A DAY IN "THE LIFE OF RILEY"

all star karaoke

 WHERE IS MY ‪#‎THEBOSS CHOIR? LOL!!!! We sing it EVERY WEEK:

https://www.facebook.com/patrick.l.riley/videos/10152301946678737/! This clip features THE AMAZING Gordon Chambers, Darius Booker, AND Husain Mello Deas Williams! SPRING 2015 SERIES of Billie's Black PRESENTS ALL STAR KARAOKE with Patrick L. Riley starts next Tuesday, April 28th at Billie's Black Gourmet Soul! Y’ALL COME ON OUT AND JOIN US! NOW THAT I CAN EXHALE from one recent client project: BET's UP FRONT for which I got to contribute to the Creative Services team on its video and art/design that let all the industry and the friendly advertisers know why BET IS ALL WAYS THE NEW BLACK with lots of new programming to ensure it stays at #1! CONGRATS, TEAM! Some of you will join me at ALL STAR KARAOKE - to let some steam off! LOL!  ‪#‎billiesblack ‪#‎allstarkaraoke ‪#‎motownmay #theboss

more arise work

ARISE ENTERTAINMENT 360 had me on again this past week. I filled in for Shannon again. Always fun to chat it out with MISS LOLA!

LAST WEEK:
Among the Believers directors
- Co-Directors Hemal Trivedi & Mohammed Naqvi @manaqvi talk with us about their new Documentary#amongthebelievers
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yVpdgMGAap0&feature=youtu.be

Kristen Taekman
#BRAVOTV #RHONY Reality Star &creator of#popofcolor @KristenTaekman talk with us about the upcoming season & much more 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hPSIGsgkFGY

Kendall Minter
Entertainment Attorney/Author Kendall Minter @askmusiclawyer tells us about his new book "Understanding & Negotiating 360" 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yqcU6wlXXzs&feature=youtu.be

YOU can watch (and me from time to time) - now on Time Warner, Verizon Fios, and On Demand...www.YouTube.com/AriseENT360. As always, THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT! #arise360 #allstarkaraoke#billiesblack

the more you know

Hi folks! I mentioned Executive Producing a special project inside the Fall/Winter 2014 months last year! But it was kinda’ top secret as I was asked to jump into the project in the 11th hour. Well, the project is complete and can be seen here: http://www.themoreyouknow.com/. It’s NBC Universal’s iconic THE MORE YOU KNOW campaign which had been EP’d for years by the legendary Susan Haspel. But as she was leaving the building, I was asked to come in and oversee production on the shoots with the over 40 NBC Universal talent that we shot in L.A. and New York City. I also worked with the scriptwriters; our content partners; graphic designers; and all the respective crews to complete the 2015-16 installment. FOR MORE on THE LIFE OF RILEY and that project:

http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2014/10/13/jakki-is-back.html.  Since working on that project at the end of 2014, NBC News' African American vertical, NBCBLK, has brought me on as a freelance contributor to its digital platform:

* Miss Aretha Franklin's birthday party:

http://www.nbcnews.com/watch/nbcnews-com/aretha-franklin-puts-on-star-studded-birthday-417968707987.

* MISS FRANKLIN and EMPIRE Co-Creator LEE DANIELS! LOL! -

https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=1553278574945680&set.  

* My debut contribution was an interview with Lee Daniels on EMPIRE:

http://www.nbcnews.com/news/nbcblk/precious-butler-director-lee-daniels-building-empire-n290416.

#themoreyouknow #comcast #nbcuniversal #billiesblack #allstarkaraoke #NBCBLK

blackbird

It was Ant’s birthday... and since it fell in the middle of the week, we will enjoy and toast this weekend (and one thing we’ll be doing is supporting the opening weekend of “BLACKBIRD” [See cities below and let’s make this FIRST WEEKEND count]. Last night, on Ant’s birthday, he and I thought it important to attend and support the New York PREMIERE of our friend Patrik-Ian Polk’s “Blackbird” – Co-Executive Produced and Starring Academy Award winner Mo’Nique – in attendance with her co-stars Isaiah Washington, D. Woods, and introducing Julian Walker. The historic night at the iconic Schomburg included an awesome array of my industry family – including legendary make-up artists Reggie Wells and Roosevelt Cartwright – once-Oprah’s team (Roosevelt now works with Mo’Nique). TRAILER: https://youtu.be/rHe0ukjp0-M. I am TOO EXCITED for Patrik-Ian as I remember in 2006 in Los Angeles as I was out there for business, we had dinner and drinks at The Standard on Sunset. And I remember him sharing the BLACKBIRD script and telling me how he was seeking funds and some star attachments for the project. After that deal fell through, his BLACKBIRD takes flight! YAZZZ! Blackbird opens April 24 in the theaters below. Tell a friend and check www.BlackbirdTheMovie.com for more information.#WeAreBlackbird p.s. Leon was there! Always good to see him!

p.p.s. And a special shout out to our girlfriend Alysia Joy Powell - a regular alongside Debra Messing on The Mysteries of Laura - NBC hit in primetime! YOU GO GIRL!

support

The weekend brought out the CHEERS – first for Miss Miko Branch with whom I had the chance to have a conversation at an awesome book event hosted at Bedford Stuyvesant Restoration Skylight Gallery – hosted by the Honorable Assemblywoman Annette M. Robinson and my friend Blaine Robinson’s Bainbridge Harrison Partners. BEAUTIFUL to catch up with Miko on her debut tome: “Miss Jessie's: Creating a Successful Business from Scratch---Naturally”. Then, also in Brooklyn – DUMBO to be exact, our girlfriend Charon who I got the chance to meet in St. Croix last year, debuted her GWAN BY CHARON HEAT line of swimwear for the curvy girls out there. The Private Fashion Presentation was fierce and the publicity was handled by Ant’s sis Sabrina who I met December 1, 2005 – the same night I met Ant. Then, we had Mairie and Eric baby shower duty. And the close out? Celebrating Ant’s birthday! Backdrop: Kiabacca bar on 10^th Ave between 45^th and 46^th. BEER. BRICK-OVEN PIZZA. And an ENDLESS STREAM OF LOVE for ANT!  #iammissjessies #allstarkaraoke #billiesblack

DL and ESTELLE

I interviewed Debi Mazar for recurring client Oprah: Where Are They Now? recently! Find out more about her later this summer. But this past weekend, my D.L. Hughley and Estelle Parsons finally aired --- culled from a couple of days I got to spend with each of them in New York City last year on assignment for recurring client OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network. AS ALWAYS, THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT! Here’s a peek: http://www.oprah.com/own-where-are-they-now/The-Promise-a-Young-Broke-DL-Hughley-Made-to-His-Baby-Girl-Video#ixzz3Y9PpoXUQ. #WhereAreTheyNow

playback

EMPIRE is on everybody’s minds these days! THE LIFE OF RILEY is no exception. Not only am I talking about the antics of Cookie, Luscious, and the Lyons “dynasty”… but when I wear my guest co-host hat and/or my pop culture analyst hat, it’s EMPIRE and its creator Lee Daniels all day:

Last week, Lee Daniels stopped by to dish on EMPIRE and its over-the-top SUCCESS: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mXw5_p5fpBI!

That booking came a couple of weeks after my NBCBLK interview  - my debut contribution to that new, African American vertical for NBC News: http://www.nbcnews.com/news/nbcblk/precious-butler-director-lee-daniels-building-empire-n290416.

And ARISE AMERICA had me on with Debbye Turner Bell who – like me – is a FAN! GREAT CHAT with Debbye: https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=10152816022788737.

LORRA RIVERS

I've been talking about the careers of the EMPIRE cast for years. I've met Taraji. Terrence has been really cool throughout the years - dressy or casul! LOL! I attended the "Precious" premiere in Hollywood and met Gabourey. She, Lee, and I would be in the same screening room to see one of his first sharings of "Lee Daniels' "The Butler". And on and on, I could go about the AWESOME cast. Also: From two day-playing roles on another FOX TV hit from the mid-'90s, "New York Undercover", I first got to know EMPIRE co-star Malik Yoba. Have attended his live shows over the years. Happened to be producing BET reality show "Monica: Still Standing" while Malik and the cast of Tyler Perry's "Why Did I Get Married Too?" were filming. We all stayed at the TWELVE Atlantic Station. But par for the course in the LIFE OF RILEY, I'll also be sharing some NAMES behind the STARS and the BRAND of EMPIRE who will be popping up! I want to make sure you are in the KNOW! Shout out to my college BFF Audrey Irvine – CNN’s own – for sending some EMPIRE tea my way. On THIS WEDNESDAY’s episode (March 3, 2015), the vision and cutting edge style of designer Lorra Rivers 'Nikita' clutch will make its debut on Empire!! A homegrown DC talent, Lorra Rivers is a professsionally trained interior designer who received her interior design degree with a minor in architecture from Taraji's alma mater Howard University. With over 27 years' experience, Lorra has served as a contributing writer for Ebony, Homes of Color and Upscale magazines. She was a featured designer in the coffee table book, Spectacular Homes of Greater Washington, DC where her custom furniture designs were on display. In a little over 5 years, Lorra has transitioned her design experience towards another passion, the fashion industry. In creating the 'LorraRivers' brand, her purse designs reflect a cutting edge style for the fashionista with flair. The signature collection 'Nikita' clutch will be featured on this week's Empire.  Which character will  hold the 'Nikita'? Lorra describes the 'Lorra Rivers Woman' as one who possesses awe inspiring sensuality, a playfully shines from within and commands strength tempered with refinement. Stay tuned this Wednesday at 9p on FOX. And let LORRA RIVERS – and LIFE OF RILEY –know your thoughts on the purse AND the episode.

Contact information

www.lorrarivers.com

IG: lorrarivers

Twitter: @lorrarivers1

Facebook: Lorra Rivers bag

KEHINDE WILEY

I have also been seeing Kehinde Wiley’s work in EMPIRE – since Episode 1. Was happy to support my friend Lamar Johnson's film project KEHINDE WILEY: AN ECONOMY OF GRACE which he Executive Produced in partnership with PBS: TRAILER: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=46wgtP3eiEF. It was on a short list of documentaries being considered for the final ballot at this year’s Academy Awards. Look to hear more from Lamar very soon; meanwhile, so good to see Kehinde on EMPIRE!

Nsilo

You see the one on the right with the sunglasses and the pink shirt? I used to call him "Tandi's little brother". She and I were closer in age as we matriculated through Savannah's social teen scene. But I must give him a GROWN MAN shout out to my Savannah homeboy; fellow Windsor Forest High School KNIGHT; and Morehouse brother Nsilo Reddick – business partner and producer to Grammy-winning MC Chamillionaire: http://allhiphop.com/2015/02/24/chamillionaire-start-up-companies/. The two moguls and their team are stellar exemplars of making the most of THE BUSINESS in SHOW BUSINESS as they aim to encourage "our people" to learn more about finance, investing, the tech industry, etc...and to put some of that floss less into bottle service and more into making power moves - for example - at a venture capital firm. And the proof is in the pudding as Chamillionaire announces that he - and Nsilo - are now an entrepreneurs-in-residence for Upfront Ventures, an investment firm. EXCERPT from the article above: “In a letter written by Upfront Ventures’  investment partner Mark Suster, he detailed how his relationship with Chamillionaire began and how the “Hip Hop Police” rapper is flourishing into quite the entrepreneur. The Houston spitter caught Suster’s eye after a 2009 speech about social media engagement in the music industry. A few years back he started many mini investments in tech firms with Suster, which led to Cham wanting to becoming more involved with the tech start up world. “A while back Chamillionaire started telling me he wanted to immerse himself even more in the tech world – learning to build products, studying different business models and committing himself to being a true tech entrepreneur,” Suster wrote. “Chamillionaire has a way more refined sense of what customer behavior is like than most ivy league graduates with nice Powerpoint slides that I meet.” Now as an entrepreneur-in-residence for the next several months, Chamillionaire is soaking up knowledge about start ups and is also advising Upfront Ventures along with his business partner and producer Nsilo Reddick.” LOVE IT! LEAD BY EXAMPLE, MY BROTHERS!

SWEET ARISE

 Hi folks! YOU can watch me (from time to time) on ARISE - now on Time Warner, Verizon Fios, and On Demand... www.YouTube.com/AriseENT360. THIS WEEK, I’m filling in for my friend Shannon Lanier who is on Oscar duty. I’m working alongside Sharon Carpenter who is filling in for our beloved Lola Ogunnaike. Earlier this week, Lee Daniels stopped by to dish on EMPIRE and its over-the-top SUCCESS: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mXw5_p5fpBI!  This comes a couple of weeks after my NBCBLK interview with one of Hollywood’s finest directors:http://www.nbcnews.com/news/nbcblk/precious-butler-director-lee-daniels-building-empire-n290416. And ARISE AMERICA had me on with Debbye Turner Bell who – like me – is a FAN! GREAT CHAT with Debbye:https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=10152816022788737. THIS WEEK on Arise Entertainment 360, we talked OSCARS and interviewed actress Regina Taylor (star of USA Network's DIG on USA) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1m8mfdjNa8Q; Anthony Harper's and my friends, Miss Robbie Montgomery and her son Tim Norman – stars of recurring client OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network’s Welcome to Sweetie Pie's -

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F9IXUAC2-JQ;

 Claire Gilman on why Tomi Ungerer is the first illustrator to be shown at The Drawing Center in its over 30 year history -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LT9uzh1U0Gk; Scheana Marie fromVanderpump Rules on Bravo -

http://youtu.be/NLDSsNK2OiQ;

 Crystal Mccrary (Director, “Little Ballers”) -

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GiqM51G7YzI;

plastic surgeon Dr. Randal Haworth -

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WJF5icXRtjM;

 Thelonious Monk III -

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2A1abj_NMk4;

 Jason Hervey (EP, “Outlaw Country”/Child star, “Wonder Years”):

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uzQYoXeTjJU

; fashion designer Kimberly Goldson (Season 9 FINALIST on “Project Runway”) -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jl2koRMa7Og; and – from MINIBAR (delivery apps) - Lindsey Andrews:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yk3H3S-d8Kg. PRIMARILY I do Broadway/pop culture segments and guest co-host on ARISE ENTERTAINMENT 360:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DYghWCBasyo&list=PL1TUj2SKo8ntR2D6QVDcQLwdykzvhtzbK. As always, THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT!#arise360#ariseTV360 #sweetiepie

QAASIM MIDDLETON

SHOUT OUT to Toni Seawright for sharing her son Qaasim Middleton (and his AWESOME brother Khalil) with us during the SPRING 2014 SERIES of Billie’s Black Presents All Star Karaoke with Patrick L. Riley (At the end of June, I also got to share a stage with them as I hosted their mom’s 50TH BDAY PARTY – a tribute to Michael Jackson!).

WELL, NOW WE NEED THE VILLAGE TO LIFT HIM UP as he is TOP 24 on this season of AMERICAN IDOL! TOMORROW night on Fox!!! This week, AMERICA VOTES!!! AND WE MUST GET HIM TO THE TOP 12! So please spread the word and vote for Brooklyn's BADD Boy, New York and Mississippi's Finest in Entertainment!!! And also join his Fan page on Facebook… and hit him up and follow him on:
His Twitter is @QaasimOfficial 
His Instagram is @QaasimOfficial#billiesblack#allstarkaraoke #motownmay#AmericanIdol #LetsBegin#SypheEntertainment#MCMI #MCMIReport#RebellionEvent#idolauditions

Selma – Cochran Firm

During this last week of February, The Cochran Firm is giving high school students from selected metropolitan area schools the opportunity to see Selma Movie. Through the efforts of regional offices of The Cochran Firm, students aged 12 – 19 are seeing the movie, Selma, and are participants in a social media campaign highlighting their thoughts on current social justice issues. For the New York City screening at Magic Johnson Theater in Harlem, organizer of this effort/my NABJ sister friend Yolanda Young – an attorney and journalist – asked me to present the film; The Cochran Firm rep for NYC: Tracey L Brown; and the winnings from the student social media contest to three NYC students: Brian Brown Jr.; Zydasia Ramos; and Joshua Glover. As part of this event, students from across the country posted their original artwork, photos, poems, memes and essays - expressing their views on today’s social justice issues and what they would like to do to peacefully implement change. Winners for their work received a $50 Visa gift card, and the school with the most participation, shares, and entries will win $500. Platforms to follow these works are Twitter (@CochranNational), Instagram (CochranFirm) and Facebook (The Cochran Firm). THANKS COCHRAN FIRM! And SHOUT OUT to YOLANDA YOUNG, who last booked me a year or so ago to host “Lawyers of Color” HOT LIST ROLL CALL reception at esteemed law firm Sullivan & Cromwell!

http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2013/6/9/magic-2-do.html.  

#SELMA #selma2015 #SelmaStudentSocialMediaContest #FDA2 #LifeofRiley #LOR #PatrickLRiley #PatrickRiley

Empire

THIS JUST IN! Please SHARE! My debut contribution to new, recurring client NBC’s new African American vertical NBCBLK: an interview with Lee Daniels whose Empire on FOX TV - starring Taraji P. Henson, Terrence Howard, and Gabourey Sidibe - is a BIG HIT - http://www.nbcnews.com/news/nbcblk/precious-butler-director-lee-daniels-building-empire-n290416!  LET ME KNOW YOUR THOUGHTS! And as always, THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT! XO #NBCBLK #Empire #Lee Daniels #FOXTV

Idol

Y’all know I love me some Toni Seawright! And her boyz Qaasim and Khalil are the bomb too! Qaasim is one to watch this season on American Idol! Happy that he (and the whole fam) brought their talents, love, and gifts to “Billie’s Black PRESENTS All Star Karaoke with Patrick L. Riley” – the Spring 2014 Series! I am further honored that Toni invited me to host her 50TH BDAY PARTY – a tribute to Michael Jackson! We all shared the stage that BEAUTIFUL NIGHT as well! GO QAASIM! #billiesblack #allstarkaraoke #motownmay #AmericanIdol

STEPS

I did a rare day of "acting" in an independent film STEPS - an Eddie Harris Script and Production. My part shot yesterday in Jersey City (and I'll shoot one more day next week). It's this project that my beloved Penwah Phynjuar was instrumental in casting me. I play RUDY who is a hoot with heart. Check out some great press STEPS got as it shoots around Jersey City and here in the Tri-State Area:

http://hudsonreporter.com/view/full_story/26378011/article-Making-it-real--Local-filmmaker-creates-feel-good-movie-with-a-bit-of-grit-?instance=jersey_city_top_story #STEPS

Nightly Show

Glad to attend a Meet & Greet Breakfast for The Nightly Show with Larry Wilmore – scheduled to premiere MLK Monday on Comedy Central. He’s branded himself quite well as a comic personality who turns humor about race, class and social issues into big laughs — from his days of writing for In Living Color and Jamie Foxx Show; executive producing Bernie Mac Show; and Eddie Murphy's animated comedy The PJ's; creating specials for Showtime Networks and writing a book, I'd Rather We Got Casinos: And Other Black Thoughts. GLAD TO HANG OUT WITH MY INDUSTRY BUDDIES Isoul Harris (Editor in Chief at Uptown Magazine); iconic editor and writer Angela Bronner Helm ("The Root", "Essence", "Uptown", "Honey", etc.); and NBCBLK’s Amber Payne (Editor whose dispatched me to do my debut contribution to NBC’s new African American vertical, the interview with Lee Daniels). #ComedyCentral #LarryWilmore #THENIGHTLYSHOW #UPTOWNmag

Mel’isa Unsung

My friends at SMEG have one of their diva clients Meli'sa Morgan on Unsung Wednesday, February 4^th on TV ONE. The new season’s been great so far with Rick James and Peaches & Herb. I LOVE UNSUNG! And I adore MELI’SA and her SAVVY-MARKETING ENTERTAINMENT GROUP team! And I CELEBRATE SAVOY on his 50^TH! HAPPY BIRTHDAY, FRIEND!

Centric Celebrates Sisterhood

Not sure if you folks saw a little of my last BET project for CENTRIC - "Centric Celebrates Sisterhood": three TV/viral spots I worked with their creative services team to produce, shouting out on their FOUNDERS WEEK, the AKAs, DELTAs, and ZETAs: https://www.facebook.com/CentricTV/videos #CentricCelebratesSisterhood

FRESH

Shout out to my Orlando-based friend Tammie Dunlap whose Fresh Natural Spring Water is delicious! She sent me a box that greeted me upon my return from Georgia. And what a convenience to have water at the ready as I needed to hydrate from all of that eating and drinking down South. Imagine me reaching for more and more bottles of FRESH – light, refreshing, and crisp – instead of my “bubble” (usually a sip of Coca Cola! LOL!). Well, it’s happening. Check it out: www.Drinkfreshusa.com. CONGRATS, TAMMIE! Need another box! LOL!

Motown… See u around

I INTERVIEWED MR. BERRY GORDY and MISS DIANA ROSS and MARY WILSON on OPENING NIGHT of MOTOWN: THE MUSICAL on Broadway: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KK1yncqPlOQ. Got to see the show one more time with my Carl Nelson. MOTOWN THE MUSICAL rocks… and will continue to do so – in London and all over the United States before it returns to Broadway (another theater) in 2016. #ENDLESSLOVE #MOTOWNMAY #BILLIESBLACK #ALLSTARKARAOKE

HB DANI!

Great times at our girlfriend Danielle Andrea Simone Knight's 50th bday party! Eventi - A Kimpton Hotel in NYC hosted the night! Here come the "50 fetes"! LOL! HAPPY BIRTHDAY, OUR DANI! WE LOVE YOU!

fractured

Check out my friend Pierre Romain's upcoming project: "Fractured" - Staring Eric Roberts, Jake Busey and Athena Lebessis, Directed by Lance KR Kawas, Executive Produced by Pierre Romain, from Washington Street Production, Sterling Worldwide Entertainment and RU'YA International (coming April 2015). Get all the tea here: https://m.facebook.com/profile.php?id=822129274526908.

TV ONE’S “LIFE AFTER”

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

THE BUTLER

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

MAKEUP BY MERRELL

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

WENDY IN ‘CHICAGO’

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

MOMENTUM PRIDE

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

SYLVESTER

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

CHOIR BOY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The cast includes Nicholas L. Ashe,

Kyle Beltran,

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

TICKET INFO:

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

-CHICAGO TRIBUNE

Tickets are just

$30

for all performances

through July 21 with code 11249

To Order:

Visit www.NYCITYCENTER.ORG

Call CITYTIX at 212.581.1212

Or Visit The CITY CENTER BOX OFFICE

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

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

LIMITED ENGAGEMENT

June 18 - July 21 | City Center Stage II

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

www.manhattantheatreclub.com

RENAISSANCE BRUNCH

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

LITTLE BALLERS

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

BEING MARY JANE

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