A DAY IN "THE LIFE OF RILEY"

Ant and I got the chance to experience “The View” LIVE yesterday. Though I’ve seen the show LIVE before with two of my muses in pop culture and possibilities – once with Diana Ross (promoting her TV movie with Brandy “Double Platinum” - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sX7cO9rgcqs) and another time with new-age guru Marianne Williamson (www.marianne.com/), we got word that my alma mater Morehouse College’s first White valedictorian Joshua Packwood  would be appearing.(You recall me meeting Josh during his CBS “Early Show” appearance a couple of weeks back - http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/5/20/a-reversal-of-mendacity.html)  And since Ant and I have been saying that we wanted to see the new roster (with Whoopi and Sherri Shephard), we thought “Let’s kill two birds with one stone” and go to “The View”. I made a call to friend Natalie Bubnis, who is an associate producer at the show, to see if we could get a couple of tix. She graciously provided them (though in the 11^th hour). That meant Ant and I would have something to do after we took my nephew Herman to his first day on the job (his HBO internship). Up at 5:30 am. Out by 7:00 am. Short walk from New York City’s Port Authority. Then, a little breakfast. And like taking my own child to kindergarten for the first day, we dropped Josh's fellow Morehouse Man “Noot” (I call him - a junior) off to his summer job. From there, we made our way up to “The View” and uncovered that we would be able to take pix between commercials. It was a day of “Real life HOT TOPICS”. Josh was ever the articulate Morehouse Man (as he’s been through this whole blitz). He spoke to Whoopi, Joy, Sherri, and Elizabeth about the commencement speech he gave (http://www.morehouse.edu/events/commencement/video/grad1.wmv). He further spoke about his background and how Morehouse was more of a natural choice (even though he’s White) than meets the eye. In a nutshell, he made us proud to call ourselves Morehouse Man (yet again).

Quick aside regarding Morehouse and a recent Los Angeles Times (www.latimes.com/) article re: the climate around homosexuality at Morehouse (http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/nation/la-na-morehouse22-2008may22,0,1504077.story). Though unrelated to Josh, this story is just as connected to the progressiveness required of a Morehouse Man and a nation of forward thinking people (according to me, but also Morehouse’s President Robert Franklin, who points out in his May report to alums that this story and conversation is “…evidence of our commitment to embrace diversity and as a compliment to our strength and stature as the nation turns to us to see how we face this often difficult topic …”). Brought to my attention by a Morehouse brother’s wife Tracey Clarke Washington, she too made sure I was updated on my good friend Korey Washington’s latest (He’s a big production designer in stage, TV, and film). He recently finished a movie with my other Morehouse brother Rockmond Dunbar (www.rockmonddunbar.com/). It is Rockmond’s directorial debut starring Sallie Richardson. Korey was the production designer. The movie he did last year, "The Lena Baker Story," was recently screened at Cannes Film Festival (www.festival-cannes.fr/). They are hoping it will get picked up for distribution. It was screened here at the Atlanta Film Festival back in April (www.atlantafilmfestival.com/) and Korey was part of a panel that discussed the film. It is based on a true story of Lena Baker, the first black woman who was sentenced to death and executed in Georgia. Tichina Arnold has the lead role.

Back to THE VIEW for a minute: Ant and I got the chance to see our girlfriend Natalie (Thanks again!). During commercial breaks, we got the chance to ask Whoopi about her role as lead producer in Broadway’s play-with-music (starring India.Arie) “For Colored Girls…” (due out this fall on The Great White Way). She didn’t know much but assured she was excited to be a part. She said she’s also going to be producing a Broadway piece on ex-patriot contemporary of Josephine Baker/Paris cabaret owner “Bricktop”. Stay tuned. Also, Ant got to ask Sherri Shephard about Miss Janet Jackson whose tour she unofficially announced a couple of weeks ago on the show (www.janet-xone.com/). Ant wondered if Sherri had gotten her tickets as she said she has waited in many-a-line to see Miss Jackson (“… if you’re nasty.”) in concert. Sherri said she hadn’t heard from her yet. (Ironically, as I write this, Miss Jackson just surprised Sherri with a couple of tix. Now, I kinda’ understand the look on Whoopi’s face yesterday after Ant’s question. We’re on the pulse, huh?):

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hDNOflcfZMw

 Also, it turns out Janet Jackson was in town to make a special presentation during the Apollo Theater 2008 Hall Of Fame Induction Ceremony on Monday in New York City. Smokey Robinson, the 68-year-old Motown legend, was inducted into the Apollo Legends Hall of Fame, joining the ranks of Gladys Knight, James Brown, Ella Fitzgerald and Little Richard. Also in attendance: Denzel Washington, Terrence Howard, Wanda Sykes, and India.Arie.

As we watched "The View" on TIVO later tonight, we saw that there was a relatively prominent cutaway of Ant and me at the beginning of the show when they cut to the audience as the ladies walk in. We thought it was our little secret, but then our very detail-oriented friend Jason texted us that he saw us as he was doing his late-night decompression of watching "The View" on DVR (like we do). (And apparently he and Marqice don't always get their "View"s in together because Marqice just texted us that he just got a glimpse. SMILE! Love you, guys!).

After we made it through our day – post-View and once Noot was off, we went to workout with Tweety at Alvin Ailey for our hip hop dance class (www.alvinailey.org).

Though Noot has worked his way around a dance floor, he hadn’t taken a class for it. So, he was a little reluctant and thought he might be embarrassed. But he did great! He was further excited that he got a glimpse of Frank Gatson, choreographer of En Vogue, Beyonce, Rihanna, etc.

Another old school diva Regina Belle is back on the charts, but a different one: the gospel charts. I had the chance to co-produce an event for the National Association of Black Journalists (the one that Rene Syler hosted a few years back) featuring entertainment from Regina Belle - client of my industry girlfriends Gwendolyn Quinn and Robin Ryland-Sanders via their firm GQ Media & Public Relations, Inc. Now, Belle is climbing up the charts in Gospel music with her new album “LOVE FOREVER SHINES” - the Grammy winner’s debut CD release for the re-launch of Ruben Rodriguez' Pendulum Records. The CD is executive produced by Ruben Rodriguez, Ray J. Davis and Chris Walker. LOVE FOREVER SHINES features the first single, "God Is Good." The single remains in the Top 5 at gospel radio across the country and Top 5 at R&R. The album is available on www.iTunes.com, www.Amazon.com, and all music retail outlets everywhere. The ringtones for LOVE FOREVER SHINES is also available (text REGINA2A to 30303). For More Information on Regina Belle please visit: www.myspace.com/msreginabelle and www.pendulumrecords.biz. I’ve loved Regina Belle since she debuted years ago. Her current album’s title is inspired by a tune she recorded on her debut project. It’s called “Long After The Love Has Lost Its Shine” (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ca-eg9cBBZk). I didn’t realize Gladys Knight had first recorded the song, one of my favorites, under the title “Glitter”. Anybody have a copy of that? Please send it my way. Would LOVE to hear it.

My good friend from The New York Association of Black Journalists (www.nyabj.org) and big-time producer at WABC in New York (www.abclocal.go.com/wabc/) Cat Mckenzie hipped me to a friend’s client Alex Castro who stars as MILITIA on the hit show AMERICAN GLADIATORS (www.nbc.com/American_Gladiators/). The publicist had bigger dreams about where Alex’s inspirational story could be told (He’s already been written about in The New York Daily News (http://www.nydailynews.com/latino/2008/05/09/2008-05-09_alex_castro_the_cuban_gladiator.html). But I thought I’d share some of it here with you. He escaped CUBA over 15 years ago to pursue his dreams in America. He nearly lost his life on a raft with no food for 5 days until the US Marines rescued him. Upon being rescued, he enlisted in the Marines as his way to give thanks for what they did for him. Now, 15 years later, his American dreams are becoming a reality after a five-year stint as a featured performer with Cirque de Sole in Las Vegas and around the world he is known as an AMERICAN GLADIATOR and the first Latino to ever be part of the 20- year franchise. Also, he was just names one of the 50 most beautiful Latinos in Hollywood by People Magazine (www.people.com/).

Industry buddy Kyle Donovan , founder and CEO of NV Magazine (http://www.nvmagazine.com/) is now author of the newly released book, the DO' BEES (www.thedobees.com). Kyle is always working on something new and cutting edge. Donovan, now 35, started his own photography business at the age of 19 years old. By 23, his business had a client list that included the New York Times, Barron's Dow Jones and EMI-Capitol Records, just to name a few. From the profits of a self-taught stock market venture, Kyle launched NV Magazine (New Vision in Business) to become the youngest publisher of a national publication. NV is a glossy, bi-monthly magazine filled with vibrant graphics, powerful photographs and articles about investing, business ownership, financial topics, technology and fashion. CONGRATS KYLE!

Speaking of kids (and in the wake of my new passtime – speaking to youth), my good girlfriend Michelle Hord-White, television exec at ABC News, asked if I’d come and speak to juniors and seniors at Marble Hill High School (http://www.marblehillschool.org/) in the Bronx as part of NYC's "principal for a day" program (www.pencil.org). Marble has a diverse population and focuses on international studies/languages. She recruited me to talk about my career path in part and also charged me to give interviewing and resume tips. I went over the importance of an interview in todays' society; the different skills/pointers involved in a good interview/what the interviewer is looking for i.e. eye contact; dress code; punctuality; vocabulary; FAQ's in an interview; etc. These are some sharp students and I’m excited to see what they will do in their lives and careers.

Arguably “the hardest working man in the business” (I’m busy and continue to be way impressed with him): Nathan Hale Williams (www.nathanhalewilliams.com) whose parties I’ve often written about attending. Additionally, he is doing lots more in TV, film, and print. “Real Life Divas” (www.bet.com/OnTV/BETJShows/reallifedivas/) is a show on BET-J on which he is one of the executive producers. BET J has rolled out six new episodes of its hit original series REAL LIFE DIVAS – starting with an exclusive one-hour episode featuring "editorial queen" Susan L. Taylor. The Spring season will feature an all-new star- studded lineup of beautiful iconic personas including Naomi Campbell, Jill Scott, CeCe Winans, MC Lyte and Sony Records Executive Lisa Ellis. REAL LIFE DIVAS is executive produced by friend Sean Joell Johnson, Crystal McCrary Anthony, Nathan Hale Williams and BET J EVP Paxton K. Baker . The show is in its third season.
The following highlights programming airdates for additional Real Life episodes:
Thursday, June 5 at 10:00 PM, featured diva is CeCe Winans.
Thursday, June 12 at 10:00 PM, featured diva is Lisa Ellis.
*All times are ET/PT

Look out for the fourth season of Real Life Divas and a new series LEADING MEN, which will all debut this Fall!

And as you know, I’ve been talking about “Dirty Laundry” for a long time. Nathan was an executive producer on that project and the film is now available on DVD and On Demand. You can purchase your copy today from Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, Blockbuster, TLA Video Releasing or Net Flix. And, you can rent the movie On Demand (for a limited time) or at Blockbuster and Netflix. Don't wait...pick up your copy today! Dirty Laundry is a modern day prodigal sun story that stars Rockmond Dunbar, Loretta Devine, Jenifer Lewis, Terri J. Vaughn, Sommore and Maurice Jamal. (www.dirtylaundrythemovie.com/) It was nominated for a 2008 NAACP Image Award and a 2008 GLAAD Award! Check it out today! Tell a friend!

And if that wasn’t enough for Nathan, he has been named the Arts & Entertainment Editor of The Daily Voice. The Daily Voice is an online newspaper that serves as Black America's Daily News Source. Publisher, Malcolm Harris and Editor-In-Chief, Keith Boykin have assembled some of the nation's top African-American scholars, commentators, artists, thinkers, celebrities, athletes and intellectuals to provide Black America with daily news content on everything from politics, entertainment, economics, sports and more. It is considered the premier site for Black news. (http://www.thedailyvoice.com/).

Remember I told you that Ant would be Guest DJ-ing in Brooklyn at Art Land ( www.11211.info/artland.htm )? This, via our good girlfriend Gail who also works at our favorite boutique N Harlem (www.nharlemnewyork.com/) and she too is an artist (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/5/2/just-like-little-children-know-how-they-have-fun.html). Well, next Friday night is the night. Come on out to Art Land if you can. I'll aim to get more details to you before - so you know when to come, other information, etc.

My friend Seitu sent this to me: http://www.kcrw.com/music/programs/pl It’s one of his favorite on-line music shows to which he listens when he is on the west coast. He says the host is one of his favorite people in the whole world… and she has impeccable music and fashion taste. I share here.

I’ve had the chance to collaborate on a project or two with my fellow NABJ friend Linda Villarosa. This, while she was busy working on her debut work of fiction “Passing For Black” (www.lindavillarosa.com/passingforblack.shtml). Well, be sure to pick it up and check it out. She boldly probes the issues of race, desire, sexuality, family, friendship, religion --- and hair. New York Times bestselling author E. Lynn Harris has endorsed it – saying “Passing for Black weaves issues of identity and sexuality into an engaging tale of love, passion, and family”. And now, just in time for summer, you can go on that adventure via Dafina Books. Linda is a freelance writer, popular lecturer, and editor whose work has been seen in “The New York Times”; “Essence”; “Vibe”; etc. She lives in Brooklyn, New York with her partner and their two children.

I’ve blogged about him before - http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/7/13/yall-didnt-think-that-i-could-bump-like-this.html: male supermodel Miguel Perdomo made an appearance on the nationally syndicated Tyra Banks Show last Wednesday (www.tyrashow.warnerbros.com/). Tyra spent the hour helping two of her closest glam friends find love. First, she spoke with her stylist and high school friend, Yaniece, and her hair stylist, Oscar, to find out why they haven't met "the one". (Oscar [right side of this pic], by the way, is such a great guy. I've met him times before and have referenced him here in the blog - like in this pic with makeup artist extraordinaire Sam Fine). Then, Tyra introduced each to six sexy, single New York men who are put through a series of challenges; testing everything from their kissing skills to their personal style. Yaniece and Oscar's friends and family, including Jay Manuel from "America's Next Top Model," were on hand to offer advice on which man to choose before Tyra sent them on their first date: http://tyrashow.warnerbros.com/TyraMediaPlayer/player.html?=promos/3161. Sorry fellas who may have been confused by Miguel’s inclusion on hip gay mag Blue magazine, he was a candidate for Yaniece. And ultimately, she chose him. CONGRATS! I wanna hear if you folks had your three dates as Tyra requested. For more information about MIGUEL PERDOMO, add MIGUEL to your friends list at www.myspace.com/MIGUELPERDOMO23.

My good girlfriend/plastic surgeon Dr. Shirley Madhere (www.drshirleymadhere.com/) is featured in “Plastic Surgery Products” this month (www.psp-interactive.com/) – looking amazing to have never herself been under the knife. CONGRATS DR. SHIRLEY!

"... TAKE A LITTLE TIME TO ENJOY YOUR VIEW..."

My recent trek back to my hometown of Savannah had me missing all of my family.

The lion’s share of them were in Washington D.C. for “Memorial Day” services - remembering our three forefathers - or Bishops - who have gone on. Also, they were all gathered to receive the announcement of the United House of Prayer for All People’s new bishop Apostle C.M. Bailey, who becomes only the fourth leader of the denomination, which is headquartered in DC and has 150 branches in 25 states. Bailey replaces Bishop S.C. "Daddy" Madison, who died in April (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/4/7/if-a-robin-can-say-thank-you-you-can-do-it-too.html). Madison served 17 years as bishop. With that, I got a glimpse of my nephew who left on a road-trip (with cousins) to DC and I got to briefly see my Dad and his wife Diana who let me stay in their home while they were away. They too were going to the DC-area but for a holiday gathering with her family. And I got to stop by my late mother’s sister Mary Lee’s house and give her a belated birthday gift (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2006/12/29/auntie-mary-lee.html). Fortunately, I traveled from New Jersey with and was in Savannah with “chosen family” – including one of my best friends since 7^th grade, Ern, and our friend Kimberly Jajuan. She and I had committed to sing in Ern’s sister Niecee’s wedding. We took Newark airport to Atlanta and drove to Savannah. But first, we took a nice brunch with my good girlfriends Chandra; Carla (who noted that my Alicia Keys mention helped her understand what Keys was spoofing in her current video - http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/5/20/a-reversal-of-mendacity.html); and Camille (soon off to Beijing, China). “Thumbs Up” (where Chandra works on the weekend - www.thumbsupdiner.com) was our choice, which meant good breakfast food (as always). Once we finished catching up with the girls, we headed to Savannah. There, – at the end of my time in my hometown – I got the chance to meet the daughter of my little cousin Dee Dee (She’s 28) and her husband Chris. MiMi is her name and she is adorable. I can’t wrap my brain around the reality that Dee Dee is someone’s mother. Congrats to you both.

But the weekend would be defined by wedding bliss and family love. Ern and I took Kimberly to two Savannah staples on our first night: Spanky’s ( www.spankys.tv ) and Wet Willie ( www.wetwillies.com ). Spanky’s is known for its chicken fingers and potato spuds, which are still great. Kimberly got the crab stew, but wasn’t as impressed. I made sure she got the right batch the following day from crab-stew experts Carey Hilliard’s. She liked it! Hey Mikey!!!! After wedding rehearsal, we sang ourselves into an appetite. (Notice the theme in Savannah. Eat, eat, and eat again!). Geneva was the location for the rehearsal dinner. They served turkey wings, which were delicious. But the banana pudding really hit the spot – soft wafers after soft wafers truly did the trick. Afterwards, we did as we used to always do back in the day – headed to the home of Ern’s parents and listened to music. (Ern would host parties in the garage – including choreographed routines that he and his sisters and cousins would put on, like The Jets’ “Crush On You” and Club Nouveau’s “Lean On Me”). 20-plus years later couldn’t stop us from falling into place. And we had a great time!

Still, Kimberly and I were rested well enough to perform our songs. I had two solo numbers and a duet with Kimberly. “Wind Beneath My Wings” was my first for the seating of the bride and groom’s parents and special folks. Then, Kimberly and I did “When I Said I Do” by Kenny Lattimore and Chante Moore for the bride’s entrance. I closed the ceremony with “This Day”. All went well as the feedback goes. After posing for a series of pictures in the church and outside the church in the beautiful Greene Square (one of Savannah’s beautiful squares), we headed to the reception.

The reception gave me the chance to see some of Ern’s cousins that I hadn’t seen in a minute… and they are doing some great things in their respective professions. There was his cousin Nathan, who is now a Lacrosse Instructor via www.topdogsports.com. He’s working with some young athletes who are poised to be big names very soon (and he assures me I’ll have some of that scoop to share with you here). Then, Ern’s other cousin Korey, who grew up with Ern and his sisters Niecee and Sam. He went on to go to Morehouse, which he shared he was inspired to do – in part - because of me. (I didn’t know that as it’s been so many years). Anyway! He (and his lovely wife Markesia) have a photography business and – boy! – is he talented! Check his site out and call him: www.vsphotography.com (weddings) and www.vstatements.com (portraits/events). They are prepared to shoot a lovely set of pix for Ern’s sister Sam, who is expecting her first child (I sang at Sam and her husband Walker’s wedding a couple of years ago – also in Savannah). Ern’s other siblings Rod and Mona were also in the house. I got the chance to get my groove on with Mona – a precursor to our reunion from high school in a few weeks (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/4/7/if-a-robin-can-say-thank-you-you-can-do-it-too.html). We decided we could condition our 37-year-old knees, but not-too-much as they may give out upon our return.The wedding was beautiful. Niecee and her husband Cecil were a beautiful couple for the day and for all time. Niecee’s daughter Taylor made an impressive announcement that I had a hand at coaching her on. The wedding coordinator CJ said so. I love a wedding (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2006/10/25/love-is-in-the-air.html)!

The plan is that we’d all get changed and go to River Street and hang out (now that I was free to flow. I didn’t partake of any alcohol leading up to my performance to ensure vocals were pristene. Feedback says they were). But we ended up – as Ern’s niece Taylor put it – ‘partying like rock stars’ at his house. And -- eventually -- in the garage (again). And what fun! Singing at the top of our lungs to Debarge and all the other favorites from the ‘80s took us through the night into the morning. I left in just enough time to get my “chili pup” from Krystal (Breakfast menu starts at 5:00 am – www.krystal.com/). The next night, however, the fellas and I got the chance to get to River Street and enjoy the lovely weather. From spot to spot - including Fiddler's Crab House - http://www.fiddlerscrabhouse.com, we karaoke'd; sipped on frozen, fruity cocktails; and even danced a little before heading to "Waffle House" - another late night staple - www.wafflehouse.com/. (Imagine my excitement as - while on the way home one night - Savannah's WTYP 103.9 was hosting a “Battle of Old School Divas” between Diana Ross and Anita Baker. Based on the call-ins, Diana was leaving Anita in the dust, though I love both ladies much).

Also, Ern, Taylor, Kimberly, and I went to Victory Lanes for a couple of rounds of bowling (www.victorylanesbowling.com/). My sister’s best buddy (from our church) Steve (who too will be celebrating his 20-year-reunion from Savannah High the same weekend I will be celebrating my 20 years since graduating Windsor Forest High School). He came with his friend Ramona who I'd met before. They always bring tidings of comfort and joy. We laughed and caught up between my turns up (with the promise we'd try to get some more time in when I return next week). Always good to see familiar faces. Afterwards, we stopped by Marc by Marc Jacobs (www.marcjacobs.com/), a store that I was shocked to see on Savannah’s Broughton Street. Nice look (for Savannah and Marc!). Oh! I got the chance to see my "Original Amazing Grace" Natalie and her husband Dwayne, both of whom will be back in Savannah for our high school reunion as well. This because they were in Charleston for a wedding and decided to come through Savannah en route back to their home in Atlanta - so they could, in part, see me (but also rest and get another night's rest from their busy lives as parents and working professionals). Our preview/once-over of each other proves that we've aged okay and are maintaining our youthful essences and dispositions.

I have so much more to share, but will have to get it in later. My nephew is coming up tonight (to intern at HBO for the summer)… and Ant and I are readying the place for his arrival. With that, I’ll check in here very soon with some great pop culture tid-bits.

Oh! And so – as I was performing my “concert” – at Ern’s house in front of my many “fans” (friends and family), I would wrap my number with “Goodnight Savannah! I love you… see you next time…!!!!” (51 encores later, I finally left). But it turns out, I will be back for the big 20-year-reunion from high school in just a few weeks… and SCENE!

A FEW DAYS LATER:

Ant, Ern, Tina, and I went to see "Sex & The City" (www.sexandthecitymovie.com/) on Friday night (before we picked up Noot from the airport). WE LOVED IT! We celebrated our enjoyment of it by having cosmos at The Cheesecake Factory (www.thecheesecakefactory.com/). Just a sip for me as vodka does not agree with me (for some reason). Then, after a hearty meal, we picked Noot up and got him home to get settled in. Already, though he's only been here a few days, we've hit the ground running. Since he didn't start his work until Monday (which I'll chronicle in the companion entry), we filled up the cupboards with items and brands of his choice via Target (www.target.com/). Then, we were able to take him to join us at my South African friend Melony's party at "Spur Tree" on the lower east side of Manhattan. It's always good to see her. We also got to catch up with Johnna - a friend we met last Easter via Melony. A little karaoke capped off the night and Noot, Ant, and I came on home. I also got the chance to introduce my favorite boutique N (www.nharlemnewyork.com) to him. Our Larry, Lenn, Nikoa, Jamar, Natasha, and Gail were hosting a Sunday picnic. A friend, another Miguel, was in the house and told me about his new clothing line: www.miguelantoinne.com . Check it out! He's really talented. CONGRATS MIGUEL!!!! Also, I saw an old friend Rick. Noot was impressed with the store and says he is excited to see more of it (We must make sure he doesn't spend his whole check in this store). Given he's majoring in marketing and loves fashion and entertainment, he already began networking with co-owner Lenn who handles the marketing and public relations for the store. Thanks Lenn. What a mentor you are!

 Noot and I also got to go to church. I mentioned to you folks that my church "The United House of Prayer for All People" is welcoming Bishop Bailey as the fourth bishop in the long history of the organization. Well, just as Noot comes to town, his summer has been blessed with our new leader's first visit - New York City. As I've mentioned in previous blogs, I don't often get out to services with travel and schedule, but I do stay in touch with my pastor at the Harlem branch of our church and I send my tithes there. Noot and I were able to enjoy services and see some blasts from our past. Marc "Sir Dane" is a man from Savannah who used to babysit me in Savannah after my parents moved back to the states from Japan. He would go on to be (and still) a huge session singer and r&b performer in New York City (even recording an album in the '80s). Though I don't remember him from the babysitting days, I did listen to all that people spoke about him and what he was doing (and when that album came to my mom - signed - I was so impressed and excited that someone from my hometown went on to do something that I one day would like to do... and someone who did then what made me know it was possible for me to sing and do all the things that I do in this showbusiness). He is even chronicled in my friend Craig Seymour's biography of Luther Vandross ('The Life and Longing of Luther Vandross') in which it is reported (and Marc corrobborated it for me on Sunday) that his voice would have been on Luther's early hits "Glow of Love" and "Searchin'" had the producers not been able to negotiate with Vandross, who was the creme-de-la-creme of session singers at the time. As Luther came into the studio to close the deal, Marc was wrapping his vocals that could have been. Regardless, he went on to record an album and still performs all types of music to this day. I'm so PROUD OF HIM! And he would let me know (as he called me "his nephew") that he has kept up with all I've been doing (even TIVO-ing "Million Dollar Password" because he found out from his mom who is still in Savannah that I was going to be on at some point - . I'm still not sure when.). And with that, we were reuninted, albeit, in some way, meeting each other (as adults) for the first time. GOD IS GOOD... ALL THE TIME!

Ant and I finally got to see the historic, groundbreaking revival of Tennessee Williams' Pulitzer Prize-winning play “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” on Broadway (www.cat2008onbroadway.com/), which closes on June 22^nd after a most successful limited-engagement in which it has recouped its 2.1 million dollar investment and continues to bring a new audience. This, according to Producer Stephen Byrd who told us he’s happy that they are making history – cultural and economic – on this “great White way” but that he’s disappointed that The Tony’s (www.tonyawards.com/) didn’t acknowledge the revival where it could. Good for him that he’s looking ahead to his WHAT’S NEXT – which he offers may include Halle Berry and Terrence Howard in the first, all-Black Broadway revival of “A Streetcar Named Desire” – another Tennessee Williams’ classic (Ant saw a regional version in Denver). In this Debbie-Allen-directed production, the theme of MENDACITY (UNTRUTHFULNESS) shows up in the hypocrisy, greed and secret passions of the characters that make up this wealthy but dysfunctional Mississippi family. Brick – normally played by Terrence Howard – was inhabited by the understudy, my last-namesake Robert Christopher Riley (www.playbill.com/celebritybuzz/whoswho/biography/17611). In addition to being quite attractive, this stage actor did an awesome job and those we stumbled into seemed to agree – like Travis, one of Ant’s life coaches in the authenticity-inspiring work at MOMENTUM EDUCATION (www.momentumeducation.com). We will still aim to see Terrence before the show wraps. The character Brick pronounces to Big Daddy (played impressively by the legendary James Earl Jones) that “mendacity” (untruthfulness) is the system in which men live. That’s the way in which the two characters talk around their respective issues (Brick’s homosexual desires and Daddy’s imminent death). And instead of looking at the quacking duck, everyone else aims to see Brick be anything but that (Sounds familiar – even in 2008). So, Brick’s mother (the amazing, Tony-award-winning Phylicia Rashad) wants to see him become a family man (via his wife “Maggie the Cat” as portrayed sensually and provokingly by my friend Anika Noni Rose, who is always such a joy to see – on and off stage. In all her “Dreamgirls” splendor, she always remembers Ant and me after meeting her with our good girlfriend Ledisi back in December on Ant’s and my 2^nd anniversary. She’s very grounded and so sweet!). Brick’s brother, played by “Big Brother Almighty” (of “School Daze” fame) Giancarlo Esposito is clean and sober (as liquor goes) but corrupt enough to welcome Brick drinking his sorrows and repression away. His wife is played by the lovely and sweet – also on and off-screen - Lisa Arrindell Anderson, the uber-Southern belle who selfishly and obsessively keeps up all appearances at all costs for the greater gain of her husband, their kids, and herself. Though long in the tooth (two intermissions), Ant and I really enjoyed “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof”. We were happy to finally see it, though it was a long time coming. In the end, my good friend Lamar came through. He is responsible for hiring me to work on the video project for Remy Martin’s Limited Edition David LaChapelle bottle (www.remy.com/). My good girlfriend Marcia Pendelton manages the audience/marketing for many of the Broadway shows. She’s got deals for “Cat” that I want to share with you here:

For Group Discounts (15+)
Marcia Pendelton/Mydra Kelly
WTG Group Sales
646.467.7393
wtggroupsales@aol.com
For all other ticket purchases:
By Phone: 212.239.6200
Online: www.telecharge.com
In Person: Broadhurst Theater Box Office
235 W. 44th Street, NYC
Great seats available
Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays!
ORDER YOUR TICKETS TODAY!

Ant and I say it’s worth the trip. Plus, just a few days before I saw now-7-time-Tony-nominated “Passing Strange” – Ant’s and my other favorite (www.passingstrangeonbroadway.com), Miss Ross was in the house. And two days prior to our “Cat” moment, she saw the show with her kids Rhonda, Tracee, Evan; and her sister Barbara. For all that Diana is to me as a muse, it’s no wonder she and I are tastemakers in common – loving our theater (same shows). Pop culture coincidences aside, Ant and I again found so much of our own lives were reflected in this honest expression of art that came to life before our eyes in “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” (www.cat2008onbroadway.com/).

Last night, Ant and I got a wonderful, 11^th-hour invitation from my friend Charles Wallace who is Associate Artistic Director of the New Professional Theatre(www.newprofessionaltheatre.org/)/2008 Annual Writers Festival Producer. It was the New Professional Theatre’s annual gala 2008. My Spelman sister (a few years removed) Sheila Kay Davis is at the helm of the organization. My friend and Georgia homeboy/2-time Tony-award nominee Ken Roberson invited me to this event a few years ago as he was honored by this company, which empowers, advances, and sustains the work of minority theatre artists; develops new, diverse audiences through extensive education programs; promotes the work of minority artists to both mainstream and minority audiences; and cultivates partnerships with like-minded institutions from around the globe dedicated to developing and promoting minority work. Last night, Ant and I weren’t far from “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” as our girl Anika Noni Rose was being honored with “The Shining Star Award”. My friend Ken Roberson, who also choreographed a wonderful trio of dancers who set the fun tone of the night, presented to Anika. The musical tribute was performed beautifully by my Broadway buddy Norm Lewis, who is currently starring in “The Little Mermaid”

(www.disney.go.com/theatre/thelittlemermaid/). He’s always great to be around as proven some months ago when he invited me backstage to hangout during his final weeks on “Les Miserables” (www.lesmis.com/). Also, Anika's “Cat” co-star (and – in the play – nemesis) Lisa Arrindell Anderson came to support. She brought her very handsome brother. Additionally, the legendary two-time Tony nominee Ms. Vivian Reed was there to sing to “The Trailblazer Award” recipient Mr. Reginald Van Lee (Senior Vice President , Booz Allen Hamilton - www.boozallen.com/). Reginald is ever the socialite and is known for his famously entertaining parties (Ant and I have attended a couple of them on the terrace of his east side penthouse apartment with one of the most prized views New York City has to offer). But he too is also very nice, humble, and so much fun! The evening also gave me the chance to reconnect to some good friends and associates, including caterer Norma Jean of “Spoonbread” fame (www.spoonbreadinc.com/); Marva Hicks; Ty Stephens; Randall; Chris; David Hinson (financial advisor); etc. I also got the chance to meet the man who plays “Tiny” Joe Dixon in “Dreamgirls” – the movie (www.dreamgirlsmovie.com/) Michael-Leon Wooley, who reunited with Anika for the first time since they shot the film. It was a GREAT time for all! CONGRATS REGINALD and ANIKA! And THANK YOU, CHARLES! Ant and I truly enjoyed ourselves!

Afterwards, Ant and I went to neighboring BBQ on 42^nd Street (www.bbqnyc.com) for a post-dinner snack and chat with our girl Marcia who – by the way – still has deals around “Passing Strange” (www.passingstrangeonbroadway.com). She is offering a 40%-OFF Regular Ticket Prices to FRIENDS OF PATRICK AND ANT . See the details with special CODE:

All performances except Fri & Sat eves & Wed Mat
Orch/$59.50; Mezz/$48; Balc/$21.50
Fri & Sat Eves
Orch/$68.50; Mezz/$58; Balc/$30
Wed Mat
Orch & Mezz/$48; Balc/$21.50

There Are Three Easy Ways To Purchase Tickets
Online: www.broadwayoffers.com and type in code PSWALK7

Phone: 212.947.8844 and mention code PSWALK7
In Person: Present this email at the Belasco Theater Box Office,
111 West 44th Street, NYC

And Marcia is also working on “SINGLE BLACK FEMALE”, which New Professional Theatre is presenting. The limited Off-Broadway return engagement by Lisa B. Thompson is a comedy about single black women and their search for love, dignity and clothes, directed by Colman Domingo, who's currently on Broadway in – of course - PASSING STRANGE. Previews begin June 10 prior to an official press opening of June 12 at The Duke on 42nd Street (229 West 42nd Street) in Manhattan.

New Professional Theatre
presents

SINGLE BLACK FEMALE
A play by
Lisa B. Thompson

Starring
Soara-Joye Ross
Riddick Marie

JUNE 10-29, 2008
THE DUKE ON 42ND STREET,
A NEW 42ND STREET PROJECT
229 West 42nd Street
(Between Broadway & 8th Avenue)
Group Tickets (10+)
$30 per person
Contact WTG Group Sales
646.467.7393
wtggroupsales@aol.com

Performances Tuesday-Saturday at 8pm;
Saturday & Sunday at 2pm

For Single Tickets
Call: 646.223.3010
Online: www.dukeon42.org

After our BBQ moment, we got the chance to hang out at No Parking in Washington Heights ( www.noparkingbar.blogspot.com/ ) - owned by my friend Brian, who always makes sure I don't wait in line and that I am taken care of once I get inside. There, we ran into Chris, Randall, and Ken Roberson again. But we were also pleasantly surprised to see my friend Carl Nelson (of “Drums Along The Hudson” fame - http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/5/11/the-third-eye-is-the-nexus-of-diverse-energy.html). You’ll recall, I hosted a portion of that event for Carl. He had just come back into town from Spain, but alerted me that the feedback was off the charts for how folks enjoyed my hosting duties. That was nice to hear. Carl was with our friend Raymond, who too is a Morehouse brother. Always good to see him and his great teeth (He’s a dentist! SMILE!).

Thinking about “PASSING STRANGE” and “CAT ON A HOT TIN ROOF” and the culture of theater overall, MENDACITY ties in quite symbiotically to my agenda this week. Truth told, right on the streets of New York City, the issue of ‘mendacity’ is being addressed everyday. There was a host of Sean Bell demonstrators, for example, as Ant and I went to the theater that evening. You’ll recall the Sean Bell shooting incident that took place in Queens on November 25, 2006. Three unarmed, African American men were shot at 50 times by plainclothes NYPD officers, killing one of the men, Sean Bell, on the morning of his wedding day, and severely wounding two of his friends. The incident sparked fierce criticism of the police from the public and drew comparisons to the 1999 killing of Amadou Diallo.Three of the five detectives involved in the shooting went to trial on charges ranging from manslaughter to reckless endangerment, but were found not guilty. We even saw Ant’s barber Dave (Diamond Cut Salon and Barber Shop). Go Dave!

My friend Leo Preziosi and his colleague Aartie at one of my longstanding charities Live Out Loud (www.liveoutloud.info) asked me to speak at The Bushwick School for Social Justice’s LGBT PRIDE WEEK (www.bssj.net/). LIVE OUT LOUD is a nonprofit organization that connects Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning youth to out role models and leaders who provide positive examples of LGBT adults. I was there inside of a career-day posture. “What do you do? How did you get to do what you do? What are your secrets of success?” I’ve done it a million times and love to share my testimonial with young folks. They generally seem to respond and appreciate it. This day of speaking to these Brooklyn students was no different. They were engaged, despite the ‘rainy day & Monday’. But the more profound context about this visit is that I was used as a part of Live Out Loud’s repository of LGBT role models of color to be able to go deeper, if called for, and share information and experience about which pathway helped me to live an enriched and productive life. Well, Ant went with me and filled in my blanks a bit as some of the students’ questions left me speechless (just for a moment) as they were down to ask all the uncomfortable questions: “What did your mother say when you came out?”; “Did you keep your straight male friends after you came out?”; “Have you ever been discriminated against because you’re gay?”; “Is it double-hard for you in life – since you’re black and gay?”; "How much did that jacket cost?" (which freed me to share my less-controversial gay gene for fashion and how - like me - they could one day purchase their own couture directly from the designer's showroom, but until then - like me other times - they could right now get in on 'the sample sale'); Oh! And did I forget: "How much money do you make?" Well, I told them (loosely) as I figured honesty on that front is testimonial that you can be LGTBQ, African American (or of color), and successful. This, though on my journey, I continue to maintain it all as responsibly and flossily as possible. Baby, these kids were on it! And once I caught up with the reality that they were ready to hear these answers, I clearly gave the goods. Often, kids will tell me that I’m their hero for what I do, who I am, and how they feel it looks on me. But for moments like these, I always reply to them that they are my heroes for getting it early on. Whether gay or straight, these teens got it and were open and tolerant and compassionate and endearing. I’m thrilled to have been a part. (And I’m scheduled to speak at a Bronx high school next week for a Career Day).

So much of what makes me stand so confidently in my skin (even though I was not OUT in college) is MOREHOUSE College(www.morehouse.edu) and you need look no further than this blog to know how much that experience means to me: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/5/22/walking-in-strange-and-new-places.html and http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2006/12/11/this-house-is-built-on-a-foundation-of-love.html and http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/5/30/on-the-pulse-of-the-morning-and-beyond.html and http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/1/2/dear-god-im-here-im-here.html.

Well, Morehouse (www.morehouse.edu) – known for producing “Renaissance Men” (like me) – is in the news for something historical and landmark. And the story got its first rung of attention by way of one of my National Association of Black Journalists’ protégées (NABJ babies, we call them) Errin Haines, Associated Press writer and NABJ Emerging Journalist of the Year 2006 (www.ap.org). She and I attended our good friend Deepthi’s wedding last September. Anyway! The story? Morehouse College ’s 2008 class valedictorian is Josh Packwood, of Kansas City , Mo. He stands out not only because of his grade point average (4.0), but he is the first White Valedictorian to graduate from the historically black college. The force behind the publicity machine is my other dear friend Elise Durham who is Media Relations Manager at my alma mater. She and I worked together years ago at Fox 5 in Atlanta (“Good Day Atlanta”). She made it possible for me to meet Josh and to greet again Dr. Robert Michael Franklin (I first met him in Las Vegas back in August – a reception Elise put together last year). They were scheduled to discuss this story on CBS’ “The Early Show” (www.cbs.com/earlyshow). I met with them in the greenroom where – as tends to happen – I stumbled across old friends Kitt and Debbie, who are producers there. Always good to see or talk to folks I like a lot that I haven’t seen in a long time. Dr. Franklin, Josh, and I got the chance to talk about this awesome legacy that must be acknowledged as what Morehouse’s most famous alum Dr. King had in mind. Fortunately, Harry Smith (who I love) did the interview (http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2008/05/15/national/main4098548.shtml). Afterwards, we got the chance to talk to him further as he seemed to really be invested and intrigued at the story. Some cynics feel this somehow compromises Morehouse’s infrastructure as a historically BLACK college, but I don’t agree. White students have been going to Morehouse for decades. That’s not the issue. This particular moment highlights for the world that anyone, white or black, can receive a quality education at an HBCU and come out on top – in the world. So the options for all should be HARVARD? Or MOREHOUSE? And not just because of the skin they are in. Moreover, it was great to catch up with my Elise who just celebrated her big 4-0 and I didn’t get the chance to celebrate down in Atlanta with her (Her friends threw a surprise birthday party). With that, I brought her gift with me – a candle from Jo Malone (www.jomalone.com/). I LOVE JO MALONE! This, because Elise truly is a light to my life and apparently “a candle in the dark” to Morehouse as I observed her so ably and masterfully pull the media and press opportunities together for my alma mater.

I got the chance to reunite with many of my Morehouse brothers and my Spelman sister Adrianne C. Smith as she threw a wonderful 40 fete for her beau Eddie, a filmmaker and conscious social and civil activist/advocate. In her beautiful brownstone, we ate great food as prepared by my Morehouse brother (and Ant’s and my cupid) Mario. Michael K. Watts, Jeh, and a handful of our other Morehouse buddies attended. I even got to reconnect with a couple of classmates I hadn’t seen in a while – Nassir and Ed Blunt (www.edblunt.com) who is a life design specialist. He attended with another old friend I hadn’t seen in a minute (who I met through another Morehouse brother Terrance Johnson) Stacey L. Holman, who is Creative Director of Black Butterfly Productions (www.blackbutterflyproudctions.net). See her website. She’s working on some great projects. Thanks Adrianne for being such a great host and a good friend. STAY ENCOURAGED! And HAPPY BIRTHDAY, EDDIE!

Speaking of MOREHOUSE, my SPELMAN sister (www.spelman.edu) Tanika Ray (www.extratv.warnerbros.com/) who I wrote about a couple of weeks ago, but is also EXTRA-TV’s most-spirited host/correspondent, has agreed to be interviewed for “Big Sister, Little Sister” – the independent documentary I’m working on with Latina filmmaker Sue May ( www.bslsthedoc.com - in progress; www.myspace.com/bslsthedoc). You’ll recall, I’m booking a half dozen or so high profile women of color (that I too will support Sue in interviewing). They are sharing their experiences at their high school prom, graduation, and first post-high-school memories (likely college). Already, "America's Next Top Model" Cycle 4 Naima has committed to be the NARRATOR of "Big Sister, Little Sister" (and will additionally be interviewed for the companion PSA “The Girl Next Door”). Also, CNN's Soledad O'Brien and international journalist Lisa Ling are on board as we work out scheduling with those two ladies. A few more bookings (from a tall wish list of great names) and we’ll be ready to shoot. Feel free to reach out to me (patarack@hotmail.com), if you or your client might want more information to be considered for our cameos or if you’d like to make a tax-deductible donation to this project which has many funding opportunities.

By the way, have you seen Alicia Keys’ "School Daze"-inspired video?:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DSaSDYYwZNM

See what she’s spoofing: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=biu555Djtm4

Alicia Keys’song “If I Ain’t Got You” (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T1sLrRlCobY) got spotlight on “American Idol” ( www.americanidol.com/ ) last week with Syesha’s judge’s choice a la Randy Jackson (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8He0ScuRAiE). She did a brilliant job – a point I laid out on my friend and popular radio personality Shelley Wade’s Z100 Idol Diva Chat, which I’ve been doing this season. To hear, click on: http://z100.com/cc-common/common-nyc/podcast/single_page.html?podcast=americanidol6chats or
http://zzone.z100.com/shelley/blog/2008/04/30/idol_diva_chat or http://zzone.z100.com/shelley/blog/2008/05/14/jason_castro__idol_chat

Former American Idol contestant and current FUSE host (www.fuse.tv/) Jarred Cotter was in the mix for this roundtable and we got along splendidly. You may recall, I wrote about him from a modeling gig he did with my favorite designer “American Chang” (www.americanchang.com/) and ( www.rscottfrench.com/ ): http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/2/5/a-few-good-men.html. Plus, he’s also still recording – even got a duet working in the U-K. For all info about Jarred, check out his myspace: http://www.myspace.com/jlcotter. He is a multi-hyphenate like me and we plan to stay in touch as symbiosis is inevitable. And by the time I write my next entry, we will know who of the two DAVIDs is the American Idol. I'll comment at that time...  

Keeping the MENDACITY theme going, I could still be some of what my friend and fellow journalist Terrance Dean chronicles in his riveting memoir Hiding In Hip Hop: On The Down Low In The Entertainment Industry – From Music To Hollywood. It uncovers a hidden and well-known, unspoken secret to which I relate as I struggled with my own sexuality in my early ‘20s. The thought is there’s no platform to be ‘out and proud’ and – from that – come self-hating and self-deprecating choices that keep us stimulated by a fleeting feeling and experience. The thought is it wouldn’t be practical to choose this publicly because society isnt’ ready and our friends, families, and lovers won’t understand. With that, an open and telling-it-all Terrance Dean writes this book and we proudly celebrated with him last week at SPLASH ( www.splashbar.com ). CONGRATS TERRANCE! Order your copy today: http://www.amazon.com/Hiding-Hip-Hop-Entertainment-Industry . He too is featured in NEWSWEEK:
http://www.newsweek.com/id/137380 And you can go to his blog:
www.terrancedean.blogspot.com And he will be celebrating further this week at my favorite boutique N (www.nharlemnewyork.com).

One of my favorite Harlem buddies Terry Wynn (known as “The Texas Socialite” - http://texastigerofnewyork.blogspot.com) surely kept us busy this past weekend. Before we got into festivity one, I got some more, long-overdue, one-on-one time with my Amazing Grace Nichole at Cafeteria (www.cafeteria247.com). Afterwards, she dropped me off in her new convertible to meet up with Ant. He and I were scheduled to hang out at one of Terry’s big birthday parties. Ant hand-selected our gift, which Terry was excited to sport immediately. It was a Fusingcolors glass jewelry creation (www.fusingcolors.com) The first took place at Frank White NYC (http://www.frankwhitenyc.com). Named for Biggie Smalls, partners and owners William Collick and Muhammida El Muhajir opened this eclectic and vintage-looking space as a canvas for bringing folks together for coffee, drinks, socializing, culture, debate, etc. (http://www.myspace.com/frankwhitenyc). With that, Terry decided to throw a classic French salon with a contemporary twist. Donning a top hat, he booked Carmen "The Black Betty" for a Burlesque number (http://www.youtube.com/Barika3000). Then, Opera singer Adero DeHoniesto performed a gorgeous “Summertime”. "The Pastry Chef" – Eric is his name – provided great treats. And Curtis Jackson was "The Drummer" (http://www.curtiswatts.com), whose pounding, percussive accompaniment on Rebbie Jackson's "Centipede" and Diana Ross' "The Boss" made those dance classics groove like never before. We met so many wonderful people that night, I can’t even remember how to place all their names here. But in traditional Terry fashion, he gathered a room full of great energy for the night. A couple of standouts: multi-media personality/performer Reginald L. Barnes (www.reginaldlbarnes.com or www.myspace.com/reggieonthemove) was in the house. And he has a show of comedy and entertainment planned for certain Wednesdays throughout the summer at Solomon’s Porch in Brooklyn (www.myspace.com/solomonsporchcafe). Also, Robin Laverne Wilson presented herself as such an exemplar of joy and possibilities. She was hanging out on the eve of her graduation from Rutgers (www.rutgers.edu/). She’s poised to be a filmmaker and an all-around renaissance woman (www.NewGrowthMediaInc.com). At this party, she had one look. At Terry’s next party, she had another look (wig in tow). Both gorgeous. At the 2^nd set – held in Harlem – Morehouse brother and friend Mario, Melvin, and many of our other buddies were in the house. HAPPY BIRTHDAY, TERRY! MUCH LOVE!

Ant and I attended that prior set after attending the civil union of one of Anthony’s MOMENTUM buddies (www.momentumeducation.com) Carlos and his partner David. It was Ant’s and my first ‘gay wedding’. They got married about two hours outside of the city in beautiful Woodbourne , New York . Everything was elegantly appointed – from the ceremony to the decorations inside the tent to the vows. They put a poem from Walt Whitman on the program: “we two boys together clinging, one on the other never leaning, up and down the roads going, north and south excursions making. power enjoying, elbows stretching, fingers clutching armed and fearless, eating, drinking, sleeping, loving. No law less than ourselves owning, sailing, soldiering, thieving, threatening. misers, menials, priests alarming, air breathing, water drinking, on the turf or the sea-beach dancing. Cities wrenching, ease scorning, statues mocking, feebleness chasing, fulfilling our foray.” Most profound to Ant and me was hearing Carlos and David’s fathers give the toast. It was something Ant nor I had ever experienced before. POWERFUL! It also turns out that Ted - another of Ant’s buddies from MOMENTUM (who attended with Anya – also from Ant’s leadership team) – used to work for Diana’s youngest boys’ father Arne Naess in Norway. As we were basking in the love of Carlos and David, this straight man knew the tidbit to share with this gay couple. Of course, I had lots of questions for him – answering some of the questions more quickly than he could remember them as my obsession with Diana moves much more quickly than his middle-age memory of having worked with this man for a couple of years back in the mid-‘80s. But it made for great dinner conversation and he spoke endearingly and lovingly of Ross and Naess from his outside-looking-in-but-closer-than-any-of-us perspective. THANKS TED!

Ant and I also got the chance to return to some of our physical commitments this week. He’s inside of a multitude of regimens towards optimum health. If I’m not ripping and running professionally or socially, I’m rarely going to the gym or some type of physical fitness class, except for when we’re able to reconnect to our Tweetie and her hip hop dance class at Alvin Ailey. It’s always a blast as – this time – she played all of Madonna’s new album for warm-up and our routine (www.madonna.com/). Of course, we were hoping for a little Janet to inspire the energy and excitement around Miss Jackson’s upcoming tour (scheduled to launch September 10^th - www.janetjackson.com/). Tweetie has been really busy doing what she does… and well. She’s been traveling a lot. In February, she was in Poland for about 2 weeks on a choreography assignment. And she just got back from Beijing , China (in the nick of time with that 7.8 earthquake that recently hit there). She was there for the Asian Fitness Education Expo (AFEEX – www.afeex.org/) where she taught five classes. She also is about to work with Artistic Director Sevin Akbar aka Summerhill of “Platanos and Collard Greens” fame (www.platanosandcollardgreens.com/) on his next Off Broadway Theater show “Auction Book”. She too is getting into artist development. Her current project is working with four men who take hip hop dance class with Ant and me. They are THA HEIGHTS (a pop/R&B quartet of Dominican dudes). They sing Motown, latin, new, and classic music. And they recently got an offer for their own reality series. So, in Tweetie’s words, “it’s about to be on and poppin’”. CONGRATS TWEETIE! We will see you soon!

Fit in her own right, my friend Bethany (also knows as ‘Peanut’) referred a friend of hers to me. Basheerah has been chosen to grace the cover of “Max Sports and Fitness Magazine”. This cover will be historical because it will be the first time an African American fitness couple has been featured on this magazine’s cover. She’s also in the process of negotiating a Fitness reality show that focuses on health and the black church.

But Bethany ’s fierceness should not go unrecognized. She is a noted choreographer and dancer – seen in “yellow” in Beyonce’s “Freak ‘em dress” video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QLkmmCjnc-8). Well, she is working on Broadway’s return of “For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When The Rainbow is Enuf”. Singer-songwriter India.Arie has been tapped to star and contribute songs to this once-choreo-poem (now play with music). The aforementioned Marcia Pendelton is too going to be a part of the audience/marketing effort on this highly-anticipated production with Whoopi Goldberg at the helm of producers along with DreamTeam Entertainment. The Ntozake Shange play presents the interwoven stories of seven women of color from the African Diaspora. The original play opened its two-year run on Broadway in the summer of 1976, earning a Best Play Tony nomination and winning the Best Featured Actress in a Play Tony for Trazana Beverley. So far, Arie is the only cast member set for the revival, which has scheduled a mid-July preview and early-August opening. A theater has yet to be named. Shirley Jo Finney will direct, and Tony winner Hinton Battle will handle choreography.

Speaking of India.Arie, I’m weeks away from my 20-year-high-school reunion from Windsor Forest High School (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/4/7/if-a-robin-can-say-thank-you-you-can-do-it-too.html). And I wanted to shout out another WFHS alum – one year my junior: Anthony David, a name you may all know as he’s played and collaborated with India.Arie for years (as this Electronic Urban Report tells: http://www.eurweb.com/story/eur43404.cfm). To find out more about Anthony David, hit up his MySpace page at www.myspace.com/anthonydavid or go to www.anthonydavidmusic.com. We were in “Pippin’” together and a number of other stage productions at Windsor Forest . So glad to know he’s doing so well.

Speaking of my fellow alums, remember my friend Reggie? I wrote about him here: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2006/11/3/options-image-of-the-future.html Well, he saw Ant’s picture with Captain Planet last week (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/5/11/the-third-eye-is-the-nexus-of-diverse-energy.html). It turns out during his matriculation at MIT (www.web.mit.edu/), he was a part of the team that helped develop this character. LOVE IT! Good stock comes out of Savannah, I tell 'ya...

I mentioned Miki Howard in a prior post (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/5/2/just-like-little-children-know-how-they-have-fun.html). Well, Miki's new CD “Private Collection” is coming out. Her reps at Araca Entertainment reached out to me to see what synergy we might stir up to support her comeback. CONGRATS MIKI! I love the tracks your folks have shared with me!

On Sunday, Ant and I got the chance to show his friend Aria around town. She was visiting from Denver . We went to N (www.nharlemnewyork.com) and saw our folks – Natasha, Jamar, and Gail, who too is an artist ( at Fuse Gallery (www.fusegallerynyc.com). I wrote about her last week: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/5/2/just-like-little-children-know-how-they-have-fun.html. Then, we took Aria to Amy Ruth for soul food (www.amyruthsharlem.com/). Well, after we enjoyed our day with her, we went to Brooklyn to see Ant’s best friend Manivone at her new lounge/restaurant spot in Williamsburg (Brooklyn). It’s called “Velvet Lounge” (www.velvetbrooklyn.com/). We enjoyed it a lot. It’s got a very warm and soothing interior with smooth music playing as folks come in to enjoy one of Manivone’s cocktails and some nice bites of spinach and artichoke dip; hummus; etc. Then, we hooked up with Gail about whom I wrote last week: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/5/2/just-like-little-children-know-how-they-have-fun.html. She had us meet her at Art Land (also in Williamsburg ) – a dive bar full of character and charm (www.11211.info/artland.htm). It’s where Gail guest DJs from time to time. She wanted us to come in and hear her friend DJ Starchilde. Gail, too, is making it possible for Ant to try his magic behind the turntables very soon. Stay tuned. I have an “in” with the DJ. SMILE! And we'll dance all night long (or as long as his slot allows). He's already promised to mix in some Diana. Just a little... and it will "melange" just so...

Many of you are calling me as you watch CBS promos for “Million Dollar Password” with Regis Philbin (www.cbs.com/primetime/million_dollar_password/). You are seeing me and excited to know when, where, what, and how much. SMILE! Well, I am totally gagged to say what happened and you’ll have to wait and see. Though the commercial says June 1^st is the premiere, I don’t know exactly when I will be on. But stay tuned. And though I can’t tell anything now, I can share some things after it airs. Meanwhile, I want to shout out a friend from that ‘bubble’ Erin Wilk, who is doing public relations for several New York City spas and restaurants/sake bars in town. Check out her clients: www.erinwilk.com and www.spasally.com (it's an early launch version- still a few bugs!). GOOD TO HEAR FROM YOU, ERIN!

And as always, THANKS TO EACH AND EVERYONE OF YOU for keeping up with “… THE LIFE OF RILEY…” (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/).

So I made a deal with myself. “Self?” I say. “You are not going to be mournful and sad this Mother’s Day”. You guys know my drill (and I’ve written about it before): Though I work hard to choose joy and call it forth at any cost in my life, my natural leaning (which requires monitoring, maintenance, and muscle to combat it) can be to go into a victim song about losing my mom at 23 years old and how sad and lonely that leaves me feeling on any given day. Then, believe it or not, I will (and can) go into a dark hole and stay there until I CHOOSE to walk back into the light. Last year was really rough as I found myself on assignment in Chicago (- http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/5/12/sometimes-i-feel-like-a-motherless-child.html) and I couldn’t escape queries from people asking what I was doing for my mother, which begged the reality that she was dead. That, fortunately, has not happened this year. Now, I’m clear, as abundance goes, I could be doing more for the “mothers” in my life. My nephew has a mom. My sister is a step mom. My dad has a wife. My dad’s oldest sister lives in Brooklyn . My mother’s sister Mary Lee is a steady, maternal presence in my life (http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2006/12/29/auntie-mary-lee.html). But in my mind that can be paralyzed on wanting to be sad, I sometimes find myself helpless to extend love to any other mothers out there (and I do love them all). Already, my dear friend Sharvo (referenced in the blog entry from last year) [http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/5/12/sometimes-i-feel-like-a-motherless-child.html] has sent me a thoughtful and loving text that reads: “Good morning, my darling Patrick! You were on my mind and my heart this morning and I wanted to take the time to send you an embrace of love. I know how heavy your heart can be on this day, but know that a Mother’s love embraces you always in spirit and if you ever need arms to feel, mine are always open. I love you!” So sweet and appreciated. It conjured a sweet memory of my mother that I just recently experienced as Ant and I were watching the latest episode of “Ugly Betty” (www.abc.go.com/primetime/uglybetty/index) on TIVO. In a plot that had little to do with my (or anybody’s real life), “Ugly Betty” producers chose the Ashford & Simpson composition “Didn’t You Know (You’d Have To Cry Sometime)” to close out its recent episode. The version was by Gladys Knight & The Pips (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iwivWKsL65c) from 1969. My Diana Ross re-recorded it for her 1971 album “Surrender” (which is being re-mastered and expanded via Hip-o-Select –

www.hip-oselect.com/ - responsible for releasing many of Miss Ross’ early releases, like “Everything is Everything”, her 1970 sophomore project which just came out earlier this season). That said, I used to play the album (HEAR ME: big, round, black disc on a record player! SMILE!) and as I blasted all my Diana at the highest volumes from my childhood room, my mother would sometimes say “Turn that down!” But on one special day (and many that I repeated because I loved the feedback), my mother could hear the melody of “Didn’t You Know (You’d Have to Cry Sometimes)” piping hauntingly throughout the house. She came to the threshold of my door and said “Play that again! Diana is going gospel on that one! I like it!” Other than a few select Diana numbers (“Amazing Grace” from her 1992 “Christmas in Vienna” concert - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ldAxy5nLkq8 and “Anywhere You Run To” from her 1982 “Silk Electric” project), mom was not the biggest Diana fan (though she appreciated her talent and her mothering skills). As I was watching “Ugly Betty” and listening to this beautiful song with Gladys Knight’s vocals on them, I was transported:

Remember when you left?
You had your own rules about playing the game
And any day, you could walk away feeling no pain
Now look at yourself
You're all hung up on somebody else
And in your eyes I see all the signs of the misery
That you laid on me
Baby, baby
Didn't you know you'd have to cry sometime?
Didn't you know
Didn't you know you'd have to hurt sometime?
Didn't you know that you'd lose your pride?
Didn't anybody tell you love had another side?
You used to be so proud
Now, your head's a little lower
And you walk slower
And you don't talk so loud
You've gotten wise
You know how love can build you up one moment
And the next, cut you down to size
Then you discover
All she told you was a bunch of lies
Baby, baby
Didn't you know you'd have to cry sometime?
Didn't you know
Didn't you know you'd have to hurt sometime?
Didn't you know that you'd lose your pride?
Didn't anybody tell you love had another side?
Baby, baby
Didn't you know you'd have to cry sometime?
Didn't you know
Didn't you know you'd have to hurt sometime?
Didn't you know you'd have to cry sometime?
Didn't you know you'd have to hurt sometime?
Didn't you know you'd have to hurt sometime?
Didn't you know you'd have to hurt sometime?

I know now I’d have to cry sometime and that it would hurt. And I do… from time to time. But this memory makes me smile! Today, I’m smiling…

… And I’m smiling not just inside of those long-ago memories, but also inside of recent memories that are also attributable to Diana Ross and Gladys Knight (and perhaps my mom who I’m sure is looking down with excitement… for me). I attended not one but two amazing shows at Radio City Music Hall (www.radiocity.com/) featuring not only Ross and Knight, but Patti Labelle and Chaka Khan (www.divaswithheart.com/). The sold-out charity event started out as one show, but turned into two after the first sold out so quickly.

Patti Labelle’s publicist Aliya from Patti Webster’s agency W&W Public Relations Inc. graciously provided one of my tix. Thanks to her for being such a diva with heart. Ant, my buddy/freelance entertainment writer/concert/CD reviewer Michael K. Watts, and I attended the first show (technically the 2^nd booked show), a matinee. Before we could walk in, we ran into Omarosa (www.omarosa.com/). As she managed a cell phone call, trying to figure out where to pick up her tickets, and her compact, she still found a moment to show me photo love. On this day (and that’s all I can comment on), I experienced her as a diva with heart. I’ve told you about Michael K. Watts’ e-newsletter “LIVE! FROM FRONT ROW” in which he does concert reviews (I’ve even shared them here: http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2007/8/5/funky-divas-dusted-dusty-and-dusted-off.html and http://thelifeofriley.squarespace.com/rilys-blog/2008/2/12/luv.html. Well, he’s given me permission to share it with you here.

But before I do that, I will share some of my thoughts – lifted from an email reply to my friend and fellow Diana fan Dustin (who attended the matinee show as well. I went to the later show as well):

YES! I AM THRILLED WITH DIANA! SHE WAS WONDERFUL! And though a more R&B audience, NYC seemed to LOVE her!!!!!!!!!!!!!

("I'M COMING OUT" EXCERPT: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JworY5R_HMY)

The first show was the best all around!

But DIANA was consistently good the 2nd go around. She still looked great. Her voice was strong (though perhaps a hair less so than first show. You know our perfect "fan" ears! But still, AWESOME VOCALS!). She changed into the champagne/gold/silver robe she's been wearing (instead of that black/blue number she changed into for Show #1). She didn't do "Why Do Fools Fall in Love?" (instead changing on "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" after she brought Ashford & Simpson onto the stage). She too didn't do "I Love You" as she rushed off after an extended "I Will Survive" on which she asked that the house-lights be brought up so she could see everyone's faces. (After that, the ladies did a rehearsal-less (clearly) finale of "Lean on Me". Diana didn't participate. Not sure why. I can't see her agreeing to do it anyway. But I don't know what's true or not on that front.).

GLADYS was awesome again, but she's got her cabaret-style/short-show down to a science, given her Las Vegas/Flamingo gig over the last few years. She did wear a different dress (white sequins).

CHAKA - in same ensemble – for 2^nd show. I'm sure you'll agree how good she was for 2:30 . She was much more loopy and scatter-brained during her banter in the 7:30 show. Plus, the vocals weren't as pristine. At one point, she referenced "the purple people" (a la her energy drink with antioxidants with which she mixes 'vodka' - her words). It turns out that was - among others - Tracee and Chudney's dad Bob Ellis (Silberstein) who you know once managed Chaka during the Rufus days. He clearly was on double duty - in support of Diana and Chaka.

PATTI did same show, but in different outfit (beige). But she talked much more and played much more - even at one point - asking not to be rushed by her musicians who were trying to keep it flowing - so they could get to MISS ROSS. (PATTI's BONUS FINALE: http://youtube.com/watch?v=RD-fVdsF6YU)

I saw Rhonda and Ross there to support DIANA.

ALWAYS GREAT TO SEE YOU!

friend to friend,

Patrick

And here’s Michael K. Watts’ take:

LIVE! from Front Row

May 8, 2008

The LIVE! Review:

Divas Take Over New York

Diana Dazzles, Chaka Hollers, Gladys Gives Her All, and Patti Turns It Out at Radio City

By Michael K. Watts

Four R&B music divas, two shows, one day, one stage. Diana Ross, Patti LaBelle, Chaka Khan, and Gladys Knight united at Radio City Music Hall on May 4 for Divas With Heart, an historic benefit concert for New York 's renowned Masonic Medical Research Laboratory.

Self-proclaimed divas and wannabe divas of all types came from all over to witness this rare concert event. Star Jones, Ashford & Simpson, and even Omarosa were in the house.

Backed by the American Theater Orchestra under the direction of Paul Gemignani, the divas delivered two shows that day. There was nothing extraordinarily different about their performances; they were abbreviated versions of their usual standalone sets. But having all four of these divas, three of them sixtysomething's and another in her fifties, performing on the same bill was nothing short of magic.

Chaka was the powerhouse. Gladys was soul stirrer. Diana was the beauty queen. Patti was drama queen.

The earlier of the shows was a 4-hour marathon of musical memories and nostalgia. Probably the best walk down memory lane was led by Gladys Knight, who took fans on a musical journey through hits from her days with The Pips. She profoundly connected with the audience with anecdotes from their collective experiences, like slow-dancing in a dimly-lit basement until your parents came down to break things up ("Every Beat of My Heart"). Oldies like "Midnight Train to Georgia" and "The Nitty Gritty" kept her 40-minute set energetic as she glided from her '60s Apollo Theater era through her R&B-Pop crossover era of the '80s ("Save the Overtime").

Dressed in a long, flowing semi-sheer dress in purple--her homage to the show's "heart" theme--diva Gladys visibly enjoyed the memories as much as the audience, who didn't hesitate to sing or clap along. She and her eight background vocalists also paid homage to her favorite songs by Luther Vandross and The Jacksons, as well as her own cover of the R&B hit "Superwoman," a song she said she "borrowed from one of the little girls" (referring to Karyn White). She simultaneously exuded veteran showmanship and bright-eyed innocence.

"This is my first time [performing] at Radio City Music Hall ," she beamed with her trademark smile. She even borrowed a camera and took a picture of the audience to capture the moment. "Neither One of Us," a Grammy Award winner and Hall of Fame recipient, found her emotional as she sang with eyes closed and arms stretched. The audience responded with a roaring standing ovation.

Pulling herself together, she finished the show on a high note with one of only two of her solo hits in this set, her 1994 cover of Boyz II Men's "End of the Road."

Ironically, the road on this musical journey was just unfolding and soon led to 1984: "I Feel For You," Chaka Khan's massive hit courtesy of Prince. The sound of the song's opening "Chaka-Chaka-Chaka" turntable scratch got her fans fired up in no time.

Chaka's half-hour set, the shortest and least awe-inspiring of all the divas, was book-ended by dance fests to her biggest hits. While the audience partied to the #1 Billboard smash "Ain't Nobody" (recorded with her former band Rufus), Chaka salsa stepped in her form-fitting, bell-bottomed, purple and black fashion-questionable getup. She shamelessly had to pull her pants up a bit after all that dancing, and the audience ate it up with laughter.

The big-haired diva's mood was carefree and positive. The orchestral intro to "To Sir With Love" inspired her to dance whimsically about the stage. "That's my favorite song," she gushed over the song she covered for her jazz standards album, Classikhan. Her upbeat, engaging disposition showed she was genuinely happy to be there.

But vocally, Chaka didn't deliver a knock-'em-out performance like this special show might have warranted. Maybe the humility she expressed of performing on the bill with her "sisters," as she called the other divas, kept her from letting loose. Misunderstand not: Chaka HOLLERED and scatted and hollered some more. "Through the Fire" was vocally impressive but emotionless. She belted so effortlessly that it seemed she was just going through the motions. "Angel," from her recent Grammy Award winning album, Funk This, was just average.

Chaka's show closer turned things around and got the people on their feet. As red lights illuminated the hall's ceiling, she belted her woman-power anthem "I'm Every Woman" and encouraged the men to sing along, too.

After a brief intermission, Patti LaBelle pranced out in a voluminous, white coat dress and had the audience eating out the palm of her hand. "Patti, Patti!" the audience shouted in response to her "say my name" command on "When You Talk About Love." She furthered the journey down memory lane with a medley of her hits, including R&B staples "If Only You Knew" and "Love, Need and Want You."

Patti brought diva drama to this show high above all the other divas. She used a mirror to check her face and asymmetrical, bob-style wig, as diamonds sparkled forever around her neck. Her well-oiled, mocha-complexioned legs were perched atop stilettos by Versace and Christian Louboutin (she changed them three times).

Patti kept it real. "Hey, people in the balcony," she said with a smiling gaze. She talked a lot--about her ever-present menopause, about having diabetes (but diabetes not having her), her hurting feet, her fellow divas, and the loved ones she lost too soon. She dedicated "You Are My Friend" to the memory of a long list of notables that included Gerald Levert, Sean Levert, Yolanda King, and Anna Nicole Smith. "I sing to keep their candles lighted," she said overcome with emotion.

Diva Patti's drama and her repeated shout-outs, anecdotes and conversation often overshadowed her vocal performance. Rolling across the stage with her stilettos strewn about was more memorable than the notes she belted from down there. She asked a lanky Englishman in the front row to help her up off the floor. Then, she shifted the drama to her voice with "2 Steps Away," an inspirational song that was also emotional for her.

The highlight of Patti's set was the surprise reunion with former LaBelle group members Sarah Dash and Nona Hendryx, who electrified with their hit "Lady Marmalade." Audience members were invited on stage to get sassy with the ladies. Ironically, this reunion was a magical moment that all but one of the show's divas have been privileged to share with their former group members in the recent era. Chaka has done so a few times. Gladys never truly left hers. But Diana tried very publicly a few years ago with no success. Patti also revealed that LaBelle was finishing their reunion album, due in September, featuring collaborations with Lenny Kravitz, Leon Gamble, and Nile Rodgers.

At 48 minutes long, Patti's set went over the divas' half-hour set time mandate. Her extended rendition of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" had people waving blue glow sticks in the air in approval. She wore it out for sure. "You've got so much more show to see," she interrupted before the song's big finish. "I love you, New York ." And with that, she hoisted the microphone stand in the air and tossed it across the stage as she belted the final note. The audience erupted in standing applause, and Patti stepped into the audience share hugs.

After her slow exit, the audience begged for more with chants of "Patti! Patti! Patti! Patti!" Little did they know that another diva was waiting in the wings (or rather, the lobby) preparing her grand entrance. And what a grand entrance it was.

Unlike the others, diva Diana Ross entered from the back of the auditorium, wrapped in a fiery ball of red Flamenco ruffles and trailed by intimidating bodyguards. "I'm Coming Out," the fitting soundtrack to her entrance, drew starry-eyed gazes and waves as she strutted by.

Dropping the ruffled train of her dress to the stage floor, she embarked on the last leg of show's musical journey through time. Supremes-era, love-themed hits like "Baby Love," "Stop! In the Name of Love," and "You Can't Hurry Love" had every voice in the auditorium singing along to every word.

"The super-duper Supremes," Diana exclaimed with pride. "You've had lots of great memories tonight." She let the oldies speak for themselves and added little commentary. Her set was more sing-along and less of a guided tour through time. "I love it when you sing along," she said and encouraged so on "Endless Love." More blue glow sticks waved back and forth from the audience, too.

Halfway through her 43-minute set, she bowed to the audience with her arms outstretched. This classic Diana gesture was only the tip of the Diana diva drama iceberg. Diana put Patti's three shoe changes to shame with five dazzling clothing "looks" culled from two dresses accessorized with a removable ruffle train, a stole of tulle netting, and a long black coat embroidered with silver sequins and dramatic black feathers.

Still, she exuded grace and elegance, standing regal on red platform pumps under her fluffy weaved dome. That is, when she wasn't shimmying and hip-shaking. "Alright, I wanna see some chair-dancin' out there" she directed on "Upside Down." When a diva says dance, she means dance! The audience responded without hesitation. For them, it was all about the music, and Diana delivered with a handful of her solo hits to round out her set.

The crescendo of Diana's #1 Billboard hit "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" lifted people out of their seats during the set's climatic moment. The sequined diva worked both sides of the stage on "I Will Survive," and delivered a heart-tugging rendition of "I Love You" with her two background vocalists.

By the time the curtain fell on this diva, an unexplainable high had consumed the audience. People hurriedly dug out their cell phones to share the experience with others while still exiting the aisles. Many surely had never experienced such an awesome afternoon of music, and likely they never would again. They witnessed music history. Diva history.

Hours later the divas would do it all again. But this time, a concertgoer reports, three of the divas--Patti, Gladys, and Chaka--closed the night with a rendition of "Lean On Me," which also featured Sarah Dash and Nona Hendryx. Diana reportedly did not participate--a diva to the very end.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=-7jsLYWp0Ms

http://youtube.com/watch?v=Hg768AX9k5s

http://youtube.com/watch?v=Kyz5bCRMa8M

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DIVAS DOWN! Diana, Patti, Chaka, and Gladys:

Top 15 Diva Moments of the Divas With Heart Show

By Michael K. Watts

New Yorkers witnessed music history on May 4 as the Divas With Heart benefit concert brought Diana Ross, Patti LaBelle, Chaka Khan, and Gladys Knight together at Radio City Music Hall for two unforgettable shows. Concertgoers also witnessed divas being divas in their own quirky ways.

Divas are classy and crass. They can be stone cold or a hot mess. Usually, they're in excellent voice, but not always. An elegant, flowing gown and matching stilettos are a must. Divas command their stage, but sometimes things fall apart. They forget lyrics to their own songs, the members of their own band, and anything else they're forced to remember. To be a diva is to be all of these things and still be fabulous in spite of herself.

With all of these divas on one stage under one roof, the diva moments were endless in a 4-hour show. Here's a countdown of the Top 15 Diva Moments from the first of two shows that magical day:

1. PATTI: A diva is never too grand to get down and dirty. In classic Patti style, the diva performed a portion of "You Are My Friend" on her knees, then lying on her back, and with a couple of rolls across the stage floor. She even kicked off her Christian Louboutin pumps--the second time she had done so, and now there were four stiletto pumps strewn about her stage. One of the pumps got away from the others, and a man in the front row kindly sailed it back across the floor closer to Patti. Outdone that he had tossed one of her pumps, Patti stopped the show and made the man come on stage and hand it to her properly. Moments later she borrowed a pair of thong sandals from a female audience member for her aching feet. She thanked the young lady for letting her borrow the shoes by giving her a few of the flowers she had received earlier from Chaka. Oh, yes, she did!

2. CHAKA: Sometimes a diva has to adjust her costume. Chaka, in a borderline crass move, stepped back to the area next to the conductor with her backside to the audience, pulled up her sagging pants with a few shakes of her hips, and strolled back to the front of the stage to perform the classy, romantic "To Sir With Love." Only a diva can do that.

3. PATTI: Who said divas had to remember people's names? After her opening number, Patti was wound up with energy and was moved to thank various people on stage for being with her. She thanked band members by name, but she suspiciously didn't, or possibly couldn't, name her background vocalists. She also forgot the name of the orchestra conductor. Then, she thanked Gladys, Chaka and the "little girl before me," referring to Jaine Rogers who opened the second act. Moments later, however, she had no problems remembering designer names Donna Karan, Zang Toi, Gianni Versace, and Christian Louboutin whom she thanked for her clothing and stilettos.

4. GLADYS: A diva can never have too many people around her. Although the divas were all backed by the American Theater Orchestra, they brought their own rhythm sections and background vocalists. While the other divas brought three or fewer background vocalists, Gladys was the only one bold enough to bring a whopping eight (8) of them. Yes, eight.

5. DIANA: A diva must always make a grand entrance. Diana was the only diva to enter the venue from the rear center aisle of the audience, something she ironically hasn't done in quite some time. She was a big, fiery ball of red Flamenco ruffles and jet black hair weave that exploded on stage to the tune of "I'm Coming Out." Now, that's a diva entrance.

6. PATTI: A diva's performance rider must be fulfilled without fail. After her big opening number, Patti was out of breath and thirsty. She looked for water atop her piano which is her makeshift dressing area on stage, fit with flowers and necessities like tissues, a mirror, and replacement stilettos if her feet hurt. She held up an empty crystal glass and sang these words to a made up melody: "I need some water right now, and I don't see no water right now." Shockingly, water wasn't rushed on stage in time for the next song. Gasp!

7. DIANA: A true diva changes her outfit at least twice during a performance. Diana, in classic Diana style, wore five gown "looks" for a set lasting just under 45 minutes. A red long strapless, sequined gown was worn with a Flamenco style ruffle train, without the Flamenco train, and with a red stole of tulle netting which an assistant brought out in the middle of "Why Do Fools Fall In Love?" A black strapless, sequined gown was worn alone and with long black coat embroidered with silver sequins and dramatic black feathers.

8. CHAKA: Divas generally prefer their shows to go only as they have planned. Halfway through her set, Chaka was speaking to the audience about her music. Someone in the audience interrupted her and yelled out a request for her to sing "Through the Fire." Chaka quipped, "Ok, darling, we're gonna get to that." Then she discovered the song was actually up next. After a pause, she half-begrudgingly admitted, "We're gonna do it right now."

9. GLADYS: Divas will be divas. In introducing her cover of Karyn White's hit "Superwoman," Gladys said sometimes she comes across a song from the younger generation with a message that speaks to her. So, she said she decided to borrow the song from one of the "little girls"… as the stagehands set three stools across the stage for her and two background vocalists to perform the same song, Gladys teased them by accusing them of setting stools out when she had not said she was tired. She joked, "I guess I'll just sit all across the stage."

10. PATTI: Shoe maintenance is essential for a diva's performance. A few songs into her set, Patti said her stiletto pumps were fierce but had to come off. So, she kicked off her Versace pumps right on stage and put on a fresh pair of Christian Louboutin pumps instead. "I was born in pumps," she sassily remarked.

11. DIANA: What a diva says goes… even if she's wrong. Toward the end of her set, Diana had a proud moment for this special show. She looked up at the video monitor and read the words of the show's title. "Divas With A Heart," she said emphatically. The show was actually dubbed Divas With Heart, but who would dare correct Diana?

12. MYSTERY DIVA: A diva doesn't do anything unless she really wants to. Between acts it was announced that the show's charity, Masonic Medical Research Laboratory, had received a donated grand piano. The organization was said to be auctioning the piano which "most of our divas have signed." I won't dare guess which diva had not yet signed it.

13. DIANA: The older they get, the less divas like to work. But they can still laugh about it. Halfway through her set, Diana basked in the glow of nostalgia from her music. "This is like the good old days," she said. "Two shows in one night? Oh, God!" She laughed and clutched her fictitious pearls.

14. GLADYS: Sometimes divas need unexpected assistance with their performances. In the opening lines of " Midnight Train to Georgia ," Gladys asked the audience to sing along by saying, "Come on! Be my Pips!"

Thanks Michael!

Yes! I'm still smiling <grinning cheek to cheek - showing all teeth>