By Sr. Entertainment Correspondent & Chief Editor, John Frazier
Here's my featured favorite CD this month, its Macy Gray's, "The Sellout" and selling out she isn't, she's true to herself. And she's the Executive Producer, I might add. For a moment there, I didn't understand why so many love her sound, but I was captured by the 6th song, "Help Me". It was like, "Oh I see the light!" From that moment on I was in locked into her voice. She and Bobby Brown of New Edition, Whitney era, do a song together called, "Real Love", and I have a feeling that Ms. Gray will connect to the R&B, Soul audience too. Bobby sounds great. So if you're hungry for an unique, soulful, blues, R&B, Pop sound, make your purchase today. The single released is "Beauty In the World", of which the lyrics were re-written for the World Cup.
Alexis Jordan's single, "Happiness" is burning up the dance floors. If you like the Pussycat Girls, you will love Ms. Jordan, as her vocals are a little stronger, has a little bit more meat the bone
Legend Liza Minnelli has done Beyonce's "Single Ladies", for the film "Sex In The City 2". Now this is exciting when you have a legend and gay icon cover such a huge hit recorded by a legend in the making. Ms. Minelli, Leona Lewis, Alicia Keyes and Jennifer Hudson's music are on the Soundtrack released on "WaterTower Music". Rumors have it that Ms. Minnelli was offered to be on reality show, Celebrate Rehab, but the diva said no way!
Recording artist, neo-soul singer, Chrisette Michelle claims to have written Beyonce's hit, "Ego", but wasn't given credit. Now this has happened too many times, as Ms. Beyonce takes the credit for songs she didn't write. She did this with Neo, then again, with the young lady who wrote "If I Was a Boy". Now many of you will say that Ms. B. paid for the songs, which may be the case, but it still doesn't make her the songwriter. If I purchase a car, does that make me the creator of that car? I think not. Many may say that it's the nature of the business, but Ms. B. is a mega super star, give credit where credit is due. Otherwise, it appears that the divas are greedy, as in "much wants more".
Beyonce has cancelled out of the purposed remake of "A Star Is Born". Perhaps it's because she doesn't want to play another singer. Think "Dreamgirls" "Etta James", thank you very much.
Video of the year for the BET Awards 2010, Beyonce and GaGa up against Jay-Z and Alicia Keys. Now get this, Jay-Z's running against himself as he and Rihanna & Kanye West may take the award for "Run This Town". I like Beyonce but it would be nice to see some other equally talented folks win.
When the honorees for the Best New Artist was announced for the BET, the name Justin Bieber caused laughter as the audience thought it was a joke. I wondered what he sounds like, since the media has focused on his pretty boy looks and the fact that he's in Usher's pocket. Well when Mr. Bieber performed on American Idol, I was impressed, he does have talent and he can sing. As for the BET awards, he up against: Melanie Fiona, Nicki Minaj, Wale and Young Money. Who do I think will win, hell if I know.
As for "Best Collaboration" for the BET Awards, I believe this is a first, as Beyonce featuring Lady Gaga ("Video Phone") is running up against hubby, Jay-Z and Alicia Keys ("Empire State of Mind"). Now I'm putting my money on "Empire State of Mind", and it has nothing to do with my being born and raised there. It's just a much better song and I believe a classic, just like "New York, New York" and "New York State of Mind". Rumor has it that Alicia Keys in pregnant. It's also rumored that the pop/soul diva is responsible for the break up of her now live in lover, Swizz Beatz. The couple just purchased a duplex apartment in NYC for $14.5 million. Mr Beatz has one child with the former wife. Keys and Beatz are said to get married this summer
Former Destiny's Child member, Kelly Rowland has just signed a record deal with Universal Motown Records. Funny, just recently Ms. Rowland has been wearing her hair like former Motown diva, Ms. Diana Ross. Hopefully with Rowland's new deal we will finally see and hear Ms. Rowland at her best. David Guetta is featured on the single, "Commander", he's the genius between the "Black Eyes Peas. Check out Kelly's new video and release, "Commander" it's fierce. Click below.
In new partnership. Ms. Juanita Bynum already known in the gospel world has hired Beyonce's dad, Matthew Knowles to represent her moving forward, as Ms. Bynum has said, "It's a brand new day". This is going to be interesting.
Ms. Janet Jackson has cut off all of her hair and is now sporting a short new sassy sex look. Many of her fans will shocked and pleased, no problem as she's a beautiful lady. I would imagine within the last two years so much has happened, she just needed a new look in celebration of her new life. Also Ms. Janet will be performing at the Festival in New Orleans in July 2nd, 3rd and 4th. Also scheduled to perform are Keri Hilson, Raphael Saadiq, Trey Songz, Ms. Glady Knight, L.L.Cool, Alicia Keys, Mary J. Blige and Earth, Wind & Fire. It's going to be hot in New Orleans.
Randy Jackson wants to turn his late brother, Michael Jackson' resting place into become a tourist event, much like Elvis and Graceland. This sounds a bit strange to me, since Mr. M. J., was such a private person. This has greed and money written all over it. Hopefully the other Jackson's will be able to stop this possibility.
Triple threat Ms. Vanessa Williams will be joining the cast of Desperate Housewives for its 7th season, Sept. 2010. Her character is going to cause a whole lot of drama and I can't wait.
Queen Latifah's movie, "Just Wright" did not do right at the Box office. This is rapper turn actor, Commons first lead in this romantic comedy drama. Now I don't know why it failed, the Queen is very well liked in the industry. Perhaps it's time for the Queen to do some serious acting, for years it has been rumored that she would be ideal to play the late great Miss Pearl Bailey.
Cyndi Lauper gives a damn in her campaign against discrimination against that the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender experiences. This comment was taken from the press release: GLSEN (www.glsen.org) estimates that nearly 90% of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender youth have been verbally or physically harassed or assaulted, compared to 62% of their straight classmates. Approximately 3 out of 4 gay and transgender students are frequently called "faggot" or "dyke" at school. And almost a third of students who reported an incident of bullying said that school staff did nothing in response. Check below:
Ms. Lauper has also released a new album, which is going to be a totally different sound, it's called, "Memphis Blues". Her special guest are: Allen Toussaint, who has produced and worked with Labelle and The Pointer Sisters, legend B.B. King, Jonny Lang, legend Ann Peebles, Kenny Brown and Charlie Musselwhite. 12 songs in all, but I'd hoped for at least 16 songs. However, I guess it's best to leave your audience wanting more...
The Bitch Is Back! (Tony said this, not me) Tony Enos at NYC Gay Pride! He returns to New York in his 1st NYC performance of 2010! Live on the river for Heritage of Pride! NYC premier gay pride celebration! Don't miss this electrifying performance as TONY performs all new songs from his debut album "DID IT RITE" (available now on ITUNES & Cdbaby.com/cd/tonyenos3) leaving NYC breathless! Visit www.tonyenos.meakproductions.com for additional info.
Downtown Records to release "Night Work", the new album from New York City's, Scissor Sisters, on June 29th. This club has a 1970 - 80's sound. It's fun music. The Rollingstone magazine gave this album 3 stars and a half. Click here: http://www.scissorsisters.com/
I received my advance copy of Leela James new CD, "My Soul" debut on Stax Records, which has a famous history. As for Ms. James, if you love soul music, like I do, this is a must have for your collection. It would be great to hear her sing with Anthony Hamilton. This is a quote from this soulful diva: "The title of the album pretty much says it all," she explains. "I just wanted to go into the studio and do what moved me at the time, and not think about it too much or not allow it to be something that was too planned. That's what great soul music has always been about from the very beginning - something very raw, very authentic and very true." You want more? Click here for a taste of soul: http://leelajames.com
Ms. Peggy Lee is hot again, due to being included in a Starbuck's compilation. Fever is reaching a whole new generation. Now that's star power. Not long along I wrote an article for www.GBMNews.com on the late jazz great. Raw talent survives.
LILITH 2010 TOUR COMPILATION AVAILABLE IN STORES JUNE 15, 2010- 16 songs from some of the who's who in the entertainment industry: Sarah McLachlan, Kelly Clarkson, Queen Latifah, Norah Jones, to name a few. This is a celebration of women in the music industry.
Jai Rodriguez, the Latin brother from Queer Eye, is about to blow up. You may have seen him in the Beyonce/Lady GaGa video, but now it's time for his close up. He's about to be one of the feature actors, who's gay, on the new CW medical drama. It doesn't have a name yet, but it's definitely going to happen. Stay tuned.
Sexy, hot Latin brother, Kevin Alejandro has joined this new season of "True Blood", as Layfayette's love interest. Many may remember Mr. Alejandro from "Ugly Betty" or perhaps the series, Southland". Well, he's about to blow up, he's going to have a brand new audience. On "True Blood", I'm sure we will see a whole like of skin too. But fellows, he's married and has a child, so all you can do, like I do, imagine and dream.
Rumor has it that Usher claims to be the new Michael Jackson in the making. Now no one can replace the brilliance of the King of Pop, the late Mr. Michael Jackson. In one word, "Pompous" is what I think of Raymond Usher. Mr. Jackson didn't call himself "genius". Raymond Usher will never be called genius. Yes, his music is great, but Usher's already pecked in his career and it was nothing compared to Mr. Jackson. In another word, "Humble", Mr. Usher.
Many of you may recall I had written an article on Ms. Pam Grier, Well the diva has just released a tell all book about her life. She tells us about the relationship with the late Richard Pryor, she tells us about her cancer and the man that walked out of her life, when she needed him most. The title is "Foxy, my life in 3 acts". This should be interesting reading.
In the Spring issue of Swerv magazine, gospel great Ton3X addresses the black church and Donnie McClurkin who claims to have been gay once upon time, has become anti-gay and called out Ton3X in a negative way. Ton3X feels that Donnie should apologize. Also on Swerv spring issue, the cover has Ms. Isis King from American's Top Model and the shows first transgender and she's looking good.
Niecy Nash, recently voted on Dancing with The Stars has received 2 Emmy awards for her cable show, "Clean House". Girlfriend has been busy. We wish her good luck.
Apollo Theater's Walk of Fame on 125th Street in Manhattan NY debuts with honoring our legends, Mr. James Brown, Mr. Smokey Robinson and Ms. Patti Labelle. Next in line are Mr. Michael Jackson and the Queen of Soul, Ms. Aretha Franklin. The "Walk" looks like the Hollywood Walk of Fame. This is so wonderful! I'm excited.
Eddie Murphy and Melanie Brown aka Scary Spice have become friendly due to the child that they share. In the beginning Mr. Murphy claimed this was not his baby, but like Mr. Maury Povich would say, "You are the daddy!" Mr. Murphy had a gathering and all of his 7 children were present.
Actor/Rapper, Will Smith will bring back to the movie screen, "Men In Black 3" for the Spring of 2012. I hope that everyone is on board. I can't wait to see it.
New debut CD, "The Electric Hotel", from Lolene is set to be released in the Summer 2010 and it will be just in time to burn up the streets and dance floors. Song, "Rich (Fake it Till You Make It") is a song that perhaps the Pussy Cat Dolls could have not but didn't, which is great cause Ms. Lolene is taking it to a whole new level. Sex. Talent. Great Music and Lyrics. Check here for a listen & see:
Another treat for the summer heat is the release of Robyn's new album, "body Talk T PT 1". The club Kings and Queens are going to love the classic club beats, sounds and fever that it will bring. From Robyn's bio: Robyn explains: "I got all these great songs so why not? It's been 5 years since Robyn, and I didn't want to wait with a release until they are all recorded, so I decided to start putting them out right away. I also can't wait to play live again and this enables me to tour and record at the same time. I just want to keep making music." And we say, "Bring it, we are hungry feed us the music!
The beautiful young lady, who graduated from the Whitney Houston School of Voice, Ms. Christina Aguilera is also ready for the summer with her new single, "Not Myself Tonight". On the cover has Ms. C. loving like a cross between a Stepford Wife, on the left and on the right side, it's truly "bionic", the titled of the album. She's been missing for a minute, as she's gotten married, has a baby and has just completed a new movie with co-stars Cher. Now before I forget, "Not Myself Tonight" has been remixed, 8 in all. Where is the party? I want an invite.
The return of Ms. Macy Gray with her new CD, "The Sellout", which features her new single "Beauty In The World" , will have the fans rushing to the music stores to purchase a copy. Great single, very radio friendly, great music, lyrics, and the dance remixes have been released, 7 in all.
Not that anyone cares but did you know that media "queen" Perez Hilton's real name is Mario Armando Lavandeira Jr. Interesting? Why did the television personality change his name? The wonderful thing about Mr. Hilton is that he speaks his mind. It doesn't matter if you are President Castro or Will I. Am. He's very well respected in the Latin community. He's out of the closet and proud about it.
Can you believe this? A new CD from Tupac, called, "Tupac: Live at the House of Blues". This live performance was done at the "House of Blues" in L.A. The amazing line up of stars, which are featured guest: KCi & Jo Jo, Snoop Dogg, and Outlawz. This concert took place just a few months before his untimely death. I'm sure his fans will enjoy this offering.
Ms. Anita Baker is in the studio working on her new CD. Many may recall that her last CD, "My Everything", was ok but not superior like her prior CD's. However, when she was on the Monique Show, girlfriend turned it out with "Fairytale". Rumor has it that has the best producers, songwriters etc. I can't wait!
Speaking about Monique, did you see her older brother on Oprah's show? He apologized and the parents and another brother felt that the Oscar winner, Ms. Monique should have handled this subject in private and not bring it to the media's attention. And I say, "What's wrong with this picture?"
Have you seen Jennifer Hudson lately? Girlfriend looks fabulous. Tooth, weight, clothes, new baby and she got her man. Everything is coming up roses and we are happy for her.
"Was That All It Was? This R&B, jazz and dance diva, Jean Carne can sing. I was so happy to hear her song in the movie, "Precious". Many young fans have become interested in the lady with the voice. I've been a fan of Ms. Jean Carne for years. "Don't Let It Go To You", "Where Did You Go?", "Love Don't Love Nobody" and many more songs. I'm looking forward to interviewing this lovely lady.
This summer the Queen of Soul, Ms. Aretha Franklin is schedule to perform at three benefits with former Secretary of State, Condoleessa Rice as her pianist. Many of us already knew that Ms. Rice is a pro with the keyboard.
Pop, soft rock singer, Phil Collins will rejoin a back to Motown CD on Sept. 28th. This isn't the first time that the singer has visited Motown. He had a hit single with The Supremes hit," You Can't Hurry Love". The CD called, "Going Back", has remakes, "In My Lonely Room", "Dancing In the Streets", among other Motown recordings. Hopefully in the videos he will have the original artist.
I hope this is not true, but it's been reported that Lady Gaga may have lupus. This condition runs in her family, her aunt died from this at age 19. Gaga is 24. I'm sure with the proper care this young amazing talent will beat this.
Diva in the making, Estelle has a "Freak" remix. 10 different remixes with producer, David Guetta and Nick Van De Wall aka Afrojack. Mr. Guetta has been extremely as he's produced the "Black-eyed Peas" and Kelly Rowland. "Freak" will be a classic for this young generation. It's just fierce. Ms. Estelle's album, "Hot & Sexy" will be available soon.
Not to be outdone, Kelis has released "Acapella" the remix. On this offering are six remixes and the songs are long. You can just put it on and let it play. The "children" are going to love it. Great beats. Ms. Kelis is scheduled to release a complete album, "Flesh Tone", this summer. David Guetta produced this one as well.
I'm still waiting to hear from gay rapper, J.R., who's video and single, Will U Marry Me Boy", are off the hook. It's like "I Kissed A Girl & I Liked It", however it's a man to man conversation. Check it out:
Mariah Carey is no longer a part of the classic play that's being turned into a movie, "For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When the Rainbow is Enuf", to be produced and directed by Mr. Tyler Perry. Is Mariah crazy?? This is going to be huge. Already on board are Whoopie Goodberg (love her), Loretta Devine (want to be her best friend), Janet Jackson (Tyler loves her, this will be the 3rd film for them), Phylicia Rashad (something about her scares me), Macy Gray (there's something special about her acting ability, she shows great promise), Elise Washington (wonderful actress), and the list keeps growing. July is when it shooting started. Now if we could get Ms. Diana Ross to become a part of this fabulous group of actresses. "If you need me, call me", quote the diva, Ms. Ross, Tyler and Oprah call her!
"Sorry to all my fans in Europe!!! My tour is cancelled. I'm pretty sure y'all know. My entry was denied in your country. I love you. Sorry!!" quote Mr. Chris Brown as his work permit to perform in Europe was denied due to his felony. "Ouch! Brown's career has been in the toilet since the Rihanna drama. His career was just beginning to blow up (in a good way). His appearance on CNN with Larry King made things worse. His people should have prepared the young singer with possible questions. Instead he came off looking like the late Ike Turner.
What's going on what our Ms. Whitney Houston, I can recall when I first heard her sing. A group of friends, about 5 -6 of u were fans of mother, Ms. Cissy Houston. There was a time that Ms. C. Houston knew we were by group of course. Anyway Ms. W. Houston would sing, "Tomorrow", the song from the Broadway play, "Annie" and would bring down the house. We knew then that Ms. Cissy's daughter would receive the success that she did not and should have. Now many years later, many are saying that the Superstar Ms. Whitney is becoming compared to legend, Ms. Judy Garland. We must keep Ms. Whitney in our prayers. God can make a way out of no way, as the church folk say (and I'm one of them).
Tiger Woods, according to the National Enquirer has admitted to bedding down 120 women during his 5 year marriage. If this is the case, I'm pretty sure the marriage is over. At this point, Elin, his wife, probably hates the sight of him.
Ms. Sandra Bullock has adopted a beautiful Afro American baby boy. Which I think this is wonderful however it appears that our white brothers and sisters are adopting our children of color, perhaps, because our brothers and sisters aren't.
Rapper, Soulja Boy is said to be writing a book to inspire our youth, he wants to instruct them on how to become a billionaire. I'm sure once it's released the sales will add to his bank account.
Terrence Howard to play Nelson Mandela opposite Jennifer Hudson, who will play Winnie Mandela in upcoming movie which has many African filmmakers upset, since both actors are American.
