’s “Disney” event. With entourage in tow (Anthony, Michael, J’ai, and others), I attended Morehouse College’s reception which my friend Elise helped put together. There, we all met the new President of Morehouse Robert M. Franklin Jr. (www.morehouse.edu), and  its Sports Journalism Department head Ron Thomas, who is launching this division which is funded by Spike Lee. This was an elegant event with jazz music and great food. I quickly popped by ESPN to say HI to my good girlfriend Roxanne Jones, who heads up much of the TV programming at the cable network (along with contributing to the synergies between TV and the magazine). And this too was my moment to see my Chicago ladies with whom I spend a lot of time during the year. My Ki-Ki (Jakki); Ti-Ti (Itika); and the others were In the house and we had a great time. I wasn’t able to attend the LGBT Task Force reception (due to time constraints as I had to get to the ballroom to get prepped and mic’d for the Disney event I would be hosting that evening), but I want to shout out all of my brothers and sisters with this group, which I helped co-found. This as the leadership torch is passed from my Frankie Edozien and Marcus Mabry to GLAAD’s Katina Parker. Well, from here it was all about ‘fastening our seatbelts for the bumpy [but fun] ride that was to come’. Walt Disney World Resort via Annette Gibbs invited me (in my role as Chair of the NABJ Arts & Entertainment Task Force) to host an evening that was about fulfilling the dreams of a special group of African American teens via “Disney’s Dreamers Academy”. Steve Harvey was invited to headline the event and discuss with me his involvement in the project. Though I was excited to be steering this conversation, I was admittedly a bit hesitant in that I wasn’t sure the macho and sometimes arrogant texture of Steve Harvey’s comedy would compliment my more – how do I say this? – effervescent style. With that, the announcer brought me onto the stage and I received lots of love and applause from our packed house of registrants, who noted to me that they were coming to get a fun-filled follow up from my presentation and performance last year (in hosting the “Dreamgirls” screening with Jennifer Hudson). I don’t think I disappointed, but when Steve entered the experience via the stage, he did use some of his joking, but kinda’ shame-driven style, to mock me and even shut me down (and up) at times. But I held my own; played with him a bit (getting my own READs in – if you will); and still made sure we kept the conversation flowing. The point at which I knew I had Steve Harvey – self-proclaimed fashion plate (albeit a more approachable, old school style) - in the palm of my hands was when I jokingly stepped off my stool to let him continue his joking flirtation with Vice President of Multicultural Marketing for Disney Parks and Resorts, Xiomara Wiley (who impressed Steve to no end with her qualifications). As I returned to homebase (from my walk-away schtick), Steve, a newlywed, said “Man, that’s a bad suit! I got to find out where you got that!!!” Well, THANKS TO OMAR, Steve and I found a place we have in common – FASHION and STYLE, and we were able to continue the agenda of the evening around our collective care and compassion for OUR YOUTH. Steve even shared openly and vulnerably about his own childhood and what DREAMS he had as a child. He says he knew he wanted to be on TV without ever having known anyone who had done it. He added that his mother and father were instrumental in him feeling like he could do it. This broke the ice for me to fold our other guests into the mix. Yes! We had four other remarkable people who are also a part of “Disney’s Dreamers Academy”. I told Steve and the audience that my mother was – no doubt – looking down on me from heaven as I introduced our first guest,  one of my favorite soap opera actresses who I couldn’t resist calling “Drucilla” (from “Y&R”). And she graciously allowed me to do just that. Though at the convention to promote her “New York Times” best-selling memoir “The Women Who Raised Me”, Victoria Rowell (in the biggest hat of the night), told me that she would be teaching the kids how to “express themselves” via the written word. She says it is journaling through the years while navigating through America’s foster care system that helped shape who she is today (along with the mentoring and nurturing energy of several women she met along the way). Celebrity chef and best-selling author (and soon-to-be Food Network star) Jeff Henderson, better known as “Chef Jeff”, testified how being incarcerated in his early years (from drug and gang activity) turned into him having a work ethic and zest for life and his passion for the culinary. He will share his secrets in the kitchen with America’s youth who will attend “Disney’s Dreamers Academy” in January, but he too will help them see that there’s always a better way to peer pressure and irresponsible choices that we sometimes make when we are young. Vice President of Disney Sports Attractions and former NFL star Reggie Williams is poised to give the best of his expertise, but will inspire through his own life challenges, including a hearing impairment. His journey has taken him to an Ivy League school; the NFL; and a host of other amazing opportunities that make him the success story that we know him to be today. He truly moved the crowd with his sharing. And it wouldn’t be a Disney event without a hip young star (or two). Monique Coleman filled the first shoe. She is the star of Disney’s “High School Musical” and “High School Musical II” which comes out next week. She also competed in “Dancing with the Stars” last season. She will offer insight on being a “triple threat” (dancer, singer, actress) to the young folks – many of whom aspire to do exactly what she does. But she noted that it will be important to also let them know that you can never be too young to mentor and she loves the concept of giving back while she continues to push for the next level of her career. This exchange with all of these inspirational folks went beautifully and was appropriately capped off with a performance by another “American Idol” favorite Paris Bennett, who performed Fantasia’s “Believe” from the season she won. Also, to cap off the evening, some cast members from Cirque du Soleil’s “Mystere” performed. Interactively (through the audience and onto the stage), they moved mysteriously, leading us (and the audience) to the reception in the back of the room. Afterwards, so many praised me for keeping them entertained that night. So many put it out into the universe that I should have my own show. And I must say I was humbled and flattered at the chance to do three of my favorite things (perform, entertain, and educate) in front of my peers. Hopefully, there will be more opportunities for me to do this with Disney and beyond. As I explore new and creative horizons for my career, I am proud to be demonstrating what it should look like as I figure it all out. Afterwards, many of us went to “Paris” for some Italian cuisine – celebrating my moment of bathing in the light, literally and figuratively. J’ai, Michael, Katina, Anthony, and I were in this mix, enjoying each other’s company and sipping on big Eifel Tower-glasses of margarita and pina colada. Itika, her friend Mara (about whom I’ve written in “The Life of Riley” before: ), Anthony, Caleb, and I shared a cab over to Mandalay Bay for a Sports Task Force party. We danced the night away to the hits of the ‘80s and ‘90s in the spirit of NABJ where we “work hard” but never forget to “play hard”. Here, we got a glimpse of our good girlfriend Adrienne who is on Kimora Lee Simmons team for her KLS design-wear. She’s featured in Kimora’s “Life in the Fab Lane” as well.

FRIDAY

On this day, it was Senator Barack Obama’s turn to move the crowd. And he did. But the aforementioned Mara Schiavocampo who was to receive the “Salute to Excellence” Emerging Journalist of the Year Award for 2007 (on Saturday) made it possible for Anthony and me to – along with her – be a personal audience with him. Mara knew a senior level consultant on Barack’s team. He made arrangements for us to hook up with him after his presentation; however, some press requirements prevented him from meeting us immediately (and both Mara and I had to get to our next round of panels). The solution? Barack’s team made it possible for us to meet up with him and the caravan at the high-end airport (for luxury charters) at which he would be boarding a private campaign jet for the next stop on his campaign trail. Anthony, Mara, and I were told to wait in the airport, which reminded us why ‘commercial travel’ just doesn’t hold up a candle to sitting in comfortable recliners and a quiet and calm environment until flight time. From there, a Secret Service agent came into ensure that Mara and her “entourage” were in place. He then escorted us to the tarmac where Barack, his wife Michelle, their daughters, and the rest of the staff would be arriving. First, there’s the plane. Then, there’s a round of SUV’s and sedans. Then, suddenly, there was Barack. I’d met both he and his wife before (even interviewing them in Santa Barbara a couple of years ago), but this moment was intimate and represented a level of access that many don’t get (not to mention the “history” of it all). Anthony, Mara, and I were taking pictures with the man who could very well be “the first Black President of the United States”. Heady stuff, if you think about it too long, but this would have to suffice as JUST ONE MOMENT in a weekend full of MAGIC, including the NABJ Arts & Entertainment Task Force panel “Extra Access to the TV Talent on the Inside of Entertainment”. Task Force member Candi Carter had the brainchild. I went about submitting the proposal to NABJ to include it on the program and I also went about asking our roundtable to participate. In the end, my friend Shaun Robinson (“Access Hollywood”) moderated while my Spelman sister Tanika Ray (“Extra”); Kevin Frazier (“ET”); and April Woodard (“Inside Edition”) chimed in on their experiences on the red carpet and beyond. This was – hands down – one of the most entertaining panels at the convention this year. Like always, the room was full – so full there was a crowd out the door. Each of the panelists were candid, funny, and chockful of tips to the many aspiring A&E journalists in the room and Shaun (also a Spelman woman) anchored the afternoon brilliantly. As I look ahead to new representation (as my ICM talent agent Helen Shabason has “left the building”), I found myself taking notes on what it has taken for these people to elevate their next levels in their careers. It was an all-around great workshop that capped off with all of us posing for the cameras. There’s a moment as we are all posing, when I ask the panelists to pose for my camera. In the sea of cameras shooting, Shaun asks “Where is the blog camera?”. Tanika and I are pointing to Anthony, who was shooting my camera for “A Day in the Life of Riley”. Tanika exclaims: “Over there! His man is shooting!”. I thought to myself: How far have we come that my Spelman sister with whom I attended college during a time where I “lived out loud”, but “not out”, can all these years later simply understand what my life looks like now, use it in casual conversation, and no one flinch. IT’S A NEW DAY! IT’S A NEW DAY! After years of my offering her name and talents up to bigger NABJ events, Shaun would be selected to host the “Hall of Fame” banquet which was a spectacular evening honoring this year’s inductees to the NABJ Hall of Fame: Xernona Clayton (“Trumpet Awards” Founder/Turner Broadcasting Executive); Merv Aubespin (artist/reproter/editor at “The Courier Journal”); John L. Dotson, Jr. (former president/publisher of the Akron Beacon Journal); and Jim Vance (anchor/WRC-TV Washington). A number of other awards were also handed out. What an inspirational evening that included a memorial video of all the journalists we’ve lost over the last year. My friend Gerald Boyd and Ed Bradley were acknowledged. Both of them have been tributed here on the blog. This is also the evening where our friend Barbara Ciara (former Vice President – Broadcast) was announced as the new President of NABJ. So, we had lots to celebrate afterwards in her honor. Then, the guys and I hit a spot in Vegas called “Krave” to dance the night away. It was a Madonna-themed evening as her birthday fell on this day. They played many of her videos sprinkled with other divas, like Janet, etc. This night would be an all-nighter.

SATURDAY

But like any convention, the show had to go on. And with less than two hours of sleep, I had to get up bright and early to meet with the NABJ Arts & Entertainment Task Force. From there, we began the work of our NABJ Film Festival. First up: “ILLEGAL TENDER” starring Rick Gonzalez and Wanda DeJesus. John Reyes directed. And John Singleton, who has brought many of his films to NABJ over the years, is the Executive Producer (and “Studio”) behind this project, his sophomore release to “Hustle and Flow”. Though the film played a bit over-the-top to Anthony and me (in the gun-toting fierceness of Wanda as a mother of color sexily and sometimes campily protecting her children and her livelihood), but that in part is what makes the film so enjoyable. I interviewed all of the aforementioned (minus Gonzalez, but plus DJ Frankie Needles who oversaw the music in the production, including a teen girl in 1985 singing along to Lisa Lisa & The Cult Jam’s “I Wonder If I Take You Home”. REMEMBER THAT????? (you tube). From there, we transitioned from one theater at “The Palms” to another in which Denzel Washington’s “American Gangster” previewed. Denzel nor any of his co-stars Russell Crow, Common, T.I., Cuba Gooding, etc. were in attendance, but all the stars of the week did show up to see this movie months before its November 2^nd release. John Singleton came. Shaun Robinson and Tanika Ray were there. Jawn Murray came. On and on I could go with the sightings. As for the film, it was 2:40 and most graphic, but equally compelling as Denzel portrayed a real-life drug lord who single-handedly dealt drugs in a way that destroyed the community, but also (and eventually) brought down crooked “drug enforcement officers” from the NYPD. This film was well-received. From this film, Anthony and I got dressed for the “Salute to Excellence” Awards which was honoring CNN’s Bernard Shaw with the “Lifetime Achievement Award” and – again – our friend Mara with the “Emerging Journalist of the Year” Award. Her parents and husband flew in for the occasion. Anthony and I opted out of going to see Toni Braxton's show to extend our support and pride for Mara, a new friend. She even shouted me out as "the wise one" in her speech. She asked me days prior if she should prepare and read from a script. I told her to get her points down and have the moment be a moment - from the heart. She gave the most beautiful speech! I'm glad she listened. And I'm glad we decided to attend this event, instead of Toni. I then had to rush to our NABJ Film Festival final screening, which was "Resurrecting The Champ" starring Samuel L. Jackson. I introduced him and he introduced the film... and our members seemed pleased with our third selection for the day.

SUNDAY

Anthony and I woke up on Sunday morning a bit refreshed, ready for our returns, but a little sad at leaving. Though the week had not been perfect, both he and I experienced a new frontier of our relationship. The lion's share of it was about our collective abundance and the endless possibilities that show up when we work together. The other parts that maybe didn't work - at least - have given us some lessons that can help us be better. The convention wraps with a Sunday Brunch (featuring Gospel music - this year, Jonathan Butler and Marvin Winans). We said good-bye to our new friends - like Katina. We also took some time away on our last day and had fun off-site. We went to Hotel New York, New York where we road rollercoaster #1. Lots of fun! Then, we cabbed over to Hotel Sahara and road another faster rollercoaster. We had to do that one twice. We also spent some time at the Sahara - playing a little blackjack or 21. Neither of us step close to a table during the week, but with the help of a Chicago resident named Mike, we got the chance to learn the strategies of "Spanish 21".  We then had dinner at The Venetian's Grand Luxe Restaurant (owned by the Cheesecake Factory folks). And though we realized "What happens in Vegas STAYS in Vegas", we also realized that what we picked up in Vegas ---- connection, love, support, inspiration --- would be with us forever. And NO! We didn't win much in the way of money. Still, we felt like we won a host of PRICELESS lessons that showed up inside of our choosing to CALL JOY FORTH. And it simply put a smile on my face.

 

My friend and co-Chair of the National Association of Black Journalists' Arts & Entertainment Task Force, Greg Dunmore is in town through the month. We've had a chance to hang out a little since he's been here. One night, while having a late night snack at the Hard Rock Cafe - Times Square (http://www.hardrock.com/), he asked me if I saw Village Voice columnist Michael Musto's reference to me. Well, not me BY NAME, but me... (www.villagevoice.com)

Basically, Michael writes of the pitfalls that comes with "... trying to be famous..." and the drag that it can be on the journey of  being "HOT" then "NOT" or - in his case - aiming to do something on TV; get the opportunities to be considered -- only to have those opportunities not picked up or not successful. It's his story. It sounds a lot like my own story. And there is a collective story that Michael and I share. That's what he chronicles in his column this week. He writes: "Next up—no, I wouldn't quit—I was asked to be in a pilot for a gay version of The View as done by the delicate wallflowers who brought you Hard Copy. This was back when the success of Queer Eye made producers feel every single thing ever televised had to have a gay angle. A women's show? Make it with all gay men! Duh!

"Gay guys are like women," a producer explained to me in a preliminary meeting. "They listen to your problems, and they're very sensitive." I made a very sensitive retching face. Clearly, these people hadn't realized it's lesbians who are like women.

"Look, the show won't be all mammograms and mascara," chimed in a production assistant. Too bad—I'd love a show about mammograms and mascara. But before I could react, the same guy turned to the head producer and excitedly wondered, "Hey, would it be good if we got a black host?" "Yes!" crowed the boss, as if he'd just freed the slaves. Great, maybe the host can even dance!

I am the BLACK MAN to whom he is referring. Through my talent agency (at the time) ICM and talent agent Helen, I got the call in 2004 to meet with the executives at Hurricane Productions to be considered as one of the hosts on this show. When I met with them, I remember a moment where the Executive Producer asked me "Which of THE VIEW women do you most identify with?". Remember, at this time, the panel was a quorom: MEREDITH VIEIRA; STAR JONES REYNOLDS; BARBARA WALTERS; JOY BEHAR; and ELIZABETH HASSELBECK. Here, I knew I had the freedom to debunk anybody's unsaid idea that I was here to be "STAR JONES" because I felt I was more "MEREDITH VIEIRA" -  a legitimate journalist who can steer a conversation towards levity or seriousness, and additionally not be afraid to make a fool of myself. After I answered "MEREDITH" - hoping I didn't just screw up my chances for this awesome opportunity because I didn't align with Black, the executive producer turned a sign around that had my picture on it and "OUR MEREDITH" underneath it. TALK ABOUT SYNERGY, HUH????

Michael Musto continues in his "Village Voice" column:

  For the panel, they ended up assembling me, FRANK DECARO, SIMON DOONAN, a hottie, and a black person.

Well, I am black - so I don't think - per se - there's a need for me to be offended at the nameless racial reference. After all, I enjoyed my time with Michael and found him to be quite pleasant. Perhaps he doesn't remember my name? Maybe, he's making a point about the executives and the process. Not sure.

Michael continues:

There was no host. We shot the pilot in front of an audience that looked like Death Row inmates on their day off, but at least they didn't throw things. We dutifully covered women's diets, recipes, and children's car safety, but the producer lady was getting nervous about our performances. Sidling up to us, she murmured, "Guys, I need you to be more . . . more . . ." "Say it," urged Doonan, as if watching The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Tense pause. "Be more faggy!" she blurted, her face turning a fabulous shade of fuchsia. Shock waves went through the studio. So this was a total minstrel show, and I was being counted on to be a big-fag Stepin Fetchit? After years of being told to tone it down, it was sort of refreshing to finally have someone say, "Be gayer, queen!" But a stereotype is still a stereotype, and I was actually relieved when the pilot wasn't picked up, no one buying the idea that gay men are really like women. That freed me to work on my new pitch: Jew Talk.

No! We didn't get picked up! But it was a great opportunity and I think we got some good tape out of it. It tops my reel along with my other spot on-camera work towards my BIG GET:

http://216.117.188.141/PRiley/PRileyGeneralReel.wmv

Meanwhile, my dear and supportive friend Greg wants to call Michael Musto and give him a piece of his mind. "You've got a name and a stellar reputation in this business," Greg exclaims. "I want to let him know it!" And though I'm still  not sure if Michael just didn't remember my name or preferred to do the "black man" schtick for effect. I'll hold him high for any of the aforementioned, non-nefarious options. Plus, as Greg, my "N" stylist/friend Jamar, and another buddy Ryan hung out last night (at Jay Z's club 40/40 for Bleu Magazine Publisher Devon Christopher's birthday party - www.thebleumag.com), Devon introduced me to a young lady named Jillian. Sweet woman! As Devon brought her over to me, he says "Patrick! You've got to send Jillian the link to your blog! She would love it!". He continued to Jillian "Patrick writes this amazing blog and he is a producer and personality in pop culture and entertainment. People really do listen to what he has to say!!!!" And here on the week that "The View" has announced its new host Miss Whoopi Goldberg - who happens to be "Black" - I thought to myself, "People really do listen to me. Sometimes, though, they just don't remember my name".

WHAT A WEEK FOR DIVAS!!!!! Unofficial word on the street is that MISS DIANA ROSS has signed on to join "DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES" this season (abc.go.com/primetime/desperate/). You'll recall, that was a rumor last year, but my sources tell me that negotiations broke down. But this year, according to same sources, MISS ROSS is going to be featured in a cool arc on Wysteria Lane. No confirmations on this tid-bit, but if it is founded, you'll know where you heard it first. This marriage made in cul-de-sac, pop culture heaven could be what the doctor ordered to bring viewers back to the once-hottest show on the air and - hey - though Miss Ross' comeback to performing has been received most enthusiastically, perhaps this movement could bring her "CD-buyers" back to more-than-knowing she has a new project out, but actually buying it. Her "I Love You" (www.dianaross.com) is a critically-acclaimed treat, but didn't get the love we've seen her contemporaries Rod Stewart, Elton John, Paul McCartney, and others receive with their golden-years releases. Still, she's generating more fire than her fellow divas out there.

It's this undeniable longevity and resillient cache that makes me wonder how acts who stand on Diana's shoulders - like EN VOGUE - will hold up ten to twenty years from now. Their moment at the top was much shorter than Supremes, though their inner-conflict with roster kept us talking for a bit. Now, though, without any new music on the radio nor an official return of first group member to flee, Dawn Robinson, the question begs: WILL WE REMEMBER EN VOGUE? Well, I had a chance to see them at the Pride In The City opening (www.prideinthecity.com) and I - at least - can report "They still GOT IT!!!!". A simpler show in a no-frills hotel ballroom (Brooklyn Marriott), but the VOICES are there (including Dawn's replacement Rhona). And POWERFUL!!!!! The moves are still PRISTENE and WELL-EXECUTED, though an expectedly rubinesque MAX has now been joined by a surprisingly rounder TERI ELLIS. CINDY, who recently co-starred as DEENA in the stage production of "DREAMGIRLS" in Atlanta (with Jennifer Holliday for the National Black Arts Festival) is - as always (whether pregnant or not) - toned, fit, and beautiful! The girls did most of our songs and threw one of their most recent tunes ("Ooh Boy") from a less-celebrated recent project into the mix. The set list went like this:

"MY LOVIN' (NEVER GONNA GET IT)"

"LIES"

"YOU DON'T HAVE TO WORRY"

"OOH BOY"

"GIVING HIM SOMETHING HE CAN FEEL"

"FREE YOUR MIND"

"DON'T LET GO (LOVE)"

"HOLD ON"

If they come to a chitlin' circuit theater near you, I highly recommend you go see them. This, as we anticipate their mainstream comeback.

Having resistance and reluctance about seeing some of our major artists in the pop tapestry is a hard feeling when you are a fan like me - a fan who "feels" those artists that you do. I have to reconcile in my mind and my heart sometimes that these beautiful creatures can't always be on the top of their game or the game. When I can get right in my mind and heart, I still LOVE many of these ladies - including my DIANA, EN VOGUE, and... LAURYN HILL, who is scheduled to perform tomorrow at Wingate Field (FREE!!!) - (www.brooklynconcerts.com/mlk.html). I am not the biggest fan of the venue nor the schlep it takes to get out there, but I've done it before for Stephanie Mills, Boyz to Men, and others. In that I've got to get myself together for Vegas (packing); a number of errands to do that; and it's been so hot (much too hot for an outdoor concert), I'm not sure. Plus, I must admit, I'm allowing BAD REVIEWS (and images of her looking like a cross between LUCILLE BALL in her ho-bo vaudeville schtick and WHATEVER HAPPENED TO BABY JANE? A LA BETTE DAVIS) that have been bandied about from her other stops on this tour to sway me away from the "alleged" torture. Then, there's that part of me that wants to see and hear for myself (as I did with En Vogue to a pleasant outcome). Not sure what I'll do, but I'll let you know next week. Meanwhile, check out this recent YOU TUBE interview of Lauryn that explains some of her struggles of the past and the present (voice problems) and the seemingly loyal feelings that her fans (and - in this case - the interviewer) have for her: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uGdQHoeg2ow

Plus, truth be told, I'm exhausted. THURSDAY was EN VOGUE; FRIDAY was BEYONCE at the Continental Arena in New Jersey; SATURDAY was BEYONCE's sold out tour de force at the Madison Square Garden Arena; and as I quickly write this, I'm going for #3 BEYONCE tonight at the Madison Square Garden. (www.beyonce.com/) I'm really blessed in my industry to be able to get these tickets as last week, Beyonce's publicist Yvette Noelle-Schure wasn't sure she could accommodate me. In the end, she came through (THANK YOU, YVETTE!!!!), but because I was operating off of "laws of attraction", I have dear friends who too have brought me along for the ride - understanding that BEYONCE is my DIANA du jour. And what can I say? Not as much as my dear friend Michael K. Watts, whose website (or work on other websites) I'll be happy to forward to you for his LIVE! from Front Row, which - at this point - is an e-newsletter on which I am certain he will include thorough information about BEYONCE as he invited me to accompany him to the Jersey show. So, I won't review the show as there are many of them out there - Michael's will be the best of that style of recall.

I will simply give my scattered take. I found it to be an AWESOME show. She gives her fans everything they would want... and then some!!!!! The elements of the show - from the highly-stylized themes to the stage and lights (and don't forget those chandelier-inspired costumes) - provide lots of stimulation, but the key is Beyonce and that voice. And when she wasn't lip-sync-ing to a performance track (so she could fulfill her dance requirements), she was SANGING FOR AND TO THE GODS!!!!!!!!!!!!! Just BRILLIANT!!!!!!! As I attended last night's show alone, I didn't feel so alone as Tocarra, Rihanna, Jay Z, and my fellow colleagues Nekesa Moody (Associated Press) and Margaux Watson (Entertainment Weekly) were around me. Also, I had my trusty BLACKBERRY (new feature in my life as of last week) to send Michael e-mails like the following:

* On Friday night in Jersey, she sang "Flaws & All" and as a dancer (portrayed as an Angel) places his arms around her, she sings the last night as a tear falls down her cheek. The stage then softly dissolves to black. On Saturday night, I wrote to Michael: "She just welled on 'Flaws'. No teardrop on cue, but still moving." Here, Miss Beyonce is channeling her inner-Michael Jackson ("She's Out of My Life") or Janet Jackson ("Again"), but those Jacksons nail their tears and choke-up everytime. This gives Beyonce something to work towards as so much of what she's delivering is PERFECTION!!!! SMILE!

* Of course, you all remember this footage of Beyonce falling down in a recent concert on "Ring The Alarm". A quick click to YOU TUBE will allow you to reflect. On Thursday, when Michael and I went, the moment - well-executed - didn't generate any response one way or the other. But on Friday, I texted  Michael: "Resounding applause for not falling down the stairs on 'Ring'". It was electric! And supportive, though Michael noted it might have been New York City's cynical way of "reading", but supporting?

* There's a moment during "Irreplacable" where she Diana-like points out that she sees the audience and - individually - she might say "I see you in that pink shirt!" "I see you in your yellow hoodie!". On Thursday, Michael and I were scrambling to see if she was really looking at people or making it up. It was convincing either way. But last night, I wrote to Michael: "She is real!!!! She sees [someone] 'with your orange sign' And I see the sign!!!". It was a cute moment that further sold me on the pro that Beyonce is.

* Also, on "Irreplacable", she closed the song with a flip of the lyric. Melodically she sang "New York! New York! You are IRREPLACABLE!!!" It was a GOOSEBUMPS moment, reminding me that there is no audience like a sold-out New York City audience. None like it. I saw "the magic" of the "sold out New York City" audience on the last night of Diana's failed Supremes tour in 2000 and many other times. It's... it's IRREPLACABLE! really!!!

* Another great tid-bit: When she segues into her "DREAMGIRLS" set, she performs the actual dialogue and song from the staged BROADWAY musical (which is NOT in the movie). It's DEENA - having returned from EUROPE with "THE DREAMS" - and she points out how her hometowns are now "Paris! And Rome! But there's nothing like home!". When I went over my concert reflections with my nephew who too is a big fan and saw her in Atlanta, he presumed Beyonce was mocking DIANA ROSS as he remembered when I showed him a clip of Diana from her 1979 Caesar's Palace concert when -before she performs showtune "I Wanna Be Bad", she says: 'I'm just a hometown girl. My hometowns are Paris, Rome, New York...Some people ask me 'What ever happened to little ol' Diana Ross from the Brewster Projects in Detroit, Michigan?' You know what I say to that? 'Who?'." (See the clip on YOU TUBE: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sfM2AnJLdOY)   Lots of haute entertainment homages in this show -- from Diana to "Chicago". Good going, BEYONCE!

Oh! And to further shout out my friend Michael K. Watts, his LIVE! from Front Row  will be your concert and tour information resource on the web. He'll take you LIVE! to the shows of your favorite artists with in-depth reviews, and there'll be a place for you to write your own reviews, too.  Get the latest tour dates, tour news and information, and interesting tidbits and trivia from your favorite artists on the road.  Periodically, he will offer commentary on a particular topic or issue in the touring industry, and down the road he'll finally pen a Fan's Guide to Concertgoing, a manual he's been writing in his mind - he says - since he was a child. The site will evolve over time as it becomes an online home for music lovers who love the live show, whether they've been to umpteen concerts or never been at all.  LIVE! from Front Row will be your ticket, your front row seat, to the magic of live entertainment. 

I have had the honor of attending shows with Michael for years. So, I'm delighted to see that you will get a FRONT ROW in his "theater" because - as Susan Taylor says - "... not everyone deserves a front row seat in our lives...", but since it's a concert, like Diana's Central Park show and the subsequent tour "... For One For All...", COME ONE... COME ALL!!!!