A DAY IN "THE LIFE OF RILEY"

REAL HOUSEWIVES OF ATLANTA CONDOLENCES

 

While in Atlanta shooting "Frankie & Neffe", I went to a couple of "Real Housewives of Atlanta" events - including a birthday party for Kandi & Kim. Also, there was a Kandi performance. I haven't seen the show since its first episode (Hotel doesn't have BRAVO), but I'm getting emails, txts, and calls that I was seen a few times at the joint birthday set. I'm told the Kandi performance at Tongue & Groove ran as well.

Well, when I posted my pix of Kandi during current season's "Real Housewives of Atlanta" (per events I attended this past Spring), the news of her ex-fiance's passing had not broken. I extend my condolences to Kandi and AJ's children and family. AJ: RIP! And as Kandi and her daughter and AJs kids deal with all of this, she too is mourning the loss of her Uncle Ralph. Though I don’t know Kandi well, I do know that she has a brother named Patrick Riley who passed away in the early ‘90s. Whenever I would interview her when she was with XSCAPE, my name would always generate a surge from within. When my partner Anthony recently saw her (and mentioned me), he too experienced that. (Coincidentlly, I too have an Uncle Ralph who is dearly departed.).

But I do remember having a good time during those sets in Atlanta earlier this year. My chronicle at the time read like this: Of course, I couldn’t be in Atlanta without sniffing out “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” (www.bravotv.com/the-real-housewives-of-atlanta). My new buddy Lamoh was gracious to take me to as many of the sets as my schedule would allow. We went to AJA Asian Bistro near Lenox for 'Kim' and Deshawn-Snow-replacement 'Kandi Burris' (of Xscape fame and 'TLCs-No-Scrubs'-writer notoriety). It was a filming for second season. Sheree was in attendance but no Nene, Lisa, or Dwight to be found. Kim - sported a skintight, red haltermini thatunderscored her little pouch as well as her decorative, high-endredpumps (of glorious, over-the-top,ostrich feather garnish). She premiered her new single "Tardy for the Party" (Dallas-Austin-penned-and-produced "Tightrope" - debuted on the 1st season of the show - was not pro-tooled, nor re-presented, nor– Kim told me - made a part of her upcoming collection of dance music. Her actualvocals - as evidence by this new single -are washed down and into the mix/voice-altering machine. She may actually haves ome dance hits on her hands. Kandi - from my observation - seems apleasant, Deshawn-Snow-esqueaddition to the cast. She's sexy and sweet; doesn't drink; is letting her personality shine through (it seems) in a way differently and more engagingly perhaps than Deshawn Snow. It seems she and Kim get along and - per Kim's comments - that they maybe collabo-ing in the studio. Kandi was apparently privy (prior to Kim) to a huge rock that sets on Kim's finger now (a la engagement ring from 'big poppa', who seems back in the picture). Big Poppa and Kandi's fiance are buddies too, it seems. Also in attendance (and often on the blogs): hairstylist Derek J (sporting a kimono-style dress and pumps). He is in L.A. now competing on reality-tv's "Sheer Genius". Champagne and Patron were flowing. And overall, it was cool to see the inner-workings of the upcoming season, if just a snapshot from this one 'scene'. Then, however, Kandi (whose late brother’s name is Patrick Riley) invited me to her “Tongue and Groove” performance (www.tandgonline.com/). (Ironically, “Tongue and Groove” (the former Buckhead location) is where my platonic boo Carl Nelson threw my going-away party from Atlanta in 1995.) Kandi performed her old material from the days of Xscape. Also, she performed her new songs “Trade Him In”; “Fly Above”; and “Leroy Jones” (www.twitter.com/kandiconnection and www.myspace.com/kandionline). And “Real Housewife” Lisa was there! Still no photo ops with Nene and Dwight (who I know)… and though I did see her at Kim/Kandi’s party… Sheree (from whom I did get an invitation to preview her 'actual' fashions but I had a conflicting shoot scheduled that day. I hear it was FAB though.). There’s always my 5-week ATL run in June. Shout out to my girlfriend Lisa McCall who assured Lemoh and I got into the set. Sister 2 Sister’s Jamie Foster Brown was also in the house (www.s2smagazine.com/). She and I got to catch up as we had some business-in-common later that week (a la “Frankie & Neffe” and “Sister 2 Sister”).
 And there must always be a shout out to my friend Dwight Eubanks.He proved to be the host with the most during my stay in Atlanta. Also, we got to hang out recently in New York City where - after I left - he and Lamoh got to hang out with Ant. Plus, Ant attended Dwight's fashion show during Fashion Week.

 

 

STAR-STUDDED L.A.

L.A. publicist Lauren Tobin – daughter of my late, great NABJ buddy Pat Tobin - invited me out to Oz and Lynne Scott's Sherman Oaks estate which is home to the Jackie Robinson's Foundation's annual Jazz on the Green (www.jackierobinson.org). Ran into many of my favorite celebs and enjoyed an awesome round-up of musical talent. I tried to maintain my cool but I was really excited to meet them all. Sitcom actors Richard Gant (“Night Court”) and Harold Sylvester (Dwayne Wayne’s father from “A Different World”) were there. Too, legendary publicist Ken Reynolds (who has worked with everyone from Whitney Houston to Stephanie Mills over the years) was in the house. And believe me, I was as excited to meet him as those folks I knew by name like TV legend Hattie Winston and her husband Harold Wheeler (who is the composer and music director with the most – current credit including “Dancing With The Stars”). “Fresh Prince of Bel Air” co-star Tatyana Ali was there. (And I got a glimpse of Uncle Phil too: James Avery).My girl Shaun Robinson (from Access Hollywood) was there and bid on a big Michael Jackson collage. Salli Richardson and Dondre Whitfield – husband and wife, and new parents – presented and enjoyed their time away from the kids. Ran into my Dubose co-worker MC Lyte again. She even got on the mic after Sheila E called her up for a ‘freestyle’ moment. Lauren’s client is James Pickens of “Grey’s Anatomy” fame (His colleague Reggie Jackson was also in the house). And James’ wife Gina (who was in the disco group Musique as Gina Taylor – just before she married her “fine” husband) broke out in an impromptu “Dr. Feelgood” at the end of which James himself made sure that everyone knew she belonged to him. My New York City, saaaangin’ girlfriend Marva Hicks performed a brilliant set for the group – including Etta James’ “At Last”. She is good friends with actress Vanessa Bell Calloway with whom I chatted about her daughter Ashley who is a student at Spelman (Freshman) as my nephew prepares to leave the AUC at Morehouse (He’s a Senior). Favorites Brenda Russell, Patrice Rushen, and James Ingram also sang their big hits for the enthusiastic crowd which also got to bid on great silent auction items like ELLEN underwear. Also, another of Lauren’s clients Carmen Lundy, who is a world-renowned jazz vocal stylist, auctioned off some of her artwork. She commanded silence, wind, and standing ovations for her performances – including a song titled “I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings” (www.carmenlundy.com). Also in attendance: Chris Spencer, Kym Whitley, George Duke, Dave Koz, Marcus Miller, Stephen Bishop, Kiki Shepard, Atallah Shabazz, Greg Phillanganes, and that’s about all I can remember (but I’m certain there were more). Great day!

THE SILENCE IS BROKEN

Then, I went to "The Silence Is Broken" (www.thesilenceisbroken.com/SIB_PRESS_2_web.pdf) - a benefit concert underscoring AIDS awareness. The Saban Theater housed the event which featured my friend Eric B. Anthony (of “Naked Boys Singing” fame) who I met at my buddy Delandis' birthday party some weeks ago. Last week, we all hung out after I went to see Eric in "Naked Boys Singing". Eric's buddy Andre who was in the mix last week was also there at this performance. Delandis accompanied me to this concert which founder, composer, conductor Patrick Gandy made possible for me to attend. And what a treat it was to see Loretta Devine on stage singing in the lights. She's such a talent as is TC Carson who sang on a whole new level than I'm used to hearing. He was wonderful! And Laurnea, my good girlfriend Camille’s buddy, performed the stunning theme song to perfection. TC Carson, by the way, works sometimes with Lauren’s husband, bassist J.V. Collier who often plays with The Pointer Sisters and The 5^th Dimension. He’s now on the road with Bruce Hornsby. All of the vocalists were in EXCELLENT voice – singing compositions on which they collaborated – as writers – with Patrick Gandy’s lush arrangements! And Patrick conducted as well. And I was excited to experience it all with my friend Delandis who will soon be taping his DVD for kids. Stay tuned for more on that. Please check out the website and all that THE SILENCE IS BROKEN is creating under the context of music, art, literature, and public service. It’s a wonderful movement that welcomes your support.

KIM COLES

My girl Kim Coles hosted an event in Culver City called “Jazz In The Village 2009”. It took place at Veterans Memorial Complex. I wasn’t so sure what the event would entail but knew if Kim was inviting me that I wanted to go and support her. I invited my girl Danni but she wasn’t able to make it. Thank goodness Kim had a plan in mind: for me to sit with her good friend Ceci who is renowned for having dressed Ms. Coles and the cast of “Living Single” for all of its seasons. She is a great lady (also an AKA) who entertained and inspired me from the beginning of this function comprised of table rounds; heavy appetizers; and spectacular jazz music from Samantha Nicole and Talita Long – both of whom are managed by Burke Management (www.BurkeManagement.net), which also represents singer/socialite/eccentric personality Norwood. When I heard Talita Long sing, I immediately texted Anthony that she gives me “womanchild”. She has a beautiful, unique voice that puts you in the mind of Michele (“Nicety” and “Something In My Heart”) in its high-pitch but a little Teena Marie and Deneice Williams in its soulfulness. And perhaps a little Latoya Jackson in her whimsy way.  What further set her apart is she is award-winning actress Nia Long’s mother. And must have had Nia when she was 12 as she reads so young and childlike with a Marilyn-Monroe-esque sexiness that is most charming. She is such a free spirit and as she sang her own material and covers like Minnie Ripperton’s “Lovin’ You” and Joe Cocker’s “You Are So Beautiful”, I believed her and thought she’d be a great addition to Sheryl Lee Ralph’s “DIVAS: SIMPLY SINGING” – if not this year (since it’s next week), perhaps next year (Talita Long @ The Jazz Bakery). And the headliner Dwight Trible too was awesome. Mostly, it was just exciting to see Kim who wowed the crowd. She and I have both been so busy (though sometimes in the same cities i.e. Atlanta, New York, and L.A. – at the same time), we’ve not been able to hang out in a minute. She’s soon to go back to New York City before I go and do “The Wendy Williams Show” to promote her BET game show “Pay It Off”. She reached out to Ant to support her for this awesome appearance… and he’s been supporting the best he can with her concerns.  I LOVE SYNERGY… and as she pointed out to me this week: She loves her some ANT! LOL!

DR. MARIO

I was invited to be a guest on the Cal State-Fullerton campus radio show of "Dr. Mario" (one of the new NABJ mentees I met during our convention in Tampa - www.calldrmario.com). He was quite the professional and I really enjoyed offering up advice to the many curious student callers & just hanging out with Dr. Mario, a promising journalist on the rise after he graduates next year or so.

FRANKIE & NEFFE WRAP & KARAOKE!!!!

Afterwards, I joined my fellow producers and editors for a karaoke celebration at Brass Monkey where we toasted the wrap of post-production on "Frankie & Neffe" - a ride we weren't all sure we'd survive but feel stronger for having done it - in excellence - together!

Beer and shots of yager (sp?) all around. We upgraded to Patron after this college-frat round. LOL!

But the activity was my favorite pass-time KARAOKE, which everyone knows I do day and night and night and day and wherever I can - from New York City to Manila! LOL! I dedicated my show stopper "This Woman's Work" (Maxwell) to Frankie and Neffe. But most importantly, it was important to shout out Ev, Shareen, Maia, Nichole, Liz, and all the great women without whom this project would not have happened.One of our stellar editors Barrett gives us some ol' time rock & roll! He was really good! And Shareen gets her groove on! WORK IT, GIRL. Here editor Steve and I pose for a pic. He and I collaborated on some “Frankie & Neffe” post and are now back in the edit bay together – working on “Monica: Still Standing”.

Maia was TEAM NEFFE (along with Shareen). I was TEAM FRANKIE (along with my Amazing Grace Nichole). And somehow – against many odds – my fellow field/story producer and I managed to shoot and cut 10 episodes on our challenging subjects. It was an all-hands-on-deck prospect and it took a village and a kingdom to get on the air.

I encored with an ambitious “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going” from my favorite “Dreamgirls”. With feedback as my indicator, I hit the mark. WHEW! Could’ve been disastrous. LOL!

And let me tell you: without our show runner and co-executive producer Evolyn Brooks – to whom I dedicated Diana Ross’ “The Boss” - FORGET ABOUT IT! THANKS EV! And now to our next level: MONICA: STILL STANDING!

Near the end of the night, Maia, Liz, Steve, me, Shareen,  and Ev backed up Steve Carr on "The Love Boat". ALL ABOUT LOVE!

PAUL’S PARTY & MAINCHAIN

Ant and I have been representing our household independent of each other as our friends celebrate BDAYs on respective coasts. Our girlfriend Mara just had the BIG 3-0 in NYC (Ant went). And earlier this week, I went out to celebrate Ant's best friend Paul at Downtown L.A. STANDARD's rooftop to toast.  Glad I went to represent! He and Ant love each other so and consider themselves ‘brothers from other mothers’. So, to be representing on Ant’s behalf (and now benefitting from Paul’s love directly) is a warming feeling. Other Denver native buddies (of Paul and Ant) were also in the house and equally nice, including Elia Mountjoy, one-half of the duo Mainchain which will be performing Friday night when Ant comes to town to visit (and for DIVAS: SIMPLY SINGING – www.divassimplysinging.com). So, we are excited to check them out. You should come out. For more information:

www.themainchain.com

www.myspace/mainchain

http://www.facebook.com/TheMainChain

www.twitter.com/mainchain

http://www.youtube.com/TheMainChain

 

BREAK A LEG!

RANDOM THOUGHT

 As I was listening to the track on Madonna’s 1984 “Lucky Star” (Madonna-Lucky Star), it came to me how much it sounds like Gladys Knight & The Pips’ “Save The Overtime For Me”  from 1983 (GLADYS KNIGHT & THE PIPS - SAVE THE OVERTIME FOR ME).MADONNA? You’re standing on our GLADYS’ shoulders! HOLLA!

P.S. NYC, TY STEPHENS, and DONNY HATHAWAY

My friend Terrance Russ reminds me to tell you - especially if you are in New York City to go see Ty Stephens' celebration of all things Donny Hathaway at The Triad (www.triadnyc.com). Ty is such a great vocalist and that voice atop Donny's catalogue can mean nothing but nirvana. It's Sunday, October 11th - 5:30 and 8:00 - so get your tickets now. 

As you know, I've been on the road for work. NYC/NJ is my home and that’s where my man Ant is. He came from our home in NYC/NJ to see me (bearing gifts: new disposable camera. See pix! SMILE!). I couldn't stop posing!

Best friend since 7^th grade, Ern, came too. We had a great weekend all around - from the moment they landed. This weekend gave me the chance to reconnect with Ern’s cousin Adolpha, who is in the business as well (working for Fantasia’s reality show now in addition to her work as a screenwriter and stand-up comic). She took Ern and me to O Bar in West Hollywood the night prior to Ant’s arrival (after Ern and I did lunch at “Roscoe’s Chicken ‘n Waffles”). Adolpha and her husband Nyk took Ern and me to Casablanca, a restaurant with 300-types of tequilas. And they invited us to Adolpha’s friend Jackie’s home in The Valley for a super fun pool party! We ate! We danced! And really enjoyed the energy of some good people! On the night Ant arrived, we met up with Ern and Adolpha at a spot in Santa Monica called Air Conditioned.

We went to my girlfriend Sidra's Downtown L.A. pad for rooftop swimming and brunch. Tony and Scott joined us there along with Ern.

My friend Curtis threw a Diana-Ross-themed house party with every Ross-rarity you could ask for. “Eyebrow King” Damone Roberts and his partner Ramon were in the house as well as our Tony & Scott. Curtis (and his brother Walter) were truly the hosts with the most – weaving all things Ross (from the 60s through to the new millennium). And we're talking rare videos, CDs, and glorious artwork well-appointed throughout their lovely home. There will be many-a-follow-up in the coming weeks. Thanks Curtis! Friend to Friend.

On Sunday of the weekend, Ant – an artist – and I got to meet up with my Morehouse brother Redic at his art gallery Eclectic Order which will be holding its Grassroots Grand Opening in a few weeks (inclusive of fine art, great new music from Redic – also a singer/songwriter, and T-shirts that come from Redic’s clothing line). He’s such the talented “Renaissance Man”! I’m so proud to have discovered his talent freshman week at Morehouse (I was a Senior – assigned to cast the Freshman Week talent show. I booked Redic along with four other voices to make a group ‘Just Us” (they called themselves). This way, more of them could make the cut and have their talents be heard. And beyond that first week of school, I managed to book them a handful more times before the year was done. And look at him now!!!! WOW! This is the same talent show in which I cast Rockmond Dunbar, freshman as well, to do a monologue for the masses. He went on to do his thing. Okay????? And he's stayed in touch over the years. I'm PROUD of my guys!!!

Then, Ant and I went to meet up with Scott, Tony, Ed, Delandis, and others at The Abbey. AWESOME WEEKEND!

Ant and I are looking at October for a return visit. Last year, we supported Sheryl Lee Ralph in booking Ledisi on her “Divas: Simply Singing” fundraiser that she does every October (For more information visit www.DivasSimplySinging.com). Well, since I’m here, we’re thinking this is a good time for us to get our visit in alongside an event.

For me to be adjusting to the West Coast (albeit temporary), I'm thrilled to have folks with Southern Hospitality showing me love: Delandis (SC) introduced me to Tony (SC) who invited me to Mickys in WeHo for the dance contest he hosts on Tuesday. Ran into another "Wicked" dancer Evereth (FL) who I met the other night. And before I knew it: We all had a lovely night! Thanks guys!

Did y'all see Whitney on GMA? (I got an 11th hour call to support her other upcoming interview but am in L.A. on assignment. Another close call to again be in Whitney’s presence but so far away...). New voice. Old voice. I'm sure rooting for Whitney and LOVE a comeback!

And since I don't have BET in my temp digs, what did y'all think of "Frankie & Neffe" - Episode 2? HOLLA! They are still kicking butt in the ratings as they did my own butt during the time I spent field producing them over five weeks in Atlanta. MAN DOWN!!!! CODE 10!!!!!

 

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...".