A DAY IN "THE LIFE OF RILEY"

COZI-TV

After a blast on MSNBC last month; a reccent booking on BET's "Don't Sleep"; and other spot on-cam work, I was invited to talk about Blacks on Broadway on a LIVE, in-studio segment (5-minutes-or-so) for NBC News 4 New York's 7p show: 

http://www.nbcnewyork.com/on-air/as-seen-on/Pop-Culture-Expert-Patrick-Riley-on-Black-Broadway_New-York.html

. In a nutshell: "Motown: The Musical"; "The Trip to Bountiful"; and the "Pippin" revival; however, there are many other new offerings on Broadway this season: - including "Kinky Boots" (starring Billy Porter; music by Cyndi Lauper); and Deborah Cox comes back to Broadway opposite American Idol-alum Constantine Maroulis in "Jekyll & Hyde". News 4 New York's 7p is a one-hour show that is a combination of news, guest segments & lifestyle issues on cable station COZI-TV. This episode was hosted by NBC 4’s own Scott Stanford and produced by NBC 4’s own Tiffany Zeno – both TOTAL JOY! COZI-TV reaches more than 5 million homes & can be seen on Channel 161 on Time Warner systems. The show also simulcasts live on www.NBCNEWYORK.COM.

It is also available on other cable providers.

Here's the channel guide:

Cablevision 109 and 118

Time Warner Cable 161

Comcast 248 and 158

Verizon Fios 460

RCN 28

As always, THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT and LOVE!

If you miss it, the segment will live on www.NBCNEWYORK.COM. (SUBJECT TO CHANGE FOR BREAKING NEWS)

Please feel free to FORWARD and to let me know your thoughts.

MOTORTOWN PREVUE

What JOY and NOSTALGIA "Motown: The Musical" brought me on the first PREVIEW NIGHT earlier this week!

ADDED features to the special evening include: experiencing it with Ant; seeing my friend Brandon get called up by "Diana Ross" (as portrayed by Valisia LeKae) to sing along on "Reach Out & Touch (Somebody's Hand)" (Worth noting that he stumbled into his ticket no hour before the show yet SANG HIS BUTT OFF with "Miss Ross" [Great also to chat with Brandon Victor Dixon who plays "Berry Gordy"]).

I got to say HI AGAIN to Mr. Gordy.

Also, so many other GREATS were in the house - including:

Suzanne de Passe;

Jimmy Iovine; Dr. Dre; legendary publicist Ken Reynolds; singer and friend Phil Geston – fellow lover of all things ROSS;

costume designer Emilio Sosa (who I had the chance to interview him after a performance of one of his last shows "...By the way, Meet Vera Stark...");

and Marketing Consultant - my friend - Marcia Pendelton, often my passport to Broadway. Walk Tall, Girl! ESSENCE legend Susan Taylor (in attendance with her husband Khephra Burns) said to me "...this has never been done..." - referencing the palpable evidence of interest not only with the lines-around-the-block to this sold-out, first preview, but at closer inspection, one of the groups there was comprised of Detroit cops who filled a bus and drove in to see the first preview of "Motown: The Musical". My Spelman sisters Melanie and Tiffanie also traveled from Atlanta and Dallas respectively to see "Motown". Afterwards we did some karaoke at Yuki 55 - "Broadway baby Brandon" in tow - including, of course, some Motown/Ross, Wonder, et al!!!!

WWW.BLACKTHEATERONLINE.COM reports the following: We have received phone calls and emails telling us that code SMOKEY was not working or was not being accepted by Ticketmaster. The good news is -- the code is alive and well. The bad news is -- it may not be available on the date you want to attend a performance.

Here is the update:

Discount codes for MOTOWN: The Musical, including code SMOKEY, are no longer available for any performance in March. This does not mean that you can't buy tickets. It means that if you want to see the show this month, you are going to have to pay full or premium prices for tickets.

HOWEVER, there are performance dates when you can definitely use code SMOKEY. They are:

Monday 4/1

Tuesday 4/2

Wednesday 4/3 Evening

Tuesday 4/9

Wednesday 4/10 Evening

Thursday 4/11

Tuesday 4/16

Wednesday 4/17 Evening

Tuesday 4/23

Wednesday 4/24 Evening

Tuesday 4/30

Wednesday 5/1 Evening

Tuesday 5/7

Wednesday 5/8 Evening

Tuesday 5/14 Evening

Wednesday 5/15 Evening

Please remember that code SMOKEY IS BASED ON AVAILABILITY AND CAN BE WITHDRAWN AT ANYTIME WITHOUT NOTICE. The teeny tiny mouse print at the bottom of the gorgeous ad above gives you all of the restrictions. It is a good practice to read them before you attempt to buy tickets with any discount offer, including the ones from Black Theater Online.

Just as discount codes can be withdrawn at anytime, they can also be extended. Although the restrictions state that this offer is available through May 12, it has been extended through May 15.

We hope this clears up any questions about code SMOKEY.

Like we said when we sent out this offer back in February -- BUY YOUR TICKETS TODAY. He/she who hesitates will be without tickets to MOTOWN: The Musical. Or, will wind up standing in the cancellation line at the theater trying to get one.

Tickets for MOTOWN: The Musical are selling fast. BROADWAY PREVIEWS HAVE BEGUN (as of yesterday): $49 (Mid Mezz/REGULAR - $87); $89 (Orch/Front Mezz/REGULAR - $137).

For tickets, visit www.Ticketmaster.com or call 877.250.2929: CODE: SMOKEY

WWW.MOTOWNTHEMUSICAL.COM

THE TRIP TO BOUNTIFUL

Earlier that same day, I popped by NYC’s famed Sardi’s Restaurant for a media morning with the cast of Broadway’s THE TRIP TO BOUNTIFUL, which starts previews SATURDAY, MARCH 30TH and opens TUESDAY, APRIL 23RD AT the Stephen Sondheim Theatre (124 W 43rd Street). Over the last year, I’ve had great run-ins with the show’s stars (www.thetriptobountifulbroadway.com): Cicely Tyson (at B. Michael show, but I also interviewed her many times over the years for my Chicago client); Cuba Gooding Jr. (at Thurgood Marshall Foundation benefit, though I have interviewed him at the National Association of Black Journalists’ convention where he’s brought many films); Vanessa Williams (last week at Dance Theater of Harlem gala but have had nice media moments with her over the years); Condola Rashad (at Steel Magnolias premiere in NYC). With my invite to ‘meet’ the cast alongside other press, I did snap some shots of them on the step and repeat. Also, I enjoyed the company of hairstylist genius Chucki Amos - @CHUCKIELOVE – who did this day’s work on Miss Vanessa Williams - @VWOFFICIAL. ALSO, and as always, GREAT to see my fellow NYC journalist friends – including Jean Parnelle (once-Miss Hayes, the first teacher to give “little Alicia Keys” her singing confidence note when she cast her as Dorothy in the grade-school production of “The Wizard of Oz” – a point made recently on my recurring client OWN’s air (Oprah’s Next Chapter  - http://www.oprah.com/own-master-class/First-Look-Oprahs-Master-Class-with-Alicia-Keys-Video). JOIN ME at “THE TRIP TO BOUNTIFUL” – www.thetriptobountifulbroadway.com! BACKSTORY ON PLAY: The touching American classic, THE TRIP TO BOUNTIFUL, tells the story of Carrie Watts (Cicely Tyson), who is trapped in a cramped Houston apartment with her soft-spoken son (Cuba Gooding Jr) and self-absorbed daughter-in-law (Vanessa Williams), dreaming of a return to her home in the small Gulf Coast town of Bountiful, where she grew up and raised her own family. Fearing that she’s an imposition and chafing under her daughter-in-law’s watchful eye, she steals away with her latest pension check and heads home in the journey of a lifetime. The result is an unforgettable meditation on the idea of home and its power to sustain us. For more information via the social channels: www.facebook.com/BountifulBroadway and TWITTER: @BountifulBway and INSTAGRAM: @BountifulBway and YOU TUBE: www.youtube.com/bountifulbroadway and TWEET my friend @CHUCKIELOVE who does all the great DIVA HAIR these days! SPECIAL SHOUT OUT TO: TOM WOPAT (Childhood favorite “Dukes of Hazzard” and so much more – especially from Broadway).

GET READY

 Is this what I have to look forward to as I pop into Times Square for business everyday this Spring and beyond? http://www.motownthemusical.com/ MOTOWN: THE MUSICAL on BROADWAY is coming to town in a few weeks… and it’s SO EXCITING!

SUPERBOWL

Meanwhile, the muse of Motown lives on through SUPERBOWL and BEYONCE! On Superbowl Sunday, everybody asked "Who you rooting for, Patrick?" I'd retort "Beyonce!" And for her high-energy, bone-chilling performance last night, we know why! OKAY!!!!??? But I forgot I have a Baltimore Ravens tie-in: Congrats to Baltimore Ravens and New Rochelle's own Ray Rice who I had the chance to meet at a Boys & Girls Club charity event I hosted: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/tag/ray-rice  a year or so ago. He attended and donated a lot of money and valuable auction items for a cause close to his heart - one that once benefited him personally: The New Rochelle Boys & Girls Club. CONGRATS, RAY RICE! Our annual Superbowl back-drop for the last few years has been our friend Irma who started our celebration of two Aquarian birthday peeps in our midst: Giselle and BFF since 7th grade, Ernest Maynor (BDAY BANANA PUDDING on deck! YUM!).

MINDFILE MULTIMEDIA

Last Monday required an early call-time for an assignment I was dispatched to do with my favorite Director of Photography and production company owner James Curry (www.mindfilemultimedia.com) who always brings with him the best (Today it was Joe & Chris)! Thanks guys! Glad we got the chance to break bread (as in delicious, buttery pizza crust atop a mound of pepperoni, sausage, and mushroom) from Bantam Pizza in Bantam, CT.

MISS ROSS IN HOUSTON?

On a week in which the world is abuzz about Houston native Beyonce's spectacular turn at the  Superbowl Halftime Show (and The Great White Way [AKA Broadway] is about to introduce "Motown: The Musical" to theater-goers the world over [www.motownthemusical.com/]), I coincidentally find myself in Bey's hometown to see one of her diva muses Diana Ross - Detroit's own - at the Arena Theatre (www.arenahouston.com) - one of her Texas stops on her current tour of one-nighters. My dear friend of many years, Lajuan, invited me and arranged the particulars (as he's a manager for the venue) - so, I just HAD to take a day away from my busy schedule to accept this gift to see Miss Ross once again and to ensure yet another SUPREME chronicle in "...The Life of Riley...". I flew in on the day of the show (and returned to NYC the following morning), but it was worth the schlep to see another AWESOME ROSS SHOW - including most of the hits (and a bonus: a special rendition of Kirk Franklin's "Smile"), lots of costume changes, and a most-present and connected ICON of ICONS: Miss Diana Ross! That said, she did fly through this show (She was still into it though) – leaving out some of her many treasures like "Endless Love", lots of Supremes songs, "Missing You", "Mirror Mirror", and more. But whatever Grammy-legend Ross sings of that impressive repertoire was all good for the Houston audience and me. Also nice to see many of my favorite, fellow ROSS fans I.E. Andreas, Bernard, and many more who -like me- flew into Houston just to see Miss Ross. Was also good to see one of my favorite background singers from Miss Ross' repository of talented vocalists, Natasha, who started with Miss Ross on the "Take Me Higher" tour. At the end, Diana appraised that she and the band's mission was accomplished - to bring smiles to our faces and to spread joy and good vibrations. After she re-entered the stage from having done her show-closer "I Will Survive" and enrolled the audience - from the round - to put our hands up in the air and sway back and forth to her 1st solo hit "Reach Out & Touch (Somebody's Hand)", it became crystal clear that the mark was met. Plus, I got the late night snack of life: the Southern staple "Waffle House" where my friend of many years, Lajuan Law, updated me on his own music. He is a musician/singer/performer whose upcoming  impressions include a fun Sunday night of R&B and soul with his band; studio/video recordings forthcoming; and a commitment to GOOD MUSIC. He promises I can share some of it with you - including dates and locations, once it all locks. Stay tuned! Thanks Lajuan! You're THE BOSS! Or the other one. LOL! I didn't get on the stage with Miss Ross this time. Am happy ALWAYS to be in her presence!

LIFE IS BUT A DREAM

#LifeIsButADream #Beyoncedocumentary Was almost-assigned to cover the red carpet for one client. That Hold was lifted. Still, I stumbled into an opportunity to still attend the premiere. Ant, my nephew Herman L. Riley III, and Morehouse BFF Michael K. Watts (who shot most of these pix) were also in the house. Also good to see my industry buddies, Beyonce's publicist Yvette Noel Shure (who graciously facilitated a meet-and-greet for Ant and me when he took me to Manila for my birthday a few years ago: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/11/12/manifest-destiny-destination-manila.html. Beyonce ended up serenading me HAPPY BIRTHDAY ("...where's my boy from America?...").    We love you ALWAYS, Yvette! Also from Bey's team, Scott Nylund....... and a host of special guests - including Solange; Angela Simmons, Arianna Huffington, Gayle King, Russell Simmons, ATL Housewife & supermodel Cynthia Bailey, and, my recurring client Oprah. Just a Tuesday in New York City! "Any questions?" LOL!

RHONDA

From seeing Bey's awesome new doc, which you don't want to miss (PREMIEREs Sat. 2/16 on HBO), Ant & I quickly transitioned to jazz supper club The Iridium to see MISS ROSS, as in RHONDA ROSS-KENDRICKS who - as always and of late - performed a brilliant set of her own songs and some awesome covers (Last Wednesday, I enjoyed MISS DIANA ROSS at a sold-out one-nighter in Houston at the Arena Theater). We have enjoyed seeing RHONDA back on stage - in her light. And what a LIGHT of LOVE and WOMEN EMPORMENT! GO RHONDA! On this night, her two dads were in the house: Berry Gordy, Motown Musical's own...and Bob Ellis! Was great to chat with Mr. Gordy briefly. Fun night... and so EXCITED to see Motown: The Musical (I told him). Here I am with his daughter and Motown's LEGENDARY MIRACLE, Claudette Robinson, Smokey's ex-wife.

BRIGHTER THAN THE SUN

My friend Olivia Scott – integrated marketing consultant (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-EZXnCGT7iM) – reached out on behalf of a charity recording that promises to be “Brighter Than The Sun”. In fact, that’s its title. The Global Relief Song for Hurricane Sandy & Typhoon Bopha is sung  by world renowned acid jazz UK band Incognito and powerhouse NJ vocalist Kelli Sae (formerly of Incognito & Count Basic). It launches globally Tuesday, February 19… and sets out to be an entertainment fundraising driver to rebuild communities left devastated from Hurricane Sandy & Typhoon Bopha. One hundred percent of the song’s net proceeds will benefit disaster relief charities Rebuilding Together and UNICEF UK. Per the success -- 20MM copies sold – of African famine relief song “We Are The World, experience has proven that people genuinely want to help others, yet many don’t feel they can or know how with so little themselves. This song which is only $1.29/.79€ provides people an opportunity to participate in the necessary rebuilding of these communities. Per CNN.com, Hurricane Sandy affected the homes of over 200K families and Typhoon Bopha left 1.2MM families displaced, leaving significant work still to be done. For this reason we chose two credible charities respected for their work in restoring communities and assisting victims of disaster, Rebuilding Together & UNICEF UK. PLEASE BE THE DIFFERENCE: http://www.amazon.com/Brighter-Than-The-Sun/dp/B00B9A7LTI/ref=sr_1_15?s=dmusic&ie=UTF8&qid=1360336757&sr=1-15&keywords=incognito AND https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/brighter-than-sun-feat.-natalie/id598785775?ls=1.

KIM COLES

Shout out to my girl Kim Coles whose WONDERFUL one-woman-show "OH, BUT WAIT! THERE'S MORE..." is ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS and FUNNY! One to - for sure - see when it hits your town or next hits L.A. or NYC! LOVE YOU, KIM!

     i

MOTOWN: THE MUSICAL

Enjoyed an EXCLUSIVE FIRST LOOK at "MOTOWN: THE MUSICAL" (www.MotownTheMusical.com)  #GetReadyBroadway #ChryslerMotown WHAT WONDERFUL EXCERPTS! THEY WERE DREAMY AND TRULY SPARKLED! CAN'T WAIT TO SEE THE WHOLE SHOW! Of course, I love all things MOTOWN: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2009/3/26/people-say-im-the-life-of-the-party.html & MISS ROSS: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/tag/diana-ross.   It seems that after everyone else has taken creative license on Berry Gordy's story (including his romance with Miss Ross), that he and Miss Ross will finally OWN their story in this MUST-SEE MUSICAL! PREVIEWS begin March 11, 2013 and Opening Night is April 14, 2013. The Book is by Berry Gordy, Jr. based on the book "To Be Loved" and features songs from the Legendary Motown Catalogue. In the house: Rhonda Ross Kendrick (who will be doing her part for the Gordy/Ross legacy as she performs a show of her beautiful songs at The Triad on November 5th. Come out and join us! www.triadnyc.com/); Gordon Chambers (who reminded me of his birthday show - Midnight - at the Blue Note on October 13^th: http://www.bluenote.net/newyork/schedule/moreinfo.cgi?id=10431); My girl Jacquie Lee who worked her integrating marketing magic on Broadway’s recent “Streetcar Named Desire” (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/tag/streetcar-named-desire) introduced me to Chrystler executive Justin Byrd, who is the brains behind a synergy that will entertain and promote the show and the music’s legacy over the next few months. With Chrysler lending its branding and integrated marketing power to "Motown: The Musical", we're all promised a ride as magical as the one Berry Gordy and TEAM MOTOWN continue to take us on today. Stay tuned.  Marcus Canty from X Factor (will release his debut EP aptly titled, This…Is Marcus Canty on October 30th. For more info: http://www.MarcusCantyOfficial.com, http://www.twitter.com/IAmMarcusCanty.com, and http://www.facebook.com/OfficialMarcusCanty.com). Suzanne DePasse; my girl Marcia Pendelton who is on Team "Motown: The Musical", working her marketing/audience development magic. - audience; my girl Jacque Reid; Hoda Kofi from TODAY (The 10am hour); Gayle King; my friend Caliaf St-Aubyn who is in the cast; Marva Hicks who is in the show; L.A. Reid (X Factor) and wife Erika; Claudette Robinson, former Miracle and first wife of Smokey Robinson who was also in the house; famous former manager of Diana Ross; Supremes; Temptations: Shelly Berger; The Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin; Emilio Sosa, costume designer of "Motown: The Musical". I had the chance to interview on the stage of one of his last projects, "By The Way, Meet Vera Stark" starring Sanaa Lathan; the Legendary Valerie Simpson; and a host of my nearest and dearest friends. I'M SO EXCITED FOR THIS SHOW! GET READY BROADWAY!

DON’T SLEEP WITH T.J. HOLMES

I’m hoping for a call back now that I’ve done a test taping of “DON’T SLEEP! Hosted by T.J. Holmes” (as an on-cam “pop culture analyst” on his round-table – also adorned with fellow talking heads: Comedian Sherrod Small; Tiffany Shorter; and Issa Rae. We talked all things pop culture & politics – including: Ann Romney on LENO; “Gay Marriage: Will Blacks sit out the election?”; Celebrity Endorsements: Helpful? Hurtful?; Brooklyn Nets Cheerleaders New Uniforms; etc. WHAT A GREAT SHOW & A GREAT PRODUCTION TEAM! Everyone felt like family and some are – including producer Nichole Andrews Shellman, muse for my recent CNN.com piece (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2012/8/7/my-girls.html). And one of my BFFs Q (on tresses). And Unique (on make-up). “DON’T SLEEP!” premieres October 1st and will run Monday-Thursday at 11pm. For more info on BET and “Don’t Sleep!” check out http://www.bet.com/ and http://www.bet.com/shows/new-shows/dont-sleep-tj-holmes.html.  CONGRATS to TJ who I’ve had the pleasure of knowing through the National Association of Black Journalists (www.NABJ.org). GREAT GUY! CLASS ACT! AND FUNNY!!!!! It’s going to be MUST-SEE and a great way for us to be informed and entertained – at once! I look forward to return visit(s)!

BEING MARY JANE & URBAN WORLD FILM FESTIVAL

The 16th Annual Urbanworld Film Festival presented by BET Networks opened last week at AMC 34th Street with the BET Premiere Cinema film 'Being Mary Jane,' an original made for television movie and pilot. On hand to celebrate this world premiere was the film's lead star Gabrielle Union along with cast members Tika Sumpter and Richard Brooks and my friends AKA writer/director powerhouse couple Salim and Mara Brock Akil. BET top execs Debra Lee (Chairman and CEO), Loretha Jones (President of Original Programming), Jeanine Liburd (Exec Pres. of Corporate Communications) and Connie Orlando (VP, Original Programming) were also in the house to present the film, which my date, buddy Carl Nelson, and I loved. It seemed the packed house love it too! ESSENCE entertainment director Cori Murray moderated the cast Q&A afterward. Then, we all went to the Gaansevort Hotel in NYC’s Meatpacking district for an after-set on its rooftop. Others in the mix:  Jacque Reid, Harriette Cole, Twinkie Byrd (casting director, "Being Mary Jane"), Susan Fales-Hill, Jennifer Williams (VH1, "Basketball Wives"), Karen Gravano (VH1, "Mobb Wives"), Taimak (actor, The Last Dragon), Stacy Spikes (founder, Urbanworld), and Gabrielle Glore (executive producer, Urbanworld).

SHAGGY & SHELLY ANN FRASER-PRYCE

Shout out to Ant's and my sister friend Sabrina Coleman who - with her Pansophy PR FIRM - brought a wonderful group of people together at Private East Side Manhattan home of Ambassador Brenda Johnson. The occasion was to unveil plans for The American Friends of Jamaica (and Executive Director Caron S. Chung) - a foundation close to my heart for the work I've done producing tribute videos for The American Foundation for the University of the West Indies over the last two years: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2011/1/27/live-out-louder.html. AFJ's 2012 Hummingbird Gala is scheduled for October 25, 2012. Here to help signal the occasion: Jamaica's 2012 Gold Medalist Shelly Ann Fraser Pryce (who signed a pair of NIKEs that will be auctioned off for the awesome charity event); MR. LOVAH-LOVAH HIMSELF, the BOMBASTIC Shaggy; my girlfriends (circa our GERALDO days), Debbie Mitchell (www.thebloggerconnection.com) and Lora Wiley (www.citizenbrooklyn.com), and my NABJ/BET sister Deborah Skinner. For more information on how you can be a part of this amazing effort which benefits so many Jamaicans in need, please kindly go to www.theafj.org. Afterwards, we reunited Sabrina briefly with her Mario who is responsible for introducing us all.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

Shout out to my favorite nephew! He’s 24! YIKES! I LOVE YOU, Herman L. Riley III.

And we got a recent birthday toast (and bite) in with our friend, birthday boy Mike! Tao was our celebration spot, which doubled as a long-overdue delight! Hadn’t been to Tao in a minute!

TRENDING PIC OF THE WEEK (CIRCA 1984)

A BLAST FROM THE PAST sent this to my FACEBOOK and many had lots to say! LOL! YES, I PLAYED TROMBONE from 5th grade to Freshman year (first semester) in college. This picture is from Freshman Year in high school.  I not only played trombone (first chair typically), but I went on to be the Band Captain my Senior Year at Windsor Forest High School (when all of our bands were voted SUPERIOR on the STATE LEVEL(s) i.e. marching & symphony). And i even brought my trombone to Morehouse and actually joined the Marching Maroon Tigers alongside the Morehouse College Glee Club. Clearly, we know which won out as I chose not to do both. From there, I even kept my trombone in tact and with me, but - at some point - my brother 'borrowed' it to play in our 'church shout band'... and - let's just say - I never saw MY TROMBONE again! LOL! 

To get a more comprehensive view of ‘… the life of Riley…’ over these last few weeks, you’ll have to check out these pictures: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=172479&id=662073736&l=697d432cda

AND these pictures:

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=175899&id=662073736&l=a146c5cf54

Consider the rest of this entry as excerpts – POSTCARDS FROM THE EDGE, if you will. It’s been quite busy, but fruitful. ENJOY!

NEW FRONTIER

A few weeks back, my nephew graduated from ‘our’ alma mater Morehouse College in Atlanta. A few days after that, he and his roommate Harrison came up to find their new digs as they both have snagged post-college gigs in NYC. I pulled from my repository to help them secure options of which they went with one of them… in Harlem. We worked up an appetite on both days – going to Amy Ruth the first day and Dinosaur (also in Harlem) on the next day (with their fellow college mate Chris).

DIANA IN CHICAGO

DIANA ROSS led me back to Chicago. After I’d been there for four or so weeks on that special project, I wasn’t pining to be back there. But when friend Sally Lou snagged tix to take my girls  Itika, Jakki, and me to the show, I made it my business to be there. I flew into Midway Chicago where – as I waited on Chicago Carl to pick me up – I ran into DC-based singer Easy Evans about whom I’ve written in my blog (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2010/3/24/nothing.html). We'd never met but knew each other’s faces via the blog. Chicago Carl took me to Leona's for a lunch of Italian (lasagna, pizza, wings, etc.). I then popped by Jessie Dean where Carl is a hairstylist to see all the ladies there. Then, Itika and Jakki scooped me up and we went to meet up with Sally Lou at The Wit's rooftop (for cocktails) before show time. In a nutshell, DIANA was FABULOUS (again). The show was SOLD OUT! CHICAGO LOVES DIANA! And DIANA SHOWS SHE LOVES CHICAGO! Afterwards Sally Lou, Itika, and I had a quick nightcap at Jbar which was hosting a “Sex & The City 2” party. From there, I went to Morehouse BFF Eddie's place for a good night's sleep. When I woke up the next morning (before he took me to the airport), Eddie performed a special send-off gift: a recital of the music he's been learning as he takes piano lessons. Keep doing it, Eddie!

BACK IN NYC: SILK ELECTRIC

Got the news that Gary Coleman had passed away before I got back to NYC. Sad to hear, especially the circumstances surrounding the troubled star’s life since he gained success in the late ‘70s, asking: "WHAT 'CHU TALKIN' BOUT, WILLIS?" R.I.P. GARY...! You brought LOTS of LAUGHTER our way. GREAT LEGACY! Once back in NYC, I met up with Ant, our buddy Theo, Ant's work friend Kemar for dinner at Vinyl (with fab album-cover menus - including Diana's "Silk Electric" (album with "Muscles") and another favorite Culture Club's "Colour By Numbers". They even had my DIANA’s “Bob Mackie original” doll in a display case on the stairway. Great to hang out with the fellows. And great to be back with Ant, though I'd only been gone for a day. From there, a nightcap at DESIRE in the Village... and a late-night bite at the Rt. 4 DINER in NJ.

SEX & THE CITY 2

Ern and I have been big "Sex & The City 2" fans since the beginning. We all went to see the first one a few years back. Of course, there was lots of blitz this go around! Some find that the sequel didn’t meet expectations. My line: “It was good enough, if just too much.” My NABJ sister friend (and proud mother of a Spelmanite Erin) Bonnie Newman Davis asked me to comment in her latest piece for The Grio (http://www.thegrio.com/entertainment/lack-of-diversity-doesnt-diminish-sex-and-the-city-appeal.php). I had more to say than was used in the piece – including these points when asked if I thought the “Sex & The City” franchises lack of diversity diminished its appeal – most pointedly to African American women. Some of my other thoughts include:

1.” Black women in pop culture have historically LOVED to dress up, get together, and enjoy something on the big or small screen that reflects their fantasies and sometimes their realities. If not "Mahogany", "Girlfriends", or "Waiting to Exhale" which - as Black pop vehicles - are few and far between, what else is there to fellowship around but a phenomenon like "Sex & The City" and its much-anticipated sequel? This, since the economic playing field between black women and white women has leveled off (if just a bit - even in this recession). So, Jimmy Choo and Manolo Blahnik aren't just for Carrie Bradshaw anymore.”

2. “Black women DID carry "Sex & The City". It's called "Girlfriends". And though Joan Carol Clayton may have borrowed some of her Christian Louboutins from her portraying actress Tracee Ellis Ross' closet (or perhaps Tracee's mom Diana), this show was as much appointment television for many Black women (and men) as "Sex & The City”".

3.  "The premise of "Sex & The City" is a group of white woman dealing with the shortage of men in New York City. Black women have been experiencing this drought of Black men for years. So, misery loves company, especially when it is sporting haute couture and sipping on a Cosmopolitan."

4. ""Let's Talk About Pep" explored the "Sex & The City" dynamic with women of color. And it did well in the reality genre which is popular right now. So, it's a universal epidemic with which most women identify."

5. "I do find it fascinating that Black women - for the most part - haven't been turned off by the lack of diversity and its weak attempts at incorporating color into the mix i.e. Blair Underwood (the show); Jennifer Hudson (the movie); etc. (but likely no etc.)"

MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND AND MCCAFES

FUN TIMES at our girlfriend Danielle and her husband Bernard's place in Metutchen, NJ. We karaoke’d all day long. Then, all night long. I performed Debarge’s “All This Love”. Also, the Kate Bush version of “This Woman’s Work”. Ant and I did our favorites. Ern even joined me on "Fame". A few days later, I popped by one of NYC's new McCafes. Not just to grab a #1. But I was invited by host and friend Bevy Smith (and buddies Tracy Anderson & Iman Jefferson). This was an event to promote McDonald's remix on its menu and select locations. Industry friends Karu Daniels & Marcia Cole were also in the house as well as BET talent Alesha Renee. 3 McFrappes, 1 McSmoothy, and a 3-way sampling of McAngus Wraps later, I joined Ant & his Denver buddy Justin for sushi. We ran into American Idol's Andrew Garcia. You'll recall, he did the unplugged version of Paula Abdul's "Straight Up". He'll be on the tour this summer. NICE GUY!

SHOOTING PILOT

Beyond the spot revenue projects, I just wrapped shooting a pilot over two days - one in Philly; the other in NYC. The Philadelphia shoot took place at Aci Nae Boutique (http://acinae.com/). What gratitude for some great friends (all of whom donated their services i.e. James, Andrea, Max, Valee, Ant, et al.). It was a long, fulfilling day of making (something) happen. Then, we shot phase two a few days later. BIG THANKS to my friends Ted Gibson; Jason Backe; Dr. Shirley Madhere; and the host of many - including my friends who donated their time/resources and/or double'd as our production crew; models; stylists/make-up artists; etc. to make Day 2 of this pilot I'm hosting a REALITY. ALSO, CONGRATS to Ted on his new partnership with The American Association of Cosmetology School: 'Beauty Changes Lives'. (STAY TUNED for more on that and 'REAL HOUSEWIVES OF DC's Mary Amons - who was in the house with her BFF on the show, our Jason Backe, celebrity colorist for the stars.)Now, we are identifying a pro bono editor before we begin taking pitch meetings and also going viral to see what synergies we can create. Stay tuned.And afterwards, we celebrated. Cocktails. Food. Karaoke. And more karaoke. And more karaoke. 

RAVE REVIEWS

Last weekend, Ant & I joined my boy Caleb at The Hudson Hotel in the city. We were joined by CC; Ant's girlfriend Manivone; and her cousin Vilay. We did some more dancing downtown before going to Cafeteria for breakfast. The sun was up and at 'em when we got home on this particular day. But it didn’t stop us from heading out to New Rochelle for a lovely summer dinner gathering at my Amazing Grace Nichole’s home. Great to hang with Cynthia, cousin Jeffrey, Seattle friend Patrick, Danielle, Melony, and more (missed CJ). This, before Ant & I went to see "The Lion King" on Broadway (again). Then, we went to Stone Rose Lounge in the Time Warner Center. It is there where we celebrated our girlfriend Katrina's birthday. Happy Birthday, Kat! Caleb joined us here as well. Then, Bar Sepia in Brooklyn to connect to former journalism buddy Errol followed by L.A. and Denver's own Pablo at another BK spot or two in Williamsburgh.  

THANKS AND FELLOWSHIP

So, Manivone invited us to her Brooklyn digs to enjoy some amazing FOH (broth, noodles, thinly-sliced beef, shrimp, etc.) as prepared by her Denver-based cousin Villay (who has been helping us shoot this pilot). The Denver BK gang was in the house! And then, we returned the favor to Villay who has been itching for some soul food since she got here. So, Amy Ruth it was (even though we wanted to all try out The Famous - NEW - Pink Tea Cup, which opened this week). Afterwards we joined buddy Brian at Native where we ran into many interesting folks - including DJ Malcolm Jackson; my NABJ friend/Great great granddaughter of Madame CJ Walker, A'Lelia Bundles (who had some good info to share with Ant and me about Miss Jessie's Original (http://www.missjessies.com/) and a great period fashion exhibit at the Museum of the City of NY (www.mcny.org)); Winter Antiques Show's Eula C. Johnson who shared awesome tales of her long friendship with Civil Rights Activist Bayard Rustin who took a backseat as he orchestrated much of the movement on behalf of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and so many more (He organized The March on Washington, for example). This, because he was gay. Always out and unapologetic. But smart enough to know that - at that time - his orientation may have confused the efforts that were being made to gain civil rights for Black people. I've studied Bayard Rustin and consider him a personal hero. Luis Andrade; and more. Then, buddy Candice Harper threw a summer soiree at her new Harlem digs. I took the time to pose with the Fiercee Award that she designed (She's now prop stylist for 'Wendy'). Good times with friends - old and new, eating well; great conversation; and 'Mahogany' in the background (on TV ONE).

TONY AWARDS & BLACK 2: BROADWAY

Tony Awards splendor in NYC... and Alyson Williams was among the singers who performed at the Black 2: Broadway Tony Awards viewing party program which I had the privilege to script!!! In the 11th hour, I got an invite to go to the Tony Awards at Radio City (Thanks Carl), but I stuck to my plans to attend the Black 2:Broadway viewing party at G Uptown in Harlem including tributes (that I wrote) to: Broadway classic "Sophisticated Ladies"; my friend Ken Roberson (choreographer-director extraordinaire); and AUDELCO. Hosts included "Passing Strange" star Coleman Domingo. Also, friend/Broadway star Adrian Bailey co-hosted. And it was good to see L.A. girlfriend Lauren Tobin who - you'll recall - was one of my hosts last year in Los Angeles while I was there on an extended project ("Monica: Still Standing"). She is in town with client Coleman Domingo, who Ant and I just LOVE from our Broadway favorite "Passing Strange". And one of his castmates, Tony-nominated De'Adre Aziza joined him on this special night.Also, Lauren was there with another client The National Newspaper Publishers Association - an event to which she'd invite me that was scheduled later in the week. More on that later. NYC publicist Gwen Quinn; my Karu Daniels and Bridget Bland; Stephen Beasley (Vocalist in The sbP - a group that's doing great things this summer: www.sonicbids.com/thesbp and http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z4BSCV-DEWw&feature=youtube_gdata); and many more. Miss Kimberly Nichole performed as well. Love her (www.kimberlynichole.com). She is managed by my friend Anshia who made possible an opportunity for me to work with Mary J. Blige. Stay tuned for those details later in this writing. But also: Kimberly Nichole got to perform for "Ashford & Simpson" back in November. And so did I. Earlier, good to hang out with Theo and Victoria at VINYL for brunch. Victoria does brows and more in Beverly Hills at Anastasia… and hosted Ant and me a time or two last summer when I was working in L.A. Always good to see her!

ARETHA RETURNS TO THE APOLLO

Apollo Theater's charity benefit and after-party was a blast. Jamie Foxx hosted. Angela Bassett & Leslie Uggams did a great tribute to Lena Horne (w/'Lena' music director Linda Twine); Chris Tucker and Floetry's Marsha Ambrosia ("Butterflies") on MJ Tribute; Danny Glover; Estelle; & Sharon Jones;  and Donnie McClurkin. And so many great friends after - including NBC 4's David Ushery ("The Debrief"); his wife Isabel; VH1 senior news correspondent Janell Snowden; Malik Yoba; and a host of others. FUN NIGHT! The next day proved a social whirlwind. There was the NYC Pride event at City Hall (hosted by Wendy Williams). We attended with Charlie T; friend Andrea; and others. Afterwards, Mary J. Blige/Catherine Malandrino fashion show at MoMA. Great to see many friends there -including stylists Tai Beauchamp and June Ambrose; Then, debut of Richard Harris Inc. and re-launch of American Chang - all by my favorite designer R. Scott French who I have known for a few years now. American Chang – in fact – gave my blog “A Day in the Life of Riley: pop culture & possibilities” its “Golden Poodle Award” as “The Best Way To Spend A Lazy Afternoon” (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2006/12/22/wake-up-and-dream.html).And Ant has continued to pull from their respective collections over the years - for my TV/public appearances and for everyday looks. I LOVE R. Scott French and now the new line Richard Harris. Plus, my friend Mykel C. Smith of Mykel C. Smith Creative created the night while other friend Ron Smith ensured I was in the house (After set at Hotel AKA). And Ant made sure to pull some pieces from the new line for me to try on as we will soon be securing updates to my wardrobe.

KELLY ROWLAND AND A PARADE OF STARS

Another fun night (after a hard day of work): KELLY ROWLAND listening set at HUDSON Hotel (www.kellyrowland.com). Ant couldn't make it as he had a quick trip to Denver to make. But my girl Andrea joined me. Plus, the burden of proof was mine as Ant has a pic with Beyonce (from when he took me to Manila for my birthday to see her); Kelly (from an event he attended last year in NYC while I was in LA); and Michelle (from her opening night in Broadway's "Chicago").And he has Letoya Luckett.  I - on the other hand - have Beyonce (of course); Michelle (of course); and Letoya (from the pre-DC3 line-up). Now, I love Ms. Luckett, but I knew I wasn't going to stop until I got my KELLY pic. And now, I'm complete (unless I'm going to go on a search for LaTavia (though it's worth noting that I've yet to get my PIX with DIANA, MARY, nor CINDY nor LYNDA nor SHERRI and the other rotating SUPREMES memebers. MARY? MISS ROSS? LOL!).GAYLE KING interviewed her on the new UNIVERSAL-MOTOWN project of which we heard 5 tunes. Also in the house: my Bevy Smith, Marlynn Snyder; Shia; Star Jones; Patrik-Ian Polk; etc. After, Andrea and I joined Jacque Reid at Time Warner Center for NABJ event. Great to see my NABJ peeps – including President Kathy Times; my mentor Darius Walker; and many more. It is an EXCITING time for NABJ (www.nabj.org) as San Diego is being decked out as the backdrop for our upcoming convention at the end of July. I Chair the NABJ A&E Task Force and we have some exciting programming ahead - from professional development panels, like "Reality TV: Is This Where The Jobs Are?" to "Writing Scripts for TV - Primetime Sitcoms and Dramas" to a special reception; TV & film previews; etc. And Morehouse BFF Michael K. Watts and I are co-producing an opening event for the convention that includes an opening plenary featuring DR. OZ. Stay tuned for more info on that... or click on www.nabj.org. From the NABJ mixer(s), Andrea and I transitioned to Tori Spelling book party. She’s so SWEET! I chatted her up a little about her ‘gay icon’ status. She talked to me about her new book "Uncharted TerriTORI," her third book, which is outselling her second book after just two days. GO TORI! And in the house: Village People’s first cowboy Randy Jones; and Little House on the Prairie’s Alison Arngrim who too has a memoir that includes tales of her days as Nellie Oleson. It’s titled “Confessions Of A Prairie Bitch”.

MEN’S SUMMIT

http://dysonshow.org/?p=1721  So if you click on this link (and listen between 13:46 - 31:27), you’ll hear my contribution to Rev. Dr. Michael Eric Dyson’s MEN’S SUMMIT – an interesting, introspective, and critical look at MANHOOD as we segue into a FATHER’S DAY weekend. I enjoyed being at the roundtable (held my own, I think), and I am assured a return invite.

FFAWN: BEING THE DIFFERENCE

My work in helping produce the script and evening for Mary J. Blige’s FFAWN went very well – to the tune of $150,000 (approximately). The prior picture shows me with FFAWN's Anshia (who too manages the aforementioned Kimberly Nichole). Cipriani was the elegant, well-appointed backdrop. And according to guest and social networking buddy Lynn Whitfield, “This event ran smoothly… and was well-paced! GREAT JOB!” Her words. THANKS LYNN! Others in the house: Mary J (though the pic above is a file pic from a listening party she hosted a year and change ago); hosts Deborah Roberts; Taraji P. Henson; and Idris Elba (and presenters Queen Latifah, etc.) – all of whom married their talents to my words and created a really fun night. Plus, I got to see many old friends and associates – including Chemene (‘Today’); Quon (BET); Tai; Eunice; and many others. I got to meet Melanie Fiona as well. Special shout out to: Madeline Nelson-Small, Executive Director of FFAWN. Here, she, my friend ELEW (who performed), and I pose for my final pic of the night. CONGRATS, MADELINE! GREAT TO WORK WITH YOU! THANKS FOR THE OPPORTUNITY!

LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE

I got some great chat time with Berry Gordy.

He was honored at the first annual Legacy of Excellence awards per the National Newspaper Publishers Association of which former Savannah mayor (first Black)/publisher of Black paper The Herald Floyd Adams is a member.

 I also went to middle and high school with his daugther Khristi. And former Mayor Adams was in my father's wedding back in 1996 (while Mayor).

 It was really cool to see a Savannah icon in NYC. When we posed for this picture, he was wrapping up a chat with former NYC Mayor David Dinkens (The Big Apple's First Black Mayor... and only to date, I think).

 My Sidra accompanied me to the dinner which was put on – in varying roles – by my L.A. friend Lauren Tobin; “Monica: Still Standing” AD and buddy Shannon Love; and host/journalist Michelle Miller.

Afterwards, friend of mutual friends Tichina Arnold – a total joy – invited Sid and me to join she and friends at Woo Lae Oak Restaurant (creative Korean cuisine) in SOHO.

We then invited her to join us at my girl Anshia’s client Kimberly Nichole’s Joe’s Pub show.

Our Kevin-Anthony (from Black 2: Broadway was - of course - in the house).

Kimberly Nichole gave full-out DRAMA! But she followed her fab entrance and extremely intense, opening songs with some awesome material from her project: "The Yellow Brick Journey” (Now re-released and expanded as “YBJ Reloaded”).

She too covered MJ’s “Dirty Diana” and Gnarls Barkley’s “Crazy”. Ashford & Simpson were in the house. And Tichina truly enjoyed Kimberly Nichole which means a lot since Tichina can blow the roof off of any and every venue in which I've seen her. Actually, she is going to be doing more singing in L.A. - so stay tuned. Then, Tichina asked us to join her at Griffin Lounge in the Meatpacking District. And VOILA! Another GREAT NIGHT!

LAST SUPPER

Oh! And you know that Spicy Chick-Fil-A sandwich is out! Ant, Ern, and I tried it out! I love ALL THINGS CHICK-FIL-A! Though I am SPICY intolerant, I may have to suffer periodically as it's quite tasty! BON APPETIT!

Ant and I have just returned from Detroit where we had the privilege of being guests of Ms. Aretha Franklin at her birthday party. The journey to get there wasn’t a logical one but a fun one. You see ‘what had happened was’: my friend Greg Dunmore about whom I write all the time is my friend and Co-Chair for the National Association of Black Journalists’ Arts & Entertainment Task Force (www.nabj.org). We’ve been friends for well over a decade now. And Greg knows everybody – including Ms. Franklin and many in her camp. Apparently, “The Queen of Soul” enjoyed seeing a novelty YOU TUBE act "Secret Trois" (www.myspace.com/secrettrois)/(www.youtube.com/user/SecretTrois)

on TYRA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S26JGkjAUMQ) and wanted them booked for her show. Her folks got in touch with me to see if I could find them. I let my fingers do the talking via My Space and You Tube, and the next thing you know is I’m being asked to represent these three, beautiful, full-figured women as they work through contracts, set lists, travel, and other logistics to be able to give a command performance for ‘The Queen’. Shelia, the mother of one of the members Shenelle, was my partner for each step of this process. She helped us assess many things while the ladies practiced and practiced and practiced. They rehearsed really hard and thoroughly to ensure things would pop off something fabulous for Re (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7uuxQFEOzcc). A month would pass by quickly and it was time to head on to Motown, also the home of another undeniable diva, my Diana Ross, who too has a birthday in the neighborhood of Ms. Franklin (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9uuLpQgv7fU). But my sources tell me Miss Ross went the route of Blockbuster (by way of L.A.) to celebrate her special 65th birthday: http://www.thelifefiles.com/diana-ross-goes-to-blockbuster-video-on-her-birthday/.

On a snowy Friday morning, Ant accompanied me as I needed him to chronicle the weekend as he often does for the blog. Also, he worked closely with the audio guy on cues, fade outs, and reprises while I dealt with “Secret Trois” directly. Our limo driver Vincent picked us up and offered us his own ‘reflections’ of Detroit as he was born and bred. He says he went to school with The Enchantments (www.soulwalking.co.uk/Enchantment.html). His classmates were also the members of Dawn, Joyce Vincent Wilson and Telma Hopkins (as in Addy from “Gimme A Break” and Mona’s mother Phyllis from “Half & Half”) – both of whom sang behind Tony Orlando. Vincent says his Motown favorites are Marvin Gaye, The Temptations, and Smokey Robinson (who – with Berry Gordy – is coaching the “American Idol” (www.americanidol.com) cast. It's a “Motown 50” theme night (www.motown50.com/)). We absolutely LOVED our hotel, The Mariott Reinaissance (www.marriott.com) which soars 73 floors high, offering a view of the Detroit River which separates Detroit from Windsor, Canada.

We got the chance to meet “Secret Trois” and Shelia for the first time on this night, though we all felt like long-lost cousins since we’d been in touch non-stop via phone, texting, email, and all other modes of cyber-communication over the last month. From the Marriott’s lounge we got everything prepped for the big show the next day. The ladies – Shenelle, Brittany, and Ashley – were a total joy with which to work. They were sweet and humble; smart and insightful; fun and loving. And Shenelle’s mother Shelia was ‘the bomb’! We LOVED them. After we took some time to get to know them, I made sure the girls were going to get a good night’s rest while Greg alerted us we had one more stop to make before he, Ant, and I could call it a night.

One of Greg’s clients and friends, noted performance artist Ziam, wanted to show us all a good time. He's quite the social and artistic muse of Detroit's social scene. And one of the nicest guys you could ever meet. I blogged about him before and we’ve spoken on the phone via Greg many times as Ziam is my spiritual Diana Ross soul mate. He performs all over Detroit in high-concept shows that explore sexuality and glamour – always an electric mix of fashion, song and movement (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/11/12/manifest-destiny-destination-manila.html). The spot is a loft space near which neo-soulster Dwele lives. Everyone was so nice and we enjoyed lovely buffet of food; flowing cocktails; and the best music. DJ Darryl proved himself a ‘house music’ genius as he rocked the best remixes of Miss Ross and her song architects Ashford & Simpson – including my favorite “The Boss” (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2D2L0SspO7s). And you must know that had Ziam, the many attendees, and me working that dance floor overtime!!! Say what you will about Detroit, but we were having a GREAT TIME so far!

Earlier, Greg had taken us to Royal Oak, Michigan to enjoy a Belgian-inspired bite at Bastone Brewery (www.bastone.net). And though Greg would offer up a well-lit tour of Detroit’s finest landmarks before our weekend wrapped, we did a bulletproof, drive-by version through Diana’s childhood home The Brewster Projects; Hitsville; Garden Court (which is supposed to be Martin’s apartment on the hit sitcom); WGPR (home of Shaun Robinson’s start in the TV business – www.shaunrobinson.com); and on and on and on. I LOVE DETROIT – and so does Ziam, though he joked when I told him we went through the Brewster Projects “Did you get cut while you were riding through the Brewster Projects?” he asked with a cheshire laugh.  Then, he finished his line: “Well, I hope you told them ‘If you must cut me, make it in a “D” – for “Diana”!!!!!’. Isn’t he a hoot? (Of course, I’d have been honored to be cut in an “A” for “Aretha” or “Q” for the “Queen” if cutting is at all necessary and inside of my reverence for that awesome diva!).

For rehearsal, the next day, the ladies were on time and ready to go through the paces to ensure their royal performance reigned supreme: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pZ2385evPmY. We worked out their entrances and the pacing of their set (which was comprised of routines that they’d performed before and a new song that they put a routine together for Ms. Franklin). We figured out where we’d put their mic and the costumes that they’d be adding to the number they enter in. And the folks at Seldom Blues (www.seldomblues.com) – an elegantly appointed supper club in the Renaissance Center – were awesome and accommodating. Owner Frank Taylor was not only responsible for the delicious spread of steak, lobster, spinach, etc. on which we nibbled at Ms. Franklin’s party, but he also was responsible for some brunch that Greg, Ant, and I had at “Detroit’s Breakfast House & Grill” (www.detroitbreakfasthouse.net). Because of Greg, “Secret Trois” even got some press that I can’t wait to share with you at a later date. Greg and Joel produced a piece on them – giving the ladies their first experience with interviewing and talking points. Though they were on their own for the interview (notwithstanding a few coaching points I offered them), I did produce and script their set which included:

1. Dramatic entrance from stage left (They weren’t seen at all before they hit the stage)

2. “SECRET TROIS" is doing 1^st routine to an excerpted "Miss Independent” by Neyo (special request for Ms. Franklin)

3. ASHLEY banter (paraphrased): "Thank you so much! We are "SECRET TROIS". [She introduces the other ladies and herself by name]. Ms. Franklin, we are so happy that you saw us on THE TYRA BANKS SHOW. And we are even happier that you liked what you saw. Nothing against TYRA - nor MTV where we also did a little bit - but being here to perform for you, THE QUEEN OF SOUL, is - by far - SECRET TROIS' HIGHLIGHT – the icing on the cake!!!! (To The Audience) NOW, ARE THERE ANY SINGLE LADIES OUT THERE? WELL, PUT YOUR HANDS UP!!!!!!!!!!!!" (their cue for their now-famous “Single Ladies” routine)

4. "Single Ladies” - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7uuxQFEOzcc

5. "SECRET TROIS" receive their applause; quickly get their tutus and wrap them around their waists. ASHLEY picks up her banter: "Ms. Franklin! We're sure you can appreciate that we women here in SECRET TROIS are what some might call MODERN! We have our blackberries, our YOU TUBE channel, a MYSPACE page-per-lady (and one for the group). And don't forget FACEBOOK! But we appreciate something about you that we researched ---- through GOOGLE! It's that you have an appreciation for the classic artforms like OPERA and BALLET. Now, we won't sing an ARIA for you right now (We'll leave that to you!). But for our next and final routine, we will showcase our TUTUs as a shout out to you - OUR FAVORITE DIVA!!!!"

6. "SECRET TROIS" performs its final routine:"DIVA" BY BEYONCE - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=niEfEdvLWI0

7. Then, “Single Ladies” reprises as they leave the stage

We opted out of having them perform these numbers:

"CIRCUS" BY BRITNEY SPEARS - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2WEQe2IqYwg

"SHAKE TO THE GROUND" - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=47SGfpTXf1Y

Ms. Franklin had a smile on her face all up and through their performance. She was truly pleased... and though the girls were being critical of this flub and that trip (none of which I noticed), they were happy that it went over well... and even more happy that it was over. So, they went up to their respective rooms and got changed – so they could enjoy the party and receive their growing following. And Ant and I did the same. Greg and dear friend Earline who too was a key part of the planning escorted us through the room to meet Detroit's finest. Earline also kept me sane through this process (as I’ve never managed anybody nor myself – for that matter – before). I couldn't have done this without Earline's priceless advisement and expertise. It was nice to take in the room. Though we’d already had a nice time with Ms. Franklin, we took a moment to pose with her cake. Aretha commissioned not only a spotlight cake to be designed like the church hat she wore for Obama (a la Mr. Song Millnery - www.mrsongmillinery.com). But she also had mini-versions done as a guest-gift take-away. Too, there was a parade of cakes all decorated in a tribute to her family - including her son Kelf and grandson Jordan - both rappers. Lots of her local celebs were there to toast her - from Judge Mathis to Keith Washington... to MOTOWN legend Martha Reeves (who chirped an impromptu, a cappella Happy Birthday to Ms. Franklin a la her days at the helm of the legendary Vandellas). It was also great to see Greg's mom and star client Ms. Jo Thompson who is heading to New York City to perform her brilliant evening of song and piano. Fantasia was to actually sing it but her flight was delayed.  Kenny Lattimore and Raheim Devaughn serenaded The Queen in their respectively unique and soulful sounds. And another YOU TUBE sensation Iman who did his Obama impression (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-y1OOh6Ezjs) – twice. Luther Vandross' best friend Fonzi Thornton was in the room (wish he would have sung as well). Also there: songwriter/producer Michael Powell (known for work with Anita Baker and others); boxing champ Tommy Hearns (among many of his other colleagues from the ring); and comedian/actor Mike Epps who took some time to pose with the girls. The space featured a bright array of oversized floral centerpieces and a regal ice sculptor in front of which Ant and I did a photo-op. Also, Re commissioned a man-made beach with a crew of NYC models in swimwear - just sitting and standing pretty. "The Queen of Soul" was a gorgeous vision in a white, spaghetti strapped number that was fitted and cinched from bust to waist w/long train of white ostrich feathers. She actually looked nice and elegant. Speaking of elegance, Miss Maxine Powell attended. You'll recall, she headed up Motown's Artist Development - preparing the Motown roster to thrive on-and-offstage. She trained them all to know that they would turn the heads of kings and queens one day.  And of course, Greg wouldn’t let us just call it a night. Actually, Ant and I needed a snack for as plentiful as the buffet was, we weren’t able to hone in on a full meal for all of the work we were doing to ensure Secret Trois’ performance went off without a hitch. So, Como’s Pizzeria (www.buddyspizza.com) was our spot and – boy – was it packed! It set the night off just right!

On the next day, we got some quiet time with friend Earline at her beautiful home and a hometown breakfast at Clique (www.reviews.metroguide.com). (By the way, Earline’s daughter (Aretha’s niece) Crystal is getting ready to launch her own handbag line and a number of other creative wares. Please follow her at www.cfranks.com)). Greg also took Ant and me on our daylight tour of Motown. And I was like a kid in a candy store. We went to the Roostertail (www.roostertail.com/). It is a high-end supper club where Diana and the girls used to perform. Berry Gordy readied them for The Copa at spots like this (en route to New York City). Then, one of the first grand entrances Miss Ross has ever made was here at Cass Tech High School. Miss Ross was Best Dressed and a costume illustration major. Ross’ first press came from The Michigan Chronicle per Rita Griffin, legendary journalist that Greg and I had the privilege to honor as one of our NABJ A&E Task Force “Legacy Award” recipients. Also, for Ant, Greg took us to hang out with artist Tyree Guyton (www.tyreeguyton.com/) and (www.heidelberg.org/). His art is headquartered on a two-block lot. He has artfully turned abandoned houses and vacant lots into polka-dot landscapes, gaily painted faces on car hoods salvaged from scrap yards, brightly-colored, laced shoes suspending from tree branches, etc. It’s raw. It’s animated. It’s rough. It’s childlike. It’s beautiful. And we were thrilled to chat with him. Ant and he got to wax philosophical for a moment about art. Tyree said “Art is like having sex!!!” Well, he sure had my attention at that point. And at closer inspection to his metaphor, it landed. And Greg wouldn’t be Greg without a history lesson – so Hitsville wouldn’t do because I know everything there is to know about that spot. But I didn’t know that The Fisher Theater (www.nederlanderdetroit.com/) is the home of the world premiere of Broadway giants “The Wiz” (choreographed to Tony-winning heights by my friend George Faison)... and “Hello Dolly”. Still, MOTOWN – the building – was my full circle moment. Ant loved it being there as well. From the Berry Gordy street sign... to the stoop out front... to the window showcasing all of my favorite stars (except Ms. Aretha, who many don’t realize was not a MOTOWN Records act)... and the threshold to STUDIO A. It all punctuated the weekend something lovely!!!!

The LORD is surely steering me in a bunch of directions to make ends meet, y'all hear????? And this trip put a little something in my pocket and a provided me a lot of something for my sometimes increasingly  depleting morale. As I count my blessings, I'm reminded that - as many things challenge me - many things are working and I'm just allowing it all to work through me to whatever the next frequency will be. THANK YOU “SECRET TROIS”! THANK YOU MOTOWN! THANK YOU, ARETHA FRANKLIN!!!! YOU ARE THE BEST!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!