A DAY IN "THE LIFE OF RILEY"

It’s been busy y’all… but I’m blessed for it. Gonna crank out a quick entry for you as “…the life of Riley…” is moving at warp speed! LOL! Let’s go!

THE LINKS, INCORPORATED

CONGRATS to THE LINKS, INCORPORATED! I got the chance produce (via BET) all of the video and design elements that will be presented at the 65^th Anniversary GALA of The Links. Ant and I are going. It’s this weekend. Big THANKS to my BET fam and to Miss Lynn Whitfield who graciously allowed me to book her as the narrator of all the videos. SHE'S GREAT!

BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS 

From recurring client in Chi-town to 'Anderson Cooper' to THE VIEW: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FYcbwpTXbWU, the talk world (and often integrated marketing content) has - among other clientele - kept this freelancer afloat in 2011. With that, shout out to “The Wendy Williams Show”. The execs there brought me on board to field produce Wendy in the British Virgin Islands. We had a BLAST! And there’s a big trip giveaway. You better go check it out right now: www.wendyshow.com.

 

Part 1: http://www.wendyshow.com/2011/10/24/british-virgin-islands/

Part 2: http://www.wendyshow.com/2011/10/26/british-virgin-islands-food/

 

SWEETIE PIE

As my old Chicago client uses me anew for some of her new fare, I also got an invitation to celebrate “Welcome to Sweetie Pies” which is my favorite new OWN show. In fact, I accepted my Spelman sister Tosha Whitten-Griggs' invite to STK Downtown in NYC’s Meatpacking district to meet Miss Robbie Montgomery and her son Tim Norman. Before Robbie opened their popular St. Louis soul food dynasty, she was once an Ikette (as in Tina Turner with whom she chanted. Remember Vanessa Bell Calloway in the bio-pic?). Among others, Mary Wilson & Cindy Birdsong lip sync’d sometimes to Robbie’s actual recording vocals. She sang behind Miss Ross’ lead vocal on “Someday We’ll Be Together”, their last #1 as Diana Ross & The Supremes. AWESOME MOTHER & SON!

DOUBLE 7

Afterwards, we ran into publicist friend Michelle Huff and her friends Kiki; Neil; and Chris. They convinced us to join them at The Double 7 for some fun cocktails and rosemary fries. They served me a strawberry pepper fix with Bianco tequila, lemon, strawberries, black pepper...and a little chocolate. COOL SPOT! Michelle is the publicist for one of my favorite singers Tamia!

THURGOOD MARSHALL FOUNDATION

Shout out to Hallema Sharif and Sidra Smith for inviting me to The Thurgood Marshall College Fund's 24th Anniversary Dinner (www.tmcfund.org) at the Sheraton New York Hotel & Towers. Many friends were in the house - including Nathan Hale Williams. Also: Melyssa Ford; Jamie Foster Brown; Rebecca Crews; Blair Underwood; Russell Simmons; Cuba Gooding Jr.; my Morehouse brother Rockmond Dunbar; and Lamman Rucker (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/tag/lamman-rucker). Ant and I got to see his Off-Broadway play "Black Angels over Tuskegee". GREAT SHOW that you should - for sure - check out. It's Broadway bound, too! This, as the New York Association of Black Journalists hosted a big Schomburg event in Harlem where companion to the upcoming “Red Tails” film, “Double Victory” was screened. And a few Tuskegee Airmen were in the house – interviewed by Ed Gordon. We first introduced this project to the National Association of Black Journalists in Philadelphia at our annual convention.

REED BETWEEN THE LINES

Speaking of NABJ: CONGRATS to Tracee Ellis Ross; Malcolm-Jamal Warner; & BET Networks on a strong debut with "REED BETWEEN THE LINES"! http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/live-feed/bet-hip-hop-awards-ratings-247427 We had the chance to introduce the cast at NABJ in Philly back in August as well.

DANNY SIMMONS

I went to Rush Arts Gallery recently to toast artist/philanthropist Danny Simmons. Co-founder of Def Poetry Jam (along with brothers Russell and Joey [Rev. Run]), his book “Deep in Your Best Reflection: Poems” brought many out to celebrate. My girl Loren Lillian (now L.A. actress) performed. It’s a book of erotic poetry.

NECTAR

I was so excited to support my friends Ivonne & Matt’s special event at Nectar Wine Bar. Nectar turned over the kitchen to Chef Joseph “JJ” Johnson. We experienced why he won Rocco’s Dinner Party with his flair at turning the ordinary into extraordinary. We were delighted with four pairs of food & wine from Napa’s handcrafted Joseph Carr Winery. Chef Joseph “JJ” Johnson & Joseph Carr engaged guests with their insights on the autumnal menu of culinary delights. DJ Amanda Diva rocked the after party.

MOREHOUSE COLLEGE GLEE CLUB

Thanks to my CAU sister Audrey Irvine for assigning me my debut piece for CNN.com on Morehouse College Glee Club & King's LEGACY! It published the weekend of the Martin Luther King monument unveiling. If you missed it, please check it out here: http://edition.cnn.com/2011/10/14/us/mlk-memorial-morehouse-glee-club/index.html.

THE CONTRACT

My friend Carl Nelson invited us to the reading for a play he’s poised to produce for Broadway or somewhere near. The National Black Theater tonight. The amazing play is called "The Contract". It was written by James Webb (pictured here with Carl). His play won the 2010 Lorraine Hansberry Playwriting Award. LOOK OUT FOR IT! IT’S GOOD!

WEBSTAR PRESENTS

My Morehouse brother Kenyatta Lyles hipped me to a project on which he’s working. WebStar Presents provides a central location for talent, becoming the premier venue for talent scouts to find the stars of tomorrow. These global citizens will become the WebStar Presents family by creating memberships on our website. Members will be allowed to win cash prizes each week by uploading their videos for FREE! PLEASE CHECK IT OUT: www.webstarpresents.com. It’s the WHAT’S NEXT & WHAT’S NOW!

FROM FATHERLESS TO FATHERHOOD

Shout out to my Morehouse brother Kobie Brown who is making things happen via his ground-breaking documentary "From Fatherless to Fatherhood": http://www.fromfatherlesstofatherhood.com/ecards/fundraiser/  It explores the importance of Fatherhood and will begin to screen in NYC and nationwide soon. For more information: http://youtu.be/5AUuE25hpyM 

PROJECT SET

“…the life of Riley…” is always singing the praises of my Savannah homeboy Maurice Marable – literally and in the blogosphere (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/3/4/-weve-come-a-long-way-baby.html). Non-profit media arts organization “Project SET” honored Mo. Also honored: several other friends – including Erika Munro Kennerly (TRUTV). And Rashad Robinson (COLOROFCHANGE.ORG). And MTV icon Sway also got a nod. Each provided words of acceptance that moved not only the young people, but all of us. TESTIMONY is POWER! The well-appointed evening (c/o Hershelle Burton’s Velvet Rope Ink event management) featured the fabulous DJ Illah (my BET buddy Keyon Williams). And Plum Photography’s Kelli Malcolm (project manager on my current BET project for The Links, Incorporated’s 65th Anniversary). And MANY of my favorites were in the house – from filmmaker Andre Wilkins to Mo’s wife Karen Good Marable to my favorite lady Bevy Smith to diva songstress KJ Rose and so many more – including my BET fam. As a mentor of many via the National Association of Black Journalists and Live Out Loud (LGBT-youth mentoring organization), I LOVE that Project SET is doing what it does (and EXCITED to have gotten an invitation to speak to the kids someday soon). CONGRATS TO ALL! www.projectset.org

ELEW

Go ELEW, GO! Shout out to my friend and his team (Nancy Hirsch) on his world take-over! The ROCKJAZZ pianist is conquering stage, screen, & stadium this month - including a tour he's been on with Josh Groban that wraps at the Garden here in NYC November 14th: Tickets available at: http://bit.ly/qSjqEb. FOLLOW ELEW ON TWITTER: @ELEWROCKJAZZ. VISIT THE OFFICIAL ELEW HOMEPAGE AT www.ELEWROCKJAZZ.com.  See his 'America's Got Talent' audition as reminder of his GENIUS: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gwnVgOJE3dk. He had to drop once Josh's invite to join him on tour came to be.

AMERICA’S GOT TALENT

I shared with you how a scout from NBC’s “America’s Got Talent” came up to me after I sang at a karaoke bar in NYC and scheduled an appointment for me to audition for the show (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2010/12/1/i-recall-the-scenes-that-never-die.html). Though the audition went well, I didn’t hear from them for what would have been last season. Well, read on. I didn't get the following email (from a senior casting director at "America's Got Talent") until I got back from the BVI... and it was too late (for now... at least). I was away when the call-back of sorts came: "Hi Patrick, You auditioned with us in New York last season with an amazing singing talent. We are holding auditions for season 7 in New York this weekend. I'd like you to meet us again. Can you audition today? I can set you up for an appointment so you don't have to wait in line. If so, let me know what time you can come in." Next time...

ALL STAR KARAOKE

As I continue to miss ALL-STAR KARAOKE (and am looking at ways to bring it back to you), shout out to my friend Brandon Bain who hosts LIVE BAND KARAOKE at Rock 'n Rose (formerly Top Tunes). After a long day of edit, I got the chance recently to pop by and do a few songs with the band. We ROCKED on Pat Benatar's "Love Is A Battlefield"!!!! GOOD TIMES! I'm missing karaoke. Have yet to firm up the return of ALL-STAR KARAOKE, but it's still on my list of TO-DOs!

CONSUMED

Always great to support friend (Ant’s BFF) Manivone Nonthaveth – THE ARTIST! Her exhibition CONSUMED is up and running at bOb bar (www.bobbarnyc.com).  All of Ant’s Denver peeps were in the house. I got my BFF Carl Nelson and Luigi to pop by as well. We too celebrated my fellow Scorpio Manivone’s birthday. And she got the best BIRTHDAY gift of all: SHE SOLD OUT! CONGRATS, MANIVONE (www.elleFANTart.com)!

“SISTER ACT”

While our friend Ashley’s mom Rita and cousin Christine were in town, we got to take them to see Broadway’s “Sister Act”.

Whoopi has a hit on her hands (she's a producer). This spectacular co-stars our buddy Chester Gregory.

It was GREAT.

While out, we ran into La La (of “La La’s Full Court” fame).

She was with her son and our girlfriend Po Johnson who too is featured on the show.

PO 

Just before Halloween, we went out for TRICK OR TREAT. We got both! LOL! Actually, it was ALL TREAT: a LIVE musical performance by our friend PO JOHNSON who is a new, up-and-coming recording artist represented by our friend Michelle Sanchez-Boyce and Phillana Williams. You can purchase her latest single "Super Kinda Psycho Sexy Love" on itunes at: http://itun.es/iBp3LG#iTunes. This was another James-Kinney-produced set (www.kinneygroupcreative.com), which also featured the song stylings of TESS (@TheNameIsTess). The Stone Rose Lounge was the intimate backdrop – overlooking Central Park and Columbus Circle which sparkled as the residue of Saturday’s wintry mix met with the moonlight. Michelle, of course, brought many of our favorite New Ro’s & Mount Vernon’s into the mix – including my ‘Amazing Grace’ Nichole and artist Cynthia Burgos. And we invited our girlfriend Ashley to join in on the fun of seeing Po rock it out. Also in the house: singer extraordinaire KJ Rose; BRAVO's "Fashion Show" winner Jeffrey Williams; and Kevin "Moochie" Freeman ("Real Housewives of Atlanta"). Shout out to www.AE3Sixty.com

COLE

Speaking of FASHION check out my dear friend Cole McDonagh on the front page of www.barneys.com. As today's model's go, he is one to watch! CONGRATS, COLE!

SPARKLE

Nippy in "Sparkle" - collaborating with my friends Mara Brock Akil & Salim Akil! GIVE US SOMETHING WE CAN FEEL, Y'ALL! XO I’m excited…and can’t wait to see WHITNEY HOUSTON return to the big screen in the remake of the 1976 film classic (www.whitneyhouston.com). The movie began principal photography a couple of weeks ago in Detroit, Michigan. It’s the story of the title character Sparkle (Jordin Sparks), the youngest of three sisters and a music prodigy who struggles to become a star.

WARRINGTON HUDLIN

I just ran into my buddy Warrington Hudlin recently. In addition to always shouting out and acknowledging how he reads my blog "A Day in the Life of Riley: pop culture & possibilities" (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/7/22/in-a-world-of-fading-treasures-love-is-the-greatest-pleasure.html),  he invited me (and NOW YOU) to join him for the 20TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION OF THE NEW WAVE OF BLACK CINEMA! WOW! And we talked about more than his event on Saturday: https://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=172397769516886. I told him I myself have been thinking of his AWESOME legacy in pop culture via my Spelman sister AJ Johnson’s “Life After” episode that ran on TV ONE this past week: http://tvoneonline.com/about-life-after/episodes/season-3/aj-johnson.  As a Morehouse Man, I knew her story…but what a LIFE CLASS she brought me. INSPIRING and TOUCHING testimonial of AMBITION, LOSS, & PURPOSE! Warrington and I then spoke of losing HEAVY D and how he and his brother Reginald produced/directed the first video for HEAVY D & THE BOYZ! ALL OF THIS IN MY LIFETIME…and the aforementioned: just today!

R.I.P.

HEAVY D - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LMlULg8jKmc

RAY AGHAYAN - Oscar-nominated costume designer ("Lady Sings The Blues")/partner of Bob Mackie

SID MELTON - Miss Ross co-star in "Lady Sings The Blues"

ANDY ROONEY

JOE FRAZIER

 

STEVE JOBS

NABJ IN PHILLY: A JOURNAL

The NABJ Convention is my 'annual therapy'. Philly's gathering was no exception. Of course, there are always awesome workshops. And as I stepped down from being Chair of the NABJ Arts & Entertainment Task Force, I was happy to have good programming for our members. The reunion started at the Convention Center; We experienced some beautiful art at a gallery; We checked in at friend Caleb Wilkerson's place; Had a reunion with our Aci Nae girlfriends. They hosted our pilot project last year: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2010/6/19/postcards-from-the-edge.html;  and dinner at Del Frisco's (PRIME RIB! YUM!); and PURE EXCITEMENT to see my NABJ FAMILY! Much of it can be seen in these pix:

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150265238803737.331588.662073736&type=1

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150268048688737.332501.662073736&type=1

I'll share the rest here:

KEVIN ANDRE DICKENS

While here in Philly, I primarily wore the bespoke designs & tailoring of my friend Kevin Andre Dickens. He does AWESOME work out of his Manhattan-based KD Studio. Holla if you want to reach him! THANK YOU, KEVIN!

‘REED BETWEEN THE LINES’

NABJ Thursday was a good one! Lunch at El Vez for delicious, nouveau Mexican cuisine with Ant & Caleb Wilkerson; sometimes client BET brought in my fav Tracee Ellis Ross; Malcolm Jamal Warner; Anna Marie Horsford (a "..life of Riley..." fan! WHO KNEW? LOL!); & Melissa DeSousa - co-stars of BET's new scripted sitcom "Reed Between The Lines" (Premiering in October 2011).

ESSENCE & TRACEE ELLIS ROSS

http://www.essence.com/2011/08/03/tracee-ellis-ross-graces-the-september-issue-of-essence/  So speaking of Tracee Ellis Ross and NABJ, I must shout out some of my sisters I know through NABJ and associated circles of Black journalists: Kierna Mayo (pictured left) penned the Tracee Ellis Ross cover story in the current issue of ESSENCE. This month’s issues has even more for me to LOVE inside: Karen Good Marable – wife of one of my BFFs Maurice (the wedding Ant & I attended in Jamaica earlier this summer); Bevy Smith; Tai Beauchamp; & Robin D. Stone (who writes of a mutual girlfriend Celeste Victoria who was plucked from our lives 10 yrs ago on 9/11 & the miracle legacy she left behind who we all have known and loved as she is Celeste’s daughter Jasmine – now a full-fledged woman who continues to be BE A DIFFERENCE in our world, despite the huge loss of her doting mother. (Here’s my reflection of 9/11:  http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/a-letter-from-ground-zero-91101.html). WORK, SISTAHS... and keep booking them, my friend CONSTANCE WHITE - Editor-in-Chief!

TARGET, STEVE STOUTE, & SOLANGE

TARGET also pulled out the stops with its "A Conversation with Steve Stoute" (profiling his book project "The Tanning of America"). The session was moderated by Soledad O'Brien. I had a hand in producing her at Ogilvy a couple of weeks ago. DJ Solange Knowles was in the re-mix on this spectacular...and even helped me find my lost Blackberry!

Now, there's buzz of her portraying Miss Ross in the not-yet-official-but-perhaps-closing-in bio-pic, "Blondie" about original Supreme Florence Ballard. http://www.mlive.com/movies/index.ssf/2011/08/rumors_of_florence_ballard_bio.html

ERIC BENET & GMC

ERIC BENÉT brought NABJ a screening of TRINITY GOODHEART - his TV movie on GMC on which I had a chance to get some shine from my red carpet reporter duties at the Power to End Stroke Concert at The Apollo a few months ago. In fact, the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association has hired me again to do some voice-over work for their sales & marketing materials. After the screening, Eric was joined by my friend (and NABJ baby) Rhonda Baraka and GMC’s Paul Butler for a Q&A with CNN’s T.J. Holmes.

NABJ BABIES

My mentor and mother of all things NABJ-TV (the student project - circa 1991 for me): Sheila Brooks hosted a REUNION of the NABJ BABIES in the lobby of our host hotel! ALWAYS GREAT TO RECONNECT with EVERYBODY! And CONGRATULATIONS to Sheila for receiving a special honor in the name of our beloved Pat Tobin whose daughter Lauren – a friend – presented it.

PHILLY AT NIGHT

FUN times with the fellows in Downtown Philly! Woody's ended up being a night-cap spot on one night along with a number of other fun spots.

DISNEY DREAMER’S ACADEMY

I jumped on the NABJ stage one night to HOST the big DISNEY event. And one of my all-time favorites performed, vocal greats Yolanda Adams; a taped appearance from Steve Harvey who updated us on his Disney Dreamer's Academy. This is the 4th year I've hosted the like for recurring client DISNEY… and during the show, DISNEY surprised me with a DISNEY trip and a special salute for being HOST of their event since the beginning.We introduced Disney Dreamer’s Academy back in Vegas a few years back. THANK YOU, DISNEY!

“THE HELP”

Based on one of the most talked about books in years and a #1 New York Times best-selling phenomenon, “The Help” came to NABJ. And Academy Award®–nominated Viola Davis (“Doubt”) and Octavia Spencer in tow. The author Kathryn Stockett and director/screenwriter Tate Taylor were also in attendance. MSNBC’s Tamron Hall moderated – my second time working with her at NABJ. Michael K. Watts and I produced a Hall of Fame Luncheon she hosted a few years back in Tampa.

“RED TAILS”

Lucasfilm Ltd. brought a special sneak peek of RED TAILS – a high-flying WWII epic inspired by the heroism of the first all African-American aerial combat unit. Showcasing the inspiring story of the Tuskegee Airmen to the screen, the film celebrates the intrepid young airmen who took to the skies to fight for their country – and the fate of the free world. In attendance: Charles Floyd Johnson, Producer; Terrence Howard; and Cuba Gooding Jr. who also joined NABJ for the “Salute to Excellence” Awards where my dear friend and NABJ sister Mara Schiavocampo brought home two awards for her work at NBC News. Also in the mix for NABJ, my ITIKA - or Ti-Ti - as I call her. As you know, she's one of my Chicago BFFs. Radio personality Kendra Gee also hung out with us. Always a good time with ITIKA!

POST-NABJ, BET, MLK

NABJ in Philly brought MY ANNUAL THERAPY & a GREAT TIME! Though it was EXHAUSTING (with all of my commitments), it was - as always - WORTH THE TRIP! After NABJ, I jumped right into working with an awesome team on producing a special project at BET in NYC (for related MLK Monument Dedication festivities). Total honor to be a stand for King’s legacy in this way.

MOREHOUSE COLLEGE GLEE CLUB CELEBRATES ‘100’

The Maroon & White Fund will host a national tribute to the Morehouse College Glee Club's "100 Years in Song" during a special weekend from September 30th to October 2nd, 2011 here in New York City – including a Lincoln Center appearance. For the entirety of the Morehouse College Glee Club's 100 years in existence, it has represented the best of Morehouse College and America. During my four years at Morehouse, I got to travel all over with the glee club and in 1991, I got to speak on the stage of the Kennedy Center in front of the glee club as we honored recipient Robert Shaw, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Chorus Conductor and Composer during Kennedy Center Honors (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yZF2iK2VOY8). For more information, see the flier below:

BEYONCE “4” NEW YORK CITY

I've still been able to squeeze in some friend time: my NABJ brother Bruce Reynolds joined me for a quick drink at Hudson Eatery; we got in nephew Herman time (with his mom Fe in town) at Melba's; and also in Harlem, Orange 67 was the backdrop for a nightcap with friends Jamar; Garrett; and company. But most excitedly, my nephew invited me to accompany he and his friends to see Beyonce perform. It was a fun group of Morehouse brothers; Spelman sisters; and a Howard alum in the mix for the HBCU love of it all. She was doing one of her “4” NYC shows. And word has it, the first of those shows sold out 22 seconds after going on sale. She did "4" shows of her "4" material over "4" days at Roseland Ballroom. And she - of course - gave us a sampling of her greatest hits. The crowd - including us - were singing along to every word. And we were dancing to every groove. For our show, Jay Z, Diddy, Mary Mary, Neyo, The Dream, and Adrienne (of 3LW/"Cheetah Girls" fame) were in t he house. As always, GO BEY! And of course, I ran into many friends - including my karaoke pusher men Dante and Marcus; and fashion editor extraordinaire Walter Greene.

MY AMAZING GRACE NICHOLE

Happy Birthday, my Amazing Grace Nichole's BDAY set at Chez Lucienne in Harlem was a BLAST! In attendance: Nichole's New Ro crew Michelle who came with her client, singer Po Johnson (& Diche) in tow - both of whom are on "LaLa's Full Court" (Michelle too!); Tanya (attorney - now at ESPN); Angelique Frances (producer who hired me to do red carpet at her daughter's Sweet 16); Nic's cuz Jeffrey Williams ("Fashion Show" winner); our Dawn; Will (on his way to Haiti for an international assignment); and others (I missed Sid & Danielle...but HEY Y'all!). Then, after set at Red Rooster.... Oh! And most excitedly, my friend Janet (Hill)Talbert (www.onthisrocknyc.com) was in the house. She's a former book editor turned FAB jewelry designer whose line is Christian-and-Inspiration-themed! And one of our ALL-STAR KARAOKE REGULARS Belinda Munro just won THE APOLLO the other night! She is advancing to the next round on Aug 24: http://www.apollotheater.org/recap-winners-and-losers/494-amateur-night-81011.

Congrats BELINDA!

CATFISH & CALEB

One week after Caleb showed us such a good time in Philly, I got to hang out at the nearby-Hudson Hotel to join he, Monica, Ern, and Ant. Afterwards, we popped by Moca Lounge in Harlem for catfish fingers and fries.

AKHENATEN & BASQUIAT

See how AWESOME Ant’s art show was: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150273229038737.334123.662073736 He and our girlfriend Cynthia are a part of a collective of artists who did pieces inspired by Basquiat. The community exhibit is up until January 2012. Ant’s artist name is Akhenaten. He’s showing two of his pieces, “Sun Pharaoh” & “Queen Mother in the Sky”. His has previously shown his conceptual body of work “Manufacturism” in his hometown of Denver, CO at the 910 Arts Gallery. His background also includes studies in Journalism, Native American Art and Art History at the University of Colorado-Boulder. Afterwards, our girlfriend Mara Schiavocampo and her husband Tommie opened up their Harlem home to all of our friends and family for an after-set that toasted and celebrated Ant and Cynthia, the amazing artists that they are.

MORE ART IN NYC

Shout out to Ant's BFF Manivone Nonthaveth who presented her 1st solo art exhibition "PAPER STATUS: Paper Sculptures" at VELVET in Williamsburgh (Brooklyn, NY). This is the spot where Ant used to bartend and host theme Sunday nights. FAB NIGHT - even after a double shift of editing on this special project at BET! GO MAX! And I went to opening of PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT as well with my inner circle artist soul-mates Anthony Harper & Manivone Nonthaveth. We got to see the works of Lawrence Joyner; Tyson Hall; & Dean Richards. Also ran into my friend Jennifer Ouellette – AWESOME maker of hats and other designer accents: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/12/20/pat-in-a-hat.html.

PAUL WHARTON

My friend Paul Wharton (from "The Real Housewives of DC") first came to my ALL-STAR KARAOKE THURSDAY NIGHT in Harlem a few months ago (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2011/4/18/baby-its-you-me.html). Now, he's a FABULOUS recording artist - including collaborations with Ginuwine & Sole. GO PAUL!

CARL NELSON

Shout out to my friend Carl Nelson who took a play “Incognito” to the National Black Theater Festival in Winston Salem,NC. Several of my friends were there as well - including Lamman Rucker - one of the event's hosts. Also, LaChanze Fordjour and so many others were there!

TYREE GUYTON

Shout out to Detroit's Tyree Guyton whose Heidelberg Project Ant and I got to experience while in Detroit a couple of years ago. He's released a new children’s book, Magic Trash, the story of a young Tyree and his beloved grandfather Sam Mackey. The official release date is September 2011, copies are for sale at $16. Go on line http://www.heidelberg.org/index.php?option=com_rokquickcart&view=rokquickcart&Itemid=155 

JENNIFER HOLLIDAY

Did you see my favorite DREAMGIRL Jennifer Holliday on the season finale of Fran Drescher's TV Land series "Happilly Ever After"? Tichina Arnold got to show her chops in this episode as well: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2011/7/31/crazy-stupid-love.html.

MAMA JUGGS

The New York Mama Juggs Show Tour is up and running at the 15th Annual Fringe NYC! It is billed as “… a trip to Grandma's House You'll never forget!” Check out FringeNYC - The New York International Fringe Festival: http://mamajuggs.com/?tag=the-new-york-international-fringe-festival

WILL HILL

A sad circumstance brought many of my favorite BET people – past and present – back together again - including Quan Lateef; Loren Lillian; Kelli Malcolm; Hershelle Burton; and a host of others. Special shout out to Will Hill who too has brought his talents to ALL-STAR KARAOKE THURSDAY NIGHT in Harlem. Now, he's got new music that is available on Amazon, Rhapsody, and I-Tunes. Check it out! http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/future-fresh-single/id448858048

R.I.P.

Sending love home to Savannah and my cousin Rosa M Brown! I LOVE YOU! And we'll all miss STEVE (R.I.P.)! So many GOOD MEMORIES!

TYLER

My cousin his here! His name is Tyler Maxwell Middleton. WELCOME TYLER & CONGRATS Roc Middleton & Cousin Kea! I LOVE Y'ALL... and can't wait to meet Tyler! XO



CRAZY, STUPID LOVE.

Shout out to Anna Fuson, Tagan Lee, and Raqiyah Mays for inviting us to pre-view screening (and "Fashion 40" pre-show mixer) of "Crazy Stupid Love" (starring Steve Carell ). It came out this past Friday and is poised to be a BIG HIT! While at the mixer, Flo Anthony introduced me to Victoria Giler - "the NEW Beyonce?" (Can't wait to hear!). And friend Walter Greene is always doing something FAB in fashion. Great to see you, Walter, Diaz, Dominga, et al! www.facebook.com/crazystupidlo​ve  AS THE MOVIE... & ITS STELLAR CAST GOES: I fell in love w/the talent of Julianne Moore years ago on 'As The World Turns'; Marisa Tomei on 'Different World'; Emma Stone just weeks ago in 'The Help' (out soon). Well, they all had me HOWLING (& even crying a little) in the new romantic comedy "Crazy, Stupid LOVE."  A MUST SEE...and according to "...the life of Riley...": HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!

BASQUIAT

You all know that Ant is an artist. And while on summer hiatus from producing “The Wendy Williams Show”, he is putting much muscle into his art alter-ego Akhenaten. And come Saturday, August 13^th, you can join him, our girlfriend Cynthia Burgos, and a host of other artists in Harlem for their opening. Museum of African American Cinema MoAAC, School of Visual Arts Alumni Affairs and The New York State Office of General Services proudly presents “MANIFEST: A CONJURATION OF RADIANCE” (GREG MILLS – Art Gallery Curator). A HOST OF VISUAL ARTISTS pay TRIBUTE to Jean-Michel Basquiat – including: Akhenaten (AKA Anthony Harper) AND Cynthia Burgos. COME JOIN US on Saturday, August 13th from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm to: MEET THE ARTISTS at the exhibition (opening reception & film screening).

The Art Gallery – 2nd Floor – FREE ADMISSION

ADAM CLAYTON POWELL, JR. STATE OFFICE BUILDING

163 WEST 125TH STREET @ 7TH AVENUE

(You must have photo ID to enter building)

***

BASQUIAT TRIBUTE ART EXHIBITION SPECIAL EXTRA VIEWING DAYS TO PUBLIC ARE:

Saturday, August 13th – 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm

Sunday, August 14th – 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm

Monday, August 15th – 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm

Daily film screenings -  12:00 pm & 8:00 pm

NABJ IN PHILLY

Stumbled into a few days of freelance here in NYC at recurring client BET. WHEW! Among many things (as I gathered through certain elements in the archives – to produce an overview video of all the network has to offer), I got to see BET's upcoming, scripted sitcom "Reed Between The Lines" which co-stars Tracee Ellis Ross & Malcolm Jamal Warner. I love them both… and am EXCITED that they will be coming to Philadelphia for the National Association of Black Journalists’ Convention (I just heard that Tracee’s mom, my Miss Ross, visited the set of “Reed Between The Lines” – perhaps to ensure all is going well with her star daughter.  NABJ is in a few days! www.nabj.org 

Other highlights:

NABJ AFTER DARK: MICHAEL BAISDEN – RELATIONSHIP FILM: DO WOMEN KNOW

WHAT THEY WANT?

Best selling author and nationally syndicated radio personality Michael Baisden has made a career of provoking conversation about everything from why men cheat to sexless marriages! Now, the outspoken relationship guru takes his raw style from the studio to the streets. No longer anonymous voices on the radio, would men be honest about their multiple relationships, interracial dating, and why they choose to date but not marry some women? And would women admit to having affairs with married men, take responsibility for their bad choices, and explain why they faked it? What started out as a cordial conversation with one simple question, “Do Women Know What They Want?,” exploded into a battle of the sexes that will have you laughing hysterically one minute and shouting at the screen the next!

LOOK WHO’S TALKING: INTERVIEWS GONE VIRAL

The key to getting eyeballs to follow that amazing interview you did with that A-list celebrity isn’t just about placement on a page, news program or on the Web; it’s about using your interviewing skills to get that amazing dish that will have tongues wagging. Top entertainment journalists talk about what it takes to really get that interview to be a newsmaker.

Nekesa Moody, Music Editor, Associated Press

Kelley L. Carter, Entertainment Journalist

Bob Meadows, Deputy Editor, Essence

Jermaine Hall, Editor in Chief, VIBE Magazine

Lola Ogunnaike, Cultural Correspondent

Alicia Quarles, Global Entertainment Editor, Associated Press

“TRINITY GOODHEART” SCREENING”

Based on an original screenplay written by Rhonda Baraka (Pastor Brown), Trinity Goodheart is the inspiring and heartwarming story of a smart, independent young girl (Erica Gluck) being raised by her single, free-spirited musician father (Eric Benét). Finding comfort in creating decorative paper angels that provide inspiration to her and the patrons of Mr. Kwon’s Deli and Bookstore where she and her father work, Trinity begins to make peace with the fact that her unconventional father and her friend and confidant Mr. Kwon (James Hong) may be the only family she ever knows. But when an angel visits and tasks her to find the missing half of a broken heart pendant that once belonged to her long-lost mother, Trinity embarks on a mission to find her mom and uncover the truth about her parents’ complicated past. Discovering both sides of her estranged family are alive and accomplished, but missing a deeper sense of connection and purpose, she attempts to use her charm to encourage them to set aside their differences and come together as a family to bring her mother home. TRINITY

GOODHEART can be seen exclusively on GMC TV Saturday, Aug. 20 at 9 p.m. EST.

Moderator: TJ Holmes, CNN

Panelists: Eric Benét, Actor/Singer-Songwriter

Rhonda Baraka, Screenwriter

Paul Butler, GMC Senior Vice President/General Counsel

MICHELLE OBAMA ON A MISSION: IMPACT AFRICA

BET News/Docs takes viewers inside the First Lady’s motorcade as she takes her family and her bold initiatives global, retracing the struggle against apartheid and renewing the American commitment to supporting a free, democratic and prosperous South Africa. In this half-hour television special, Michelle Obama speaks personally and directly to the BET audience about the importance of connecting to the world beyond US borders and the special link between the struggle for freedom in the US and Africa. It’s an inspiring adventure in high level diplomacy and a rare glimpse into the world of First Family.

THE JOY ROAD PROJECT SCREENING

The film Joy Road is a mainstream movie telling the story of a fictional corporation for whom necessity dictates that legislators pass laws that will keep privately- owned prisons at a capacity that will ensure profitability. The Joy Road “App” offers information about a similar real-life entity and enables users to become active in fighting against and impacting the effectiveness of this organization. Also, in addition to addressing the prison industrial complex, Joy Road examines other issues within the black community such as middle class identity, the role of black professionals as well as who is to blame for our issues. Come join us and share your views as we discuss these issues; how they relate to one another; and what the Joy Road Project is doing about it.

NABJ PRESENTS: DISNEY CELEBRATES “DREAMS COME TRUE” SHOW AND RECEPTION

Disney Parks invites you to a celebration of dreams come true! “Disney’s Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey and Essence Magazine” turns five and to mark this important milestone Grammy award winning singer Yolanda Adams and other special guests take center stage for an unforgettable heart warming program, followed by a news maker reception. Co-hosted by Patrick L. Riley (Chair, NABJ A&E Task Force)

NABJ FILM FESTIVAL: “THE HELP”

Based on one of the most talked about books in years and a #1 New York Times best-selling phenomenon, “The Help” stars Emma Stone (“Easy A”) as Skeeter, Academy Award®–nominated Viola Davis (“Doubt”) as Aibileen and Octavia Spencer as Minny — three very different, extraordinary women in Mississippi during the 1960s, who build an unlikely friendship around a secret writing project that breaks societal rules and puts them all at risk. From their improbable alliance a remarkable sisterhood emerges, instilling all of them with the courage to transcend the lines that define them, and the realization that sometimes those lines are made to be crossed — even if it means bringing everyone in town face-to-face with the changing times. Deeply moving, filled with poignancy, humor and hope, “The Help” is a timeless and universal story about the ability to create change. “The Help” opens in theaters everywhere on August 10.

Moderator: Tamron Hall, MSNBC

Panelists: Viola Davis, Academy-Award© Nominated Actress

NABJ FILM FESTIVAL: “RED TAILS”

Lucasfilm Ltd. is proud to preview a special sneak peek at RED TAILS – a high-flying WWII epic inspired by the heroism of the first all African-American aerial combat unit. Showcasing the inspiring story of the Tuskegee Airmen to the screen, the film celebrates the intrepid young airmen who took to the skies to fight for their country – and the fate of the free world. Selected members of the cast will make a guest appearance.

Charles Floyd Johnson, Producer

Terrence Howard, Actor

Octavia Spencer, Actress

Tate Taylor, Director/Screenwriter

Kathryn Stockett, Author

CARL NELSON

My BFF Carl Nelson attracted a round-robin of LOVE for his birthday recently. Girlfriends Mairie Raxy; Ivonne Velasquez-Razzaq; and a host of others pulled out the stops for us to celebrate our Carl. On the rooftop of MiMa, the party went on into the late hour... LUV U, CARL! And Melky Jean was in the house! And our friend Luigi was there as well… from Italy.

SINGER’S LOUNGE

Don't miss THE SINGER'S LOUNGE SERIES. There’s another one coming up. It's FREE & so INSPIRING! FUN too! The first one I attended: Gordon Chambers & Melisa Morgan. And let me tell you: It takes a village to put it on – so SHOUT OUT to: Savoy Walker, Mark A Forrest; Ulysses Carter; Anwar Robinson; & my Morehouse brother Jonathan D. NiBlack (who reps Dawkins &Dawkins, who performed the week after Gordon and Melisa). Also, BET SUNDAY'S BEST SEASON 2 FINALIST JESSICA REEDY performed. My buddy Anwar Robinson hosts and SINGS! It all takes place at the Samsung Experience (in Time Warner mall in Columbus Circle) – one level above BORDERS books (the iconic store chain that is poised to close down very soon in the wake of an unfortunate bankruptcy situation. I LOVE BOOKS… and BORDERS). Anwar is – of course – an American Idol alum. A couple of weeks ago, he sang a beautiful song, "Coming Home", for our soldiers (Video out soon!). Prior to his stellar performance, he testified of a near-fatal scenario he experienced with a friend while driving last week. A young man held a pistol up to Anwar & his passengers - even shot at them. He wasn't hit but says he's forever grateful to God to have gotten away from that situation and to be here – PERIOD! – to testify; sing; and to lift the GRACE of GOD up HIGH! AMEN! The stars of the evening were Gordon Chambers and Miss Melisa Morgan – both of whom shared generously during the Q&A and sang amazingly well during their brief performances. Thanks to my friend Ulysses Carter (long-standing Whitney Houston PR rep) for inviting us. The guys at SAVVY MARKETING (Savoy Walker & Mark A. Forrest) put on a FIRST CLASS affair that was scored during breaks by DJ Suave Luciano. After a great Q&A with Anwar - chock full of great tid-bits about his career & collabos (Whitney Houston, Anita Baker, Queen Latifah, etc.), Gordon Chambers performed two great tunes - one from his first CD (dedicated to Luther) and another - a preview from his upcoming 3rd CD "Sincere" [A ditty called "I Can't Love You (If You Don't Love You)"]. GREAT SET, though I hoped he would sing my favorite tune that he penned, “If You Love Me” by Brownstone! Melisa Morgan also gave a great interview – including a tid-bit of how she sang background for greats like Chaka Khan and Whitney Houston before she got her deal. Then, she proceeded to SANGING "Fools Paradise"!!! and "Do Me Baby"! THREE standing ovations later, the energy in the room inspired an impromptu duet with Melisa and Gordon on Melisa (and Kashif’s) “Love Changes"!!!!! BEAUTIFUL NIGHT! SHOUT OUT to Rowena Husbands for providing me pix on this AWESOME night: www.blinkofaneyephotographyonline.com

DWIGHT

Was great to pop by Schomburg Center in Harlem to see friend Dwight Eubanks. He's doing more than "Real Housewives of Atlanta" these days. He was commissioned to work his hosting magic at Clairol Professional's ART OF FABULOUS hair competition. Shout out to InternationalModel Jay DeAgo who joined us. He sports some of Dwight's men's underwear in his new international calendar for which Ant (the artist Akhenaten) directed and shot one of the dozen art images (http://www.jaydeago.com/).

TAHA

Brooklyn is getting lots of "... life of Riley..." LOVE of late (I do and have always loved me some BK!). Manivone’s boo and our friend Taha Clayton's SOLO ART SHOW opened (and is still running) at Habana Outpost. It was a BLAST! A posse of us are just back from DENVER where we enjoyed the July 4th holiday: http://thelifeofriley.squaresp​ace.com/rilys-blog/2011/7/13/b​est-thing.html  CONGRATS TAHA! See Taha's work here: www.artlordz.com. Was also a treat to hang out with two of my HERO WRITERS Michael A. Gonzales and Amy Linden!

SPIRITED ACTOR

Shout out to my friend Tracey Moore who has always been an international superstar of spiritual and powerful note to me. Well, now the proof is in the pudding. First destination: Ghana where Tracey is making spirited actors' dreams come true along with my friend and Morehouse brother/spirited actor EXTRAORDINAIRE Rockmond Dunbar! It’s “The Spirited Actor in Search of Africa's Next Hollywood Star”… and gonna be on in the Fall.

TICHINA ARNOLD

CONGRATS to Miss Tichina Arnold on "Happily Divorced" with Fran Drescher. Now the TV LAND writers must challenge themselves to use her many talents via better scripts! OKAY!!? Meanwhile, keep being AMAZING, TICHINA!

IMAN

GREAT JOB, Mike Ruiz! He joined with my buddies Sam Fine (makeup) and Oscar James (hair) on some recent shots of Iman (www.mikeruiz.com). BEAUTIFUL... as always! I LOVE IMAN… and THANK all of you for supporting our IMAN Cosmetics/”In The Glow” campaign. I’m so happy many of you were able to get pampered.

LISA RAYE

CONGRATS to Lisa Raye and all of the "Single Ladies" (and gents)! The VH-1 show has been picked up for Season 2! http://www.s2smagazine.com/sto​ries/2011/07/singles-ladies-re​newed-season-2

KIM COLES

I always get excited when my girl Kim Coles pops into NYC. Hadn't seen her in a few months. But she just emailed me that she is coming back in mid-August for a friend's animal charity event. Click here for more info & a peek at Kim's new look: http://youtu.be/qbiSUEhbWOs HOPEFULLY we'll connect over dinner or drinks. XO

KIMCHI CHRONICLES

Shout out to Nathan Hale Williams for hipping me to new show. It's called Kimchi Chronicles (PBS) & its star Marja Vongerichten, who is the wife of celebrity chef Jean-George Vongerichten. Kimchi Chronicles is more than a cooking show. It is an exploration into Korean culture and history as we watch Marja discover her roots (She's Korean & African American). www.kimchichronicles.tv 

FAISON HARLEM STREET FAIR

Shout out to friends George Faison; T; Rick Pelzer; Earline Franklin; John Stanley (who has been traveling all over as Music Director for Miss Patti LaBelle + performing and touring on behalf of his own music and non-Patti collaborations); Alyson Williams; and so many others who made the 5th Annual Harlem International Street Fair a SUCCESS! GOOD TIMES HAD BY ALL - including me! Afterwards, we enjoyed a lite bite with friend Castro at Harlem Tavern. Remember to check out Alyson for Stormy Mondays at Melba's EVERY Monday Night for Happy Hour 7pm - 10pm. Melba's 300 West 114th Street, Harlem, NY 10026 - Reservation 212-864-7777

THE VOICE

Just did 'The Voice'-Season 2 audition in NYC. I sang 'This Woman's Work' & 'Can't Let Go' (Mariah). I was offered an appointment to go right into the call-back round of auditions. So there were no lines. Judges were nice and seemed to enjoy. They video-taped. I feel good. If I go to Hollywood, they will call after the US tryout tour of many other U-S cities! Ant nudged...and I put myself in the hot seat (AGAIN! LOL!). We'll see! Meanwhile, we need to attract some RIGHT-NOW revenue! LOL!

KEEP ON DANCING

Like Sundae Sermon which I hosted last week Harlem, Fort Greene Park in Brooklyn brought friends - old & new, including long-lost buddies Eliseo Perpee Palomar Baloyo & James Dunn. Then, there was more Sundae Sermon: www.sundaesermon.com. And I LOVE that there is so many places to KEEP ON (DANCING).

SOLEDAD O'BRIEN

My girlfriend Sidra Smith recently hired me to be consulting producer/co-writer on a cross-cultural marketing project with advertising/marketing ICON Ogilvy. It gave me the chance to work again with Soledad O'Brien who was plucked as our stellar host for the roundtable. Along with Rachael Ray, I had the chance to field produce a big segment on Soledad for my former Chicago client. Rachael taught Soledad how to prepare a picnic for a wonderful day in Central Park with her kids. Of course, Soledad is also my NABJ sister who I often see in that world. I'm looking forward to seeing her in Philadelphia for our Convention.

KEVIN ANDRE DICKENS

Speaking of NABJ: My friend Kevin Andre Dickens is an AWESOME designer. His FABULOUS collection of ready-to-wear/made-to-order suiting (and tailoring) services will silhouette me while in Philadelphia this week for the National Association of Black Journalists’ Convention (www.nabj.org).  The website featuring Kevin’s extraordinary work for men & women will be re-launched soon.  In the meantime, stop by and visit Kevin at his design studio (325 W 38th Street, Suite 1206).

"MORE THAN CONQUERORS"

Shout out to my girls Andrea and Shani who invited Ant and me out to Brooklyn to hang out on one of the borough's finest rooftops. New friends Cuncho and Andre L. Wilkins were also in the house.  Andre is a documentary film-maker whose "More Than Conquerors" explores African Americans and their struggles and triumphs with Cancer (forthe American Cancer Association). The project was a finalist at the American Black Film Festival in Miami a few weeks back. CONGRATS ANDRE! For more information on his project, click on: www.kickthecanentertainment.com

VIVIAN SESSOMS

My girlfriend Katrina Boswell's client Vivian Sessoms is performing LIVE! this Sunday, August 7, 2011 at 7:30 pm at FEINSTEIN's at Loews Regency (540 Park Avenue): http://mim.io/42ea51. This is what they are saying about her: 

"Sessoms' clear, exquisite voice shimmers against a percolating R&B/jazz backdrop." -- Billboard Magazine

"Sessoms' voice is a malleable wonder that rhapsodically floats from ageless soul shouts to intuitive jazz phrasing to spontaneous pop pep." -- Urban Network magazine

"As Vivian sang the first few lyrics of the classic song "At Last", I thought the heavens had opened up and rained down some of the best singing and performance style I had ever heard."-- Patti Austin  

It was July 20, 1994.A day I’ll ALWAYS remember. That was the day my mother died. It’s been 17 years since she passed away… QUEEN ELIZABETH BELLINGER RILEY! I LOVE YOU… and miss you so! R.I.P.