A DAY IN "THE LIFE OF RILEY"

KENNETH CARR

Check this out! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Um6fx9XUaHc&feature=youtube_gdata_player I had a blast interviewing my friend Kenneth Carr at his place a few weeks ago:http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2013/5/13/gatsby-and-steampunk-and-more.html.

His new CD "Amazing Love" is coming out at the end of this month… and his management invited me to interview him for a promo video they will be using to promote its release. He recently released the video for his lead-off single “Brassing My Opinion” – shot and directed by my girlfriend Shareen King Carr! It’s a huge hit – having already attracted upwards of 200,000 clicks on Kenny’s YOU TUBE channel: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TNmTiAvVZW0. Follow @kennycarrmusic and www.facebookcom/kennethcarr. Purchase the single at Amazon, iTunes, Spotify,Google Play For Bookings contact thekingsdaughtersk@gmail.com. As Kenny knows singing is a sidelight for me, we not only reviewed his music-in-progress and music-completed. But he let me play around with a track or few – one for which he wants me to write some lyrics – so we can record a track! CONGRATS, KENNY! "Amazing Love" project releasing the end of this month: July 2013! ‪#‎trombonegumbo ‪#‎kennycarrmusic ‪#‎amazinglove 

EMMY NOMINATIONS 2013

CURRENT LINK: http://www.nbcnewyork.com/video/#!/on-air/as-seen-on/Emmy-Nominations-for-2013/216162211

 You remember my debut media impression on Cozi TV/ NBC4 a couple of months ago on BLACKS and BROADWAY: http://www.nbcnewyork.com/on-air/as-seen-on/Pop-Culture-Expert-Patrick-Riley-on-Black-Broadway_New-York.html. It inspired many bookings since – from Motown the Musical:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KK1yncqPlOQ to Arise Entertainment 360:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RDxfe-hG_aY. I just made my sophomore appearance on COZI-TV/WNBC ---- this time providing some pop culture commentary on the 2013 EMMY NOMINATIONS (alongside Senior TV Critic for TV Guide Magazine, Matt Roush rounds out the panel with host Roseanne Colletti! MATT ROCKS! And so does COZI-TV: http://www.nbcnewyork.com/video/#!/on-air/as-seen-on/Emmy-Nominations-for-2013/216162211. Its producer Tiffany Zeno has invited me back after the EMMY AWARDS!)! NEWS 4 NEW YORK AT 7P is a one-hour-long show that offers a combination of news, guest segments & lifestyle issues on cable station COZI-TV. COZI-TV reaches more than 5 million homes. It also simulcasts LIVE onwww.NBCNEWYORK.COM. Special shout out to Kerry Washington - one of the three African American nominees (alongside Don Cheadle and Hollywood director Paris Barclay - now first African American President of the Directors Guild Association (DGA)). If Kerry wins, she'll be the first African American actress to take home the Drama prize for a lead role. The last time an African American woman was nominated in 1995, she lost. It was Cicely Tyson for "Sweet Justice". In 1983, Debbie Allen is the first African American actress nominated in this category – for Fame (three years in a row); then in 1986, Alfre Woodard was nominated for St. Elsewhere. In 1992 and 1993, Regina Taylor was nominated for “I’ll Fly Away”. KERRY is standing on some STRONG, SCANDAL-free shoulders! WISHING HER WELL on this one!

  

Channel listings:

Cablevision 109 and 118
Time Warner Cable 161
Comcast 248 and 158
Verizon Fios 460
RCN 28

Meanwhile, look for my pop culture commentary in K2 Pictures' LIFE AFTER . The new season begins in the Fall of 2013. Stay tuned… and as always, THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

THE ART OF THE INTERVIEW

SHOUT OUT to my NABJ big sister-friend-for-LIFE, Katti Gray, for inviting me to speak for the 2nd year in a row to her students at the NYU Urban Journalism Workshop - @NYU_UrbanJourno.

The requested message in my ‘sermon’: “The Art of the Interview”. Here’s what we looked like last year: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2012/7/19/bright-daze-dark-knights.html.

I re-testified my own story of having interviewed a whole range of subjects over the years – as on-camera interviewer and behind-the-scenes interviewer (reporter/field producer). I coached the diverse roster of students via taped mock interviews; and I showed them examples of my own body of work (I’ve had a lot to demo of late). What a GREAT GROUP! I ALWAYS LOVE it when I’m invited to impart some of my experiences to the youth…and I am even more EXCITED when the invitation comes from folks I admire – like my big sister friend Katti Gray who is the new director of NYU Urban Journalism Workshop:https://www.facebook.com/pages/NYU-Urban-Journalism-Workshop/103601966399839.The site notes that Katti is a prize-winning veteran journalist who, in her words, has "covered hard news and soft: Presidential hopefuls; statehouse lawmakers; hometown heroes; time-honored and pop celebrities; floundering schools in Appalachia;New Feminism’s younger adherents; juveniles on death row; the fight for running water on an outlying Mississippi road." I BELIEVE THE CHILDREN ARE THE FUTURE. Sounds cliché, but glad that amidst my BUSY SKED, I can give a MOTIVATIONAL TALK here or there: I was invited to be the Keynote Speaker for the National Association of Black Journalists Multi-media Short Course at FAMU at the top of October - an awesome full-circle moment. NABJ gave me a lot of my first mentors and opportunities out of Morehouse College and one of my main advisers and confidantes Dr. Ann Wead Kimbrough from my student work with Clark Atlanta University now heads up FAMU's Journalism & Graphic Communications School: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2012/10/10/full-circle.html. I just spoke to some Norfolk State University Communications students. And I recently spoke to a Savannah based group via SKYPE: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2012/7/30/young-solo-savannah-voice.html 

PAUL WHARTON

While wrapping up my day on a special project with recurring client BET, I got a call from one of my NYC BFFs Sidra Smith to join she, her sister Tasha Smith, singer/actress and friend Tichina Arnold, comedienne Robin Montague, Grammy Award-winning American singer-songwriter and record producer Gordon Chambers, Phedra Gremillon, and many more – all at the beautiful Manhattan apartment of Paul Wharton. From watching clips of Miss Diana Ross – Mahogany to 'Central Park’ – to the many break-outs in song between Tichina, Gordon, and me, this night was a blast: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10151544990978737&set=vb.662073736&type=2&theater. 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/

 

 

  

My nephew Herman Lee Riley III's mom Felecia Roberts was in town just after I submitted my last entry. Her first stop on her trip from Savannah was Broadway's Motown the Musical (of course! LOL!): http://youtu.be/KK1yncqPlOQ. Was cool to see my Broadway CONNECTION Marcia Pendelton who credits Motown the Musical as one of her BIG TICKET clients this season!   

Then, fast forward a couple of weeks to this past weekend…and you have MY sister (my nephew’s aunt) in town - celebrating her Big 5-0!   

AND OF COURSE, MOTOWN THE MUSICAL was on her mind!

She insisted on EXPERIENCING what her baby brother has been yapping about for the last few months: You know, I got the chance to sing 'TRIP TO BOUNTIFUL's praises  on ARISE ENTERTAINMENT 360 - most recently predicting TONY AWARDS nominations: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zTd5S1wKUs0.  

A few weeks prior, I was on ARISE ENTERTAINMENT 360 to talk BROADWAY... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RDxfe-hG_aY. In the aforementioned ARISE 360 Broadway segment, I predicted the iconic Cicely Tyson would be nominated for her role in Broadway's "The Trip to Bountiful". And she was!! YAY!  So, they played that clip and referenced my prediction the following day:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uuJEs6ruin0. (I was again on ARISE recently to talk GATSBY: the book, the film(s), the blueprint on hip hop! HERE'S THE LINK: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mBT9mSmfmCo). 

I also got to introduce the Broadway season on WNBC’s COZI-TV: http://www.nbcnewyork.com/on-air/as-seen-on/Pop-Culture-Expert-Patrick-Riley-on-Black-Broadway_New-York.html. But of course, the HIGHLIGHT - of the musical kind - is being hired to do red carpet interviews on MOTOWN: THE MUSICAL's opening night for its cameras. and to host its highlight video! YAY! LOL! Here's the clip I host: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KK1yncqPlOQ. 

AND THIS VIDEO IS LOOPING ON THE MONITORS OUTSIDE THE THEATER; on the big screen in Times Square sometimes; lots of YOU TUBE traffic; and in cabs; etc! WOW! LOL! 

Other outlets picked up the raw footage of my MOTOWN THE MUSICAL interviews - including REUTERS: http://www.reuters.com/video/2013/04/16/motown-memorialized-in-new-musical?videoId=242278913&videoChannel=3. BROADWAY BUZZ also used my MOTOWN: THE MUSICAL footage: http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=An_r_D2HM5Q.

JANICE got to see my OPENING NIGHT MOTOWN VIDEO that I host – looping outside the theater and in its foyer. FULL CIRCLE moment – especially given all of the MOTOWN we grew up together LOVING… and given we – along with our FAM (mom, dad, the other brother, and us) – enjoyed (from our family room in Savannah, GA) MOTOWN 25 and all of its MAGICAL MOMENTS! 

I asked my sister “Can you believe I’m hosting a video that is running on the monitors of the theater that is hosting “MOTOWN: THE MUSICAL” – the hottest show on Broadway right now and in a long time – an event that has brought me face-to-face with my lifelong icon Diana Ross?”

She said: “NO!” I guess our peeps see our POP CULTURE and POSSIBILITIES (and obsessions for good! LOL!) – even when – on the journey – we’re not convinced a moment the like is possible!  Well, that’s what it’s about, isn’t it? AIN’T NO MOUNTAIN HIGH ENOUGH, huh? 

On with Janice’s BDAY EXTRAVAGANZA, she landed and we hit "Melba" in Harlem for a soul-food welcome!   

Birthday GIRL had the 1^st of many slices of cake (We mustn’t compromise her recent weight-loss! LOL!): Red Velvet on deck. And my friend Derrick joined us. Plus, we stumbled into my dear friend Robin D. Stone's son Zachary Boyd! Zach is Ant's and my buddy. 

In fact, we took Zach to see Lady Gaga a year or so ago...

 and we LITTLE MONSTERS had a BLAST!

 

What a pleasant surprise! "Native" Restaurant in Harlem is where I once hosted 'All-Star Karaoke Thursday Night'. We had to pop by and show Janice. Ary was most hospitable, as always! XO

 

 

 

This, after a fun cocktail hour at Fashion 40. I joined my buddy Jamar Dunn.

 

 

 

I got to toast my friend and colleague Shannon Love - also the birthday boy.

 

 

 

ALSO IN THE HOUSE:

 

 

 

 John Cotton, Toyce Francis, Janet Rolle (with whom I first worked when hired to produce tribute videos for the American Foundation for the University of the West Indies), Rick Grant, and a host of fun folks who I was happy to see. DJ ENVY was on the one-twos - working it, as always!  

 

 

THE NEXT DAY: Janice and Noot popped by my recurring client BET where they got to meet my many colleagues from the Creative Services department. Here I do a number of special projects alongside - among many - Miss Micheala angela Davis who was gracious to chat my sister up - woman-to-woman on the threshold-of-50. BEAUTIFUL MOMENT! She got some great shots. And she loved the views! Afterwards, we went and had a snack at Virgil's BBQ. Then, we got in a little karaoke at Yuki 55 (Our repertoire included some of the birthday girl's favorites: "Reasons" by Earth, Wind, & Fire. And I just HAD to do the Whitney Houston medley for her! AND Jan and Noot even got in on the fun that Ant and I do all the time! LOL! This, before A Trip to Bountiful on Broadway – starring Cicely Tyson in her Tony-award-winning role. She works that stage alongside Vanessa Williams, Cuba Gooding Jr., AND Condola Rashad. After Broadway's "Bountiful", which Janice LOVED, she and I met up with Noot at Red Rooster - hot Harlem spot where JR got to meet several of my industry buddies and Harlem friends, including:  Essence’s own Emil Wilbekin and DJ Stomrin Norman. Red Rooster provided a nice toast of champagne in honor of my sister’s birthday + she and my nephew got to enjoy some fried green tomatoes and other lite bites before they called in a night.

 

 THE NEXT DAY:

Ant, my nephew, my sister, and I enjoyed BIRTHDAY brunch at Sotto 13 - tapas, wood fired-pizza, and more! GREAT BRUNCH! And good time for my family (Janice and Noot) to get to know further my family here (Ant). LOTS OF LAUGHS! And some VULNERABLE sharing, too! FOOD FOR THE SOUL! Then, she, Noot, and I rushed to Brooklyn to visit with our dad's big sister Charlie Mae, cousins Pat and Betty Jean in Brooklyn, NY + cousin Gloria called in from VA! It was a FAMILY REUNION! We then headed back uptown --- popping up to Dallas BBQ in Washington Heights (Upper Manhattan) for snack. Enter: Zimmerman trial verdict. HENCE: OUR UPSET EXPRESSIONS. NIGHT WAS A WRAP! But we recovered Sunday with the theme of the whole trip: “Motown: The Musical” on Broadway! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KK1yncqPlOQ

After "Motown", we popped by BFF Sidra Smith's twin sister Tasha Smith's actors workshop nearby. Our sisters HAD to meet! And Sid HAD to meet MY SISTER! I was so charmed as Tasha Smith rushed out of her class - exclaiming: "PATRICK!!!!!!" LOL! From there, we wrapped Janice's 50th BDAY Extravaganza with an intimate dinner hosted and prepared by my dear friend Merrell Hollis (celebrity make-up artist and groomer for Wendy Williams, Diddy, Usher, Jessica White, etc.). His mom was in town from Columbus, GA. Ant's cuz Shantay also joined us as well as Noot. NYC FAM! HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JANICE! Shout out to ALL who helped Herman Lee Riley III and me CELEBRATE my sister Janice Riley Priester's 5-0 in EXCELLENCE and with SO MUCH JOY & LOVE

 HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BIG (and only) SIS! I LOVE YOU!

 

  

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