A DAY IN "THE LIFE OF RILEY"

  

TV ONE’S “LIFE AFTER”

After filming three sets of pop culture commentary for TV ONE’s “LIFE AFTER” (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2013/6/3/those-were-the-daze.html), production company K2 Pictures and its execs invited me back to weigh in on TWO MORE of their “LIFE AFTER” subjects for TV ONE. Can’t tell who now, but stay tuned. They seemed to have ALL been pulled from my vision board of pop culture muses from the ‘70s-to-present – so it was FUN for me! I also ran into fellow pop culture expert friends: Klay Kane who has been in the pop-culture-expert mix of "Life After" since its inception… and SOULEO (curator of the MOTOWN TO DEF JAM event on which I was booked to be a tour guide last weekend: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2013/6/20/twenty-feet-from-stardom.html). I consider it a total honor to be folded into the mix. Stay tuned for more info on all of this. SPECIAL SHOUT OUT TO JOJO for beating my face! LOL! The new season of “LIFE AFTER” starts mid-September – including what of my interviews they will excerpt and sprinkle throughout those episodes.

THE BUTLER

Shout out to filmmaker Lee Daniels for inviting a small group of us to an intimate screening of “The Butler” (a rough cut). Special shout out to NYC BFF Sidra Smith for including us in the number. In attendance: Academy-award nominee (“Precious”) Gabourey Sidibe; Chris Rock; and a host of our friends – from TV Personality and stylist Paul Wharton (“Real Housewives of DC”); fine artist Dianne Smith...; and many more! https://www.facebook.com/thebutlermovie. The AMAZING MOVIE has a SPECIAL SURPRISE in it – just for me (STAY TUNED)! AND A SPECIAL SHOUT OUT TO PERNELL WALKER: One moment in time, she was an ALL-STAR regular at the ALL-STAR KARAOKE THURSDAY NIGHT we used to host at NATIVE RESTAURANT in HARLEM. Now, she’s landed a role in Lee Daniels’ upcoming film The Butler. Pernell is WONDERFUL! She plays a character named Lorraine in the movie... and primarily, she plays opposite Cuba Gooding Jr. and Lenny Kravitz. Additionally, the star-studded cast of actors includes Forest Whitaker, Oprah Winfrey, David Oyelowo, Matthew McConaughey, John Cusack, Alan Rickman, Terence Howard, Jane Fonda, Nicole Kidman, Colman Domingo, and Jess Williams. America’s Next Top Model’s Ya-Ya is in it too.  The Butler is a story of Eugene Allen, a black butler who worked at the White House from 1952 to 1986, serving under eight presidents. The film’s concept is based on an article written about Eugene’s life story by Wil Haygood. Allen gained employment at the White House at a time when black people were still discriminated against. Whitaker will play Allen and Winfrey will play his wife. FIRST WEEKEND: AUGUST 16, 2013!!!!

MAKEUP BY MERRELL

I promised my friend Merrell Hollis I’d pop by his make-up master class which Ant audited – getting in on the fun and craft of make-up artistry. As many of you know, Merrell is an award winning make-up artist and grooming expert who is the Head of the Makeup Department for The Wendy Williams Show and he is also responsible for the many faces of the “Queen of All Media”, Wendy Williams. He is the grooming consultant and make up person for all the artists at Sean Coombs’ Bad Boy Entertainment. Both these innovators have allowed their faces to be canvassed by this visionary who delivers them to the public with elegance and sincerity. GREAT JOB, MERRELL!

WENDY IN ‘CHICAGO’

Ant and his ‘Wendy Williams’ colleagues got to see their boss Wendy Williams’ debut on Broadway in “Chicago”. Meanwhile, I got the chance to catch up with my girlfriend Sidra on our respective latest… and we did Harlem like we used to! LOL! We went from her pad to Red Rooster to Chez Lucienne to Red Rooster – enjoying the company of our Harlem family along the way.

MOMENTUM PRIDE

So glad to CELEBRATE PRIDE a little differently this year: As a LEGACY PIECE to Robin Lynn, FOUNDER of MOMENTUM EDUCATION, we attended Momentum Honors: Momentum Education's 10th Anniversary at SoHo House: https://www.sohohouseny.com/ contact - which honored two dear friends Amanda Jones and Michele Breir (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2006/10/25/love-is-in-the-air.html). side of the wonderful, life-changing work that MOMENTUM EDUCATION has brought to me, many in my life, and a wonderful sampling of those in the world (www.momentumeducation.com), I had the chance to sing at Amanda and her husband Peter – both colleagues in the awesome work of Momentum. Peter and Amanda also introduced me to shoe-maker John Ashford who makes custom-made shoes that are – in no uncertain terms – extraordinary: http://www.authenticbyjohnashford.com/. One of my key mentors in the work of Momentum is Curtis Dennis who delivered a wonderful donation from his client Beyonce - $10,000 that will help provide programming for teens through Momentum Teens for Leadership (www.momentumteens.org). And what a JOY to see several of the folks with whom I’ve done this course work: Renea, Peter, Michele, Vallori, and so many more friends. They have ALL have been a part of this experience that has helped me connect to how I can BE THE DIFFERENCE in the world and how POSSIBILITIES are INFINITE! 

SYLVESTER

Of course, we did get to walk through what was left of the day’s PRIDE festivities – including a bump into Joan Rivers on Bleecker. We had to attend - Back by Popular Demand - “You Make Me Feel Mighty Real: A Sylvester Concert” which returned for another SOLD OUT Concert at New York City’s (le) Poisson Rouge. Starring Anthony Wayne (Broadway: Pippin, Priscilla Queen of The Desert; Anything Goes), this spectacular brings to life the 1970’s Disco singer Sylvester. Produced by awayne Productions, Inc., “You Make Me Feel Mighty Real: A Sylvester Concert” tells the life story of Sylvester through HIS music HIS way. Beyond all the trials, tribulations, glitz and glamour of his lifestyle, he was a symbol for being FABULOUS, but, also, a symbol for unapologetically being who he was. The Creative Director/Costume Designer is Wayne’s partner Celebrity Stylist Kendrell Bowman (Atlantic Recording Artists K. Michelle, Lauriana Mae, Dawn Richard, David Banner, Kanye West). Together they put together a memorable experience. The show features Anastacia McCleskey (Broadway: Priscilla Queen of the Desert; Hair) and Jacqueline B. Arnold (Broadway: Priscilla Queen of The Desert) as The Two Tons of Fun/Weather Girls. Backed by a FULL LIVE band led by Drummer JasonPatterson, this show had us dancing in the aisles. Was GREAT to see – in the house – key backer Reginald Van Lee; entertainment power-broker Lisa Bonner; Broadway producer and multi-format actress Tamara Tunie; screenwriter; director (film: “You Are Not Alone” and stage: “B Boy Blues”, and so much more) Stanley Bennett Clay; and many more. HAPPY PRIDE! INDEED, A NEW DAY!

CHOIR BOY

Shout out to Marcia Pendleton for inviting us out to Manhattan Theatre Club's production of "Choir Boy" at New York City Center. IT’S OPEN and is a MUST-SEE: http://www.manhattantheatreclub.com/TheStudio.

This is award-winning playwright TARELL ALVIN McCRANEY’s work (“The Brother/Sister Plays” at The Public Theater and the critically acclaimed underground sensation, “Wig Out!”). 

It's directed by TRIP CULLMAN (“Murder Ballad”).

The remarkable cast sings gospel and Negro spirituals --- coupled with some recorded Frank Ocean interludes --- as a thread to the story which is set at The Charles R. Drew Prep School for Boys.

Not too unlike all-male institutions, the school’s intention is dedicated to the creation of strong, ethical black men. Pharus wants nothing more than to take his rightful place as leader of the school's legendary gospel choir.

Can he find his way inside the hallowed halls of this institution if he sings in his own key? THESE ARE SOME OF THE QUESTIONS and – in 90 minutes – you get to explore issues of racism, religion, homosexuality, homophobia, and the growing pains of transitioning from teen to young adult.

Tony-award-winning actor Chuck Cooper is the Head Master. Side-note: this part that will be played in Atlanta at The Alliance Theater by my friend Charles Wallace who was in the house when we saw it.

WORTH NOTING: I just shared a stage with Mr. Cooper. 

Last year, I was excited last year when my friend Erich McMillan invited me to be a narrator for the staged reading of James Baldwin’s The Amen Corner with a cast led by Tony-award-winners Lillias White, Chuck Cooper and Adriane Lenox. The event benefitted Project1Voice, a New York-based nonprofit service organization dedicated to preserving and celebrating the legacies of African American theatres and playwrights: www.project1voice.org:  http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2012/6/29/impossible-inevitable.html. 

The cast includes Nicholas L. Ashe,

Kyle Beltran,

Grantham Coleman, Austin Pendleton, Jeremy Pope and Wallace Smith.

TICKET INFO:

"TARELL ALVIN McCRANEY IS WITHOUT QUESTION THE HOTTEST YOUNG PLAYWRIGHT IN AMERICA."

-CHICAGO TRIBUNE

Tickets are just

$30

for all performances

through July 21 with code 11249

To Order:

Visit www.NYCITYCENTER.ORG

Call CITYTIX at 212.581.1212

Or Visit The CITY CENTER BOX OFFICE

131 West 55th Street, between 6th & 7th Avenues

Box Office Hours: Mon-Sat Noon-8pm, Sun Noon-7:30pm

LIMITED ENGAGEMENT

June 18 - July 21 | City Center Stage II

131 West 55th Street, between 6th & 7th Avenues | NYC

www.manhattantheatreclub.com

RENAISSANCE BRUNCH

THANKS to those of you who took LIFE OF RILEY up on my recommendation to attend the Renaissance Brunch put on by my friends Artie Thompson, Nathan Hale Williams, and their special guest host/BFF Sidra Smith (Producer, Free Angela & All Political Prisoners). The event took place at The Hudson Bond for the 2nd installment of The Renaissance Brunch Series! I told you how much of a blast it was the last time with MISS Bevy Smith as guest host (BRAVO, Fashion Queens & 'Dinner with Bevy'). This Pride Week Kick-Off Event was as spectacular! From a fun cocktail hour that got us all acquainted to a well-appointed brunch of corn bread, scrambled eggs, sausage links, cheddar jalapeno grits, home fries; shrimp w/spicy Cajun gravy; seafood cake with side of hollandaise sauce; grilled chicken and vegetables w/ chicken gravy; Caesar salad; etc. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS: Album Listening Party & Signing for my Grammy-award-winning friend Gordon Chambers who not only shared info from his latest CD “Sincere” (www.gordonchambers.com), he sang a stripped-down, but super-spirited, version of his composition “Missing You”. He originally wrote this hit for the “Set It Off” Soundtrack – featuring Tamia, Brandy, Chaka Khan, and Gladys Knight. Here, Gordon dedicates it to his idol Whitney Houston with whom he collaborated in the studio and who inspired him to have a recording career in addition to the amazing songwriter he is. I LOVE YOU, GORDON! DJ Poison Ivy kept us all entertained with her great mixes, selects, and response to the many recommendations  for Miss Ross, Miss Jackson, and Whitney! “NO ONE GETS THE PRIZE” and “THE BOSS” got us all on our feet! Then, great times at Chorus Karaoke with friend Bariek Robinson and his family – all celebrating his birthday! WE HAD A BLAST! HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BARIEK!

LITTLE BALLERS

My AMAZING GRACE Natalie about whom I’ve shared a lot in THE LIFE OF RILEY (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2012/8/7/my-girls.html) asked me to look out for her little sister – much like my own little sister Nicole (now a WOMAN, WIFE, MOTHER OF TWO, and CAREER WOMAN: PUBLIC RELATIONS and BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS). Well, while my BFF since 9th grade is vacationing with her family, Nicole is here in NYC on business… and Nat asked me to provide Nicole a ‘plus-1'- evening-event for Nicole. THANK GOODNESS something was going on! OH YES! It’s NYC! LOL! She escorted me to a PRIVATE SCREENING to which I was invited by author, producer, director Crystal Mcrary whose lens and vision followed four young athletes as they go through the AAU youth league, which has trained many of America’s GREATS – like NBA pro Russell Westbrook and veteran icon Walt Frazier (in attendance tonight). Crystal and her team include: Executive Producers Amar’e Stoudemire and rapper Lupe Fiasco whose music is the score and soundtrack of LITTLE BALLERS, which tells the story of 4 diverse eleven-year old boys and their legendary coach as they set out to win an AAU National Championship.  For these young men, basketball is more than a game.  It is a deep passion that holds a special meaning for each of them: escaping poverty, getting an education, living the American dream and bonding with a father, but more than anything, basketball offers them hope. LITTLE BALLERS features interviews with NBA players Amar’e Stoudemire, Carmelo Anthony, Steve Nash, Russell Westbrook, Joakim Noah, Walt Frazier, Tyson Chandler and includes perspectives from NY Times columnist William C. Rhoden, Award-Winning journalist Roland Martin, Black Enterprise President and CEO Butch Graves, Rogue Sports agent Travis King, ESPN senior writer Pablo Torre and HBO Sports Senior VP Kery Davis among others. IN THE MIX at The Times Center where the screening took place: many of my friends and industry buddies – including Bevy Smith, Michelle Sanchez-Boyce, Priya Scoggins, BJ Coleman, Artie Thompson (Chef Roble & Co. and the Renaissance Brunch); and LITTLE BALLERS producers Lisa Bonner and Adrienne Lopez; etc. Stoudemire set up his own production company, STATosphere. His agent, Happy Walters, now heads Relativity Media’s sports division. “Little Ballers” is slated for release this year."FUN NIGHT! CONGRATS, CRYSTAL ET AL!!!! AWESOME JOB!

BEING MARY JANE

As you all know, Black Entertainment Television (BET) is one of my many freelance clients. Via its creative services division, I've had a big hand or two in producing some great projects, sizzles, and spots for all types of platforms and occasions around the much-anticipated original TV movie and first-original-weekly-drama for the network, Being Mary Jane which is the latest from The Game on BET and Girlfriends creator: my friend Mara Brock Akil whose village includes - of course - her husband - also my friend - Salim and TEAM Akil Productions - including Melora Rivera. GREAT SUPPORTING CAST TOO - including Tika Sumpter, Omari Hardwick, and many more! With that, Mara asks me to remind you to watch and SHARE/TELL ALL OF YOUR FRIENDS that BET is premiering BEING MARY JANE July 2nd at 10:30am/eastern. YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS IT! IT IS MUST-SEE!

   

 

 

 

 

“Motown to Def Jam”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Of course, Motown has been on my brain of late: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KK1yncqPlOQ. And even more of the label’s legacy continues to sprinkle itself all over the world – from Paris where Miss Ross did a tour-de-force performance at the Louvre this week... to HARLEM where my friend Souleo for invited me to be a tour guide for his “Motown to Def Jam” Artcrawl Harlem gallery tour for African-American Music Appreciation Month. The project is a first I’ve been asked to do and the first in which four Harlem art galleries feature over 40 visual artists. Each of them created especially commissioned pieces inspired by songs from the Chess; Stax; Motown; Philadelphia International and Def Jam Records catalogs. THE BEST CONCEPT EVER, right? AND I GOT TO BE A PART OF IT! This past Saturday, ArtCrawl Harlem  presented the kickoff—a four-hour trolley bus tour to each gallery led by expert guides including media veteran Flo Anthony, historian John T. Reddick, arts renaissance man, Walter Rutledge, and me. I was most excited to pop by Harlem gallery SOL (as run by my Morehouse and Morehouse College Glee Club brother Gregory Caldwell). That space was dedicated to Def Jam Records – including work by dear friends Derek Fordjour (another Morehouse brother and my girlfriend LaChanze’s husband): http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2012/1/27/black-tales.html and Dianne Smith about whom I’ve written much in “…the Life of Riley…”: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2011/6/15/welcome-back-into-my-life-again.html. THANK YOU, SOL: https://www.facebook.com/TheSolStudio  and all of our participating galleries. The day culminated with a dinner gala at Broadway Housing Communities’ Rio Galleries featuring special performances by R&B songstress, Meli’sa Morgan, Annette Taylor 2013 winner of The Howard Stern Subway Talent Contest, bass virtuoso Lawrence Wilson... and teenage jazz sensation, Solomon Hicks paying tribute to the legendary labels through song. One of the highlights of the exhibition was the opportunity to see the visual arts debut of Aanisah Hinds, daughter of Grammy-winning singer Macy Gray who attended the event in motherly support for her baby girl. In a press piece advancing this event, Hinds notes that this project is her chance to let the world know that talent runs deep in the family beyond music. “I’ve been painting for five years now and I’m just at a point where I feel like people other than my art teachers should see my work,” says the 18-year-old emerging artist. “I mean what is art if there’s no one to see it? So Motown to Def Jam is the perfect platform for me to share my work and perspective on life. Plus this project is significant because it appreciates the history of our music.” The exhibition runs until July 26 with a series of free youth tours, gallery talks and more. PLUS, A LITTLE ON MOM MACY GRAY: She will perform at the new NYC venue SubCulture. On June 19th and 20th, she joins acclaimed jazz composer David Murray and his Infinity Quartet for “Stomping and Singin’ the Blues” – a showcase that marries blues to pop to soul to jazz. THANKS AGAIN, SOULEO whose weekly column, Harlem Arts Alliance Presents: On the “A” w/Souleo, covers the intersection of the arts, culture and entertainment scene in Harlem and beyond. Souleo is the founder and president of event/media content production company, Souleo Enterprises, LLC. THANKS SOULEO!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MORE MOTOWN THE MUSICAL

 

 

 

 

Was able to break-away from my MANY-TO-DOs recently for a FAB lunch of Virgil’s BBQ and more with Bonnie Newman Davis – my NABJ sister friend; iconic print journalist; and endowed professor of journalism at North Carolina A&T. She and her sister were in town to see Motown The Musical – so I had to stop by last night and welcome them in (along with my opening night highlight video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KK1yncqPlOQ). Then, got a quick visit from my former CNBC mates and friends for life.  Berlinda Garnett (now big producer at Fox’s Good Day Philadelphia) and music manager, enthusiast, and all-around great guy Miles Anthony Williams. And foot care specialist, Dr. Maasi J. Smith popped by too (http://drmaasi.com/).  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HARLEM SHAKE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The HARLEM SHAKE opening was a BLAST! PLEASE SUPPORT it! AND LIKE: https://www.facebook.com/harlemshakenyc CONGRATS to all my many HARLEM friends and associates who are responsible for uptown’s latest SPOT! AND WHAT A CROWD at its GRAND OPENING! Inside, there  is an old-school counter from which you order your comfort selects – including burgers, dogs, chicken sandwiches, etc. – all of which you can wash down with an assortment of regional sodas – like Vernor’s Ginger Ale, Mexican Coke, and Dublin Cherry Lime Soda. The milkshakes are hand-made and made with New York Organic Valley whole milk and organic Blue Marble ice cream. AND OF COURSE, there are many other sweets!

 

 

 

 

J ROME

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Legendary stylist and TV personality Phillip Bloch invited us to his Manhattan apartment for a summer evening set! Great food and friends in the house – including the great PR, marketing, and management folks from the SMEG – in the house with their client J. Rome who you should recall as the winner of ABC’s hit show “Duets”. He’s ready to embark on his career: http://youtu.be/gLdZOmPJdeM. CONGRATS, J. ROME! GREAT TO MEET YOU! Wonderful set, Phillip!

 

 

 

 

CHEF KENNY’S EAT FOR LIFE! RE-IMAGE HEALTHY

 

 

 

 

Shout out to my friend Ulysses Carter and SMEG/Savvy Marketing Entertainment Group! They invited me out to Chef Kenny’s Eat for Life! Re-Imagine Healthy: An Evening of Art, Music & Food Tasting Event. Chef Kenny Minor is a graduate of the Art Institute; Kenny’s career highlights include sharpening his culinary skills under chef Daniel “Chino” Parilla of the notable Five9th restaurant in New York City. He has been featured on an episode of Chopped on the Food Network and catered many private events for top celebrity clientele. He has an upcoming feature on the Bravo network channel this fall. Kenny’s food styling has been featured in Hampton Magazine “Restaurants”. Chef Kenny’s accomplishments reflect his passion and dedication to the culinary craft. Cooking has become the launching pad for Chef Kenny's message of good health and Eating for life! THE BACKDROP: La Maison D’ Art Gallery AT 259 West 132nd Street near Frederick Douglass Blvd (8th Ave). We all experienced traditional southern cuisine with ingredients remixed and re-imagined through the tasty and healthy techniques of Chef Kenny.

 

 

 

 

PAUL WHARTON

 

 

 

 

While wrapping up my day on a special project with recurring client BET, I got a call from Paul Wharton – inviting me over to his new Manhattan apartment for a quick cocktail with a few of his friends. After wrapping his turn in BRAVO’s “Real Housewives of DC”, Paul Wharton is now still representing on many levels: DC50 show “Paul Wharton Style” primary among them. Next up: a skin-care line; lifestyle-guru books; TV production work; and more! WELCOME TO NYC, PAUL! http://paulwhartonstyle.com/

 

 

 

 

20 FEET FROM STARDOM

 

 

 

 

‘20 Feet From Stardom’ is a new documentary that explores the good, bad, and ugly of being a background singer. The wonderfully-curated selection of background singers includes Darlene Love, Lisa Fisher, Tata Vega, Patti Austin, and wonderful nods to perhaps the most famous background singers, Florence Ballard of The Supremes; Luther Vandross; Cissy Houston; Sheryl Crow; and a host of others who are UNSUNG but have been SINGING for a long time. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: http://twentyfeetfromstardom.com/.

 

 

 

 

YOU ARE NOT ALONE (AGAIN)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thanks to my friend Terrie M. Williams (Founder/President of the Terrie Williams Agency & author of "Black Pain: It Just Looks like we’re not Hurting” and more)!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

She invited an impressive group and me out to the Arthur Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture in HARLEM to see YOU ARE NOT ALONE and then to comment on a panel, which also included:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lee Daniels Academy Award nominated film director for the movie Precious & The Butler); Antoine Craigwell (journalist and producer of You Are Not Alone); Nathan Hale Williams (film and television producer, and entertainment attorney); and Tanya Odums (Assistant Principal).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The documentary explores Black gay men dealing with depression. It is a combination of powerful, heart-wrenching, and poignant as it marries professional opinions provided by mental health professionals, academics, and religious leaders (Christian and Islam) to beautifully-woven docu-dramatized iconography (as directed pointedly by Stanley Bennett Clay).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I’d seen the film a few months ago on an invitation from my BFF Sidra Smith (Producer, Free Angela – Shola Lynch documentary on Angela Davis). She and our mutual friend Stanley gathered a group at Sidra’s Harlem pad. Though Stanley could not be in attendance last night, I must say he is the Writer & Director of YOU ARE NOT ALONE. This, as he is directing the play B-Boy Blues which is launching in DC June 26th. Stanley is my hero (as actor and author), but he too has been a renowned film director since the late nineties, beginning with his feature "Ritual" which won the Jury Award at the 2000 Pan African Film Festival.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

With regards to "You Are Not Alone," he directed and put together a beautiful film – including the dramatic scenes; the interviews; the music; the editing; casting and working with the actors; cinematography; etc--and let me tell you: He made one cohesive and IMPORTANT film. Was great to SHOUT STANLEY OUT accordingly last night! Worth also noting that “YOU ARE NOT ALONE” is the brainchild of Guyanese-born, double NYABJ-Award-winner/journalist/national gay mental health activist Antoine B. Craigwell.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

THANKS TO TERRIE WILLIAMS and Ryan for inviting me out to be a panelist for "TERRIE WILLIAMS Presents: You Are Not Alone". GREAT NIGHT! Black gay men dealing with depression should know, like all of us, we are nothing without our emotional and mental health. Declaring who we are is healthy—not doing so is a very painful experience, and no one should ever have to live this way. Thank you so much for your support of this important film.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

RENAISSANCE BRUNCH FOR PRIDE

 

 

 

 

    THANKS to those of you who have been popping by some of the things that LIFE OF RILEY is posting and sharing for your ENTERTAINMENT and AMUSEMENT - especially the folks in NEW YORK CITY! Well, if you know how LIFE OF RILEY rolls around this time, you know that PRIDE is involved! To kick off PRIDE WEEK, I'll be supporting my friends Artie Thompson, Nathan Hale Williams, and their special guest host/BFF Sidra Smith (Producer, Free Angela & All Political Prisoners) at The Hudson Bond for the 2nd installment of The Renaissance Brunch Series! I told you how much of a blast it was the last time with MISS Bevy Smith as guest host ( BRAVO, Fashion Queens & 'Dinner with Bevy'). This Pride Week Kick-Off Event takes place this SATURDAY, JUNE 22nd from 1p-4p at The Hudson Bond - 215 West 40th Street @ 7th Avenue - 212-719-1200. TO MY PEEPS (and you know who you are), COME ON OUT!: http://renaissancebrunch622.eventbrite.com/.

1pm - Cocktail Hour (by ALCARAN TEQUILA)

2pm - Brunch Served (Promptly)

HERE'S THE MENU:

Corn Bread

Scrambled Eggs

Sausage Links

... Cheddar Jalapeno Grits

Home Fries

Shrimp w/ Spicy Cajun Gravy

Seafood cake w/ side of Hollandaise Sauce

Grilled Chicken and vegetables w/ Chicken Gravy

Caesar Salad


Cocktails following Brunch

GET TICKETS HERE: http://renaissancebrunch622.eventbrite.com/


OTHER HIGHLIGHTS:

* Business Cards 2 Win Giveaways

* FEATURING:

Album Listening Party & Signing for

Gordon Chambers'

Latest CD

SINCERE

www.gordonchambers.com

* Music by DJ Poison Ivy



$45 - (Before 6/20)

$55 - (Before 6/22)



http://renaissancebrunch622.eventbrite.com/ 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SYLVESTER PRIDE

 

 

 

 

You folks know that Sylvester is a muse for me! In all of his UNSUNG, sang-that-falsetto FABULOUSNESS, I continue to be moved by the disco ‘queen’s legacy! Broadway’s own Anthony Wayne brings YOU MAKE ME FEEL MIGHTY REAL: A SYLVESTER CONCERT next Sunday, June 30, 2013 at (le) poisson rouge: 158 Bleecker Street (www.FABULOUSSYLVESTER.com). Here’s a clip: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9V_Ri7a0CyQ. Last night, after a stretch of day (including a really sad celebration of a 22-year-old Yonkers’ woman’s life – RIP Paige and WE LOVE YOU, CYNTHIA), my AMAZING GRACE, Nichole Andrews, Ant, and I popped by our watering hold NATIVE for a bite and some bubbly. I was EXCITED to run into Pippin’s Anthony Wayne and his partner Kendrall Bowman – both of whom invited me to the much-buzzed-about YOU MAKE ME FEEL MIGHTY REAL: A Sylvester Concert. READ MORE ABOUT THEM HERE: http://broadwayblack.com/anthony-wayne-kendrell-bowman-you-make-me-feel-mighty-real/. Kendrall is the Creative Director/Costume Designer for the show – presenting under the name AnthonyKen LLC. Kendrall is a celebrity stylist – clients including recording artists K. Michelle; Kanye West; David Banner; Lauriana Mae; etc. The show also features Broadway’s Anastacia McCleskey (PRISCILLA; Hair) and Jacqueline B. Arnold (PRISCILLA) as The Two Tons of Fun/Weather Girls. Backed by the Sylvester Singers (Antoine L. Smith (MEMPHIS) / Rashidra Scott (Sister Act; Avenue Q.)) and a FULL LIVE Band led by Drummer Jason Patterson, this show I’m told is GUARANTEED to have you dancing in the aisles. I’m otherwise booked next Sunday, but MUST find some way to make it work as I’m SO HAPPY it is back (MANY FRIENDS have been telling me it is a MUST SHEE SHOW)! CONGRATS, GUYS! RIP SYLVESTER! WE SPEAK YOUR NAME, OH LEGENDARY ONE! Why don’t y’all come as well? NEW YORK CITY TICKET LINKS - 7PM SHOW: http://www.lepoissonrouge.com/lpr_events/fabulous-one-more-time-a-sylvester-concert-starring-anthony-wayne-june-30th-2013/ AND 10PM SHOW: http://www.lepoissonrouge.com/lpr_events/fabulous-one-more-time-a-sylvester-concert-starring-anthony-wayne-june-30th-2013-late-show/. LIVE EXCLUSIVE PROMO VIDEO LINK from Prior Le Poisson Rouge NYC Concert: http://youtu.be/9V_Ri7a0CyQ. The “MAKING OF” VIDEO LINK: http://youtu.be/q4nM3aG5rWw. Audio Clips: CLIP #1: http://snd.sc/TDkrRD AND CLIP #2: http://snd.sc/PXsbsC. FOR MORE INFO: www.fabuloussylvester.com. PHOTO INFORMATION:
Photography: Nathan Johnson Photography; Hair: Izzy Decauwert; Costume Designer: Kendrell Bowman.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TONY AWARDS 2013

 

Well, it’s TONY AWARDS time! ARISE ENTERTAINMENT 360 invited me back to join my friends, hosts Lola Ogunnaike and Shannon Lanier, and share my predictions for Sunday’s telecast as well as some of my pop culture analysis on any sweeps, snubs, etc. – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zTd5S1wKUs0.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Of course, I was THRILLED for the 4 nominations “Motown: The Musical” got, but made no bones about my disappointment that it didn’t get more:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KK1yncqPlOQ. [AND MIGHT I ADD that my friend Rhonda Ross was on the same ARISE ENTERTAINMENT 360 today – promoting the HEARTS OF GOLD walk for children tomorrow (www.heartsofgold.org) + she too weighed in on all things MOTOWN; her amazing career as a singer; her mom; and even a little MJ a la news of late: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bK-p7EN2vVk. She tweeted this video as we sat in the green-room awaiting makeup:https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10201212518624533&set=vb.1517973929&type=2&theater].

 

 

 

 

 

 

TO BULLET THE WINS and MOMENTS of NOTE from the LIVE telecast via Radio City Music Hall:

 

 

 

* the legendary Cicely Tyson (“The Trip to Bountiful”) who won for Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Play

 

 

 

*  Billy Porter!!!!!

 

 

He won for Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical (“Kinky Boots”);

 

 

 

* Patina Miller (“Pippin”), who won for Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical;

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

* Courtney B. Vance (“Lucky Guy”), who won for Best Performance by an Actor in a featured Role in a Play. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

* Of “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” fame, Cyndi Lauper won for Best Original Score (music and/or lyrics) Written for the Theater for “Kinky Boots.”

 

 

 

* The Harvey Fierstein musical “Kinky Boots” won SIX, including Best Musical

 

* Stephen Schwartz’s musical “Pippin” snagged FOUR.

 

* Berry Gordy’s “Motown: The Musical” was nominated for four awards, but did not win any.

 

* Neil Patrick Harris hosted The Tony Awards and steered a cast of great appearances – including: Mike Tyson, Audra McDonald, New York Knicks center Tyson Chandler, Cuba Gooding Jr. and Angela Bassett, among others.

 

* The other nominees of color were on hand: George C. Wolfe (“Lucky Guy”), Condola Rashad (“The Trip to Bountiful”), Valisia LeKae (“Motown, The Musical”), Shalita Grant (“Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike”), Charl Brown (“Motown, The Musical”) and Keala Settle (“Hands on a Hardbody”).

 

* The casts of “Motown: The Musical,” “Bring It On,” “Pippin,” “Annie,” “Kinky Boots” and other shows also performed.

 

 

 

 

 

 Shout out to all my ARISE TV fam over there (including news: Eugenia Harvey, Lynn Pitts, Debbie Mitchell, Keyon Williams, and many more)! You’ll of course, recall I was on most recently to talk GREAT GATSBY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mBT9mSmfmCo). Prior that, of course, it was BLACKS ON BROADWAY: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RDxfe-hG_aY. And they had a little love for me because I predicted Cicely Tyson’s TONY nomination: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uuJEs6ruin0.  THANKS to ASPIRE for allowing me a platform to share my intel. In addition to the FAB co-hosts, was also good to see so many of my industry buddies at this promising start-up – including Eugenia Harvey; Paula Witt (my friend who booked me); Keyon Williams (my friend who first told ARISE to book me); and one of my fellow contributors Sean Joelle Johnson, TV exec and entertainment attorney who weighed in on celebrities and their legal issues. BACKGROUND ON THE SHOW (per the producers): The show airs live online and on Sky Cable in London, Monday-Friday at 2pm. The segment lasts 8-10 minutes. These are talk segments only but there will eventually be opportunities for performances. Recent guests included Kevin Liles, Mona Scott, Taiye Sealsi, Big Daddy Kane, Dr. Ian Smith, Kid Capri, Kym Whitley, Michaela Angela Davis and more. ARISE is an African owned global network geared primarily to Africans, African-Americans and people interested in the diaspora. The network has hubs in New York, London, Johannesburg and Lagos, and the New York hub just launched on March 11. As part of the US launch, ARISE 360 airs a daily entertainment show featuring hosts Lola Ogunnaike (former NY Times & Daily News feature reporter, current MSNBC & Today Show contributor and freelance reporter) and Shannon LaNier (Black Enterprise TV). ARISE Entertainment 360 airs online in the US and airs on the Sky Cable in London (currently showing in over 35 countries across Europe). The ARISE entity also owns Arise Magazine (www.ariselive.com). Although it is a separate entity, it is under the ARISE brand.

 

 

 

 

THE WESTCHESTER CLUBMEN

 

 

My friend - incoming President of The Westchester Clubmen Nelson Boyce (and his wife - also a dear friend - Michelle Sanchez Boyce) invited Ant and me to the 54th Anniversary at the VIP Country Club in New Rochelle. Was excited to discover that one of my National Association of Black Journalists' mentors Roy Johnson is the outgoing President. The Westchester Clubmen established in 1959, is an organization of African-American men in Westchester County, N.Y., dedicated to educating, supporting and inspiring young African-American and Latino men to fulfill their dreams. This year they honored Phillana Williams - also a friend. Phillana is the single parent of three beautiful children, has worked in the music business over 20 years, is currently the Sr. VP of Marketing & Artist Development at Motown Records and she manages the Recording Artist Miguel. This year, the gala was a tribute to Motown and also there was a special soulful performance by Motown Recording Artist Stacy Barthe. Stacy was signed to Motown recently through John Legend’s label, Homeschool Records. And master poet "Mumms" was in the house with all of my favorite New Ros and Manhattan-ites...and the evening was masterfully hosted by my friend and brother David Ushery, WNBC Anchor/Host/Reporter! Wonderful, purposeful night!

 

 

 

 

LAWYERS OF COLOR

 

 

I was delighted to be hired as host of a “Lawyers of Color” HOT LIST ROLL CALL reception at esteemed law firm Sullivan & Cromwell! It is the first of what is to be an annual celebration of young attorneys excelling in the legal profession. Shout out to DC-based CEO & Publisher of “Lawyers of Color LLC” Yolanda Young for booking me (www.lawyersofcolorllc.com). She and I have been friends for a decade-plus – having actually met through one of my Chicago clients. Yolanda and I are both members of the National Association of Black Journalists. And she has always been and continues to be a truly wonderful, inspiring, and visionary friend. Lawyers of Color was initially founded as On Being A Black Lawyer but now also produces publications for current and future lawyers of South Asian American, Pacific Asian American, Hispanic, and Native American descent. LOC has been recognized by the American Bar Association, National Black Law Students Association, and National Association of Black Journalists. The company provides research, career development, and brand marketing opportunities to its clients. With a core readership of 35,000, nearly 200,000 unique blog visitors, and nearly 4,000 followers and fans, Lawyers of Color has the largest social media presence of any minority legal organization. The honorees were chosen through a two-prong process. The selection committee - comprised of the editorial staff and advisers, as well as law school fellows and interns - spent months reviewing nominations and researching bar publications and legal blogs in order to identify promising candidates. Editorial picks based on research of attorneys who had noteworthy accomplishments or were active in legal pipeline initiatives also took place.

 

 

HUMAN SPIRIT

 

 

WHAT A GREAT NIGHT! FEELS SO GOOD to honor my MOST-DESERVING girlfriend and colleague Michaela angela Davis at this year’s big HUMAN SPIRIT AWARDS.Proceeds from the event help 10,000 Brooklynites annually via Brooklyn Community Services! The beautiful, inspiring evening featured Michaela’s fellow honoree Danny Simmons and presenter/friend, BLACK GIRLS ROCK’s own Beverly Bond (a BLACK WOMAN who ROCKS and is always SO SUPPORTIVE), and more! And a SPECIAL SHOUT OUT out to Chief Officer for External Relations and Advancement at Brooklyn Community Services, Sonya Shields, for inviting me to sit on the benefit committee and for seating me at a FUN table. My dinner companions for the evening included Emmy-award-winning producer (and friend) Crystal Whaley; independent recording artist Maiysha Kai; my most-impressive Georgia homeboy (and fellow industry tastemaker) Charlie Lewis; etc. Also GREAT to see my BET fam - old and new - out to support our Michaela: Senior Vice President, 360 Consumer Marketing & Brand Strategy at BET NETWORKS, Eddie Hill; producer/director/event GURU Quan Watkins; and more. And it's not a set until my friend/model/actress Chasity Saunders is in the house with a pose and poise! Great night! Congrats Michaela and Danny! I can't think of two people who demonstrate HUMAN SPIRIT (and its next REVOLUTIONARY frontier) better than you two! MUCH LOVE!!!!! TO FIND OUT MORE INFO ON BCS and/or to DONATE:http://bit.ly/ZVFgLS #humanspirit2013

 

 

LEADERS OF THE COOL

 

 

Friend Chenoa Maxwell invited us out to her NYC solo debut LEADERS OF THE COOL - a one-night pop up photo exhibit showcasing an awesome round-table of artistic, cultural muses that Chenoa holds dear.They include Chef Roble who is starting his new season on Bravo; NFL great Curtis Martin; my BFF Sidra Smith; poet Mumms; our New Ro buddies Cynthia, Elijah, Beyonce's stylist Ty; and too many to mention. Was great to run into Danny Simmons who introduced Chenoa who had a chorus of cameras chronicling her special night for a reality show pilot for OWN. CONGRATS, CHENOA!

 

 

LOVE HANGOVER 2.0

 

 

 

 

I had to rush up to Below 54 for my friend LaChanze's return engagement of LOVE HANGOVER, her tribute to the songbook and seduction of Diana Ross. New songs: "Theme from Mahogany (Do You Know Where You're Going To?", "Remember Me", and "It's My Turn" for encore! BRILLIANT and BEAUTIFUL! Shout out to my friend, Director Kenneth Roberson, for the invite. And what a pleasure to see and hear Jerry Dixon with LaChanze again on some great Ross tunes: duet-style. His husband Mario Cantone (of "The View" and "Sex & The City" fame) was in the house.

 

 

ESCOS

 

 

Then, a quick nightcap at Escualita in support of friend Nathan Hale Williams' HOT NEW PARTY at ESCOS! Come join me for Twisted Thursdays! 301 W. 39th Street!  And can I say Nathan didn't miss a beat. It is FABULOUS!

 

 

 

 

FAMILY

 

 

Today was supposed to be a specific kind of FAM day: my nephew Herman and I decided to visit my dear Aunt Charlie Mae - my dad's oldest sister. My cousin Betty Jean was also in the house! Always GOOD to see FAM! Then, as we decided to hang in BK a bit, I ran into Savannah BFF Maurice Marable's son Myles - so GROWN UP and MATURE! And I couldn't be THIS CLOSE to my beloved Moshood without a pop-by. He, Kunle, and all my Moshood fam are celebrating 19 YEARS in the business: www.AFRIKANSPIRIT.com. Moshood pointed out to my nephew that I've been in the Moshood mix since the beginning - pointing out the picture of President Clinton and me in The White House's Roosevelt Room where I interviewed our Commander in Chief (circa January 2001: Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday observance) - in MOSHOOD. Indeed: WEAR MOSHOOD. WEAR YOURSELF! ALWAYS: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/7/7/summer-repeats-and-repasts.html.

 

 

TAMIA

 

 

TAMIA in concert at the Highline Ballroom! Shout out to Michelle Huff for the invite. She was AWESOME - SINGING FOR THE GODS!!!!!!!!! And what a sweet woman. We chatted afterwards! From there, Ern, Weldon, Ant, surprise guest: Spelman sister and childhood sister friend Latecia enjoyed catch-up time at BBQs. Then, a little karaoke.

 

 

SUNDAE SERMON

 

 

"(Sundae Sermon) It's a must-attend ritual for my household and our friends. It's an awesome chance to congregate with loved ones in a beautiful park with beautiful people --- laughing, eating, toasting, and dancing under the brilliant sky with the most amazing gumbo of musical reflections - from earth to wind to fire to Diana to Chaka to Sylvester to Stevie to MJ... and a wonderful mix of global beats that will make you exclaim - "The-Wiz"-style - "Can You Feel a Brand New Day?"".

AMEN!

 

 

 

--- Patrick L. Riley

 

 

Blogger, "A Day in the Life of Riley: pop culture and possibilities"

   

Pop Culture Expert

 

 

RIP JEAN STAPLETON

 http://youtu.be/WUoJvhQrbjk Edith Bunker from All in the Family is how we will ALL remember this GENIUS of an ACTRESS. But CIRCA 1991 my Morehouse College Glee Club brothers and I got the chance to share the stage with her on Kennedy Center Honors as we all honored Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Chorus’ Conductor and Composer Robert Shaw. We often speak of the glee club’s performance of our signature work, "Betelehemu" – prior to which I got to give a spoken tribute: http://youtu.be/yZF2iK2VOY8. But the final number in the tribute would have us joined by members of the The Choral Arts Society of Washington, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Chorus, the Singing Sailors of the Navy and special guests Silvia McNair and Jean Stapleton (former member of the Collegiate Chorale under the direction of Robert Shaw)! GOD IS GOOD! THANK YOU FOR INTRODUCING US TO JEAN STAPLETON who my brethren Bobby P-Grew reminds me we were all TOO EXCITED to meet (along with Walter Cronkite; Carol Burnett; and many others!).

TV ONE’S “LIFE AFTER”

K2 Pictures invited me to weigh in on three of their “LIFE AFTER” subjects for TV ONE. They seemed to have pulled from my vision board of pop culture muses from the ‘70s – so we had a blast taping those. Was also great to stumble into screenwriter/artist/actress and all-around-RENAISSANCE WOMAN Tina Andrews who was taping some reflections of her own for "Life After". Also, I ran into friend Klay Kane who has been in the pop-culture-expert mix of "Life After" since its inception. I consider it a total honor to be folded into the mix. Stay tuned for more info on all of this. The new season of “LIFE AFTER” starts mid-September – including what of my interviews they will excerpt and sprinkle throughout those episodes.

BROADWAY INSPIRATIONAL VOICES

It was ONE NIGHT ONLY but many NIGHTS in the making: Grammy-Award-nominee Michael McElroy and the Broadway Inspirational Voices' EXPECT THE GREAT performance at Harlem's First Corinthian Baptist Church. AND IT WAS BEYOND BEYOND!!!! Worth noting high up that BIV's management is Entertainment Creative Management AKA childhood BFF Ernest Maynor... and dear friend Kimberly JaJuan...and the fine choir's PR is done by my girl Marcia Pendelton. In attendance, many of Broadway's Tony-Award royalty including Class of 2013's nominees Charl Brown ("Smokey Robinson" in MOTOWN: THE MUSICAL ...as well as the "Berry Gordy", Brandon Victor Dixon) and my fav-for-years-now Billy Porter (in the top-nominated production this year "Kinky Boots" - including a nod for him); Marva Hicks led BIV brilliantly with "Jesus Can Work It Out"; the-LEGENDARY Leslie Uggams; another industry buddy Angela Robinson who stars in my recurring client OWN's new hit via Tyler Perry: "The Haves and Have Nots" (which debuted to redefining numbers for network start-up OWN); Tony darling Adrianne Lenox (whose credit in "Double Platinum" with MY MISS ROSS and Brandy I always have to note) and singer extraordinnaire a la "The Color Purple" church ladies Virginia A. Woodruff; Erich McMillan - President and Founder of Project 1 Voice which I had the chance to participate in as a narrator in last year's "Amen Corner" (www.project1voice.org).(And look for "Four Little Girls" on September 15th across America (a commemoration of the 50th years since the bombing of the Birmingham church which killed the four African American girls during the strain of the Civil Rights Movement); Disney superstars Corbin Bleu and Monique Coleman - the latter of whom helped me win MILLION DOLLAR PASSWORD a few years ago (WAS GREAT TO RECCONNECT WITH HER since 2009: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/7/9/aint-no-mountain-high-enough.html); and a host of other FAB and FAMILIAR FACES from the repository of BROADWAY and all of the associated industries of which I am a part! Tony-award-winning actress Phylicia Rashad is Chairperson of BIV's Board of Directors. #missedthechoirinchurch P.S. Afterwards, many of us gathered at NYC's Public Authority bowling alley to TOAST Broadway's BEST, my friend Norm Lewis who - just last year - was Tony-nominated for his role in "Porgy and Bess". Visit BIV at www.broadwayinspirationalvoices.org. Special shout out to my brother D'Ambrose Boyd who captured beautiful images from the amazing evening of MUSIC and PRAISE! HALLELUJAH! AMEN! LOVE! LIGHT!

MOTOWN TO DEF JAM: AN ART GALLERY TOUR

Of course, these last few months have been all about MOTOWN: THE MUSICAL: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KK1yncqPlOQ. Meanwhile, I am super excited that the fabulous diva, Meli'sa Morgan will join the Motown to Def Jam: An Art Gallery Tour (curated by Sou L Eo) on Saturday June 15. Meli'sa Morgan will perform live at the reception! We announced last week that I am joining the tour-guide-team for the special day. During the tour, I am going to weigh in with some good pop culture anecdotes on the ICONIC music and artists of OUR TIME and OUR HISTORY! Purchase your tickets here: http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/366026 For more information and to purchase tickets please visit: www.artcrawlharlem.com.

RUTHY VALDEZ’S ORANGE 67 “SWALLOW”

Was nice to pop into Harlem for a little “Amy Ruth” (and catch-up chat and chew with Morehouse brother Mario) preceded by the chance to meet fine artist Ruthy Valdez @ruthy_valdez. She showcased and sold her artwork at my friend Carl Nelson’s Drums Along The Hudson event which I had a hand in co-hosting the other week: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2013/5/20/rain-for-flowers.html. You’ll recall, Ant sold one of his masterpieces. Well, 67 Orange Street (TWITTER - @67OrangeStreet) is the back-drop for Ruthy’s latest show “Swallow” which compliments the speak-easy’s finest signature cocktails (and food menu) to a T. We also got the chance to meet artist Ruben Zambrano whose work can be seen on INSTAGRAM via @rubenz_art. Shout out to 67 Orange owner Karl Franz Williams and one of his mixologists, Garrett Lee Hendricks (friend and actor). His “Color Purple” cocktail is WONDERFUL!

KARAOKE IN METUCHEN

Shout out to Bernard Jablonka and Danielle Andrea Simone Knight on hosting our ANNUAL MEMORIAL DAY KARAOKE BLAST! Backdrop: their beautiful home in Metuchen, New Jersey! They - as usual - attract friends and family from FAR & NEAR - including Bernard's cousin (and friend) from The Netherlands! GREAT FOOD (homemade THAI); GREAT DRINKS; and GREAT ENERGY (folks singing and friends coming together ONE MORE TIME)! THANKS FOLKS for the GOOD TIMES! XOXOOXOX

MEMORIAL DAY WITH MERRELL

Shout out to Merrell for getting those of us who were still in NYC (or back in NYC by Memorial Day Monday) together for delicious food (shrimp, chicken, burgers, rips, and more);great entertainment (or enjoyable fare for a room full of ‘opinionated’ folks! LOL!): HBO Film “Behind the Candelabra” – the story of LIBERACE (which I call the “Mommie Dearest” of our time! NO SHADE! It’s really good… and what an AWESOME cast); and a FUN ROOM of our usual suspects and some FUN surprise guests! ALWAYS A GOOD TIME with Merrell about whom I’m ALWAYS yapping because I’m so PROUD of my Georgia homebody! @makeupbymerrell is Wendy Williams' makeup artist and cosmetics icon his own right in the industry. He is quite the muse du jour for me as he takes his brand to the next level. #makeupbymerrell

VISIT OAKLAND

My friend from the National Association of Black Journalists Kim Bardakian is Director of PR & Partnerships for "Visit Oakland" (visitoakland.org) and while in town to discuss various story angles about Oakland (cuisine, arts, citywide renaissance), she met up with some of us Lounge 48. WSJ's Lee Hawkins; fellow NYABJ Trailblazer Bob Anthony, and dear NABJ friend Neal Scarbrough. I also met a host of new journalists I'd not met before.

BOBBY ROACHE AND ANDY WARHOL

Was great to hang out with my friend and brother from another mother Bobby Roache at his boo Dolshe’s exclusive sample sale for her clothing and shoe business Olcay Gulsen www.olcaygulsen.com in The Decker Building in Union Square West – sacred pop culture ground: Andy Warhol had his Factory inside this building from 1968 through 1973. It is also where Valerie Solanas shot Warhol and art critic and curator Mario Amaya in 1968. IF POP CULTURE IS AROUND, I’LL SNIFF IT OUT! LOL!

ENDLESS LOVE

Congrats to Ant’s BFF Manivone and her new husband, our friend Taha! SO HAPPY FOR YOUR GUYS on marriage and a NEW CHAPTER in your collective life of LOVE!

 

 

PRESIDENT OBAMA: MY MOREHOUSE BROTHER

Scheduling wouldn’t have me down in Atlanta at my alma mater as our President of the United States became a Morehouse brother.

Still, I sure felt like I was there as so many of my brethren and friends in attendance gifted me with the best play-by-play. There or not, what a proud day in the Life of Riley… and in THE WORLD! Shout out to BFF Elise Durham, Morehouse College’s Media Relations Manager who served as the primary liaison between my alma mater and The White House in preparing for this historic undertaking! CONGRATS, ELISE! And a SPECIAL SHOUT OUT to mother of my Morehouse BFF Michael K. Watts: Dr. Anne Wimbush Watts, Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs and Professor of English at Morehouse who is leaving THE HOUSE (after 43 years) for her own new chapter.  Morehouse College unveiled an oil portrait of Dr. Anne W. Watts at Baccalaureate the day prior to Commencement. CONGRATULATIONS, DR. WATTS! MUCH DESERVED!

 

 

Won't HE do it? HAPPY TO CALL MYSELF MOREHOUSE MAN, hear!? Oh! And MOREHOUSE uncle!

 

SCANDAL

 Obviously, I was well-represented there while my own MOREHOUSE mystique was showing up elsewhere in the world - including THE PHILADELPHIA SUN:  http://www.philasun.com/news/4252/38/The-OMG-Show-Scandal-has-kicked-the-political-soap-opera-up-a-notch.html Shout out to writer/reporter Denise Clay for including some of my pop culture analysis in her The Philadelphia Sunday SUN cover story on the Scandal phenomenon. It reminded me that I shared a sweet moment recently in New York City with the hit show’s star Kerry Washington whose fabulosity went out to 9.1 million viewers for its finale the other night. NABJ brethren Roland Martin is also quoted. The ratings for the season finale hit an all-time high of 9.1 million viewers.

DRUMS ALONG THE HUDSON

And while – through the rain - President Obama was speaking words of service, responsibility, and daring to the Universe’s 500 or so NEW MOREHOUSE MEN, I – through the rain – was hosting the main stage (afternoon shift) at Drums Along The Hudson: a Native American Festival and Multicultural Celebration - the afternoon of which I hosted (My friend, news anchor Sandra Bookman with WABC-TV, hosted the earlier part of the day, which included honors to Deborah Harvey-Koenigsberger.

(Deborah is Founder/President of Hearts of Gold charity to which I introduced Remy Martin, a sponsor for one of her recent fundraisers: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2012/11/19/golden-hearts.html);

Grammy-award-wnining singer/songwriter Joanne Shenandoah (Oneida); and author Doug George (Mohawk). "The rain is for the flowers! It'll only make us GROW," I exclaimed (a la Miss Ross Central Park circa '83) to the many who braved the stormy weather to enjoy live performances on the main stage. I got to introduce some awesome acts - including Kotchenga African Dance Company; Saung Budaya Indonesian Dance Group; and Samuel Le Heananff Quartet. And our girlfriend, artist Cynthia Bergos, and Ant (as his artist name Akhenaten) displayed their art for the attendees. Ant sold one of his Egyptian-inspired pieces: "Radiant Thinker" (2013 Egyptian Pop Series: Acrylic on raw canvas 3 x 2.5) 2013 - SOLD). This transaction turned one art patron's rainy day SUNNY! Congrats Ant! Shout out to my friends Frankie Edozien, Ed Roebuck, Matt Morgan, and many others who came out to support me. But primarily we were ALL there to support the cause and the creator and producer of the 11-year-old brainchild, Carl Nelson.

Good job, Carl!

COMING UP: BROADWAY INSPIRATIONAL VOICES – Sunday, June 2nd

I have several friends who are in and/or associated with the Broadway Inspirational Voices – including Miss Kimberly Jajuan who introduced me to the dynamic group! I’m so excited they’ve given me permission to share with you word on their upcoming  concert: Sunday June 2nd at First Corinthian Baptist Church in Harlem. THAT’S RIGHT! YOU HEARD IT HEAR (from the group’s fab press release): The Grammy-Nominated Broadway Inspirational Voices “Expect the Great” June 2^nd: Creator Michael McElroy (TONY nomination, BIG RIVER) will lead The Broadway Inspirational Voices in their 3rd Annual Spring concert to create an evening of hope, joy, and inspiration.  With members representing such shows as Motown: The Musical, The Lion King, Wicked, Spiderman, The Book of Mormon, Annie, Kinky Boots, and many more, “Expect the Great” will include a wide array of inspirational repertoire, including a few original pieces by McElroy. The one-night-only concert will be held on June 2nd at 7pm st at 8pm at the First Corinthian Baptist Church, located at 1912 7th Ave at 116th St.  Tickets are priced from $10-$100 and can be purchased by visiting: www.smarttix.com. A portion of the proceeds from this concert will go to BIV’s Educational Outreach Program.  BIV members participate in these outreach programs to provide music to children in need.  Through their music and community driven work, BIV is committed to providing children access to high quality and engaging music arts programs and resources. Broadway Inspirational Voices was originally founded by McElroy in 1994 as the Broadway Gospel Choir and in 1999 was reincarnated to its current form. In addition to numerous concerts, the group has performed on “The Rosie O’Donnell Christmas Special,” Broadway Sings Elton John, The Christopher Reeve Paralysis Foundation Benefit, and The 2000 Tony Awards. The Broadway Inspirational Voices second album Great Joy: A Gospel Christmas was released on Sh-K-Boom Records in 2003 and received a Grammy Award nomination.”

BLACK GIRLS ROCK AND BURY THE RATCHET  – Tuesday, June 4th

International DJ and Black Girls Rock Founder and Executive Director, Beverly Bond  will present the Brooklyn community services human spirit award to Michaela angela Davis on Tuesday, June 4, 2013. You should come out and bear witness to two dynamic women and then some. The Brooklyn Community Services will host its annual BCS Human Spirit Awards at the Grand Hyatt-Manhattan Ballroom this year. I’ve been asked to join its host committee and to invite as many of you to get in on this wonderful cause as possible. In addition to Michaela, BCS will honor another cultural leader who too calls Brooklyn his home: award-winning artist, Danny Simmons, will join other honorees in a ceremony that celebrates individuals who through their vision, leadership, service and generosity have built a lasting impression on both culture and community. The Human Spirit Awards is the annual fundraising dinner for BCS that highlights individuals, groups and programs that have made lifting up the lives of Brooklynites their call to action.  Last year's gala raised $500,000 and provided vital resources to support BCS's mission to strengthen families, help children and youth reach their full potential, and support adults in leading productive, fulfilling lives.  Proceeds from this year's online and silent auction will support efforts to provide continued relief to victims of Hurricane Sandy in Coney Island: http://bit.ly/ZVFgLS. #humanspirit2013

FRIENDS

CONGRATS to dear friend, fine artist Taha Clayton on his latest project: "Round Zero", an Exhibition of Paintings by Tim Okamura, Jerome Lagarrigue, Taha Clayton, & Joseph Adolphe in NY! We got to check out "Round Zero," a fine art exhibition, featuring Taha and crew at the Art Director’s Club in Manhattan.

Tim Okamura, Jerome Lagarrigue, Taha Clayton and Joseph Adolphe exhibited their latest work in a boxing-themed collection curated by Dexter Wimberly. The exhibition also served as the culmination of more than two years of documentation of these artists' creative journey by film-maker Jeff Martini, for an upcoming feature entitled "HEAVYWEIGHTPAINT," a segment of which was shot at the events. A portion of proceeds went to the Brotherhood / Sister Sol, a Harlem-based youth organization.  Artworks created by students from "Bro/Sis" were also on display at the event. (http://heavyweightpaint.com/)  and (http://www.brotherhood-sistersol.org)

Afterwards, we all gathered to toast my Nichole who is getting ready to embark on a fun journey of reinvention and relocation. Stay tuned! WE LOVE YOU, NICHOLE…

and of course, you and I are together forever – no matter where we are geographically.

Happy birthday to BFF Tommie Porter – husband of Mara Schiavocampo.

We all gathered in Harlem to toast Tommie;

enjoy cake and champagne; and – as always – to have a good time!

Shout out to my NABJ buddy Alicia Quarles – E! Entertainment News’ own!

She was standing next to me the opening night of "Motown: The Musical" - covering for E! News (as chronicled by my lens when I wasn't otherwise occupied).

She did the same when she wasn't busy and forwarded me some of the good ones while we awaited Tommie's arrival.

In addition to the highlight video of my work which you can check out here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KK1yncqPlOQ, Alicia got some shots that were coming in from a whole other angle of which I wasn't aware.

Great shots, Alicia! 

EVEN MISS ROSS walking away...

THANK YOU!