A DAY IN "THE LIFE OF RILEY"

WHITNEY

Most people who know me know that MISS ROSS is MY BOSS… and a week in which she received her LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT GRAMMY AWARD is among the BIGGEST WEEKS for a fan like me (and the many hundreds of thousands and thousands of fans with whom I have the honor to share in this excitement). This, after Miss Ross has been nominated 12 times (Sang/recorded 3 songs that are in the Grammy Hall of Fame), but had yet to win one. Picture this: It’s Saturday, February 11, 2011. A wonderful group of friends were invited to an intimate, pre-Fashion-Week gathering.                                                                                                                         Everyone agreed to join me in watching Miss Ross accept her Lifetime Achievement Grammy on the academy’s website (http://www.grammy.com/videos/diana-ross-accepting-lifetime-achivement-award-at-special-merit-awards) – a highlight in the day (and this fan’s life). Just moments before her segment was to take place, the first texts, tweets, and emails started to come in. I felt like Miss Ross in the rain at her Central Park Concert: “It took me a lifetime to get here. I’m not going anywhere!”  And as each text, tweet, and email came in, I chalked it up as a hoax… and kept it to myself. But alas, the news would be true: WHITNEY HOUSTON: DEAD AT 48. Miss Ross accepted her award (and announced she’d be going back into the studio to record and - FYI! - she's going back on the road - starting this week). We were all left to wrap our heads around one other SPECIAL woman with whom Miss Ross had to share the spotlight in “…the life of Riley…” (circa 1984-1998).

This is the hardest blog I’ve ever had to write. I’ve been a range of in shock; bed-ridden sick; depressed; unable to get through the day’s deeds without a tear or many; inconsolable; and nostalgic and joyful for one moment in time when Whitney Houston brought us such comfort and joy with THAT VOICE!

The loss of Whitney Houston also brings me back in touch with blasts from my past. One Morehouse brother felt he needed to reach out – in part because he too is touched by the loss. Also, he remembers how much I LOVE WHITNEY...and wanted to make sure I was O.K. An excerpt of my reply to him:

“...This loss is HUGE for many reasons - some of which you've outlined. In the '90s, I had lots of connects from the Whitney world - including those domains you outline i.e. publicists/managers/Arista folks/fellow churchmembers of her/Cissy who were/are friends of mine, etc. And YES! As a singer myself, I have long been shouting fromt the rafters - often to those aforementioned people - to correct THAT VOICE before it's 'wrecked'. Though it wasn't exactly wrecked in 1998, it depreciated from 'dreamy' to a 'nightmare' by 2001. That said, the short window she was able to give us THE VOICE is LEGACY enough (more than enough). Still, we're all left with this bad feeling. Though I've shared commentary on Dr. Michael Eric Dyson and Rev. Sharpton's shows, I'm left now to say SOMETHING via my blog by week's end. And though I don't know if I'll go comprehensive in this entry (as I'm still wrapping my brain and heart around the LIFE, the LOSS, and all that I'm truly feeling right now where I can feel), so much of me is numb. I called Whitney "the Billie Holliday" of our time in that by the time you and I were born, she was dead. We then were introduced to her - on some level - by Diana Ross' portrayal of her in "Lady Sings The Blues" (and not even when that came out). So, there was a disconnect, though the history was duly noted and well-received. With WHITNEY, like the contemporaries of Billie Holliday, we met her, we knew her pedigree, we watched her rise to the top, we watched her fall, we watched her attempt a comeback, we watched her die ------ ONE MOMENT IN TIME! And yet, again, we know her LEGACY lives on...through her music (and hopefully she and Bobby's daughter.... and - as irony goes - through the very women on whose shoulders she stands - including her mom, Dionne Warwick, Aretha Franklin, Diana Ross, etc. - all of whom are STILL STANDING & SINGING, which furthermore makes this passing harder to swallow. Like most anything, Whitney sang it best when she added this BeBe Winans composition to some of her early '90s shows…”

It was first recorded by CeCe Winans who sang it at the funeral:

Verse 1:

Here we are again,

that old familiar place,

where the wind will blow,

no one ever knows the time or space.

Chorus:

Don't cry for me,

don't shed a tear;

the time I've shared with you will always be.

And when I'm gone,

still carry on,

don't cry for me.

Verse 2:

No one is the blame,

my death was meant to be.

Don't carry guilt or shame,

the reason why I came,

soon you'll see.

Chorus:

Bridge:

Don't cry when life is not

the joy it should be,

with life comes pain.

Soon time will end its course appointed,

then you will be rewarded,

and all the world will see.

THIS, OF COURSE, AS I CRY!

EDWING D’ANGELO

In attendance at this Fashion-Week kick-off was designer EDWING D'ANGELO (whose Fall 2012 NYFW Collection presented this past Sunday at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel: www.edwingdangelo.com. Excellent new line, I might add. Basketball Wives’ Royce and Mob Wives’ Carla agree). On that night of AMAZING HIGHS and BOTTOMLESS LOWS, it was also great to see friend/jeweler Trevor Hartman. I consider it a blessing to have so many friends and loved ones around me at the time. And afterwards,  I made it my business to get down to Japas 55 Karaoke to homage Miss Houston in song (via the Whitney Houston medley its catalog has). My friend Carl Nelson was on-hand to hold me up (just in case) as well as ATL Housewives’ Dwight Eubanks. And as my love of karaoke goes, I’ve continued to sing more and more Whitney wherever I go – to ensure that the MUSIC LIVES ON! That – in addition to many things – is a BIG LEGACY! We sang after the Edwing show. Also, on another night with another awesome designer/my friend Jeffrey Williams (www.jeffreycwilliams.com), we all gathered at a new spot: baby grand (www.babygrandnyc.com) – a cute discovery for us. My girl Dawn sang pretty too!

GRAMMY TELECAST

Since I wasn’t in L.A. And given the developments du jour, the invitation to watch THE GRAMMYS with my friends Mara Schiavocampo and Tommie Porter while dining on declicious chili and cornbread (a la Rakia) was – for sure – the move. Ant , Ernest Maynor, and MISS NINA agreed. In fact, NINA was the BEST example of the CIRCLE OF LIFE! CONGRATS, MISS ROSS! WE LOVE YOU, WHITNEY! Great job, Jennifer Hudson!

MY BLACK IS BEAUTIFUL

I spent the top of the month producing a Black History Month segment for ‘Wendy Williams’ and ‘My Black is Beautiful’. If you didn’t get to see it, here goes: http://www.wendyshow.com/MyBlackIsBeautiful/.

FULL FORCE

My girl Flo Anthony invited us out to dear friend Marva Allen’s Hue-Man Bookstore (www.huemanbookstore.com) for a cool event: A book signing with The Full Force Brothers (www.fullforceworld.com). Their new book “Not Just a House Party” takes us deeper and beyond what is now the highest-rated “Unsung” in which they were recently featured. Bowlegged Lou (who I’d met years ago through my Atlanta buddy Denyse Parks); Paul Anthony; and B-Fine were in the house. They are so gracious, nice, and generous in sharing their history in the industry. From there, another dear publicist friend Juanita Stephens invited us to Maria Davis’ special event at Shrine World Venue in Harlem. I got a quick meet-and-greet at W’s A-Loft Hotel with the Jamaican virtuoso David M (He’s a singer/songwriter/classical musician/etc.). You – for sure – will be hearing more from this conscious artist who credits Marvin Gaye as an influence.

KEVIN FREEMAN & “REAL HOUSE-FRIEND OF ATLANTA”

Our dear friend Kevin Freeman’s birthday was last week (Same week that he was featured in an episode of “Real Housewives of Atlanta” in which he hosted Sheree and some of the ladies in South Africa). Priya Scroggins threw a set of all sets at her Manhattan pad. Tasty cocktails; hors’douevres; delicious bites of cauliflower pakoras; jerk chicken wings; vegetable curry; shrimp vindaloo; chicken chettinad; dal; rice; Indian bread; and WHITNEY! We all gathered around and either sang Whitney at the top of our lungs and/or danced with a roo...m full of SOMEDBODIES who love Kevin! Quite healing! Joyous! FAMILY! In the house: Ant, Gwendolyn Niles, Keanna KJ Rose Henson, Kiwan Michael Anderson, Dawanna Williams, Nathan Hale Williams, Tracey Kemble, Stephanie Horton, Lisa Bonner, Angelique Miles, Mark Buquoi, Chris Gentry, Chantis Parks, Michelle Sanchez Boyce, Erika Munro Kennerly, Nichole Shellman, her beau Troy, Tamayu Takayama, Wardell Malloy, Bevy Smith and more! A TOTAL LOVE FEST!

HARLEM FINE ARTS SHOW 2012

 I wrapped the week up with two art invitations from my friends Tata and Carl Nelson. First up: We went to The New York Times Building to kick-off the Third Annual 2012 Harlem Fine Arts Show (www.hfas.org) – featuring among many, the artwork of AFUWI 2011 recipient of the American Foundation of the University of the West Indies award (the tributes of which I got to produce: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2011/1/27/live-out-louder.html). Also in the house: NYC icons B. Smith and Susan Taylor. The open-to-the-public exhibition will take place from Friday, February 10th through Sunday, February 12th at Riverside Church of New York (490 Riverside Drive at 120th Street). Then, we went to a GRAFFITI photography and art exhibit (that benefitted a pediatric oncology ward on Long Island, NY. At the helm of the brainchild: Elizabeth Jordan (WWW.EJORDANPHOTOGRAPHY.COM), who invited guests to St. Peter’s Church to participate in an evening celebrating the power of the pen (and positive thought) through graffiti. A light bite at Hillstone rounded out the evening just lovely.

TARGET FIRST SATURDAY

 The Brooklyn Museum’s TARGET FIRST SATURDAY was a fun time: http://www.brooklynmuseum.org/visit/first_saturdays.php.  Lots of exhibits, people, music, and dancing. Saw lots of fun faces – including my Savannah homegirl Rae Mack, Theo Perry, Shantay Wilson, and many others.

SUPERBOWL

Our friends Irma Clement and Gisele Pemberton threw yet another FAB SUPERBOWL EXTRAVAGANZA! GREAT FOOD, FOLKS, & MADONNA: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y4VbChGJ8nw&feature=youtu.be.

NEW YORK ASSOCIATION OF BLACK JOURNALISTS

Was GREAT to confab with my fellow New York Association of Black Journalists recently at B.Smith’s restaurant. Our new President Mike Feeney led a festive networking event. This, before sleeves are pulled up to the elbows – so NYABJ can get started on its good work. If you are a member of NYABJ (and/or want to me), don’t worry! You can join up (and start working) NOW! Is always good to see my friends – old and new – including Philana Patterson, Dwight Oestricher, Jenisha Watts, Brandon Bain (my fellow karaoke host AND TV personality his own), etc. SHOUT OUT to NOVAHCAINE PHOTOGRAPHY (www.novahcaine.com). Afterwards, I returned to our beloved NATIVE in Harlem (where we gave life to ALL-STAR KARAOKE THURSDAY NIGHT). Our friends Brian Washington-Palmer & Jamar Dunn pulled out all of the stops for us to TOAST our Harlem buddies Nikoa & Garrett Hendricks at a baby shower to celebrate the pending arrival of their little diva Zuri.

EBONY.COM

A great group of friends recently gathered to toast Kierna Mayo and the launch of www.ebony.com.  Katra in SOHO(217 Bowery btwn Prince & Spring) is where we partied. The Legendary Chris Washington provided AWESOME music.

JESSICA BETTS

Friend Dennis Decker hosted a well-appointed set at his Harlem brownstone to introduce Jessica Betts (https://www.twitter.com/JessicaBetts). It gave BFFs Itika Oldwine, Mara Schiavocampo, Carl Nelson, Kimberly Nichole, Darius Booker, and a host of other friends a chance to catch up and share lovingly and reflectively about Miss Whitney Houston whose home-going services took place earlier on this day.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, ERN

Happy Birthday, Ernest Maynor – BFF since 7th grade! Had a great BDAY GAMES PARTY at our friend Kimberly Jajuan’s home. Many old friends were in the house – including Dwayne Grayman and Erich McMillan-McCall. Also: Angela Robinson (“Shug” from Broadway and road-tour’s “The Color Purple”); and many more!

 Hi folks,

“A Day in the Life of Riley: pop culture & possibilities” is always singing the PRAISES of IMAN: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/tag/iman-cosmetics

And during BLACK HISTORY MONTH, IMAN’s team has asked “…the Life of Riley…” to help get the word out on her new,  IMAN Then & Now product line launch.

So many of you enjoyed the last IMAN COSMETICS’ event, we want to make sure you get out this time to try the product with pro make-up artists on site and to enjoy a great panel discussion on a "Retrospective of Black Beauty".

PLEASE RSVP under the promo code #patrick to ensure access to all of the special offers IMAN COSMETICS is providing.

If you cannot view this invitation click HERE:

http://i42.tinypic.com/ibxgmp.jpg

Here’s ALL the info:

A Retrospective of IMAN Beauty

An Iconic Beauty in Every Era

IMAN Cosmetics Celebrates

Black History Month 2012

*

IMAN Cosmetics

Presents

"A Retrospective of Black Beauty"

Saturday, February 11, 2012

2-6 PM

Hue Man Bookstore Harlem NYC

2319 Frederick Douglass Boulevard (bet. 124th & 125th Streets)

RSVP to http://bit.ly/zlbM0T by 5PM EDT 2.10.12

Join the leading cosmetics industry experts for an exciting.

entertaining and informative evening of consultations and conversations about

Black Beauty throughout the ages.

Free Demos * Giveaways * Raffle * Samples _ Panel Discussion and more.

 FOR MORE INFO:

 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IMANcosmetics

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/imancosmetics

Website: http://www.imancosmetics.com/looks/then-now

Best and LOVE,

Patrick L. Riley

“A Day in the Life of Riley: pop culture & possibilities”

http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/

If you cannot view this invitation click HERE.

http://i42.tinypic.com/ibxgmp.jpg

Hi folks,

“A Day in the Life of Riley: pop culture & possibilities” is always singing the PRAISES of IMAN: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/tag/iman-cosmetics

And during BLACK HISTORY MONTH, IMAN’s team has asked “…the Life of Riley…” to help get the word out on her new,  IMAN Then & Now product line launch.

So many of you enjoyed the last IMAN COSMETICS’ event, we want to make sure you get out this time to try the product with pro make-up artists on site and to enjoy a great panel discussion on a "Retrospective of Black Beauty".

PLEASE RSVP under the promo code #patrick to ensure access to all of the special offers IMAN COSMETICS is providing.

If you cannot view this invitation click HERE:

http://i42.tinypic.com/ibxgmp.jpg

Here’s ALL the info:

A Retrospective of IMAN Beauty
An Iconic Beauty in Every Era
IMAN Cosmetics Celebrates
Black History Month 2012
*
IMAN Cosmetics
Presents
"A Retrospective of Black Beauty"
Saturday, February 11, 2012
2-6 PM
Hue Man Bookstore Harlem NYC
2319 Frederick Douglass Boulevard (bet. 124th & 125th Streets)
RSVP to http://bit.ly/zlbM0T by 5PM EDT 2.10.12

Join the leading cosmetics industry experts for an exciting.
entertaining and informative evening of consultations and conversations about
Black Beauty throughout the ages.

Free Demos * Giveaways * Raffle * Samples _ Panel Discussion and more.

 FOR MORE INFO:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IMANcosmetics

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/imancosmetics

Website: http://www.imancosmetics.com/looks/then-now

Best and LOVE,

Patrick L. Riley

“A Day in the Life of Riley: pop culture & possibilities”

http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/

If you cannot view this invitation click HERE.

http://i42.tinypic.com/ibxgmp.jpg

RED TAILS

Went to "Red Tails" World Premiere in NYC at Ziegfeld Theater. The George-Lucas production tells the story of our beloved Tuskegee Airmen. And it stars Terrence Howard. And Cuba Gooding, Jr. Also: a stellar cast of Hollywood's best, including my friend Nate Parker; the so-nice Tristan Wilds;
Andre Royo; David Oyelowo; and Neyo. Also in the packed house and/or at the star-studded after party at Gotham Hall: George Lucas; "Black Girls Rock" creator Beverly Bond; her husband Azar; Keesha Sharp; BeBe Winans; Khalil Khan; Peter - Cynthia Bailey's husband on ATL Housewives; Kangol from UTFO; Desiree Rogers, Publisher of EBONY; EXTRA's AJ Calloway; my New Ros Michelle Sanchez-Boyce; Erica Munro Kennerly; and others from the crew; Spike Lee; EBONY Editor-in-Chief Amy Dubois Barnett; Miss Cassie Freeman; Samuel L. Jackson; and so many other friends and favorites - including a couple dozen "original" and documented Tuskegee Airmen, including Michelle's Uncle Charles. What a total honor to be in their presence!!! BOTTOM LINE: GO SEE “RED TAILS”!

STICK FLY

TOTAL HONOR to host post-“Stick Fly” talk-back with cast members Tracie Thoms, who plays an entomologist, who, too, is the estranged daughter of a prominent Black intellectual (She’s also known from “Rent” , Broadway & movie; “Cold Case”; and my favorite, “The Devil Wears Prada”). Also: sole White cast mate Rosie Benton whose credits include “All My Children” and “Law & Order, SVU”. They were so generous in their sharing. Then, the panel was rounded out by Marcia A. Cole (Editorial Director, AMBERmag.com) and Chloe Hilliard (Editorial Director, TheLoop21.com…but I’ve known her since she was 15, a student in the New York Association of Black Journalists’ High School Journalism Workshop for which I was an instructor. I always knew she’d be a journalism star, maybe pro B-Ball player. But she’s now ADDITIONALLY working her magic as a stand-up comic). The special event was brought to us by AMBERmag.com and its Beauty & Broadway who sponsors include Bobbi Brown Cosmetics and John Paul Mitchell. AKANYC helped out as well. BOTTOM LINE: GO SEE “STICK FLY”: www.stickflybroadway.com.

KIM COLES

GREAT NIGHT that started with the “Inspired In New York Honors” event which saluted friend Kim Coles for her many great deeds, dids, and TO-Dos (www.kimcolesinc.com). Was also nice to see my BFFs Ed Roebuck and Carl Nelson.

LACHANZE

“…The life of Riley…” is constantly singing the praises of LaChanze, Tony-award-winning actor/singer (“The Color Purple”): http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/tag/lachanze. Of course, I love who she is as a performer and the recent LINCOLN CENTER PRESENTS ‘AMERICAN SONGBOOK’ series reminded me as a sold-out audience enjoyed an awesome repertoire of classics as well as the amazing NYC view that The Allen Room’s Frederick P. Rose Hall gives inside Jazz at Lincoln Center. In addition to her own career songs (The Color Purple’s “I’m Here” and her “Once on This Island” and “Ragtime” fare), she performed Stevie Wonder’s “Summer Soft”; Joni Mitchell’s “Both Sides, Now”; Pink’s “Glitter in the Air”; Anita Baker’s “Fairy Tales”; etc. LaChanze also sang Etta James on home (without knowing, of course). At the persuasion of an unidentified friend, she added “At Last” to her set (Shout out to songwriters Mack Gordon and Harry Warren for that classic! R.I.P. ETTA JAMES. Time passes quickly here! LaChanze reminded the audience that her first “American Songbook” performance was 10 years ago. I was there… and about a year into getting to know her. And we've continued to be present at each others' milestones along the way - from the night of her Tony win to her wedding. Ant and I hold the night of "The Color Purple" (for which she won the Tony) as our anniversary. It was December 1, 2005...We were both covering the red carpet. And it was actually the night we met. Fast forward six years (now looking to the 7th): We are STILL STANDING together! Other dear friends – Tony/Broadway darlings their own – in the house: Ken Roberson; Erich McMillan; Brenda Braxton; Tamara Tunie; Gregory Generet; etc. Also in the mix: LaChanze’s family – including “my sister friend” Michelle Sapp; LaChanze's husband/my Morehouse brother Derek Fordjour; and a host of others. And my Ant and BFF Sidra Smith rounded things out. I LOVE NEW YORK! And LACHANZE? You are THE BEST!

DEATH OF THE DIVA

Shout out to my friend Roger C. Jeffrey who invited us out to a one-woman musical narrative: “DEATH OF THE DIVA” (www.DeathoftheDiva.com) – written, performed, and – in part composed – by Amanda Seales. Ray Angry co-composed the music and Roger directed. I recently had the chance to experience Roger C. Jeffrey’s dance teaching genius at ESOTA in Queens. The Bernice Johnson Cultural Arts Center-trained dancer and choreographer is also a graduate of Performing Arts High School and The Juilliard School. He’s performed in the companies of Bernice Johnson, Martial Roumain, Kevin Iega Jeff, Twyla Tharp, Lar Lubovitch, Zvi Gotheiner and with Mikhail Baryshnikov's White Oak Dance Project. In addition to his many pursuits, he is currently a dancer with The Metropolitan Opera Ballet Company. Also in the house: DEX (www.dexnewyork.com) – make-up artist extraordinaire.

Performances:
March 23, 24 & 25
March 30, 31 & April 1

Where:
Helen Mills Theater
26th between 6th & 7th

Cost: Regular- $30
Seniors & Students- $20
Group rate- $20(10 or more tickets)

Here are a couple of helpful links related to the project:

Who is amanda seales- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P6TR5QMPA9k

To purchase tickets – www.deathofthediva.ticketbud.com/deathofthediva

Promotional reel- www.youtube.com/watch?v=9G8WDEFt2sQ

THEIR EYES WERE WATCHING GOD

Shout out to my friend Gilda Squire who invited me to a preview of The Greene Space at WNYC & WQXR’s 75hth Anniversary of Zora Neale Hurston’s THEIR EYES WERE WATCHING GOD: a multiplatform celebration of the classic novel and legacy. The evening featured an intimate, creative conversation with actor and director Ruben Santiago-Hudson (who directs this unprecedented radio drama adaptation); executive producer Indira Etwaroo; WQXR host Terrance McKnight; adaptor Arthur Yorinks; and hosted by Julie Burstein. The cast is to include Phylicia Rashad, Leslie Uggams, and a host of other great performers. The festival (chronicling the 75th Anniversary of the legendary literary work) kicks off on February 24 and will culminate with a national radio broadcast in September 2012. The festival will include an event hosted by Terrance McKnight that explores Zora’s relationship with Langston Hughes. Ruben is currently starring in Stick Fly on Broadway (You’ll recall, I got to interview a few “Stick Fly” cast-members the other night on their Cort Theatre set for an AMBERmag.com BEAUTY & BROADWAY event). http://www.thegreenespace.org/ #Zora75

VALENTINE’S SPIRIT

Our friend Hanna Lee (www.hannaleecommunications.com & www.unwindwithwine.com) invited us to a New Valentine’s Day & Winter Cocktails Tasting and Argentine Tango Event at Michael’s New York. This special event was hosted by Michael McCarty. Mixologist Michael Flannery stirred up new cocktails made with aged Venezuelan Rum, high proof French Cognac, Campari, sparkling Italian prosecco and fine liqueurs to celebrate the most romantic of holidays, Valentine’s Day, and banish winter’s chill. Plus, there were innovative twists on favorites like hot buttered rum and mulled wine, as well as imaginative original libations. Executive Chef Kyung Up Lim served tasty Bar Bites that salute his homeland, including Korean fried chicken and spicy kalbi tacos.To add a sensuous note, a top dance couple performed authentic Argentine Tangos throughout the evening. In the house: my girlfriend and colleague Janet Lee whose book "Living in a Nutshell: Posh and Portable Decorating Ideas for Small Spaces" will be out on March 27, 2012. (http://harpercollins.ca/books/Living-Nutshell-Janet-Lee/?isbn=9780062060693). GO JANET!

MC DECA

The Bowery Poetry Club attracts cool people like Independent Hip-Hop artists, poets, artists, singers, etc. in the mix. Last night, Ant and Manivone invited Carl and me to the Bowery Poetry Club for a hip hop showcase – featuring their Denver friend, MC Deca! http://www.bowerypoetry.com/

BREAKING BREAD & TOASTING BDAYS

With work (and snow) sprinkled all up and through, the weekend also included a lovely dinner with my dear friend Ed Roebuck – accompanied by two FAB dates: Jacqueline Cholmondeley (www.alwaysaccolades.com). And also in the mix: the mom/manager of Malcolm Jamal Warner, Pam. Restaurant: Hillstone (AKA Houston’s). I had the chance to meet her through Ed a few years ago when I spent lots of time in L.A. working on "Monica: Still Standing" and Frankie & Neffe". What an AWESOME woman... and of course, a GREAT MOTHER! Not to be confused with his TV MOM with whom he had the chance to recently reunite along with the rest of The Huxtables (except for Denise AKA Lisa Bonet, of course).There were also two birthdays in “…the life of Riley…”: Candice Harper (at BOHO karaoke). And Jason Johsnon (at Cubana Social in Williamsburgh – www.cubanasocial.com). HAPPY BIRTHDAY to you babies...and the many LOVED ONES in "...the life of Riley..." who have January birthdays i.e. Tori, DeDe, Lisa Goodnight, TJ, Reinaldo, Evolyn, Natalie, Maurice, Jamar, and many, many more! GO CAPRICORN & AQUARIUS!

HUEY’S

Cute Cajun-style restaurant Huey’s (www.hueys247diner.com) is CLOSED. At least, it looks to be. Its window interiors are aligned with garbage bags outstretched to hide the view of the inside YET the menu and its GRADE A are still displayed outside (Maybe it’s coming back?). I’ve grown to love it for its proximity to my work of late (8th Avenue between 55th and 56th Streets) PLUS it’s menu is great i.e. cornbread casserole, jambalaya, chili, etc….and cheap drinks). The challenge (though not for me) is it was always empty. Still, the food was so good and fresh (cornbread was prepared and served in a skillet).

RUPAUL

I felt like I was at THE LEGENDS BALL while at the Harlem home of make-up artist extraordinaire Merrell Hollis (@makeupbymerrell). A fun and accomplished group gathered to watch the premiere of Rupaul’s Drag Race, which is in its Cycle 4. It was GLAMOUR-PALOOZA up in there – including Dani Evans – winner of “America’s Next Top Model” (@Only1DaniE); my friends, celebrity make-up artist Sam Fine (@SamFineBeauty); hair master Oscar James (@oscarjameshair); Chuck Amos (@CHUCKIELOVE), who does Tracee Ellis Ross’ tresses (and has done Miss Ross); stylist par excellence Memsor Kamarake (@Memsor); and some of the ‘The Wendy Williams Show’ team – including Monique Taylor (@moekittytweets) and Wendy’s wig expert Antwon Jackson (@antwonljackson) were also on deck as well as some other great friends – including Ian, etc. Of course, I’ve met a few of the drag race ladies over the years – including Cycle 1 winner BeBe Zahara Benet; Sahara Davenport; and Shangela (HALLELU!!!). And as we all witnessed last night, this new crop is BRINGING IT!

THE GAME IS ON (AGAIN)

My first assignment for 2012 required I hit the ground running in L.A. for recurring client BET!

In addition to producing TONY ROCK on the red carpet at the new-season premiere party of "The Game" & "Let's Stay Together" (http://www.bet.com/video/thegame/season5/exclusives/red-carpet-premiere-the-game5-redcarpet-s1.html), I too interviewed the cast members and their Hollywood friends at the casino-style after party - excerpts from which will run on BET through the night the show premieres. Both casts were so gracious. And I really enjoyed meeting some of the "Let's Stay Together" 'folks.

Don't forget to watch both hit shows Tuesday, January 10th at 10pm/eastern...and every Tuesday after that!

MEANWHILE, while in L.A., I got the chance to see one of LA's installments of FELA! (attended also by my industry buddy Tichina Arnold who discovered I was there during intermission...and what a FUN reunion that was as we normally see each other in NYC! ALWAYS GOOD TO SEE HER!).

Outside my temp digs for the week, The Hotel Roosevelt, I went on an errand down the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

While snapping my favorites, I stumbled into NABJ/AABJ (black journalist) mentor Vic Carter - in town on business.

Small world, huh? And though work kept me most occupied through most of my time in L.A., I did manage to see some friends - albeit too briefly:

Itika T. Oldwine; Derek Lafayette;

V Scott Hamilton; Stacey Antonio; Will Miller;

Jocelyn R Coleman;

Melora Rivera (who brought me my biggest surprise. I produced her mom, FOX 5 Atlanta anchor Amanda Davis in the mid-'90s on "Good Day Atlanta". After our newscast, I'd take Melora -- in 4th grade or less at the time - to school while her mom did teases for the NOON newscast which she also anchored. I'd take Melora to Chick-fil-a for a breakfast sandwich and drop her off to her school before I'd head back to either help write the NOON news or before I'd head home. Melora is now a WOMAN and working in Hollywood for my friend Salim Akil. CONGRATS, MELORA...and I'll be looking for your cameo in "Sparkle". MUCH LOVE TO YOU --- and your mom. HAPPY TO BE BACK IN TOUCH!); Zabrina Horton;

Loren Lillian;

TheQuan Lateef;

and a host of others that remind me I have some awesome friends who I consider family in L.A. not to mention my BFF (from high school) Maurice Marable who brought me on to do this gig for BET.

Was great to hang out with Mo and Mrs. Karen Good Marable, who - of course - is quite a joy.

Oh! One person I actually met for the first time and have adored from RuPaul's Drag Race (a recurring diva): Shangela Laquifa Wadley.

 He will be featured on "Toddlers & Tiaras" - dropping the science of being fierce on the little ones. LOL! GO! THANKS L.A. & BET!

And special shout out to my friends Mara Brock-Akil and Salim Akil for creating "The Game" and continuing to take their Hollywood game to the next level: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2011/1/10/hope-theres-someone.html. Look for their "SPARKLE" remake in August of this year!

FRANK ISHMAN

I had to get back from L.A. on a red-eye that got me back to NYC Sunday morning because industry buddy Myrdith Leon-McCormack invited me to be shot by photographer extraordinaire Frank Ishman (www.frankishman.com). Frank also happens to be my Morehouse brother. The shoot is a part of a collective campaign that features portraits and brief write-ups on each participant’s legacy. Today, Artist/Philanthropist Danny Simmons; WNBC’s Kym Hampton; film director Dominga Martin; and FFAWN philanthropist Latonya Blige were shot. Also in the house: Justiin Davis (HBO Boardwalk Empire): http://harlemworldblog.wordpress.com/2011/12/18/board-walk-empires-justiin-davis-volunteers-at-mission-society-in-harlem-video/. And a special shout out to THE GLAM SQUAD: Makeup-- Francesca B; Hair---Moet Stewart; Stylist--Janine Linton! GREAT JOB, LADIES! And GREAT WORK, FRANK ISHMAN! XO

HAPPY NEW YEAR'  

On the eve of New Year’s Eve, some friends did inspire me to come out and play (amidst a week of partial-work & partial-relaxation). NYC friend Sharon Nelson and her family hosted a holiday gathering which allowed me to toast some near and dear for the season: Carl Nelson; ABC 7 Anchor/Reporter Sandra Bookman (industry buddy from our Atlanta days); Gilda Squire; Marie Raxy; etc. Then, a pop down to Snack Dragon to hang with BFFs Jamar Dunn; Ryan T Hall; and Ryan’s cool-EST mom Donna. She proved herself a stellar vocalist as we found a little karaoke to get into, after enjoying delicious tacos and sangria. Our hosts Cindy and John threw an awesome HAPPY NEW YEAR set! We had a BLAST! HAPPY NEW YEAR, EVERYBODY!

 SAVANNAH, I LOVE YOU!

Christmas in my hometown of Savannah with family and friends! GREAT TIMES! And a dose of Atlanta makes it all right for the holidays! XO Here are more pix: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150458807703737.367054.662073736&type=1&l=e0b1623d36 

P.S. R-I-P

You may recall that while I was in L.A. - post-producing "Monica", I got to see the L.A. premiere of the documentary Kodjoe was working on before he died. I found out while I was in L.A. -- as I was going to see FELA in L.A. at the Ahmanson Theater - right next door to where Claudia's film screened that September in 2009: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2009/8/31/i-can-do-good-all-by-myself-and-with-someone.html & http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2009/9/21/ive-waited-so-long-to-hear-you-say-that-to-me-say-it-again-s.html - we found out that Claudia passed away. Her awarding-winning work as a producer with ABC, NBC and PBS has made her a recipient of numerous awards including 11 Emmys, a duPont and a Peabody. Here is a beautiful tribute written by David Guilbault, a former ABC executive producer, who worked with her on her important HIV/AIDS documentary "Why Us? Dying and Left Behind" (after Kodjoe passed away in March 2005: http://davidguilbault.typepad.com/such_is_life_by_david_gui/2012/01/a-loving-spirit.html). Claudia will be missed but her legacy lives on.