A DAY IN "THE LIFE OF RILEY"

Ant and I have just returned from Detroit where we had the privilege of being guests of Ms. Aretha Franklin at her birthday party. The journey to get there wasn’t a logical one but a fun one. You see ‘what had happened was’: my friend Greg Dunmore about whom I write all the time is my friend and Co-Chair for the National Association of Black Journalists’ Arts & Entertainment Task Force (www.nabj.org). We’ve been friends for well over a decade now. And Greg knows everybody – including Ms. Franklin and many in her camp. Apparently, “The Queen of Soul” enjoyed seeing a novelty YOU TUBE act "Secret Trois" (www.myspace.com/secrettrois)/(www.youtube.com/user/SecretTrois)

on TYRA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S26JGkjAUMQ) and wanted them booked for her show. Her folks got in touch with me to see if I could find them. I let my fingers do the talking via My Space and You Tube, and the next thing you know is I’m being asked to represent these three, beautiful, full-figured women as they work through contracts, set lists, travel, and other logistics to be able to give a command performance for ‘The Queen’. Shelia, the mother of one of the members Shenelle, was my partner for each step of this process. She helped us assess many things while the ladies practiced and practiced and practiced. They rehearsed really hard and thoroughly to ensure things would pop off something fabulous for Re (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7uuxQFEOzcc). A month would pass by quickly and it was time to head on to Motown, also the home of another undeniable diva, my Diana Ross, who too has a birthday in the neighborhood of Ms. Franklin (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9uuLpQgv7fU). But my sources tell me Miss Ross went the route of Blockbuster (by way of L.A.) to celebrate her special 65th birthday: http://www.thelifefiles.com/diana-ross-goes-to-blockbuster-video-on-her-birthday/.

On a snowy Friday morning, Ant accompanied me as I needed him to chronicle the weekend as he often does for the blog. Also, he worked closely with the audio guy on cues, fade outs, and reprises while I dealt with “Secret Trois” directly. Our limo driver Vincent picked us up and offered us his own ‘reflections’ of Detroit as he was born and bred. He says he went to school with The Enchantments (www.soulwalking.co.uk/Enchantment.html). His classmates were also the members of Dawn, Joyce Vincent Wilson and Telma Hopkins (as in Addy from “Gimme A Break” and Mona’s mother Phyllis from “Half & Half”) – both of whom sang behind Tony Orlando. Vincent says his Motown favorites are Marvin Gaye, The Temptations, and Smokey Robinson (who – with Berry Gordy – is coaching the “American Idol” (www.americanidol.com) cast. It's a “Motown 50” theme night (www.motown50.com/)). We absolutely LOVED our hotel, The Mariott Reinaissance (www.marriott.com) which soars 73 floors high, offering a view of the Detroit River which separates Detroit from Windsor, Canada.

We got the chance to meet “Secret Trois” and Shelia for the first time on this night, though we all felt like long-lost cousins since we’d been in touch non-stop via phone, texting, email, and all other modes of cyber-communication over the last month. From the Marriott’s lounge we got everything prepped for the big show the next day. The ladies – Shenelle, Brittany, and Ashley – were a total joy with which to work. They were sweet and humble; smart and insightful; fun and loving. And Shenelle’s mother Shelia was ‘the bomb’! We LOVED them. After we took some time to get to know them, I made sure the girls were going to get a good night’s rest while Greg alerted us we had one more stop to make before he, Ant, and I could call it a night.

One of Greg’s clients and friends, noted performance artist Ziam, wanted to show us all a good time. He's quite the social and artistic muse of Detroit's social scene. And one of the nicest guys you could ever meet. I blogged about him before and we’ve spoken on the phone via Greg many times as Ziam is my spiritual Diana Ross soul mate. He performs all over Detroit in high-concept shows that explore sexuality and glamour – always an electric mix of fashion, song and movement (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/11/12/manifest-destiny-destination-manila.html). The spot is a loft space near which neo-soulster Dwele lives. Everyone was so nice and we enjoyed lovely buffet of food; flowing cocktails; and the best music. DJ Darryl proved himself a ‘house music’ genius as he rocked the best remixes of Miss Ross and her song architects Ashford & Simpson – including my favorite “The Boss” (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2D2L0SspO7s). And you must know that had Ziam, the many attendees, and me working that dance floor overtime!!! Say what you will about Detroit, but we were having a GREAT TIME so far!

Earlier, Greg had taken us to Royal Oak, Michigan to enjoy a Belgian-inspired bite at Bastone Brewery (www.bastone.net). And though Greg would offer up a well-lit tour of Detroit’s finest landmarks before our weekend wrapped, we did a bulletproof, drive-by version through Diana’s childhood home The Brewster Projects; Hitsville; Garden Court (which is supposed to be Martin’s apartment on the hit sitcom); WGPR (home of Shaun Robinson’s start in the TV business – www.shaunrobinson.com); and on and on and on. I LOVE DETROIT – and so does Ziam, though he joked when I told him we went through the Brewster Projects “Did you get cut while you were riding through the Brewster Projects?” he asked with a cheshire laugh.  Then, he finished his line: “Well, I hope you told them ‘If you must cut me, make it in a “D” – for “Diana”!!!!!’. Isn’t he a hoot? (Of course, I’d have been honored to be cut in an “A” for “Aretha” or “Q” for the “Queen” if cutting is at all necessary and inside of my reverence for that awesome diva!).

For rehearsal, the next day, the ladies were on time and ready to go through the paces to ensure their royal performance reigned supreme: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pZ2385evPmY. We worked out their entrances and the pacing of their set (which was comprised of routines that they’d performed before and a new song that they put a routine together for Ms. Franklin). We figured out where we’d put their mic and the costumes that they’d be adding to the number they enter in. And the folks at Seldom Blues (www.seldomblues.com) – an elegantly appointed supper club in the Renaissance Center – were awesome and accommodating. Owner Frank Taylor was not only responsible for the delicious spread of steak, lobster, spinach, etc. on which we nibbled at Ms. Franklin’s party, but he also was responsible for some brunch that Greg, Ant, and I had at “Detroit’s Breakfast House & Grill” (www.detroitbreakfasthouse.net). Because of Greg, “Secret Trois” even got some press that I can’t wait to share with you at a later date. Greg and Joel produced a piece on them – giving the ladies their first experience with interviewing and talking points. Though they were on their own for the interview (notwithstanding a few coaching points I offered them), I did produce and script their set which included:

1. Dramatic entrance from stage left (They weren’t seen at all before they hit the stage)

2. “SECRET TROIS" is doing 1^st routine to an excerpted "Miss Independent” by Neyo (special request for Ms. Franklin)

3. ASHLEY banter (paraphrased): "Thank you so much! We are "SECRET TROIS". [She introduces the other ladies and herself by name]. Ms. Franklin, we are so happy that you saw us on THE TYRA BANKS SHOW. And we are even happier that you liked what you saw. Nothing against TYRA - nor MTV where we also did a little bit - but being here to perform for you, THE QUEEN OF SOUL, is - by far - SECRET TROIS' HIGHLIGHT – the icing on the cake!!!! (To The Audience) NOW, ARE THERE ANY SINGLE LADIES OUT THERE? WELL, PUT YOUR HANDS UP!!!!!!!!!!!!" (their cue for their now-famous “Single Ladies” routine)

4. "Single Ladies” - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7uuxQFEOzcc

5. "SECRET TROIS" receive their applause; quickly get their tutus and wrap them around their waists. ASHLEY picks up her banter: "Ms. Franklin! We're sure you can appreciate that we women here in SECRET TROIS are what some might call MODERN! We have our blackberries, our YOU TUBE channel, a MYSPACE page-per-lady (and one for the group). And don't forget FACEBOOK! But we appreciate something about you that we researched ---- through GOOGLE! It's that you have an appreciation for the classic artforms like OPERA and BALLET. Now, we won't sing an ARIA for you right now (We'll leave that to you!). But for our next and final routine, we will showcase our TUTUs as a shout out to you - OUR FAVORITE DIVA!!!!"

6. "SECRET TROIS" performs its final routine:"DIVA" BY BEYONCE - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=niEfEdvLWI0

7. Then, “Single Ladies” reprises as they leave the stage

We opted out of having them perform these numbers:

"CIRCUS" BY BRITNEY SPEARS - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2WEQe2IqYwg

"SHAKE TO THE GROUND" - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=47SGfpTXf1Y

Ms. Franklin had a smile on her face all up and through their performance. She was truly pleased... and though the girls were being critical of this flub and that trip (none of which I noticed), they were happy that it went over well... and even more happy that it was over. So, they went up to their respective rooms and got changed – so they could enjoy the party and receive their growing following. And Ant and I did the same. Greg and dear friend Earline who too was a key part of the planning escorted us through the room to meet Detroit's finest. Earline also kept me sane through this process (as I’ve never managed anybody nor myself – for that matter – before). I couldn't have done this without Earline's priceless advisement and expertise. It was nice to take in the room. Though we’d already had a nice time with Ms. Franklin, we took a moment to pose with her cake. Aretha commissioned not only a spotlight cake to be designed like the church hat she wore for Obama (a la Mr. Song Millnery - www.mrsongmillinery.com). But she also had mini-versions done as a guest-gift take-away. Too, there was a parade of cakes all decorated in a tribute to her family - including her son Kelf and grandson Jordan - both rappers. Lots of her local celebs were there to toast her - from Judge Mathis to Keith Washington... to MOTOWN legend Martha Reeves (who chirped an impromptu, a cappella Happy Birthday to Ms. Franklin a la her days at the helm of the legendary Vandellas). It was also great to see Greg's mom and star client Ms. Jo Thompson who is heading to New York City to perform her brilliant evening of song and piano. Fantasia was to actually sing it but her flight was delayed.  Kenny Lattimore and Raheim Devaughn serenaded The Queen in their respectively unique and soulful sounds. And another YOU TUBE sensation Iman who did his Obama impression (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-y1OOh6Ezjs) – twice. Luther Vandross' best friend Fonzi Thornton was in the room (wish he would have sung as well). Also there: songwriter/producer Michael Powell (known for work with Anita Baker and others); boxing champ Tommy Hearns (among many of his other colleagues from the ring); and comedian/actor Mike Epps who took some time to pose with the girls. The space featured a bright array of oversized floral centerpieces and a regal ice sculptor in front of which Ant and I did a photo-op. Also, Re commissioned a man-made beach with a crew of NYC models in swimwear - just sitting and standing pretty. "The Queen of Soul" was a gorgeous vision in a white, spaghetti strapped number that was fitted and cinched from bust to waist w/long train of white ostrich feathers. She actually looked nice and elegant. Speaking of elegance, Miss Maxine Powell attended. You'll recall, she headed up Motown's Artist Development - preparing the Motown roster to thrive on-and-offstage. She trained them all to know that they would turn the heads of kings and queens one day.  And of course, Greg wouldn’t let us just call it a night. Actually, Ant and I needed a snack for as plentiful as the buffet was, we weren’t able to hone in on a full meal for all of the work we were doing to ensure Secret Trois’ performance went off without a hitch. So, Como’s Pizzeria (www.buddyspizza.com) was our spot and – boy – was it packed! It set the night off just right!

On the next day, we got some quiet time with friend Earline at her beautiful home and a hometown breakfast at Clique (www.reviews.metroguide.com). (By the way, Earline’s daughter (Aretha’s niece) Crystal is getting ready to launch her own handbag line and a number of other creative wares. Please follow her at www.cfranks.com)). Greg also took Ant and me on our daylight tour of Motown. And I was like a kid in a candy store. We went to the Roostertail (www.roostertail.com/). It is a high-end supper club where Diana and the girls used to perform. Berry Gordy readied them for The Copa at spots like this (en route to New York City). Then, one of the first grand entrances Miss Ross has ever made was here at Cass Tech High School. Miss Ross was Best Dressed and a costume illustration major. Ross’ first press came from The Michigan Chronicle per Rita Griffin, legendary journalist that Greg and I had the privilege to honor as one of our NABJ A&E Task Force “Legacy Award” recipients. Also, for Ant, Greg took us to hang out with artist Tyree Guyton (www.tyreeguyton.com/) and (www.heidelberg.org/). His art is headquartered on a two-block lot. He has artfully turned abandoned houses and vacant lots into polka-dot landscapes, gaily painted faces on car hoods salvaged from scrap yards, brightly-colored, laced shoes suspending from tree branches, etc. It’s raw. It’s animated. It’s rough. It’s childlike. It’s beautiful. And we were thrilled to chat with him. Ant and he got to wax philosophical for a moment about art. Tyree said “Art is like having sex!!!” Well, he sure had my attention at that point. And at closer inspection to his metaphor, it landed. And Greg wouldn’t be Greg without a history lesson – so Hitsville wouldn’t do because I know everything there is to know about that spot. But I didn’t know that The Fisher Theater (www.nederlanderdetroit.com/) is the home of the world premiere of Broadway giants “The Wiz” (choreographed to Tony-winning heights by my friend George Faison)... and “Hello Dolly”. Still, MOTOWN – the building – was my full circle moment. Ant loved it being there as well. From the Berry Gordy street sign... to the stoop out front... to the window showcasing all of my favorite stars (except Ms. Aretha, who many don’t realize was not a MOTOWN Records act)... and the threshold to STUDIO A. It all punctuated the weekend something lovely!!!!

The LORD is surely steering me in a bunch of directions to make ends meet, y'all hear????? And this trip put a little something in my pocket and a provided me a lot of something for my sometimes increasingly  depleting morale. As I count my blessings, I'm reminded that - as many things challenge me - many things are working and I'm just allowing it all to work through me to whatever the next frequency will be. THANK YOU “SECRET TROIS”! THANK YOU MOTOWN! THANK YOU, ARETHA FRANKLIN!!!! YOU ARE THE BEST!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!