A DAY IN "THE LIFE OF RILEY"

 

I Can (Watch Tyler Perry's new movie) All By Myself in L.A. and have a BLAST (www.icandobadmovie.com)! Ran into industry buddies Herndon Davis & Regina Robertson. And forgot I was gonna be entertained by Mary J. Blige, Gladys Knight, and Marvin Winans. Won't give it away but it's Tyler's classic formula - REMIXED. I generally enjoyed it! http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/10/11/what-has-pop-culture-done-for-me-lately.html

 

Hung with girlfriend Sidra at her rooftop pool – always the thing to do on a lazy Saturday; however, NYC buddy Ike coordinated via remote the 2^nd part of my day. His best friend is actor Nate Parker (of “Great Debaters” and “Secret Life of Bees” fame). Nate invited me to join he, his wife Sarah (www.sarahdisanto.com) – an awesome designer in her own right; and Ike's friend Cassie Freeman (www.cassiefreeman.com) at Casa Vega (www.casavega.com) in the Valley (great conversation!). Big shout out to Ike for bringing us all together, though he was in NYC. I interviewed Nate a year ago in Chicago as he was promoting “The Secret Life of Bees” and I had a chance to meet him at the NYC premiere of “The Great Debaters”. Found out he and Ike were college buddies sometime thereafter. This is our first time bringing all those tie-ins together as Ike insisted they keep me entertained for a spell during my lonely L.A. blues. And boy did they all put a smile on my face!

 

And for part three of my night, I went to The Church where ?uestlove waxed all things Mi-Jac (Happy BDAY MJ)! (www.walktalkin.com). My girl Zabrina hipped me to that joint. And what a celebration that was! Plus, I hear Michael’s godkid Evan Ross celebrated his 21^st birthday in L.A. the night prior. It took place at "Guys & Dolls" in L.A. Mom Diana reigned supreme (of course). Evan's sisters Tracee and Chudney came along as well as brother Ross. A Mi-Jac megamix reportedly played in honor of Michael who Evan claims was working on some music with him in the studio. (Can't wait to hear what this most prolific actor gives in the music department. Chip off the old block, one might say, coupled with an "angel" - or two - from above... not to mention the 'earth angel' right by his side. 

 

By the way, speaking of MJ, I had a Harvey Levin run-in around Hollywood. And it didn’t take the paparazzi or TMZ for me to spot him.

 

And Sunday, I finally got to see my Tony and Scott (Ed too… but he had come out to play for “Mahogany”). We went to the Abbey and it was quite the place to see and be seen. I ran into NYC buddies Chris and Jared plus new L.A. buddy Joey and the man with the most – lashes - Ja'Maal Buster ('eyelash guru to the stars'): www.jamaalbuster.com. I even got a glimpse of Patrik Ian-Polk and Tyra's glam squad quy, friend Valente (in town to beat Tyra's face for her Daytime Emmy.: But way EXCITED to hang with Tony, Scott, and Ed again (my boyz).

 

I also got to hang out with my Morehouse bro Redic at his art gallery ("Images of you!"). He too is a singer/songwriter; fashion designer; and all-around Renaissance man. Shout out to Spelman sis Tia as well. Low-key, creative, and inspired night with lots more to report come September when he introduces his brand to the world.

 

My buddy Delandis invited me to attend his birthday dinner at 'Sushi Dan on Sunset'. My money is funny, but he told me to come anyway. Funds not an issue and FUN all around by way of Delandis and his very nice friends. He says the gift was having my energy in the mix. I say the gift was mine... Thanks Delandis! http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2009/8/24/do-you-get-what-youre-hoping-for.html

 

So you apparently watched as "Frankie & Neffe" did a 1.5 on BET the other night - the network's 2nd highest reality debut ever (behind "Tiny & Toya" who had the unfortunate lead-in of a post-Michael-Jackson BET Awards). We hear BET has never seen this many viewers at 10:30pm. *SIGH Well, it is one of the projects that kept me on the road (and off the street corner) this summer (ATL and L.A.) - as field & story producer. What a ride! And I lived to tell... and now you can see and judge for yourself:

 

http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2009/8/24/do-you-get-what-youre-hoping-for.html

 

I just completed an assignment for ESSENCE that you can check out in the November issue. It’s a piece of which I’m proud to be a contributor – for what the brand of ESSENCE represents as excellence in journalism goes but also the subject matter (Stay tuned). The project reminds me how proud I am of those in my own circle. I’ll shout some of them out here… randomly:

 

It’s my Dad’s baby brother Bobby’s birthday. HAPPY BIRTHDAY, UNCLE BOBBY! My dad went to Pontiac, Michigan to celebrate with him. Uncle Bobby’s baby boy Chris, my little cousin --- ever the grown man now --- is the Chief Director of All Operations at Sky’s The Limit Community Foundation (www.skysthelimitcf.giving.oficelive.com). Its programs are making a positive impact on the Youth and Young Adults in the Pontiac area. 

 

My Morehouse brother Marcellous (whose fashion shows I’ve had the honor of hosting during our School Daze) is now living his ‘haute couture’ dreams abroad as his Parisian-based TV show has been extended for another season. He co-produces it with a Canadian cable network. Check out his interview with USHER RAYMOND in Paris by CLICKING HERE or by entering the following link: http://www.thefashioninsider.com/video/40.html?lang=EN&meta=Video_Fashion_show_EN_USHER_RAYMOND_BREAKS_SILENCE_ON_DEATH_OFMICHAEL_JACKSON_LANVIN Now if you want to catch his recent interview with FERGI, WILL. I. AM and the rest of the BLACK EYED PEAS and other stars like Milla Jovovich, head on over to the FI² column at the www.TheFashionInsider.com. When you go there, it will automatically ask you to sign in. Just click on the world "OK" and the video will immediately start. He just wrapped a fab vacation which took him to Italy, Slovenia, Switzerland, the French Alps, Croatia, and even to Bosnia-Herzegovina. Now, I’ve gone some awesome places, but come on now… LOL! Still, somewhere in his intercontinental zone (by way of Perry, Georgia), he still thinks of me often – even writing this piece on me a couple of years ago (on my own sense of fashon & style):

 

 FROM WWW.FASHIONWINDOWS.COM by Marcellous Jones 

 

Patrick Riley 

From a solid career foundation in local TV news to current, on-going freelance projects in New York City, Patrick L. Riley is one of New York’s hottest talents. His credentials as a producer are impressive: Good Day Atlanta, Rivera Live!, and others. Over the years, he has collaborated heavily with NBC, BET, I-STYLE TV.COM, CROSSWALKS TV, LEVI'S, and HBO.

As a freelance producer, certain assignments have placed him across from President Bill Clinton, Quincy Jones, Bill Cosby, Mary Tyler Moore, Penelope Cruz, Gwyneth Paltrow, Dr. Maya Angelou, Chris Rock, Beyonce, P. Diddy, Alicia Keys, Moby, Luther Vandross, etc. And for HBO, he has interviewed the likes of Michael Douglas, Denzel Washington, Halle Berry, Morgan Freeman, etc.

With that said, it is clear that fashion and appearance are important to Riley. He wears Kenneth Cole (head-to-toe); Donna Karan; Armani and Rene Lezard --- all of whom offer simple and classic pieces that work in many ways. Riley also throws in some “look-for-less” pieces from THE GAP and H&M. He also wears lesser known designers of color who do great work such as Moshood and Belasse.

In TV, Riley must look authoritative, but have the freedom to display it with colour, flamboyance and pizzazz without being a distraction. So, on any given day, you may see him wearing a sports coat or suit jacket by Rene Lezard or Donna Karan, but beneath it a crisp, white Emmanuelle Ungaro tuxedo shirt or perhaps a fitted and ribbed-turtleneck with geometric designs from GAP, H&M, Armani or Kenneth Cole.

“For the weekend, I love to be comfortable, but still stylish. Moshood has a line of T-shirts and patchwork-pants (drawstring) that accommodate that dichotomy”, says Riley. “Also, in the summer, tanks from H&M and GAP keep me going. In the winter, simple turtlenecks from H&M and GAP accent a leather jacket and some jeans just fine. And those Kenneth Cole jeans and sneakers go with me through the week and on the weekend.”

Riley is free with good advice for men with their own fashion needs. He says, “ I think it’s important for men on the rise in the business world to know the rules and be prepared to play them. One should be armored with a black/blue suit; crisp, white shirt; pressed tie; solid belt; shined shoes; etc.). That said, I think it’s important for men on the rise to simultaneously know themselves and where their spirit is going. And from there, they might find creative ways to express that in their wardrobe. My business, of course, allows for that expression.”

 

My friend Stephen Beasley about whom I’ve blogged a time or trillion partnered with some amazing organizations to enhance his next music launch. A charity GLOBAL SOLES made the event a Drop-Off Site for people to donate new shoes to kids around the world. Torie Wiggins, whose South in the City treats are all but taking over Brooklyn, served up some goodies alongside our girl Marcia Pendelton who gave away free theatre tickets through her company Walk Tall Girl Productions.This event was his trial for the format of his next live recording which will happen this winter… and will be a Bazaar called "Cornucopia" at this amazing place called Littlefield, which is fully equipped to record his album live. Check out a free live download of sbPs Rock & Soul made possible by Microsoft!

www.myspace.com/windowshomepage=thesbp . As always, CONGRATS STEPHEN (this one took a minute to get up).

 

And for every powerful brother, there’s a powerful sister somewhere in the neighborhood. My girlfriend Shaun Robinson (of “Access Hollywood” fame) is very excited to share this Girls Empowerment video with you that is based on her new book, "Exactly As I Am". It's designed to help build self-esteem in our girls and Shaun’s hope is that you will share it with a teen girl you love. Here goes; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AmI6ggx2Aiw

(www.shaunrobinson.com and www.exactlyasiam.com).

 

You folks have heard me reference my dear departed Kodjoe (A Day In "The Life Of Riley" - Blog - "LOVE IS IN THE AIR") – the man for whom I dedicated this intimate evening of song (http://216.117.188.141/rileyshowforkodjoe.wmv). Well, the film on which Kodjoe was working before his untimely passing will see the light of day - screening in NYC and L.A.  It’s titled "Why Us? Left Behind and Dying", about a group of inner-city African-American teenagers discovering why HIV rates are so high in black communities. The director Claudia Pryor (also Kodjoe’s dear friend) wants you to know about this project which premieres in Los Angeles and New York City (www.diversityfilms.org/). Check out the website (CLICK: FILMMAKERS) to see a tribute to Kodjoe.  Claudia is the visionary behind this project... and its DIRECTOR. She enrolled Kodjoe back home to NYC to work on this film which took him to many parts of Africa (beyond his family's homeland of Ghana). He was most passionate and excited to work on this important piece. I'm full.. and SMILING --- all at once --- that the work to which he contributed for such a great cause will finally be seen by the WORLD!

 

WOW! GOD IS GOOD! 

 

Remember? Don't take any of this LIFE and those we LOVE for GRANTED! 

 

... and PLEASE FORWARD & SPREAD THE WORD - SO ALL CAN SUPPORT THIS IMPORTANT PROJECT... and KODJOE'S LEGACY!!!!

 

Here's the info:

 

LOS ANGELES  -- Wednesday, September 9 through Tuesday September 15

 

Grande 4-Plex

345 S.Figueroa

Los Angeles, CA  90071

213-617-3084

 

Two shows daily at 4:45 and 8:15pm

 

The director, Claudia Pryor attend the Los Angeles screenings on Sept 9th and 10th  

 

NEW YORK  -- Friday, September 11 through Thursday, September 17

 

IFC Center

323 Sixth Avenue

New York, NY 10014

212-924-6789

 

Two shows daily:  Times to be announced

The director, Claudia Pryor, will attend the New York screenings Sept 11th and 12th

 

LINK TO TRAILER:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9a7_iO48OTY

 

Labor Day is approaching… and I’m the most excited person around as Ant is coming for the weekend (with the new digital camera he bought me strapped on). I’ve clearly made the best of my time here in L.A. and will continue to do so (as has Ant on the New York end). But we’re much better together – so we’ll enjoy this long weekend… and beyond that, we will look to identify the next window amidst my L.A. stint that we can enjoy each other as we do. http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2009/6/23/hes-hoppin-it-to-hollywood.html Remember the fun we had the last time? 

I'm missing home something terrible but looking at these pix means I'm making the best of it!

Still, 'success is nothing without someone you love to share it with'! LOL! Though just a text or quick call away, the time zones between Ant and me - coupled with our respective attachment to keeping our individual selves entertained without the other in tow (sometimes at the expense of what's sensible) - have made it a challenge (at best). I'm not a fan of being without Ant. And I'm not a fan of being alone. That said, being alone has allowed me to put things in perspective and work through some of the feelings that lie beneath the loneliness.

But back to making the best of it: My L.A. friends say 'only you would come to town and have us at the Egyptian Theatre to see 'Mahogany'. Most of them had never set foot in the Hollywood landmark'. THANKS GUYS (and GALS) - including my Tanika Ray of EXTRA fame.My Theo was in town from New York - so he had to be there given when we first met at now-closed Day-O, our mutual friend Erich told him I was a big Diana Ross fan... and Theo asked me to recite lines from "Mahogany" that he wrote on the paper table tops, tore off, and took home. LOL! Talk about a full-circle moment.

There was also my Ed who has worked with the diva and many divas over the years.

And Curtis who is "the other" #1 Diana Ross fan. And Walter - Curtis' brother - who I'd never met before but he told me he was a fan of the blog. As his brother Curtis introduced us, he assured he already knew who I was and always wanted to meet me. Well, now we've met. And thank you, Walter, for reading "A Day in the Life of Riley: Pop Culture & Possibilities". Curtis will be hosting a Diana Ross-themed party (in my honor) during Labor Day weekend when Ant comes to town. We'll party alongside rare Ross footage. ALL ABOUT LOVE! 

Theo brought his good girlfriend Victoria who brought her good girlfriends - including Ms. Lana. I even won the "Mahogany" prize as the promoters had some folks come up and answer some trivia and work the runway.

Though the bag said GUCCI, its contents were not. But there was "Mahogany" cake. Still, fun... and of course, I took the time to buy a toothbrush and spruce up my Diana's Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame - right in front of the Egyptian Theatre. Afterwards, "Eyebrow King" Damone Roberts - another Ross fan -  and his partner Ramon - joined us at The Abbey for some nourishment ----- all of this juxtaposed to me --- three hours prior --- crying in my L.A. hotel room  as Oxygen rolled out "Bodyguard" for the 500th time. Surely my tears were from loneliness and homesickness ("Bodyguard" isn't one of my fav films like "Mahogany" but I'd always wished Ross had taken the part when it was offered to her after "The Wiz").

It hasn't all been lonely and blue. From the pool party that Javier and I attended when I first got into town, I met a cool dude named Delandis (www.delandisworld.com). He happened to have a business meeting in the studio where I'm working. We stumbled into each other and decided to have lunch. Aroma on Sunset was our spot... and we caught up on all the great things he's doing - including pitching a kids show starring HIM.Ant and I saw him a couple of years ago (but didn't know it) as he was in the Chicago company of "Wicked". Delandis - who is celebrating a birthday in a few days - also got me out my hotel room last night. The Abbey - again - was the spot. It was good to be out but I'm really missing NYC and Ant (who says he just bought me a new digitial camera [DISPOSABLES no more! LOL!] and can come to L.A. Labor Day Weekend. Ern is coming too). And Theo kept me entertained while he was here in town. He hosted a night of Mexican at El Coyote where he reconnected me to his Victoria (Ant and I got to meet her when we were last in L. A.). Then, she brought Lana and others into the mix. 

 

Plus, my PMAMA  (Marlene), who I know from a listserv of which she and I are members, came and we got to meet in person for the first time.

My other dear friend Zabrina came by and we enjoyed a cocktail before she took me to meet up with our girl Tosha Whitten-Griggs (and her sister) for a party at The Roxy. Zabrina is doing publicity for BET which is the home of a couple of my latest projects "Frankie & Neffe" and "Monica: Still Standing".On one night, my buddy Javier scooped me up for a quick drink. A few more cocktails later (coupled with karaoke in WeHo), I'm excited to report that - after shutting them down in NYC, Burbank, Manila, Chicago, Atlanta, and some other locales I may be forgetting - my Maxwell's "This Woman's Work" is now a hit in West Hollywood. LOL! Next stop: a karaoke dive bar near you! LMAO!

And Sid - always a joy - has been giving of her time generously - to 'babysit' me when I am over being in my hotel room alone... and can't remix the four walls around me any other kind of way. One night, we went to the home of a friend of hers. I stumbled into some actors whose work I admire - including Terrell Tilford (http://www.terrelltilford.yuku.com/) and Noah's Arc's Chase, Doug Spearman. It was such the intimate affair, I got shy to ask for photo ops but did get to chat each of them up a little. And they are both the nicest guys! Very warm! My L.A. buddy Javier popped by after his fashion show. The following day, Sidra and I enjoyed a bite at L.A. LIVEs "The Farm" as we needed to debrief all the fun we had the night prior. Thanks Sid - for a great time! (I considered going to the Sunset Junction Street Fair - featuring performances by Supremes' Mary Wilson, Motown artist/"Lady Sings The Blues" co-screen writer Chris Clark, and others). The L.A. Times did a story on Clark that reminded me what a compelling way she managed to weave her talents throughout Motown (as a white woman) during some of the label/movie company's integral moments  (www.chrisclarkinc.com).

Meanwhile, work is good. Post-production on the "Monica" project is going well.

My other long-standing clients have even been calling and though I've not been able to squeeze in any of their requests for my services (due to demands of my current schedule), it's good to know the calls are coming and will hopefully be coming when this current project wraps (or whenever I can squeeze a day or two into the mix. I'm all about a WIN-WIN!).

And I've also taken on a couple of quick turn-around assignments for 'ESSENCE' and 'Spelman College'. Stay tuned on those particulars when closer to roll-out. Though my project for 'ESSENCE' is for the November 2009 issue (details later), I - unrelated to this assignment - 'heard' (on the street. SMILE!) that my Miss Ross, her oldest daughter (with Berry Gordy) Rhonda, Rhonda's new baby boy (Miss Ross' first grandchild), and others in the Ross clan are supposed to pose for 'ESSENCE' cameras sometime soon. Will be great to see those shots as it was to see cover models, Miss Ross and Tracee Ellis Ross, a few years ago, on the iconic magazine's cover and inside the issue.
So, deadlines, premieres, and post-production... OH MY!... are on the horizon. There is still the uphill battle of managing the economics (especially as I have to pay for room/transportation in order to work out here on the West Coast). But things are improving... and it's all par for the course. Even when things show up a challenge, I continue to acknowledge that I AM BLESSED... and in the words of Langston Hughes, "Life is fine... Fine as wine... life is fine...".

 

Oh! If I could be two (or even more) places at one time. Or if I could just be present with what is and where I am – in the moment. Instead, I’m managing my five weeks in ATL while looking ahead feverishly to where I’ll lay my head for low-or-no cost while in L.A. on an assignment through October. But there are two welcome short spells in NYC – one work-related; and one slight hiatus [READ: just enough time to switch out my drawers] before I hit Tampa for a week (NABJ Convention - www.nabj.org) followed by that aforementioned two months in L.A. And notwithstanding a couple of beloved sponsors (and the payroll that will only roll out week-by-week and has me catching up on arrears), I have to ensure I can bankroll travel and hotel incidentals; meals; and the many bills before me. WHEW!!!! HEADY and WEIGHTY stuff... and - TRUTH BE TOLD - it feels OVERWHELMING sometimes. But unlike the Whitney of the past on which current Whitney reflects, "I (DO) know my own strength!!!!" And I will make it through. [Heard Nippy's new one, by the way? www.youtube.com/watch?v=2u9INHSQ6mQ].

Oh! And inside all of that, Ant and I must maintain as best a connection/communication as possible with our mutually demanding, respective schedules – especially my around-the-clock demands - that make catch-up time virtually impossible. Some days are better than others for me when we can't speak. Other times, I wile out from the loneliness and the distance. And though he's less a complainer and more apt to just accept it as it is (in those moments) than I am, I know it's rough for him too. But we will get it in – hopefully with several visits in whichever aforementioned location. ACCEPTING ALL PRAYER, MY PEEPS because it is ALL MORE THAN A NOTION!!!!! And I know you understand for whatever your challenges may be. But I had to get that off my chest. THANKS FOR LISTENING...

SO, since touching down in Atlanta, I have hit the ground running with my latest project (which like my first ATL project will premiere on BET – the former August 25^th; the latter October 27^th) – Details later when I can actually talk about it. But it's reality TV - a new frontier for me!!!! Long shooting days have kept me creatively and physically busy – even exhausted, but grateful for a meantime revenue stream. And Ant has been working mad hours in NYC as “The Wendy Williams Show” (www.wendyshow.com/) has finally premiered on FOX affiliates nationwide (and BET). Her first guest was our Vanessa Williams (www.vanessawilliams.com/) whose mother "Gaga" (Helen) is likely the show's biggest fan (Loves her some Ant too).

(Too, Ant’s been hitting some hot sets and holding it down on our behalf – including the 20^th Anniversary of “Do The Right Thing” screening and after party - www.amazon.com/Do-Right-Thing...Anniversary/.../B0024EWP6W) as well as a screening of independent film “Ink”, a spiritual thriller about the power of destiny that some of his Denver folks produced.

 

My home away from home – this go around – is (again) the TWELVE Hotel in Atlantic Station (www.TwelveHotels.com). My neighbors happen to be the cast of Tyler Perry’s “Why Did I Get Married 2?” (www.tylerperry.com). Well, at least some of them are staying here. Hot off of seeing and hanging out with her twin sister Sidra in L.A., I stumbled into Tasha Smith with whom Ant and I hung out at the premiere of the original flick. Malik Yoba is in the house as well as Sharon Leal. When we checked in, Janet Jackson was – of course – with her family in L.A. (and may I say what a wonderful send-off to Michael Jackson at his memorial. So touching! Such honor! So much LOVE!). I was also excited to find that my college buddy Danni was staying here as she was working on one of BET’s new game shows “Pay It Off” which my friend Kim Coles is hosting (www.bet.com). And her now-grown daughter Le-Le is now married and was visiting Danni in Atlanta along with her husband Jason and another dear friend. It’s been 14 years since I’ve seen Danni and Le-Le. What a great reunion that was!!!

 

I also got to spend time with my “Original Amazing Grace”, best friend Natalie who is a very busy career woman/mother/wife. But she took some time to take me to my favorite restaurant Houston’s (www.hillstone.com). Another time she came and rescued me from a fast-moving depression and talked me lovingly through some challenges. And my Nichole, who is again here in Atlanta with me for this leg, came out to say HI. Of course, I had to capture it.

 

And though I missed Beyonce this go around as scheduling didn’t allow (though tickets came through), Ant and I will always have Manila where she serenaded me Happy Birthday! I too had to miss “The Wiz” with my friend LaChanze but Ant and our friends Ern, Patrice, Keron, and Kimberly went… and had a blast I hear. Of course, “The Wiz” has been on everyone’s minds with the passing of Michael Jackson. I can’t stop playing this clip of MJ and DR on her 1981 special: www.youtube.com/watch?v=3BfvzaSxkSY. In fact, while at soul food joint “Mrs. Bs on 4^th” in Birmingham (on a day shoot), I stumbled into a little boy named Tarek who insists he is the next Michael Jackson who some years ago told the boy how talented he was.

 

Speaking of Diana (Aren’t I always? LOL!): Remember “American Idol” Taylor Hicks? Well, he’s remade a song my Diana recorded on her 1991 “Force Behind The Power” CD. Diana’s “Battlefield” (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IRRIztNC). Taylor’s “I Live On a Battlefield” (www.youtube.com/watch?v=hMkEhvnVo4Y).

 

The sounds of Diana Ross (some remixes from the aforementioned project) and Jennifer Holliday were piping through the speakers at “Real Housewives of Atlanta” star Dwight’s home for the 4^th of July. My friend Lamoh invited me to join him for the festive celebration. (I know Dwight via my ‘platonic boo’ Carl Nelson). Dwight was ever the gracious host – piling me a plate to go plus a bottle of wine. Truly a class act all around, I look forward to seeing the new season of the show. Afterwards, Lamoh and I hit a set in Douglasville. Another night, we hung out at Tapas Restaurant Eros (www.erostapas.com), which turns into quite the disco scene. We also did a stint at “Harlem Bar” (www.harlembaratlanta.com).

 

You recall, my friend Greg and I met with Ryan of designer firm Hugh Simms (www.hughsimms.com). Well, I sported the “Gentlemen Johnny” for a Sunday at the Intercontinental Buckhead (www.ichotelsgroup.com). Well, you can now find these looks in high-end department store Segal’s (www.fredsegal.com).

 

As small world’s go, remember I mentioned how Ant is booking opera burlesque diva “Black Betty” at The Velvet Lounge in Williamsburg, Brooklyn (www.velvetbrooklyn.com/). Well, it turns out an audio guy and friend with whom I work sometimes, Khalif, is her longtime friend and manager. Khalif is here in Atlanta where we uncovered this small-world tidbit.  Meanwhile, my Morehouse brother and friend Khalid is in town on business and we’ve had the chance to hang out a little. He’s here cutting some deals for a couple of animation projects. And he was featured in an image on the cover of a recent issue of Black MBA Magazine (www.blackmbaonline.com/).

 

And I attended V103’s Car & Bike Show (www.v-103.com/) which featured many and plenty from Atlanta’s entertainment scene – including The Dream, Christina Milian, Bustah Rhymes, Chilli, ‘Housewives’ Kandi & Sheree, Outkast’s Big Boi, and ‘the legendary’ Miss Sophia - the only one with whom I got a picture as I was working and staying focused. But my colleague Steve insisted I get this one.

 

My assignment here wraps July 29^th at which time I will return to NYC for a week before heading to Tampa, then L.A. for two months. But this weekend, I am scheduled to hit NYC for a couple of days (on assignment). Will be great to take in The Big Apple (and see Ant), if only for a night or two. Reminds me of this night in the mid-90s when my college mates Z, Cassandra, and I were getting our feet wet in New York City (along with this fabulous shirt that I must find and remix: It's vintage now! LOL!).

My line is always: “I sleep in Jersey. I live in the city.” And often, Harlem is the destination within the city. The last few weeks have had me eating, breathing, living, and loving Harlem. It’s such the buyer’s market. Ant and I would love to click our respective heels three times and make the plunge to the place Diana’s Dorothy (from “The Wiz”) calls home. That said, based on our current fiscal snapshot, it’s going to take Scarecrow, Tin Man, Lion, and a couple of good witches for that to happen this moment... but one sweet day!!!

HARLEM HEIGHTS

 

I’ve already shared with you the excitement and filming-in-progress of BET’s new reality show “Harlem Heights” (www.bet.com/harlemheights) - http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2009/2/2/we-will-find-a-way.html. Well, it has hit the airwaves and Ant and I were invited to the “legendary” Apollo to celebrate this beautiful cast of 20-somethings who remind me a lot of my 20-something-self from the angle of ambition, optimism, over-compensation, oh my!!!! But during this era of reality TV, their every move is being chronicled and placed under a microscope. Like my contemporaries and me, they aren’t doing anything to embarrass themselves. But they are real, imperfect people except for – my opinion – my Spelman sister Bridget Bland who narrates the lion’s share of the first two installments. She explains the inner-workings of the cast which includes my Morehouse brothers Landon Dais and – in a supporting role – Aden Seraile, both of whom I’ve had a chance to meet at some of the prior shoots.

 

(By the way: A la FACEBOOK and my Spelman sister Robbin, see some of my Morehouse/Spelman best friends from our 10-year reunion at Morehouse/Spelman. Another shot that hit my FACEBOOK shows me with the Morehouse College Glee Club [circa 1990-something]).

 

I loved the show - the imagery; the message-ing; etc. Most times, I need to get a few episodes of anything new under my belt before I can form a solid opinion. With the first show chronicling something so historic and household (as President Obama’s election), I was concerned that the whole series was all going to read heavy-handedly like 'black college chapel/assembly' – not a negative thing but I was wondering how enrolling such would continue to be for a viewer. (Remember, fellow MOREHOUSE MEN?). But then, the 2nd episode assured that there would be doses of drama and pop culture/social scenes in those hip (arguably less high-brow) ways that we sometimes enjoy (as viewers). Coupled with the intellect and philosophy, VOILA!: It's the perfect mix!!!! Of course, knowing that in reality, things can be so pre-set... I'm anxious to see the cameras disappear and to feel like this cool cast isn't just playing to the cameras. One of the characters Jason and his 8-year-old daughter?SUCH CHEMISTRY! Landon and his civil leader dad? AWESOME MALE BONDING!

 

My good girlfriend Nina Flowers who heads up communications at The Apollo Theater (www.apollotheater.com/) always makes sure we’re in the house for the right things (By the way, HAPPY BIRTHDAY NINA!!!). And the event was no exception for capturing the hotness that Harlem can be. We saw our good friend Vy Higginsen (www.mamafoundation.org) and her singing daughter Noel (a Harlemite poised for such exposure as “Harlem Heights”). Vy – of “Mama, I Want To Sing” fame (and so much more) - is staging her new Off-Broadway treasure (that’s already received SOLD-OUT success in Japan) “Sing Harlem Sing!” It will run at the Dempsey Theater in Harlem, USA! And it opens Friday, March 27^th. For tickets, contact www.smarttix.com. We also ran into Flo Anthony who is always working on something cool in the pop culture/entertainment world (www.floanthonysblacknoir.com) and (www.celebritytoyboxmagazine.com).

 

You folks have been reading my blog. What about bringing “A DAY IN THE LIFE OF RILEY” to life? I know my demographics are far and wide. You’d watch, right? It could be where reality meets TV talk and the magazine format at the pass.

 

HBO’s “THE BLACKLIST: VOL. 2”

The Apollo was also the backdrop for “The Blacklist: Volume 2” (www.hbo.com/docs/programs/blacklistv2/synopsis.html). And compliments of my Man of Morehouse nephew Herman Riley’s boss at HBO, Ant and I got a pair of tickets to its premiere. You’ll also recall I had the opportunity to host the premiere of “The Blacklist: Volume 1” in Atlanta at its iconic High Museum back in August (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/8/26/its-good-to-be-black.html).

 

This all-new special presents more dramatic portraits of some of today’s most fascinating and influential African Americans who share their stories and insights into the struggles, triumphs, and joys of black life in the U.S. Tyler Perry; Maya Rudolph; Charley Pride; Suzanne de Passe; Angela Davis; etc. are featured in this installment. Faye Wattleton (from Volume 1) moderated a Q&A with photographer/filmmaker Timothy Greenfield-Sanders and award-winning journalist Elvis Mitchell.

 

In the house: So many but we snatched a moment with Tamara Tunie who we love so much. She’s been ‘producing’ many things – from Broadway hits to TV shows and some animated fare. Stay tuned for all that she touches as most of it turns to gold.

 

My buddy Gil Robertson IV(www.robertsontreatment.com), who I talk about all the time here in the blog – either for his writings or his clients, has edited another great book titled “FAMILY AFFAIR: What It Means to Be African American Today”. It features essays by actors Isaiah Washington, Ruby Dee, Victoria Rowell, Beverly Johnson, Isaac Hayes, and a wonderful telling (that I helped broker) by my friend Candi Carter who is an award-winning television producer as well as the owner of “It’s Hip Hop Baby” (http://www.itshiphopbaby.com/). It is a children’s educational DVD series that is flying off the shelves for parents who need a little beat and heart to teach their kids the basics.

 

“INSIDE: BLACK CULTURE” featuring THE STUDIO MUSEUM IN HARLEM

“INSIDE: BLACK CULTURE” (www.bet.com/OnTV/BETJShows/betjaboutinsideblackculture.htm) is the wonderful brainchild of my friend Nathan Hale Williams and his co-executive producer Crystal McCrary Anthony. Ant and I have been spending lots of time with our good girlfriend Charlie T (www.myspace.com/justasweareproject) and (www.charlietphotography.net). She is an extraordinary photographer (responsible for all of the pictures in this section). So many from Harlem and beyond came out to celebrate the show; Studio Museum’s Director and Curator Thelma Golden; and the museum itself – a bird’s eye view of the people we will want in the house when Ant debuts some of his fine art later this year or early next year. Stay tuned. It’s coming along brilliantly. I was elated to see good industry girlfriends Adrienne Lopez (author/producer) and Bevy Smith (fashionista/hostess) as well as mentors Sheila (“SRB Productions” - www.srbproductions.com/) and Rodney Brooks (“USA Today” – www.usatoday.com). Bevy introduced me to the fabulous tyrusrocell townsend (head art lover/blogger) – www.iheartartblog.blogspot.com. Charlie T’s partner Danielle was also in the house (By the way, Charlie and Danielle threw a fab Oscar party with Ant and me in mind. However, I was called away on some business in – gasp! – Rochester, NY and had to experience my Oscars from an airport Holiday Inn during a blizzard. As this pic shows, Ant and the girls had the better time. SMILE! Ant predicted the most wins and walked away with a statue of his own.). Too, I got to see my dear friend and mentor/ ABC 7 weekend anchor Sandra Bookman and reporter Kimberly Richardson – both of whom do stellar work (www.abclocal.go.com/wabc/index). And author and political analyst Keli Goff (www.keligoff.com) with whom I’ve had the chance to wax political on BET’s “The Truth With Jeff Johnson” looked better than ever (http://216.117.188.141/PRiley/TheTruth.wmv).

 

A highlight was running into Miss Veronica Webb (www.veronicawebbisode.com/) who I had the chance to book on “Good Day Atlanta” (www.myfoxatlanta.com/subindex/entertainment/good_day) when she went on a media tour to announce her historic contract with REVLON (www.revlon.com). She was the first African American model to get such. She’s gone on to do so many things on and off the runway – with her looks and her brain – at work. I continue to admire her.

 

And as all roads lead to Morehouse, I got reacquainted with a Morehouse brother with whom I actually attended college. Michael James and his lovely wife Keisha Sutton-James were in the house. Since we hadn’t seen each other – face-to-face – since the 90s, there were many things to catch up on. His big update is he’s launched a men’s grooming line Frederick Benjamin grooming (www.frederickbenjamin.com/). CONGRATS MICHAEL!

 

“FREDERICK BENJAMIN” “N”

 

So, it makes total sense that my favorite boutique “N” (www.nharlemnewyork.com) would host my Morehouse brother Michael’s launch party and special products of shampoo, moisturizer, and hydrator. In addition to seeing my favorite Harlemites – owners Lenn and Nikoa; my main stylist friend Jamar; and Michael, I have the chance to show you all of what went down via the pictures of my Spelman sister Kendal Whitlock (www.imagesandtales.com). Thank you, Kendal!!! We got complimentary line-ups – another treat that I’ve eliminated from the budget of late. And mojito’s were the drink of the day. My "N"... a spa day with some fab product... and my Harlem! What day! What a day!

 

“INKED BABY” – COME SEE IT WITH ANT & ME ON SUNDAY, MARCH 29^TH OR WHENEVER YOU CAN!!!!

 

I mentioned my good girlfriend LaChanze is starring in a new play at Playwrights Horizons (www.playwrightshorizons.org). My sweet Marcia Pendelton invited us all out for an “INKED BABY” Open House in which the cast read from excerpt for the awesome play written by Christina Anderson. This piece also features a stellar cast. The drama in excerpt had us all wanting more and on the edge of our seats – so I can’t wait to see this complete production in its full splendor. Like “LOVE PROJECT”, Ant and I want to take as many people with us as possible. For $50 tickets on any night, go to www.playwrightshorizons.org or call Ticket Central at 212/279-4200 (noon – 8pm DAILY). But if you’d like to join Ant and me, we are looking to get a BIG GROUP together to attend on Sunday, March 29, 2009 --- for just $30-a-head. Here’s how it works:

1. Commit to attend the Sunday, March 29^th /7:30 pm “INKED BABY” starring Tony-award-winning LACHANZE at Playwrights Horizons (416 West 42^nd Street close to 9^th Avenue)

2. By Tuesday, March 24^th: Make $30 check (per person) payable to:

WALK TALL GIRL PRODUCTIONS

1375 BROADWAY

3^RD FLOOR

NEW YORK, NY 10018

Phone: 646-467-7393 or 917-334-6492

MEMO: 3/29 INKED BABY w/PAT & ANT

 

3. After you do that, PLEASE let me know that you will be joining us via patarack_riley@yahoo.com

4. On Sunday, March 29^th, let’s meet at 6:30 pm – so I can personally ensure your tickets get to you. Showtime is 7:30 pm. It’s about 90 minutes – so will wrap about 9:00 pm. And I’m going to check with my friend LACHANZE to see if she is available to join us across the street for a quick cocktail at: THE WEST BANK CAFÉ

407 W. 42^nd Street

New York, NY 10036

Phone: 212-695-6909

 

CHESTER GREGORY

 

My buddy Ra-Fael Blanco (www.2RSENTANDMEDIA.COM) represents so many great clients that I love to blog about all the time – from BLEU Magazine to its publisher/Harlem’s own Devon Christopher (who too co-owns Harlem’s new “Atomic Wings”); and Dawn from Danity Kane... it’s no wonder singer Chester Gregory (www.chestergregory.com) has signed on with this man to help publicize his debut album "IN SEARCH OF HIGH LOVE", available on March 31st. I’ve enjoyed his work on and off Broadway for years and am happy to see his talents contained inside of a CD lasering – so you can all experience him. Here’s a sneak-peek: The lead singe is the classic remake of "I Only Have Eyes 4 U", by Harry Warren and Al Dubin.

***Download "I ONLY HAVE EYES 4U"- http://www.zshare.net/audio/557184312fa21965/

***Download "SEARCH IN"

http://www.zshare.net/audio/55718637b190188f/

2R's Artist Page - http://www.2rsentandmedia.com/artists/chester2/chester.html

 

Meanwhile, check out the new BLUE Magazine (www.bleumag.com). It features my buddy Jensen Atwood of “Noah’s Arc” fame on the cover. Another friend Demarco Majors who has recently asked me if we might not consider working on a project as we all aim to maximize our talents and reach. Demarco, who I have been bumping into socially for a couple of years now, is always so gracious and always working on his next level. He can currently be seen on LOGO (www.logoonline.com/shows/dyn/shirts_and_skins/series.jhtml) via his series “Shirts and Skins” – a reality show that looks at gay basketball team the “Rock Dogs”. CONGRATS!

 

Speaking of DOGS (the real kind):

My friend Pierre hipped me to his friend Amber who has an intriguing line of luxury pet-wares that you can check out and buy via www.kaneandcouture.com

 

By the way, another friend Dewayne Snype just hipped me to the sounds of Karen Bernod (www.karenbernod.com). She’s been around for a minute. But check her out as she’s quite a talent. He sent me two of her CDs “life @ 360 degrees” (www.lifeat360degrees.com) and “Some othaness for you” (www.Nativelycreative.com). DON’T SLEEP!

 

 

MY MOMENTUM COMMUNITY AT WORK – IN THE WORLD!

 

• Like the aforementioned Marcia Pendelton, my good friend Renee and I had the privilege of doing Momentum Education (www.momentumeducation.com). Renee hipped me to an awesome tome that held my hand and heart while on a uber-turbulent prop plane that was flying me way off my path (so I could earn a little penny). It’s titled “Thank God I...: Stories of Inspiration for Every Situation”. It was created by John Castagnini (www.johncastagnini.com/). As self-help and spirituality are among my favorite genres of books to read, imagine my excitement to pick up this one. It challenges us to transform our human experience by being grateful for the bad things that happen to us towards breaking through into our power and resilience. Visit the online community at www.ThankGodI.com
• Another two Momentum buddies are doing great things... and another is simply BEING THE DIFFERENCE. My friend Nikki Johnson is an Executive Assistant, Company Manager, Touring, Travel & Logistics Manager, Stage & Production Management, Festival & Special Event Management (http://www.myspace.com/miapicha). She’s pursuing her passion and dream of being a personal/executive assistant to a high profile individual (talent, celebrity, musician, actor, executive, agent, etc.). I want to hire her now but it’s not in the budget. Still, I want to share her with anyone out there who has this need. Having a great assistant is key when you’re managing many things. Nikki’s motto is "to clear the path for the artist to do their work." She is clear this is her calling and has been preparing for this moment. So, see her myspace website above and/or find her on FACEBOOK... and tell Nikki “Patrick sent you!”. HERE’S TO INFINITE POSSIBILITIES!
• One of my coaches when I started the MOMENTUM work was HAZELLE GOODMAN – comic actress and first African American woman to be cast in a Woody Allen flick. She’s currently off-Broadway in a critically-acclaimed piece “Spalding Gray: Stories Left to Tell” (www.broadway.com/Spalding-Gray-Stories-Left-to-Tell-Off-Broadway/broadway_show/543520). Also, Hazelle is starring in her one woman show "It's a New Day: Hazelle's Back!" at Joe's Pub on Friday, March 13th at 8:00 pm (www.joespub.com). She’s always a treat to see – so check her out!

• My good girlfriend Camille Morrison (who I write about all the time. She’s in Beijing, China now) hipped me to her good girlfriend Julie Rainbow who has been documenting stories of African American elders. She points out that rarely do we see tenderness and/or affection shared in the media about our African American elders and she seeks to share these unheralded stories. Take a look at an excerpt from her work: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TYAOG4Z29NI Thanks for sharing, Julie! CONGRATULATIONS!
• It’s no secret that these times have been challenging financially for me. As a result, my spirits are down too. I CHOOSE to get up everyday and see what difference I can be to turn it around... and I am BLESSED to be seeing the benefits of getting up and CREATING MY NEW DAY! That said, sometimes I just need a little help – a little budge, someone or something to scoot me along into my day’s purpose or into the fire (depending on the day). My other coach from Momentum was a lovely man named Curtis. And even in these many months since taking the various courses, I still stay in touch with Curtis. We don’t talk a lot but through the airwaves of LOVE, he continues to get me. One day, after agreeing to do a gig I couldn’t quite afford to take (as funds were that low), I checked the mail. In it was a check from Curtis with whom I’ve never spoken so specifically about my money woes. But he read between the lines (and sometimes on the lines via the blog) and responded – quite simply because he could. To him, it may not have seemed like a lot. But it allowed me to step forward into the day’s purpose (which was some work on which I could now do my best job without the worry of transportation, food, room, and board). Without questioning WHY or going to the place that has been difficult because I’m not used to being in actual NEED, I simply accepted it and continue to be SO GRATEFUL for it! CURTIS, you are SIMPLY THE BEST! And same for my MARIO, AUDREY, and all the others whose PRAYERS and kind gestures continue to SHOW UP and OUT!

 

WE ARE A FAMILY

 

• My cousin Floyd (in Atlanta) is poised to graduate college later this year and has taken on an internship with a local TV show “A Sound Voice Live” featuring "The Sweethearts of the Industry" James and Regina Howard. On his first day, they were interviewing “Real Housewives of Atlanta” star Deshawn Snow (www.deshawnsnowfoundation.org/). As I always mentor Floyd and my nephew Noot on the importance of networking, imagine my pride as Floyd secured contacts from Mrs. Snow’s foundation (knowing that I’m a big fan of the show and disappointed that she won’t be back next season). Her folks even reached out to me amidst several rounds of telephone tag, but I’m hoping to hear from them soon – so I can share what she’s up to with her foundation, etc. Meanwhile, I hear that the new season of "Real Housewives of Atlanta" has begun filming. And I also hear that Dwight is coming back - in fierce effect. Can't wait to see. Meanwhile, Floyd also introduced me to his bosses who tell me they think Floyd has a great future ahead in this industry. Their radio show is airing on www.ensoundradio.com Mon-Fri from 5pm-7pm. And in Atlanta, you can tune in to BBG Network daily to "A Sound Voice". You can log onto www.bbgnetwork.com, click on listen live at the bottom of the page in the lower right corner OR Log onto www.loudcity.com, type in bbgnetwork in the find box, then click tune in OR Log onto www.now-streaming.com and click the gospel box and choose your media player for your computer OR log onto www.live365.com and type in "BBG Network" in the "Find stations that play box", click the yellow play box and you will hear the audio OR Log onto www.lifestream.tv, click on the green radio tab and then click on Bridgers Broadcasting Gospel Network OR log onto www.itunes.com, in order to hear the show here you have to have itunes media player. So, make sure you download itunes. Click on the radio tab, then religious, when the drop box comes down click on BBGNetwork OR log onto www.audiorealm.com, in the search box type bbg network and click on the speaker to listen OR log onto www.flytunes.com and search for gospel and bbg network. And for the television show "A Sound Voice Live!" airs as a special on People TV (Comcast Cable 24) or log on to www.peopletv.org. Meanwhile, go to www.youtube.com and www.godtube.com and see special segments from the show. It is GREAT TO HAVE OPTIONS! GOD BLESS YOU, JAMES AND REGINA! I’M PROUD OF YOU, FLOYD!

And of course, we didn't just hit Harlem this week. We went to Williamsburgh where Ant's best friend Manivone hosted us at The Velvet Lounge (www.velvetbrooklyn.com/). Ant's other high school buddies Paul and Dustin were there. Ern came. And we just enjoyed a lovely night of old friends connecting with old friends. Too, it was great to spend time with Ant and his peeps who are lots of fun and have so much love for him.    It was what we have to remind ourselves to have on the ordinary days - a simple CELEBRATION OF LIFE at the changing of the season and the promise of ABUNDANCE! "... when [IT'LL] change... nobody knows..." BUT WE MUST STAY ENCOURAGED and OPTIMISTIC! And we do!