A DAY IN "THE LIFE OF RILEY"

xscape puerto rico 2016

WHAT A WEEKEND! And I MUST say off the top, it would NOT have happened without the recommendation from my partner Ant’s sister from another mother, Sabrina Coleman AKA Bri Cole AKA Pansophy PR guru – clients over the years having included and including LEON, FRENCHIE DAVIS, MICHAEL JAI WHITE, PRESSURE, and XSCAPE PR!

Once she extended the advisement to Xscape Puerto Rico founders Gregory Douglas and Maurice Foley, they invited me to co-host and present at their Memorial Day Weekend Tropical Getaway for an esteemed LGBTQ set, I couldn’t refuse.

Was a bit more of a journey to get to this weekend --- with family crisis; some reversals on our original deal; lots of juggling deadlines, but I’m clear where I was supposed to be this weekend! WHAT A BLAST!

We CELEBRATED all things Patrik Ian Polk and the cast of Noah's Arc, including the one cast member with whom I'd yet to take a pic til now:Gregory Keith who plays Alex's partner and an anesthesiologist Trey Iverson. Always loved him on the show.This was one of many highlights that included a “Noah’s Arc” reunion with most of the balance of the cast: Darryl Stephens; Jensen Atwood - my friend who is always such a joy....
 and such a stand for the LGBTQ set as he looks to showcase his authentic hetero side in the upcoming season of TV One's "Hollywood Divas" (but the "children" still love them some Jensen - me included);and Rodney Chester. I share to inspire you joining us next year: www.xscapepr.com. Instagram: xscapepuertorico  Twitter: @xscapepr

Oh! And my dear friend James Earl Hardy – who I met via the National Association of Black Journalists in 1995 in Philadelphia – who is responsible for the B BOY BLUES franchise: books and staged work – was honored with a Vanguard Award. Love him and his work so much! Congrats James!

And you MUST KNOW Miss Frenchie Davis was a fierce and fun presence to the gathering of hundreds of LGBT professionals and our friends – performing a fab set of material in Old San Juan for one of our late night parties. She did Whitney’s “I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)”; Katy Perry’s “Fireworks”; a tribute to Prince and Denise Matthews: Vanity 6’s “Nasty Girl”; a remixed Rihann’s “We Found Love” with just piano accompaniment; and an a capella “Home”. YAZZZZ! AND THANK YOU!

We didn’t do ALL STAR KARAOKE (which I host in New York City) this year in Puerto Rico (though I did stumble upon some karaoke in the general lounge…and I just had to get “The Boss” in for the packed lobby). But as a Celebrity Ambassador, I got the chance to host the Opening Night party, which was star-filled: Angie Stone played her new CD “Dream” and performed a few tracks from it (and her classic repertoire). She received XSCAPE PR’s Vanguard award that night.

Was also a treat to introduce two of my favorites with whom I’ve had the chance to know on a friend/fam tip these last few years: My R&B DIVA QUEEN MONIFAH and The Queen of Bounce: BIG FREEDIA – both also VANGUARD AWARD RECIPIENTS... in addition to supermodel and star on “Real Housewives of Atlanta”, Miss Cynthia Bailey: She shared her eyewear --- and lots of generous, connected time --- with everyone. LOVED hanging with her this weekend. THE KIDS LOVE CYNTHIA BAILEY!

Also there were wonderful HIV/AIDS awareness panels – one featuring my friend Marco Benjamin with the Aids Healthcare Foundation. There were also many authors in the mix including Sundiata Alaye whose book "Empty Promises Private Pain: A Light Out of Darkness" is winner of James Baldwin Award for Outstanding Accomplishments in the Arts

I don’t want to forget anyone, but let me take a stab at  sharing with you who was in the house: Wendell James (“Raising Whitley”); THE VIEW’s Raven Symone accompanied EMPIRE and AMERICA’S NEXT TOP MODEL’s own Azmarie Livingston; Ariane Davis (“Love & Hip Hop Atlanta”); my friend Clay Cane who presented his BET.com documentary “Holler if You Hear Me: Black and Gay in the Church”; Juan & Gee (Power Couple/Love Works/The Gentlemen's Ball); Torrei Hart (Actress & Reality TV Star/Hollywood Ex's ATL); Melli B, out hip hop artist; Sampson McCormick, Stand Up Comedian.Writer.Activist; MJ Harris (Co-Founder & Vice President-The Hurston Group); CoachG - Health & Fitness Expert; Alain Fagnidi, Celebrity & Intl. Lifestyle Brand Designer; Chef Will Brown (TV Network Personality); Sundiata Alaye (“Empty Promises Private Pain "A Light Out of Darkness"”); Rashad Burgess (Gliead Sciences, Inc.); playwright and actor Daniel Beatty; etc.

My childhood BFF Ernest joined me after Ant couldn’t make it due to a family emergency. We enjoyed the company of Moe Dee; Ashley; and so many others. And when Sabrina Coleman wasn’t juggling her many balls as publicist of Frenchie Davis and XScape PR or her production/script writing duties for The Vanguard Awards or the Opening Night party for which she produced me, we all got several much-needed doses of fun and relaxation, which – even with rungs of resort hiccups – couldn’t make our time at XScape PR anything short of a OPRAH-LEGENDS-WEEKEND-style LOVE FEST! LOVE YOU ALL…and see you NEXT YEAR!

DISNEY on Broadway

“Can I tell you the way that Disney does it? There’s something for everyone. Shows like Aladdin and The Lion King get us in touch with our inner child.” That’s what I told the hosts at Arise Entertainment 360 a couple of years ago on my former, recurring theater segment: : https://youtu.be/3x2PkFiqqu8 . Since Ant and I met on Broadway almost 11 years ago at Oprah Winfrey Presents The Color Purple and I’m always waxing theatrical on some platform, the PR folks with these shows asked LIFE OF RILEY to return and – via blast – to underscore that any of Disney’s Broadway fare is a swell date night in addition to being a kid-friendly experience. Take some time to re-experience these amazing productions and each other on a DISNEY ON BROADWAY DATE NIGHT:www.disneyonbroadway.com. TWO favorites (among many) are in these two Great White Way productions ALADDIN has Clifton Davis (whose LIFE AFTER on TV ONE is among the shows on which I appeared as pop culture analyst) As always, THANK YOU for keeping up with LIFE OF RILEY:www.thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/... and THE LION KING has Morehouse brother RUSSELL BROWN, a Broadway veteran, in it. BRAVO TO ALL! As Ant and I were en route to the earlier curtain of 7p, we happened upon “Wicked” co-star Peter Scolari who I got the chance to interview a year or so ago for recurring client OWN-TV’s “Oprah, Where Are They Now?”:https://youtu.be/cwexkUN9iZU and https://youtu.be/noz_zrQasH4. then from Broadway’s “Shuffle Along”, we happened upon tap star Savion Glover and director George C. Wolfe – both Broadway babies! I also got to recently interview multi-Tony-award-winning “Shuffle Along” star Audra McDonald for #WhereAreTheyNow - https://youtu.be/pE5EgP-a6Kc. #broadway #arise360 #aladdinonbroadway#thelionkingonbroadway #BazanPR#TheColorPurple #OprahWinfrey #Oprah#allstarkaraoke #billiesblack #DisneyOnBroadway

Since last I posted, SO MUCH HAS GONE DOWN – from DIVAS to DADDY!

Let’s go!

ARISE 360

http://youtu.be/DYghWCBasyo Motown the Musical,Monifah Carter, and the LIFE OF RILEY have been crossing paths a lot lately - in recent weeks at: Billie's Black Gourmet Soul for Billie's Black PRESENTS ALL STAR KARAOKE WITH Patrick L. Riley. http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2014/4/2/something-to-talk-about.html. A few weeks after that at Monifah Carter's R&B Divas: Atlanta PREMIEREPARTY in Harlem at The Corner Social: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2014/4/23/soul-out-loud.html. AND THIS WEEK at my home away from home when it comes to on-camera pop culture analysis: Arise Entertainment 360 with my friends Lola Ogunnaike and Shannon Lanier - both of whom I want to congratulate as CentricTV will be syndicatingArise360 in the Fall (an announcement made recently at the Ziegfeld Theatre for the BET UPFRONT 2014 - the last project on which I worked for recurring clientBET (TV network) Creative Services). Monifahappeared on this same edition in which I analyze the Tony nominations for 2014 - including a host of surprises, celebrations, and upsets! SPECIAL SHOUT OUT to my girl Anika Noni Rose and everybody at A Raisin in the Sun (1961 film): BROADWAY. Though Denzel didn't get the nod, the show is still an AWESOME, CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED impression for The Great White Way. "ROCKY" WINS or could win! ALSO: We didn't get to mention Audra McDonald whose turn as LADY DAY may garner her a SIXTH TONY AWARD -a grand-slam record breaker, if she's victorious. Here's a link to my most recent Broadway round-up with ARISE several weeks back: http://youtu.be/AijZZeZgFkQ. We talked NEW MUST-SEE BROADWAY SHOWS! Last year, I predicted the TONY AWARDS nominations:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zTd5S1wKUs0. A few weeks prior to that, I was on ARISE ENTERTAINMENT 360 to talk BROADWAY: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RDxfe-hG_aY. In the aforementioned ARISE 360 Broadway segment, I predicted the iconic Cicely Tyson would be nominated for her role in Broadway's "The Trip to Bountiful". And she was!! YAY! So, they played that clip and referenced my prediction the following day: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uuJEs6ruin0. I was again on ARISE recently to talk GATSBY: the book, the film(s), the blueprint on hip hop! HERE'S THE LINK:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mBT9mSmfmCo. TWITTER handles for the day include: @themonifah for MONIFAH CARTER! And @thetonyawards for THE TONY AWARDS! CONGRATS to all the nominees - including "After Midnight" - currently featuring Vanessa Williams as guest vocalist. Fantasia is coming back! And Patti LaBelle;  Gladys Knight, and Natalie Cole have JUST been announced for the summer. What a line-up!And for the telecast, which will be hosted again (a fourth time) by Hugh Jackman who took a selfie of us a few months ago. Speaking of Broadway (as she starred on The Great White Way this past summer), recurring client "The Wendy Williams Show" has booked me to work on a project this week. Look for it on the show next week! Stay tuned... and as always THANKS FOR EVERYONE'S SUPPORT OF THE LIFE OF RILEY!#billiesblack #allstarkaraoke #motownmay

 

BET UPFRONT

I’m proud to have been working this past couple of months with recurring client BET! It was the BET UPFRONT 2014 for which I got the chance to work with the Creative Services team there on the video and art/design presentations. From the big screen of the Ziegfeld – home of most NYC WORLD PREMIERES, was a treat to see my work! The clients and advertisers seemed pleased! Afterwards, all gathered at The London for a post-set. Among many at BET Upfront '14, Brandy and MC Lyte were among them – ushering in BET’s upcoming programming – including: 1. 8th season return of “The Game” (all of the cast was in the house); 2. Real Husbands of Hollywood is coming back; 3. Being Mary Jane (the cast is finishing up filming the season finale now); 4. Sunday’s Best; 5. 106 & Park; 6. There will be three new scripted shows – including Diggy Simmons show “The Start Up” in which Diggy stars as a young entrepreneur. He and his crew who explore the city, love, etc. - with Teyana Taylor in tow; 7. “Gone Gospel” is a reality show hosted by Kirk Franklin. Secular artists come together for GOSPEL BOOTCAMP. The winner wins $100k; 8. A new game show, Got Game. Three men will go on dates with a woman in disguise and they have to depend on ‘their game’ and not looks to win their prize date over; 9. Three original movies will premiere: a) Let The Church Say Amen, directed by Regina King, tells the story of a preacher and his family as they face life’s challenges. b) The Hot Chocolate Nutcracker is the black version of the Nutcracker. Raven Simone will appear in the film. c) Book of Negroes is the a six part mini series, with Cuba Gooding and Louis Gossett Jr; 10. Centric’s Programming includes:

Being

According to Him and Her

Read Between the Lines

Arise 360 (the show on which I am a recurring pop culture analyst)

Single Ladies

Soul Train Awards

Centric Comedy All Stars

 

–Centric will also air The Wendy Williams Show, The Talk and the Queen Latifah Show.

–KeKe Palmer’s new talk show was also announced.

–The network announced a new BET platform (health, image, service) dedicated to the black man, called His BET.

 

R&B DIVAS

After BET Upfront, Monifah and team asked me to still stop by their premiere. Got another KeKe moment plus some Syleena time. They say they are coming back to ALL STAR KARAOKE sometime soon. We'll keep the mics hot for them! Shout out to Musa Jackson Productions LLC for putting on a FAB set at Corner Social in Harlem last night. My guys Savoy Walker and Mark A Forrest of SMEG asked me on behalf of Monifah to host their event! Because of BET UPFRONT, I couldn’t meet the hosting time. But I’m told my BFF Sidra Smith, NAACP Image Award Winning Producer did a FAB job of introducing the DIVAS! Always a pleasure to see Monifah’s wife Terez – another of my favorite DIVAS! CONGRATS, R&B DIVAS! LOVE YOU ALL! Check out the GREAT TIME I had with KEKE this week: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2014/4/23/soul-out-loud.html. And we ADORED when our FIRST ALL STAR R&B DIVA came to our OPENING NIGHT: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2014/4/2/something-to-talk-about.html. #ENDLESSLOVE

DIVAS & AMAZING GRACE  – SERVED UP ATL-STYLE

Was n ATL for DAD's 80th BDAY! But more on that in a minute. Dad's before-BDAY festivities included performances from my brother Herman and me for our sister Janice at her "church secretary" appreciation. But LIFE OF RILEY and my dear friends are around wherever I go! So, I had to FIRST catch up with friends - Chandra, her son Gavin, Lamoh, my Audrey, DR. J's beautiful wife Dorys Madden, "R&B Divas-Atlanta"s own and ex-DESTINY's-CHILD-two-time-Grammy-winner Latavia - all at Tijuana Garage for lunch! LOVE A-T-L! XO

80-YEAR-YOUNG DADDY

 Dad turns 80! WOW! All his kids (and grandkid) were in the house at ATL's Paschal's! Plus, other fam, friends, and special surprises! LOVE MY DAD! XO

MY TRIBUTE:

For those in my world, THE LIFE OF RILEY is about pop culture and possibilities. But I would have NO LIFE were it not for this RILEY. His name is Herman. Most call him Mickey. I call him Dad. And he is all of those names and more inside a shell of character, principle, and work ethic that is unmatched by any of the luminaries and la-la-land folks with whom I get the chance to rub shoulders on the daily. Dad recently referenced that my ambitions were seen early on. I wasn't so sure he was paying attention. But then again, I do re-imagine our regular visits to the public library (remember those?) and I remember that no matter his nudgings for me to consider books on sports and boy stuff, he never stopped me from getting any of the books I actually wanted to read and soak up: celebrity bios, dance/theater arts/Broadway reference books, pop culture, and self-help. LOL! Even at 9 years old! LMAO! And though I also had daily witness to a man of traditions, morals, and mores - just what you'd expect from a Southern, gentle one, I never once felt a complex from him that strategizing and navigating myself inside the realm of pop culture and entertainment couldn't be a way in which I'd make a successful living. And so it is. Additionally, he challenged me. Asked difficult questions. Made thoughtful comparisons. All for the greater good. And his gentle and constructive brand of fatherhood makes me know that all is infinitely possible with a great mix of faith, hard work, and passion. I am who I am today because of Herman Lee Riley and I am SO PROUD to call him MY FATHER! We THANK GOD to still have him at 80 YEARS YOUNG! XO

GREENHOPE

I'm basking in the glow today of Dad's 80TH BDAY CELEBRATION this past weekend in Atlanta where ALL OF HIS KIDS were together WITH HIM for the first time in a LONG TIME...and his GRANDSON, TOO! So, he says, it made for one of his BEST BIRTHDAYS EVER! Great times notwithstanding, Ant and had to suffer through a flight delay to get back home as he and I have lots of work on cue. With little time for new projects, I couldn't resist an invitation from Robin Stone, Greenhope Services for Women Board member and my NABJ sister and birthdate-mate, to help her out on something special. A few years back, she asked me to host a fundraiser for this agency which works women involved with the criminal justice system who are struggling with substance abuse: http://www.greenhope.org/. THIS TIME, she's asked me to narrate a highlight video on all the great work the agency is doing to help women reclaim their lives, reunite with their families and rebuild their communities. On the ask, my A-TEAM in PRODUCTION stepped in to GIVE A LOT for a LITTLE to this great cause. Today, I'm at my favorite DP James Curry's place, Mindfile Multimedia, to record my VO narration for this project and to screen the bites from the interviews I did at GREENHOPE - excerpts of which will be sprinkled inside of the highlight video which unveils at the annual gala May 14th. Mindfile Multimedia and I have a mutual client in "Oprah: Where Are They Now?" for which we've collaborated on many segments - including recent shoots with Geraldo Rivera, Fran Drescher, and Mel B. But we've done tons of them as excerpted in this promo: http://www.oprah.com/own-where-are-they-now/Oprah-Where-Are-They-Now-Season-2-Preview-Video. Editor EXTRAORDINAIRE Mitch Jacobson is cutting this piece at his CATEGORY 5 STUDIOS: http://www.category5studios.com/! THANKS MITCH! He and I last worked together on WENDY WILLIAMS' MAGICAL WATCH AND WIN from Walt Disney World Resort! PIECE 1: http://youtu.be/n0nWYUq_3KQ; PIECE 2: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=76FBGNfZ7vQ; PIECE 3: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fNMeClGC828; PIECE 4: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gRc0POz-C10. GREENHOPE has been around since 1979. CONGRATS to ALL!

BELLE

I'd sent out the RIPPLE a few months ago - noting that in the wake of 12 YEARS A SLAVE that FOX Searchlight had another much-buzzed-about, historical chunk of Black history and cinema on its roster: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2014/3/4/valid-dreams.html.  Remember it was my Harlem buddy Tracy Grant who hipped me to her brother in law's new film (He's UK producer Damian Jones of D.J Films). "BELLE" hails from Fox Searchlight Pictures the way that 12 Years a Slave did a year or so ago... and this HISTORIC TALE brings forth yet another story that chronicles the horrors of slavery and what reversals and progressions have transpired in its time. I would be remiss if I did not mention Belle's director Amma Asante http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1392994/ It opens May 2, Mothers Day. Please spread the word! #belle #12yearsaslave #foxsearchlight! Great to meet everybody tonight! And a SPECIAL SHOUT OUT to Fox Searchlight's own Cassandra Butcher who always makes sure I'm in the house as well - from our longstanding relationship of introducing the great cinematic fare that comes from her desk often to the National Association of Black Journalists Convention via the NABJ Arts and Entertainment Task Force which I once Chaired --- including many of John Singleton's titles and "Beast of the Southern Wild" and - just last year - '12 Years'. Cassandra! You are the BEST! BFF Carl Nelson and I attended the WORLD PREMIERE of BELLE tonight at New York City's PARIS movie house. Was great to see recently-CENTRIC-syndicated host of one of my pop-culture-analysis platforms ARISE 360, Lola Oguinnake; MSNBC's own and former host of former pop-culture-analysis platform "Don't Sleep" T.J. Holmes (who co-hosted "The View" again today); Phylicia Rashad, "A Raisin in the Sun"s Anika Noni Rose (who just did an awesome turn in Lifetime's Terrie McMillan adaptation for "Day Late Dollar Short"); Chenoa and the girls from recurring client OWN's "Love In The City"; my industry girlfriends like marketing guru Jacquie Lee; MISS Monica Bailey; pr diva Katrina Boswell; ABC 7 anchor Sandra Bookman; and a host of others. And my industry fellow fam was in the mix too - like pr maven Theo Perry; MY favorite arts and culture writer Karu Daniels; film critic with the MOST, Wilson Morales; and many more. Please charge to my head and not my heart where I may not have called your name because it was so great to see everybody, I can't remember all. #BELLEMOVIE written by Misan Sagay FUN MONDAY NIGHT! XO

 

GET READY KARAOKE

After getting the opportunity to host the opening night carpet for MOTOWN: THE MUSICAL (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KK1yncqPlOQ), I'm THRILLED to announce this new partnership: MOTOWN: THE MUSICAL and BILLIE'S BLACK PRESENTS ALL STAR KARAOKE with Patrick L. Riley are partnering for MOTOWN MAY! Find out all the DEETS and how our night last week with KEKE went by clicking here - the latest edition of LIFE OF RILEY: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2014/4/23/soul-out-loud.html. BUT LAST NIGHT was "GET READY" Tuesday where we promoted MOTOWN's catalog as an option for our ALL STAR KARAOKE folks to prepare for #motownmay #allstarkaraoke #billiesblack

A LITTLE EVIDENCE OF THE BLAST WE’RE HAVING:

1. PATRICK GETS READY FOR #MOTOWNMAY W/"I WANT YOU BACK"

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10152181242383737&set=vb.662073736&type=3&theater

2. EPHRAIM & ERIC GET READY for #motownmay with "END OF THE ROAD"

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10152181275628737&set=vb.662073736&type=3&theater

3. PATRICK GETS READY FOR #MOTOWNMAY WITH "GOT TO GIVE IT UP"

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10152181301813737&set=vb.662073736&type=3&theater

 THE REDLAND

Shout out to my ATL homeboy with whom I got the chance to really bond while I spent time in L.A. circa 2009! THANKS DEREK LAFAYETTE! He is currently consulting for The Redland, an eclectic Atlanta based hip-hop duo: think Outkast meets Macklemore and Lewis. They're an edgy, philanthropic group that promotes positivity and individuality... and I hear they are my MOREHOUSE BROTHERS! The Redland has a devout social media fan base and they have a strong presence in Atlanta - the burgeoning entertainment market. Cutting edge director Don Lee shot the "Survive' video. Don is also directing "Love Thief" in LA within the next four weeks. Veteran radio promotions executive, Issy Sanchez (Cash Money Records, etc), is currently working "Survive" at pop radio. Major labels are interested in signing the group. His team is releasing the project independently July 2014. They have distribution through eOne. The group also has a "hot new artist" article that recently ran in the highly coveted music industry magazine, Amalgamation: (please see article link) http://www.amalgamationmag.com/website/amalgamated/discovering-the-redland/ They recently performed at the up South By Southwest convention in March and killed it. They also will be performing at the Urban Network convention in May.

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qwB9cmIiTuE&feature=youtu.be

HERE’S THE REDLAND BIO:

Born and raised in the Redlands of Oklahoma and Louisiana respectively, Kose and Earv were naturally inspired to call the music duo they would go on to form 'The Redland.' But once their individual forms of expression crossed paths and began to meld into a dynamic sound that they considered a "state of mind" and a "voice that brings people together,” The Redland transcended the reference of simply being where they’re from to becoming an all-inclusive artistic movement. Earv and Kose, whose collective influences run the gamut from John Lennon and Bob Marley to The Fugees and OutKast (artists known for their culture-shifting musical contributions), met while matriculated at Morehouse college in Atlanta, GA. Atlanta – which they’ve also adopted as part of their origins - and the Southern Hip Hop culture that defined it became fertile ground for the two, individually, to more deeply explore their musical talents.  Then those talents collided.

Through either happenstance or fate, it was discovered while in the midst of hanging out with mutual friends that Earv had an affinity for writing and Kose was a capable vocalist and producer.  So, the pair decided to play around with creating music together.  But what began as playful experimentation turned into production of a unique and compelling sound that deserved to be taken more seriously.  

Defined as Hip Hop for practical purposes, Earv’s and Kose’s conscious lyrics and hybrid sound - which seamlessly incorporates the myriad genres they were exposed to growing up - began to take on a life of its own.  They began hearing their music played by friends and strangers and seeing it gaining momentum on social networking sites without their intervention.  That and the realization that Hip Hop as they saw it was stuck in one gear, hitting the same "I'm richer, can get drunker and can have more sex than you” note is when they began seeing their contribution to the art form as more of a responsibility than “having fun.”  Things took off from there and The Redland officially became a “Hip Hop movement born out of the soil,” representing those who desired to hear and be heard.

“We want the fans to feel they're a part of this inclusive group and they have a say in our direction and the type of music we make," they said.  "We also try to look at ourselves honestly and really get that across to our audience.  We don't let the genre define us, we define our own music and we're just ourselves.  We feel like we have something to say, something to make an impact and we feel like it's something that's needed.

The Redland’s new album, Enlightened Contagion - named so out of the understanding of how easily negative things can spread, and how “dope it would be if positivity could spread just as easily,” will be released this July on Redland Entertainment through eOne Distribution.

MOMENTUM HONORS

It is a privilege to announce that I will be honored and celebrated at the Fourth Annual Momentum Honors Gala Fundraiser for Momentum Teens for Leadership. I am holding court with an extraordinary group of people who will be honored that night. This year they are honoring 4 graduates, celebrating Momentum Education's 11th anniversary and Momentum Teens For Leadership's 4th year in existence. There will also be two other awards given - The Momentum Teens for Leadership Teen Possibility Award and The Robin Diane Lynn Lifetime Contribution Award. The honorees this year are:

 

 

 

KEKE WYATT

 WEEK 4 of Billie's Black presents ALL STAR KARAOKE with Patrick L. Riley did that!

It featured the announcement of our #motownmay

And Keke Wyatt was our SUPREMELY SPECIAL GUEST!

 She SANG - including a LOVELY BDAY serenade for my partner Anthony Harper! It was to the tune of "If Only You Knew" - a song Keke Wyatt covered some years ago of the Patti LaBelle classic: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10202471111313827&set=vb.1075882270&type=2&theater.

First things first, THANKS to everybody for coming out! We had record numbers on the strength of our little night that could... and IS DOING - only because of our ALL STAR KARAOKE regulars who support us week-after-week at Billie's Black Gourmet Soul whether we have surprises, giveaways, or not.

This time, however, our cup runneth over with surprises and giveaways.

Our weekly sponsor is Joseph Riley Land ( Riley/Land Gourmet Pantry) - www.riley-land.com. He is popping up all over Harlem. Tonight's gift: A Taste of the South including handmade toffee from NC, drenched in dark chocolate and topped with finel-ground pecans, award-winning stone-ground grits from SC, Virginia peanuts dusted with wasabi; and an Uber car credit.

And all the singers brought their A game!

I couldn't name all the fabulous talent (Some clips, however, I must share - like this one with my boo boo Darius Booker! Can't he sang?

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10202590938709284).

 Still, I must name my "internet wife" Mara Schiavocampo, who is a BFF,  popped by. And you know we had so much fun! And we didn't take it for granted given she had just completed a busy day as ABC News Correspondent - often filing on "Good Morning America". I LOVE YOU, MY MARA!

 

And certainly she is standing on Whitney's shoulders! So much so that after KeKe did "If Only You Knew" for Ant, I offered him a song. He asked for "I Wanna Dance With Somebody" (also by Whitney) and half-way into the song, KeKe came back from her seat to join me on stage:

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10202587840755200&set=vb.1172177040&type=2&theater

 &  https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10152166354908737&set=vb.662073736&type=3&theater.

This, after we discovered the song Ant loves for me to sing wasn't available: Des'Ree's "Kissing You"). WHAT A BLAST! And may I say that KEKE was FUN, GRACIOUS, GENEROUS of her time and talent, and even said some SWEET THINGS about her enjoyment of my VOICE! HEY! She also said she would LOVE to come back some time! We'll keep the door open and your mic hot, KeKe! CONGRATS ON EVERYTHING!

 THANKS TO ALL FOR YOUR SUPPORT! I feel each and every one of your well wishes! And I am eternally grateful. #ENDLESSLOVE

 

MOTOWN MAY

 

And all of this went down before I made the BIG ANNOUNCEMENT: MOTOWN: THE MUSICAL and BILLIE’S BLACK PRESENTS ALL STAR KARAOKE are partnering for MOTOWN MAY – an opportunity for one of our ALL STAR KARAOKE REGULARS to – get this:

 

1. WIN A PAIR OF TICKETS TO SEE ONLY THE HOTTEST SHOW ON BROADWAY RIGHT NOW: “MOTOWN: THE MUSICAL” IN JUNE, which is BLAC MUSIC MONTH

 

2. THIS PERSON WILL ALSO WIN A “WALK ON ROLE” IN THAT VERY PRODUCTION OF “MOTOWN: THE MUSICAL”

 

3. AND DINNER FOR TWO AT “BILLIE’S BLACK”!

 

BACKGROUND:

* THAT’S RIGHT! "Motown: The Musical" will be a month-long sponsor of "Billie's Black Presents All Star Karaoke hosted by Patrick L. Riley".

 

* In addition to our standard hash-tags: #billiesblack and #allstarkaraoke, we'll additionally be using #motownmay for all correspondence and social media messages.

 

 

* Soon, we'll have an e-flyer for sharing on all platforms that we’ll ask all of your help in GETTING THE WORD OUT! 

 

The campaign will flow as follows:

 

1. On Tuesday, May 6th; Tuesday, May 13; and Tuesday, May 20th, BILLIE'S BLACK PRESENTS ALL STAR KARAOKE will dedicate the 9PM hour for MOTOWN-RETURNS-TO-THE-APOLLO-style SINGING COMPETITION.

2. On each of those respective nights, there will be UP TO 10 PARTICIPANTS who can sign our list that we’ll make available at 7p SHARP. On that list, you’ll note: your name; (from the book, what song and song number you’ll perform on that night in the 9p hour); and your cell phone and email address – so we can stay in touch with you. FEEL FREE TO TRY AGAIN, IF YOU DON'T GET 1ST OR 2ND THE FIRST OR SECOND TIME.

 

3. TO REITERATE, if you participate, you will sing ONE MOTOWN SONG (of your choosing from the karaoke catalog - classic or modern).

 

4. On the respective TUESDAY in May, anybody can sign up --- up to 10 people --- before the MOTOWN-RETURNS-TO-THE-APOLLO-HOUR (9p-10p) wraps.

 

5. As the clock nears 10p on each of the first three Tuesdays of MAY, we’ll determine who wins our MOTOWN-RETURNS-TO-THE-APOLLO-style competition by round-of-applause. NO BOOS!

 

6. Weekly prizes for each 1ST and 2ND PLACE WINNER will be the MOTOWN: THE MUSICAL SOUNDTRACK and some especially SUPREME MOTOWN merchandise.

 

7. BUT THERE’S MORE: Those SIX PEOPLE who win the top two prizes for the first three weeks of MAY are eligible to come back the FOURTH TUESDAY of May for: "Billie's Black Presents All Star Karaoke: MOTOWN MAY’s GRAND FINALE".

 

8. Remember, the GRAND FINALE at which the TOP TWO from each of the THREE WEEKS gets to compete THEIR SAME MOTOWN SONGS against each other and be judged by a panel of MOTOWN: THE MUSICAL cast-members and special MOTOWN FAM!

 

9. WINNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED:

 

GRAND PRIZE:

 

1. WIN A PAIR OF TICKETS TO SEE ONLY THE HOTTEST SHOW ON BROADWAY RIGHT NOW: “MOTOWN: THE MUSICAL” IN JUNE, which is BLAC MUSIC MONTH

 

2. THIS PERSON WILL ALSO WIN A “WALK ON ROLE” IN THAT VERY PRODUCTION OF “MOTOWN: THE MUSICAL”

 

3. AND DINNER FOR TWO AT “BILLIE’S BLACK”!

 

RUNNER UP:

 

1. WINS SUPREME BAG OF MOTOWN MERCH

 

2. DINNER FOR TWO AT “BILLIE’S BLACK”

 

On Tuesday, May 27th's GRAND FINALE of MOTOWN MAY, we'll EXTEND the night beyond 7p – 10p and have a FULL NIGHT OF MOTOWN - including:

 

(1) a sprinkling of Motown throughout the ALL STAR KARAOKE PROGRAM - starting at 7p;

(2) our ALL STAR KARAOKE regulars will perform MOTOWN

(3) we'll do a little Q&A trivia throughout the night and give away MERCH to ALL STAR KARAOKE attendees

(4) ALL STAR KARAOKE NIGHT extends from 10p to MIDNIGHT - so at 11p, we:

 

THROUGHOUT MOTOWN MAY at ALL STAR KARAOKE and inside all blog references and the varied e-blasts, we will provide information for DISCOUNT TICKETS to see Motown the Musical - a discount code that's been extended to July 6, 2014: ABC123 (see flyer below along with our flyer for BILLIE'S BLACK PRESENTS ALL STAR KARAOKE)

Special shout out to my friend Marcia Pendelton, Marketing Outreach for “Motown: The Musical”,  who brought this synergy to us. She first introduced me to the “Motown: The Musical” folks when they were in search of a host for their Opening Night video – a career highlight for me: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KK1yncqPlOQ.

 

BROADWAY 2014

Derrick Hemphill and I saw Cabaret the Musical Broadway recently (in preps for future analysis on Broadway and the forthcoming Tony Awards season). Was GREAT to see my Karu F. Daniels in the house! I LOVE THAT!). After, we stumbled into the cast of ROCKY Broadway, the musical we saw last week with Derrick's LSU buddy Katrina Pete Dunn: Rocky, Adrienne, and Apollo! Both shows are GREAT! It's been a wonderful season at the theater, hasn't it? Anyway! After that, Anthony Harper's BDAY fete started as Ant's Kappa brother Christopher Genwright has made it to town. So, Ant’s BDAY celebration had begun.

 

SOUL OUT LOUD

 

I interviewed many of the cast members and the icons they play on the opening night of “MOTOWN: THE MUSICAL”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KK1yncqPlOQ. Was EXCITING to get further up-close-and-personal with a few of them last night. MOTOWN THE MUSICAL’s TRIPLE GRAMMY AWARD NOMINEE, who portrays Stevie Wonder: RYAN SHAW BROUGHT “SOUL OUT LOUD” BACK TO THE CUTTING ROOM LAST NIGHT! And I’m so glad Marcia Pendelton invited Anthony C Harper, Derrick Hemphill, Kevin Anthony, and me out to enjoy. Gordon Chambers was there too. And was that Debbye Mcintyre and Jamar Dunn? It was. But as happy as we were to see our NEW YORK CITY FAM, none of us could take our eyes and ears off of the stage – from MR. SHAW to his SPECIAL GUESTS MOTOWN THE MUSICAL CAST MEMBERS BRANDON VICTOR DIXON (“Berry Gordy”) and MORGAN JAMES (“Teena Marie”). Ryan’s bi-monthly “Soul Out Loud” show features special guests from the theatre and music worlds and is highly anticipated on the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month at The Cutting Room. Theatre enthusiasts and music fans can appreciate the Monday night Broadway “dark night” tradition of stars performing their own music on the “night off.” Ryan joins a list of Broadway talent to stop by the "musician's living room" for the warm, intimate feeling, incredible acoustics and sight lines and comfortable experience for performers and audiences.

 

AND THEY WERE SINGING! Here are clips:

CLIP 1 - "Shake You Down" by Brandon and Ryan

 https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10152164521878737&set=vb.662073736&type=3&theater

 

CLIP 2 – “Caravan of Love” and “Shake You Down” by Brandon, Ryan, and audience:

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10152164543738737&set=vb.662073736&type=3&theater

 

CLIP 3: Marvin Gaye’s “I Want You” by Brandon

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10152164552193737&set=vb.662073736&type=3&theater

 

CLIP 4: “Hallelujah” by Ryan

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10152164567928737&set=vb.662073736&type=3&theater

Shaw’s music can be described as a fusion of soul and rock. The musician’s singer, Shaw is also a brilliant songwriter and has been nominated for three Grammy Awards. In addition Shaw and/or his music have been featured in such movies as: “Bride Wars”, starring Kate Hudson and Anne Hathaway; “Soul Men”, starring Bernie Mac and Samuel Jackson; “My Blueberry Nights”, starring Jude Law, Norah Jones and Natalie Portman; and on soundtracks such as “Sex and the City”, and TV shows including “Dancing with the Stars”, “So You Think You Can Dance” and ABC’s “Brothers and Sisters”. The Cutting Room has been named one of the top five “Intimate Show Venues To Check Out” by NewYork.com and features performers, bands, events and entertainment ranging from rock icons to up and coming singer songwriters. A look at http://thecuttingroomnyc.com/ highlights entertainment for a wide variety of musical tastes, a delicious menu and a comfortable rock and roll atmosphere with great optics and extraordinary acoustics. After opening a decade ago, The Cutting Room continues to build upon its dynamic reputation of having launched and hosted top musicians like Ronnie Wood & Mick Taylor, Sting, Billy Joel, John Legend, John Oates’ stripped down solo CD release party, the night after being inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with Darryl Hall and Lady Gaga (who was signed after a showcase at the venue) and many more. FOLLOW RYAN SHAW: http://www.thisisryanshaw.com./ THANK YOU, MARCIA! 

 

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, ANT!

 

Thanks to all of you who came out to DANCE to the sounds of DjStormin Norman of SUNDAE SERMON fame as we ALL lifted Anthony Harper up for his BIRTHDAY! HONEYCOMB PLAYHOUSE was our speak-easy backdrop this past weekend! And so many came by to TOAST ANT! THANK YOU ALL!

EXCERPT OF TOAST AND CAKE:

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10152164234868737&set=vb.662073736&type=3&theater

 

 

 

Billie’s Black presents All Star Karaoke with Patrick L. Riley - starting with a VIDEO EXCERPT sizzle produced by DERRICK HEMPHILL who supported the song selections duirng the evening:

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10152123074463737&set=vb.662073736&type=2&theater

 

VIDEO EXCERPT: Maxwell's THIS WOMAN'S WORK by Patrick L. Riley

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10152123190033737&set=vb.662073736&type=2&theater

 

VIDEO EXCERPT: Diana Ross' MISSING YOU by Patrick L. Riley (TRIBUTE to Marvin Gaye on the 30th Anniversary of his passing)

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10152123198808737&set=vb.662073736&type=2&theater&notif_t=video_comment

VIDEO EXCERPT:  Mariah Carey's CAN'T LET GO by Patrick L. Riley
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10152126865728737

Billie's Black presents All Star Karaoke with Patrick L. Riley kicked off! And what an awesome round-up of ALL STARS led by "R&B Diva" Monifah whose new season begins on TV-One Wednesday, April 23rd at 10p. She sang Bonnie Raitt's "Something to Talk About" and Jill Scott's "Getting in the Way".I had to catch up with her on-stage - so she could clue us in on how to stay in touch with her and support her upcoming projects. She also serenaded me at one point. She also joined me impromptu on Monica's "Love All Over Me". Monifah's beautiful wife Terez, a recent buddy, accompanied her. Three BRAVO-TV All-Stars were in the house - "Chef Roble & Co"s Artie Thompson; and my friend Bevy Smith from "Fashion Queens" who performed "Slave 4U" by Britney Spears and Tina Turner's "Private Dancer". And "Real Hosewives of DC"s Paul Wharton, TV personality and style expert Paul Wharton came and sang. He and I did "I Knew You Were Waiting For Me" by Aretha Fraanklin and George Michael. We also did "The Boss" with Black2Broadway's Kevin Anthony, head of events at Billie's Black and a well-respected singing pro. Kevin Anthony did a wonderful rendition of John Lennon's "Imagine". All of this, while my BFF Sidra Smith worked the room. We are all still celebrating her NAACP Image Awards win (Producer of Angela Davis documentary "Free Angela"). Also in the mix:  celebrity hairstylist Carla Bone; my karaoke doppelganger; Coach Billy (from doc "Little Ballers"); and a room full of my buddies; family; and friends - including Broadway triple threat/Morehouse brother Maurice McRae, Ant, Kevin "Moochie" Freeman, Lisa Bonner, Esq. AKA "inner-rocker chick", Derrick (who helped out immensely), Jamar, Ryan, Ern, Tatiana, Pedro, Blair, Ivonne, Elisabeth (from Norway), Laurence, Mario, Ephraim, Horace, my Penwah, Leonard, Jason, and so many more! GREAT FIRST NIGHT!
Please come out next Tuesday April 8th and join us as we celebrate THE Kevin Anthony's special birthday. Sing him a song or two at All Star Karaoke or just come hang out. If you too want to celebrate your birthday with Karaoke, just drop a line to b2productions1@gmail.com. It's a great way to celebrate for you and your friends. I hope to see you all there. Please feel free to pass this along and let everyone know we are back. ALL STAR KARAOKE with PATRICK RILEY at BILLIE'S BLACK. Make your reservations today. Big shout out to Adrian and Marian who run Billie's Black and allow us a backdrop of beautiful art, great food, and drink specials (including a signature ALL STAR KARAOKE cocktail, "The Life of Riley" - rum, cola, and lime). And as always, THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT! #billiesblack #allstarkaraoke

 

ABBY Z and MORE!

 Spent the first part of this rainy Sunday afternoon with Ant – a delicious brunch of FAB cuisine and cocktails from Hillstone Restaurant. I then had to head straight to SiriusXM Studios to be a guest on “Abby Z +1” podcast! #abbyZ show! I got to promote Billie's Black presents ALL STAR KARAOKE with Patrick L. Riley: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2014/3/24/billies-black-presents-all-star-karaoke-with-patrick-riley.html  - #billiesblack #allstarkaraoke; Fashion Link V.I. presents FVIFW Fashion Weekend (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2014/3/12/fashionlinkvi-fashion-weekend-in-st-croix.html); and all things “Motown: The Musical” (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KK1yncqPlOQ); and so much more! Great INTERVIEW and ROUND-TALK, ABBY! ALSO in the mix: Gwen DeVoe – Founder and Executive Director of Full Figured Fashion Week (http://fffweek.com/2014/);  model/stylist Elizabeth Taylor (http://www.laliznyc.com/); aerial choreographer Brooke Notary (http://www.brooknotary.com/); and new Abercrombie & Fitch model Josh.

 Special shout out to Abby Z's producer Jamison! Cool cat! Smart! And uber-talented! Thanks Jamison!

Taha, Manivone, and BUA!

MEANWHILE, Ant had to go and represent our household by going to @Corridor Gallery in Brooklyn to support our “brother” Taha Clayton who was a part of a group show presented by Rush Arts and curated by Charlotte Mouquin Voznesenskaya. The group exhibition of contemporary portraits also included the work of Kate Crilley Fauvell, Tatyana Fazlalizadeh, Jas Knight, and Sylvia Parker Maier – all contemporary portrait painters working in Brooklyn, NY. These works range in subject and size but create painted portraits of people around us in our everyday lives. As always, CONGRATS TAHA! I caught the tail end! But most importantly, got to hang with Ant’s and my new niece via Taha and Ant’s Brooklyn-based, Denver-born-and-raised BFF Manivone: new niece  Bua-Lienh ("line of lotus flowers") named after her great grandma.

 HAPPY 70^TH BDAY MISS ROSS

It’s no surprise that MISS ROSS is my FAVORITE! And many can’t believe she’s just turned 70! I am BLESSED to have danced and sung on-stage with her. I’ve interviewed her several times. And of of those times, got the OMG moment of posing with THE BOSS in my arms! Well, many of us ROSS-ers got together to DANCE to DIANA – an event organized by ONE OF MY DIANA ROSS BFFs Dustin Fitzharris who DESCRIBED our night at THE MONSTER BEST: "I've gotten so excited that I almost have no voice left."

 

Last night was truly a special night at the Diana Ross dance in New York. Thank you to everyone who came out and all of those who were there in spirit. The DJ played four hours worth of Diana Ross music---those in attendance would agree, "if there's a cure for this, I don't want it."

 

There were a lot of highlights, but one that immediately comes to mind is when "Reach Out and Touch" came on and everyone on the dance floor--many who were strangers to each other before the evening began--joined hands and sang together. I smiled all evening seeing everyone have such a good time. Here are the songs that we danced to:

 

Remember Me (Remix), Gettin' Ready For Love, Dirty Looks (Remix), Tenderness (Chic Mix), Chain Reaction, Workin' Overtime, Love Hangover (Single Version and Extended Alternate) The Boss, No One Gets the Prize

 

Eaten Alive (Remix) Once in the Morning, Brand New Day, Let's Go Back To Day One, Last Time I Saw Him, Touch Me In The Morning (Almighty Mix and Alternate Vocal) Ain't No Mountain High Enough (Almighty Mix) Lovin', Livin', Givin' (Almighty Mix), Reflections, I Will Survive, You Can't Hurry Love

 

Why Do Fools Fall in Love, Mirror Mirror, Swept Away, Bottom Line, Take Me Higher (Remix), Carry On, Upside Down, I'm Coming Out, Supremes 12" Mix, Love Child (Remix), Pieces of Ice, Up Front (Remix), It's Never Too Late, Surrender

 

Muscles (Remix) I Want You, Your Love Is So Good For Me (12"), Reach Out and Touch, It's Not Unusual, It's My Turn, It's My House, Baby Love, Stop in the Name of Love, I Hear a Symphony, Someday We'll Be Together (Remix), You Keep Me Hangin' On

 

Thanks again to The Monster and everyone there who made it possible and to those who showed off their best dance moves!

 

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MISS ROSS! See you in JUNE when you perform in NYC on your IN THE NAME OF LOVE TOUR!

 

#endlesslove

COMING UP

Did recent interviews with Geraldo Rivera, my first NYC boss (circa 1995) and "Scary Sprice" AKA Mel B! Will tell you for what and when it will air another time. But these two "revolutions" will be televised in Summer 2014.

 

 

 

HAVE A (PEPSII) & A SMILE!

One of my favorite moments over this last couple of weeks: At Mo-Bay Uptown Restaurant (WWW.MOBAYUPTOWNNYC.COM). I had a lovely lunch with songstress Cheryl Pepsii Riley (WWW.CHERYLPEPSIIRILEY.COM). One of her reps Terrance Russ brought us namesakes together to compare notes on the respective "...life of (both) Riley(s)..." Cheryl had a lot to tell – including how much she LOVES to host Monday night’s jam session at Village Underground (www.thevillageunderground.com); how she is going back on the road with Tyler Perry’s “Madea’s Happy Family” (www.tylerperry.com/_Plays/); how she sang all of the vocals for Taraji P. Henson’s character in Tyler Perry’s “I Can Do Bad All By Myself” (www.icandobadmovie.com); and how she makes it all work – from being an enterprising and creative singer – of many formats – to being a step-mother; auntee of several almost-grown kids; and a grand-auntee. Though a long time since her debut hit “Thanks For My Child” (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ICxk7dYYrOs), Cheryl is still quite passionate about the industry and getting her music out there – including recently re-released CD “Let Me Be Me” and single “Come Over”.  My RILEY namesake and I did all of this catching up over tasty Southern Fried Chicken, Deep Fried Catfish, potato salad, rice & peas, mac & cheese, and collard greens. CONGRATS, CHERYL! Hope to see you soon!

ALL-STAR KARAOKE THURSDAY NIGHTS!

So, I will be back in HARLEM on Thursday - hosting NATIVE RESTAURANT's ALL-STAR KARAOKE (9PM - 12 MIDNIGHT). PLEASE COME OUT AND SUPPORT. The ALL-STARS have really come out over these past couple of weeks… and we expect more surprise visits and tie-ins in weeks to come. R&B diva Monifah came by the first week. Her song “Touch It” is in the karaoke book! Gotta love it, right? She knows many of my friends and invited Nichole, Ant, Shareen, Shareen’s Kenny, and me to see her perform at Groove with Toni Menage and Ria. AWESOME SHOW, I might add! These ladies are SANGING, you hear? (We did happy hour at Therapy and Bamboo 52. Thai at Q2 where my best buddies from L.A., Scott and Tony, joined us.) Oh! And when we went to see Monifah and crew perform in The Village the other night, we bumped into Wu Tang Clan's RZA in the parking deck on 3rd Street.  But back to ALL-STAR KARAOKE at NATIVE RESTAURANT in HARLEM, the roster has been impressive – “Black 2 Broadway”s Kevin-Anthony, singer extraordinaire Darius Booker, and “Wendy” art director/cabaret singer Candice Harper. The following week, fan favorite Melonie Daniels brought her amazing vocals (which once backed Mariah Carey) to Lenny Kravitz’s “Get Away”. Also, former “As The World Turns” star Napiera Danielle Groves gave Lauryn Hill a run for her money with “Ex Factor”. And so many friends came out to support: my girlfriend Sidra Smith; performer/director/Tony-nominated choreographer Ken Roberson; my Amazing Grace Nichole, my girlfriend Shareen ("Nate Berkus Show"); a slew of "Wendy" producers; my mentor Darius (CNN); my nephew Herman; my Morehouse BFFs Michael and Khalid; my CAU girlfriend Audra; my former CNBC buddy/author Sana; my friends Rafael, Robert, Murphy, and a host of others whose names I may be forgetting. And the next week, another great group of folks was in the house: NABJ friends - Mara (as in Schiavocampo, NBC Digital Correspondent) and NY Daily News reporter Mike Feeney – brought their singing talents on Beyonce’s “Halo” and MJ’s “Human Nature” – respectively. And my karaoke buddies Javier and Marco brought an array of their great talent – from Freddie Jackson’s “You Are My Lady” to Josh Grobin’s “You Raise Me Up” to some Spanish tunes. And ones to watch: Miss Pernell Walker and Efron! JUST AWESOME on their songs! Such a great group of karaoke supporters and friends came out: my friends Ern, Carl, Saundra, Shantay, Nikoa, Bridgit, Sidra, Tommie, Nicole, Karen, Nathan, Melvin, Mario, Lou, and a host of others. HOPE TO SEE YOU ALL AGAIN NEXT THURSDAY… and to meet some new talent and supporters of our ALL-STAR KARAOKE at NATIVE Restaurant in HARLEM. You can see more pix here:

 

PRE-KARAOKE

MEANWHILE, my favorite boutique “N” has asked me to HOST a pre-ALL-STAR-KARAOKE set at its store (next door to “N”) THIS THURSDAY from 7pm – 9pm (www.nharlemnewyork.com/): http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=441208350912&id=114032846688&ref=nf. I’ll be commuting back to NYC from an assignment in Chicago, but hope to meet-and-greet with all of you before ALL-STAR KARAOKE THURSDAY begins at 9pm. LOOKING FORWARD TO SEEING ALL OF YOU!

FRIENDS

Ant and I have been spending a lot of time in Harlem lately – perhaps an omen of what is to come: RELOCATION, maybe? Of course, we have spent lots of time with our Sidra. Also, my Mara (and Tommie) invited us over for several impromptu hangs. On night two of ALL-STAR KARAOKE, they hosted a fab dinner party before we all segued to NATIVE RESTAURANT. For LABOR DAY, our Sidra joined us along with buddy Tichina Arnold in tow. Tichina brilliantly sang several a cappella excerpts from her intimate evening of song on which she’s working – including a tribute to MJ (and a song or two in German & Italian). She may pop by ALL-STAR KARAOKE one Thursday really soon! Speaking of MJ,  Ant and I went to a book signing at Hue-Man Bookstore in Harlem. Our friend Jason King spoke about and signed his book "Michael Jackson Treasures: Celebrating the King of Pop in Memorabilia and Photos". One of the three novelists of "Visible Lives"s – the E. Lynn Harris-inspired collection - James Earl Hardy, was there with news of great new projects. Stay tuned. And friend Jami Coleman and MJ fan Gadget Trish were also there: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c6uUIoKYoDw.

“I SLEEP IN JERSEY…”

As my line goes: “I sleep in Jersey. I LIVE in the city.” As a twist of daily tradition would have it, my long-time best bud Carl Nelson drove his bike from Manhattan to New Jersey to see me. And like my childhood days, I was at home, doing my homework, minding my business, and a friend popped over to say “Can Patrick ...come out and play?” LOL! That almost never happens nor has happened in a long time. But I jumped right into my inner-child and joined Carl for a slice of pizza at “Sonny’s Pizzeria” and a scoop of homemade ice cream from “Ice Cream on Grand” – both in Englewood, NJ (near my town).

HOW YOU DOIN’?

Kim Coles has been working the circuit of late. We saw her and hung out with her a couple of weeks ago when she was in town for “The Nate Berkus Show”. Fast forward a couple of weeks later, Kim came back to NYC to tape "The Wendy Williams Show" (www.wendyshow.com). THERE'S MY KIM COLES! I took girlfriend Vilay who is Manivone’s cousin and Ant’s friend from Denver.   And you know, we had a GREAT TIME!   I even took a stab at my own "HOW YOU DOIN?"When she was visiting a couple of months ago, she helped us with the production of our pilot project. Now, she’s been bitten by the bug and has moved to NYC. In addition to Kim Coles being the guest on the show, we got to see Sean Kingston perform. Season 2 for 'Wendy' has started. New set. New energy! How u doin'?                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         

MY FAVORITE PEOPLE

I want to shout out my girl Ava Duvernay whose MY MIC SOUNDS NICE premiered on BET recently (She also directed the TV ONE ESSENCE MUSIC FESTIVAL special that premiered recently)…

My buddy Maurice Marable’s documentary “THE STORY” recently ran on Sundance channel. It is actually described as the story behind the story. It follows a group of teenagers at GFS in the South Bronx as they make an attempt to make a film, executing every aspect of the production — including shooting on location in Uganda.  It's a simple and heartwarming journey as the kids discover who they are through the challenge of filmmaking.

I got a call from my former L.A. buddy Ed who happened to be in NYC. His professional credits include Nancy Wilson, Miss Ross, Sheryl Lee Ralph, and a host of others. I snatched him up quickly as I LOVE ME SOME ED and he really took care of me while in L.A. on assignment last year! We enjoyed a hearty meal at Silver Spurs in the Village. Afterwards, buddy Theo inspired a karaoke after set at Karaoke Cave near Union Square…

 Had business in Boston over the past weekend. Upon my return, stopped through New Rochelle to hang out with my Amazing Grace Nichole and her FAB, DC-based fam – including her mother (“Honey”, we call her!); her sister Tori; and her niece Day. Our girlfriend Dawn also joined in on the fun. We enjoyed a lovely meal of tacos & fixins (and a brilliantly-interpreted, a capella serenade of jazz standard "I Wish You Love" by MY Honey, quite the singer in her day... and still. BEAUTIFUL WOMAN!). ..

Speaking of New Ro, Michelle Sanchez-Boyce and her husband Nelson had us over for a night-cap at their beautiful home. This time we were on the patio  – seated around an awesome fire & glass (ice) feature. WONDERFUL EVENING!...

I recently saw an episode of "Good Times" featuring legendary 70s actress Judy Pace for the first time since meeting her at NABJ in San Diego. It's the episode when Florida & James go on 20th Anniversary cabin trip (and "Gloria" makes a cameo as she's looking for the moutain home-owner, James' foreman). Judy is also the mother of Julia Pace Mitchell - the new African American actress on "The Young & The Restless" (Met her in San Diego at NABJ). Next stop: Judy's cameo on "Sanford & Son" (and so much more...). YAYYY! CLASIC SITCOMS!

After two Morehouse men (c/o '92) got the opportunity to produce the Opening Plenary for the National Association of Black Journalists' annual Convention in San Diego (Michael K. Watts and me), another of our brethren is easing on down the road to Dr. Oz. Corey Hebert, MD once walked the yard that is Morehouse College alongside Michael and me. Now, the "Doctor for the People", a New Orleans native, is managing a full-time practice, working the medical beat on WDSU-TV (NBC), and now contributing to the nationally syndicated "Dr. Oz" show on Friday, September 10th. (Coincidentally, the first time Dr. Oz and I worked together, we traveled together from New York City to New Orleans in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. There, we searched for dead and decomposing bodies. Also, Dr. Oz worked hard to treat all those he could in what was (and still is) an overwhelming situation. Since that time, I've produced many segments in the field with him and consider him such a joy and a light.). "The Pulse" is a new segment that will feature Dr. Hebert and two other doctors - keeping viewers abreast of the latest and most controversial medical studies (www.doctoroz.com).  CONGRATS, DR. COREY!

 

Well, FANTASIA is back!

In the wake of her personal worries of late, just want to send a SHOUT OUT to her (and her AWESOME manager Brian).  I am rooting her on NOT just for a HIT CD and commercial success, but INNER-PEACE, JOY, LOVE, and HARMONY! Had a chance to meet her last year when I was in L.A. and found her to be a doll. I hope she knows her worth and where she doesn't know it, I hope she has the people around her who help lift her up.

MISS ROSS is preparing to go back on the road for the 2^nd leg of her stateside “MORE TODAY THAN YESTERDAY” tour. We always welcome a ROSS song… but TV ONE and BET seem to be calling for another ROSS movie as they remind us how brilliant this Oscar-nominated performer is as an actress. TV ONE recently ran a TRIPLE FEATURE: "Mahogany"; "Double Platinum"; and "Out of Darkness". And BET ran "The Wiz" – all the same weekend. It all inspired Ant to start this FB page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Janet-Jackson-and-Lenny...-Kravitz-in-Mahogany-Remake/143929892313440?ref=sgm 

Working from home office one day - drumming up new business; managing developing business; and - with my peripheral squint - watching my CBS Soaps... off in the distance. “As The World Turns” – which is about to end its 54-year rotation on September 17, 2010 – was on. I was a crying fool on this particular day as everyone has just attended the funeral of matriarch Nancy Hughes – whose portrayer Helen Wagner died in May of this year. One of the flashbacks shows “Nancy” circa 1991, tutoring pre-Fugees Lauryn Hill’s character Kira, who – in this clip – you can see singing at the wedding of my friend Tamara Tunie’s character Jessica who married Duncan. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dDsCJXe6TsY I told you my late, great mom Queen Riley raised her “boys” to watch the stories. LOL! I’m here crying for people I don’t know, but - after all of these years - feel very much… like family! WILL MISS "AS THE WORLD TURNS", but like REAL-LIFE, all GOOD THINGS must come to an end!