What Is Cindy Thinking About...?

Chicago Now Blog

2011-08-23T22:26:00.002-05:00

I've added yet another blog I can't keep up with! It's called Celebrity Seen and will feature more feature-length writing. Please visit and LOVE it! Article on Dr. Drew's Sex Rehab upcoming in a few weeks.

Host of the Biggest Loser Loses Even More...

2011-05-21T16:00:00.002-05:00

Alison Sweeney, who portrayed Sami Brady on the soap opera “Days of Our Lives,” and is the author of “The Mommy Diet” and host of The Biggest Loser joined hundreds of other fitness buffs for the SELF Workout in the Park 2011, a outdoor health, fitness and wellness festival hosted by SELF Magazine that featured exercise programs inspired by “TV programs Dancing with the Stars” and “Glee!” Sweeney posed for pictures with fans, kick-boxed and flexed her muscles. Proceeds benefit Cancer and Careers, Susan G. Komen for the Cure®.

For more information: www.SELFWorkoutinthePark.com

Walk It, JHud!

2011-05-11T07:32:00.009-05:00

The Academy Award-winning and Grammy Award-winning Chicago native Jennifer Hudson appeared at Namaste Charter School on Chicago’s south side yesterday to promote the Weight Watchers Walk-It Challenge and to encourage the students to exercise, in conjunction with establishing healthier eating habits.

As her son, David Otunga, Jr., watched from the arms of a caregiver, Hudson exercised with students and remarked about the importance of walking and activity.

Weight Watchers has declared May 22, 2011, “Walk-It Day,” and 5k walks are planned that day nationwide. She also helped Weight Watchers’ present a check for $100,000 to the Alliance for a Healthier Generation to support the organization’s work to reverse the trend of childhood obesity in America and inspire young people to develop healthy habits for life.

The Alliance’s Healthy Schools Program supports more than 11,000 U.S. schools as they implement positive changes in physical activity, school meals, and health education to create healthier places for students to learn and staff to work.

To learn more about Weight Watchers Walk-It Challenge or find a 5k walking event close to you, visit: www.weightwatchers.com/walkit.

THIS is What Happens When a Reporter Reports Something SECONDHAND

2011-03-31T03:29:00.007-05:00

Olympic gold medalist, figure skater Kristi Yamaguchi hit the ice-skating rink located on the 94^th floor in the Observatory of the John Hancock Building on Monday. And the blog of one major newspaper reported that she’d skated. Well, personally having been there, I noticed she was standing on the XTRAICE, the synthetic substance the “ice” is made from that allows the room to be kept at a comfortable temperature. Check out my firsthand pictures on NBC Chicago, and you'll see that having only been a few feet from the opening to the rink, she hardly had a chance to actually skate. Could've been worst though: the "reporter" could've reported on that day someone fell through the ice. Thank God neither of those events happened.

Go JHud!: Chi-town Homegirl Jennifer Hudson Performs a Second Show on July 17, 2011

2011-03-30T11:51:00.003-05:00

Highland Park, Ill.—By popular demand, Ravinia has added a second Jennifer Hudson concert to the 2011 summer lineup on Sunday, July 17, 2011, at 7:30 p.m.

Pavilion tickets are available for purchase for $80 and lawn tickets are $33. Tickets to this concert and all other 2011 shows go on sale to the public on April 27, exclusively at Ravinia.org. Hudson makes her Ravinia debut the night before, on Sat., July 16.

A Chicago native, Hudson began her career as one of the finalists on American Idol and skyrocketed to stardom with her film debut in Dreamgirls, which earned her the Academy Award® for Best Supporting Actress. Hudson’s self-titled debut album won the Grammy for Best R&B Album in 2008. She recently released her sophomore album, I Remember Me to great acclaim.

Ravinia Festival is a not-for-profit organization.

Source: Ravinia

Chicago Tribune names Mic Terror as upcoming local bands for 2011

2011-01-17T02:17:00.009-06:00

"Hiooooooo!" When you hear this signature call you know that it means a good time. You know it means jukin’, drink, and good music. Most of all, you know it means debauchery madness and all-around fun.

A potential "heir apparent to Kanye and Common," according to the Chicago Tribune

Mic Terror, the self-proclaimed "black Bart Simpson," is the next big thing to come out from Chicago rap. He is a rapper who rhymes with rapid-fire punchlines, startling accuracy, and big enough balls to say what's on his mind. Mic Terror—aka "Pipeman" aka "King of the New School"—is an emcee who rhymes strictly on his own reality. Far from abandoning the manufacturing and over-exaggeration, "I represent the average Joe. I only rap about things that actually happen in my life," he says, even if he gets rep Joe sixMic-Pack is quite far from what you would call "average."

In fact, he is quite unusual.

Born and raised in Riverdale, Ill., a south suburb of Chicago, Mic Terror is a highly praised artist on the Chicago club and street circuit who performs regularly with artists like The Cool Kids Hollywood Holt and GLC. But people beginning to take notice of the distinctive songwriter's ability and potential as MIA, Travis of Gym Class Heroes, famous DJ Duo Flosstradamus, and a handful of other musical elite. Now, Mic is preparing to take the world by storm, armed with a new-school style, old-school swagger, and an original presence.

Mic Terrors Latest video "Supersonic," produced by Tony Baines, the second of four videos leading up to the release of Hioo on Little Owl/Universal:

Source

Swank Publishing

Black Friday at The Bassment

2010-11-26T06:08:00.004-06:00

Chicago—Rapper GLC makes an in-store appearance today at The Bassment on 1415 N. Ashland Ave., 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Extend your reach to millions of readers. Write for Examiner.com.

Lupe Fiasco meet-and-greet at PHLI

2010-11-22T21:21:00.001-06:00

Chicago—Lupe Fiasco appears at PHLI tomorrow for a meet-and-greet at 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Extend your reach to millions of readers. Write for Examiner.com.

Bush a racist? Nah...

2010-11-10T17:00:00.005-06:00

After hearing that his mother Barbara Bush favors abortion rights, I’m not quite as astonished that in his new memoir Decision Points former president George W. Bush knew that Dick Cheney's daughter, Mary, was gay in 2000. “I could not care less about Mary's orientation,” he told Cheney before he accepted Bush's invitation to become his running mate.

It’s a shame that a presidency whose legacy could have been based on tolerance was marred by two things: Bush’s knee-jerk response to the September 11 terrorist attacks (which along with the attack itself sparked widespread Muslim intolerance) and Kanye West’s response to Bush during Hurricane Katrina. West called Bush a racist.

George Bush Doesn't Care About Black People

The remark obviously affected Bush deeply because he recounts it as one of the worst moments in his presidency. I'm glad that this morning he and West made amends; West recanted the remark, and Bush forgave him. But I never got the vibe that Bush was a racist. Not to be facetious or even sensational, by one of my top reasons is that I always thought he and Condoleeza Rice had affair, especially when they'd go to Camp David and spend weekends on a “working” trip.

WuTang Announces Dates for Its Rebirth Tour

2010-11-08T16:02:00.000-06:00

Extend your reach to millions of readers. Write for Examiner.com.

A.M.P. LLC announces the Chi-City Record Pool: Music Symposium hosted by DJ V-Dub and more

2010-11-06T07:54:00.001-05:00

Harvey, Ill.—The ever-developing professional music industry in Chicago has birthed the careers of various talented artists throughout the country, including Kanye West, Common, and Lupe Fiasco.

On Saturday, Nov. 13, WGCI deejay V-Dub hosts the second Chi-City Record Pool: Music Symposium from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Adrianna’s, located 16300 S. Dixie Highway 60426. Panelists—including representatives from Def Jam, EMI, independent labels, A&R, and fashion, and producers Jeremih, Da Internz, Twista, Xtreme, GLC and more—are expected to espouse a wealth of information for the over 1,000 participants attending.

As the third-largest market in an ailing U.S. economy, Chicago has felt various effects of the nation’s recession; but as one of the premier events for aspiring music professionals looking to build and expand their careers in music, the Chi-City Record Pool: Music Symposium was created to stimulate the economic environment of Chicago and create jobs. The increase of developing artists using the music business as a professional career, education and business of the industry are our most important aspects.

The Chi-City Record Pool: Music Symposium is formatted into panel discussion and live performances to highlight the most prominent areas of professional development such as: entrepreneurship, partnerships, product development, and marketing and promotions. A number of Chi-City’s prominent deejays are also attending, including: WGCI DJ V-Dub, DJ Pharris WPWX (Power 23), DJ Shaun T, Sean Mac, DJ Nephets, along with other deejays to listen to demo records and give advice on artist development, distribution, club culture and mix-tapes.

Other highlighted guests are subject to confirmation. General Admission is $20.00 and tickets can only be purchased online.

Hugh Hefner still kicking and knocking boots

2010-10-29T23:42:00.008-05:00

Chicago—Perhaps the still-handsome 84-year-old icon is a bit more frail and hard of hearing these days, but he is forever the ultimate playboy. According to former girlfriend Holly Madison, his gadget still works—and without Viagra!—she says of the impromptu time she jumped his bones.

His gravitas was much on display as he walked into the Gene Siskel Film Center tonight with a full entourage of bodyguards and beautiful bodies shadowing him tonight for the his hometown premier of Brigitte Berman–directed documentary, "Hugh Hefner: Playboy, Activist and Rebel." As the title suggests, the film shows there's more depth to Hef than just naked girls (but, hey, he's living every male's fantasy!).

In addition to girlfriend Crystal Harris, who was Miss December 2009, Hef's sons, Cooper and Marston (playboys in the making?), and brother Keith were on hand for the film's screening, followed by a Q&A with Hef and the film's Oscar-winning director. I'm told they were all a pinch late because the group got stuck in the center's elevator and had to walk the stairs. Later than evening, the group dined at Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab.

My former 'poster boy' El DeBarge hits a new ‘shrine’ in Nov.

2010-10-28T06:57:00.004-05:00

Chicago—Okay, I had to chuckle—and credential!—when I heard that El DeBarge was coming to The Shrine.

After nearly 20 years as a photojournalist (and songwriter), I don't get starstruck anymore. But as I stated in my Hub—speaking of "shrine"—I do own up to having an El DeBarge pix or two on my poster (yeah, like I'm the only one!). So I'm giddy that he's making his Chicago promotional rounds for his comeback album Second Chance on Nov. 5. The highly anticipated event allows the singer to perform new songs after his 16-year hiatus from recording in addition to his classics and fan favorites "I Like It" "All This Love" and "Rhythm of the Night."

Yes, I did weep while covering Michael Jackson's memorial at Staples Center last year. But on a much lighter note, let's see if I faint while taking pictures of El when he performs at Shrine next month. Stay tuned!

About The Shrine

The Shrine is located at 2109 S. Wabash Ave. in the South Loop's entertainment district. A fusion of a sensuous nightclub, state-of-the-art live performance space, and high-end lounge, The Shrine is a next generation nightlife venue opened June 2009 in the emerging South Loop district of Chicago. The Shrine takes its name from the personal nightclub of Fela Kuti, the legendary Nigerian musician/human rights activist and creator of Afro beat. With a finger on the pulse of Chicago’s young metropolitans, The Shrine brings together the city’s music, fashion, and art communities to create a truly diverse, trend-setting environment.

Weekly Events
Tuesdays – 'Sucka Free' with DJ Jay iLLa 10 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Wednesdays – ‘The Coup d'état Lounge Experience: Save Our Souls' with DJ Tight Natural 10 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Fridays – 'GOOD Friday' with DJs Broadway Streetz, Sean Magnificent & Jay iLLa 10 p.m. to 3 a.m.
Saturdays – 'Licorice Saturdays' with DJ Bonsu, D-Money and DeAngelo 10 p.m. to 3 a.m.

Additional Source: The Shrine

Megadeth joined onstage by Slayer's Kerry King

2010-10-27T06:04:00.007-05:00

L.A., Baby!—Mega-metal band Megadeth was joined by Slayer guitarist Kerry King at last week’s Jagermeister Tour stop on Oct. 21. And we have the photos to prove it!

King joined Megadeth for the song “Rattlehead.” It was the first time King played with Megadeth since 1984—an historic moment in heavy metal history, almost too much metal for one stage!

Photo source: Andrew Stuart

Christy Turlington's documentary premieres at sold-out benefit for woman's health organization Jhpiego

2010-10-26T04:59:00.007-05:00

Baltimore, Md.—International supermodel and woman’s health advocate Christy Turlington Burns, attended a sold-out, 450-person premiere of her documentary No Woman, No Cry to benefit Jhpiego, a global-health nonprofit affiliated with Johns Hopkins University.

The evening began with a VIP pre-reception to welcome Turlington Burns to Baltimore and commend her efforts to raise awareness for woman’s public health policy through Every Mother Counts, the public advocacy organization and campaign that she started.

Christy is currently in her second year of pursuing a master’s degree in maternal health at Columbia University. She was inspired to learn more about the issue after her own near death experience when giving birth to her daughter Grace.

A Q&A session followed the premiere where Christy described the importance of showing her film to First Lady of Zanzibar, Mama Shadya Karume, during the Women Deliver conference. The First Lady was so moved by the documentary that she invited Christy to bring the film to Zanzibar, where it was shown to the local population as a study on both lack of access to healthcare and the cultural sensitivities and education needed to find true solutions.

“With this film I hope to engage the general public,” Turlington Burns ended, “and also bring back the humanized side of the statistics.”

Somebody: PLEASE give Halle Berry a chill pill

2010-10-25T09:05:00.008-05:00

I remember in Vogue, actress Halle Berry, who's twice-married, saying, "I'm not done with love, but I refuse to settle." I'm not sure if that was a dig at deadbeat ex-husband Eric Benet or Wesley Snipes, who reportedly was the one who whack Berry so hard she has a hearing problem in one ear; but on the surface model Gabriel Aubry (who looks like eerily like one of my ex-boyfriends—yikes!—but younger) looked like a great catch.

Who knows for sure why the two, who together have a two-year daughter, ended their five-year relationship. The going "stories" I've heard from each are that Aubrey was starting to find other younger women more attractive, and Berry was reported to have said that Aubrey wasn't pulling his weight in the relationship: one version was financial and the other was that Aubrey (again)

She continued, "I am a hopeless romantic. And I won't stop till I get it right."

Well, she just broke up with Aubrey and is already stepping out with new guy Oliver Martinez, who I'm told is something of a player.

Here's my thought ladies; tell me if you agree: When women jump into relationships soon after ending one—which I thought Berry also did with Aubrey after her divorcing Benet—they make wrong decisions. That's question number one. On the other hand, if she's just having fun or a fling, is that okay, as well?

I don't know. If it's the latter, as gorgeous as Martinez is, I'd find it hard to have an intimate relationship with him and not get some feelings involved after he dumped me—LOL! Then I whoop his ass because I'm not into stalking. But she acts like she's desperate, like she has to have a man on her arm. Tell me, girls, which is it?

Photo Source: Jeffrey Mayer/WireImage

Gap Casting Call: Please vote for my nephew

2010-10-24T10:09:00.002-05:00

Lake Forest, Ill.—Over the weekend, I shot some pictures of my nephew to enter him into the Gap Casting Call contest. Here he is protecting sweet, little four-year-old Katherine in his second-ever photo shoot. Today is her birthday.

Check out these links to vote for Demetrius' Gap Casting Call photos, and please vote for each of his four pictures every day and as often as possible, so that I can one day blog about how he became the youngest Academy Award winner.

Voting is free, really easy, and takes less than two minutes—promise! Thank you in advance for your help!

Here are the links:
Picture #1 http://www.gapcastingcall.com/GapCastingCall/EntryDetail.html?id=1088758
Picture #2 http://www.gapcastingcall.com/GapCastingCall/EntryDetail.html?id=1084739
Picture #3 http://www.gapcastingcall.com/GapCastingCall/EntryDetail.html?id=1088831
Picture #4 http://www.gapcastingcall.com/GapCastingCall/EntryDetail.html?id=1084617

Joel and Benji Madden hit the mall circuit

2010-10-23T11:12:00.002-05:00

On Wednesday, August 25, Macy’s and American Rag unveiled the limited-edition “Mad Picks” capsule collection by Good Charlotte’s Benji and Joel Madden, available in select Macy’s stores and on macys.com. See more of my pictures on NBC Chicago.

As part of an exciting music program created by FILTER Creative Group and Macy’s private brand American Rag, the “Mad Picks” capsule collection has a distinct rock-n-roll feel for the girl who loves to combine her love of music with fashion. In addition to handpicking “Mad Picks” items from the American Rag fall collection, Benji and Joel Madden will be performing a series of five free concert events in Macy’s stores across the country this fall in support of Good Charlotte’s new album, Cardiology, out November 2.

“We like to wear clothes that you can wear up or dress down, like a T-shirt you can throw a jacket over for dinner. It’s important for us as a band to have clothes which we can both walk on stage or relax at home.”

With stylish denim, embellished tops, and boho vests, “Mad Picks” is the Maddens’ first collaboration with a retailer and features their favorite looks from American Rag’s new seasonal collection for girls. To celebrate this effort and launch, the Maddens will perform free acoustic concerts at the following locations:

Saturday, 9/11: Cherry Hill, NJ – Macy’s Cherry Hill
Saturday, 9/25: Rosedale, MN – Macy’s Rosedale Center
Saturday, 10/9: Miami, FL – Macy’s International Mall West Dade
Saturday, 10/16: Roseville, CA – Macy’s Galleria at Roseville
Saturday, 10/23: Skokie, IL – Macy’s Old Orchard

Each concert event took place at 2 p.m. in Macy’s Juniors department and featured autograph signings and sweepstakes for customers to win tickets to Good Charlotte’s upcoming tour. Customers who made a $50 purchase will get VIP access to meet the Maddens and received a download card featuring an exclusive acoustic version of Good Charlotte’s new hit single, “Like It’s Her Birthday.”

Fans in attendance also had the opportunity to pre-order the upcoming album, Cardiology.

Cardiology is Good Charlotte’s fifth studio album to be released November 2 on Capitol Records/EMI Music, almost 10 years following the release of their self-titled debut. Continuing with the band’s traditional adventurous musical persona, the new album features everything from the dance floor-friendly first single “Like It’s Her Birthday” to future anthems like “Silver Screen Romance,” while still effortlessly retaining the band’s signature sound in the process. “Like It’s Her Birthday” is out now and will be available for purchase August 24.

The Maddens currently appear on the cover of RAGGED, the free publication featuring full-length articles and photo spreads of today's hottest artists sporting the latest collections by American Rag. In the article, “Good Charlotte: Fashion Ready,” Benji and Joel discuss the “Mad Picks” collection:

“We like to wear clothes that you can wear up or dress down, like a T-shirt you can throw a jacket over for dinner. It’s important for us as a band to have clothes which we can both walk on stage or relax at home.”

Further commenting on the collaboration process, Benji Madden adds, “Macy's and American Rag have always been places we have looked to for new trends and stylish clothing so it was exciting to be working with retailers where we would normally shop. Both Macy's, American Rag and FILTER have been incredible and inspiring to work with and we can't thank them enough for the opportunity. Joel and I can’t wait to look out into the crowd at the next Good Charlotte concert and see all the girls wearing our first collaboration from Mad Picks.”

Visit your local Macy’s store beginning August 25 to find “Mad Picks” exclusively from American Rag and get a free PDF download of RAGGED Magazine at www.raggedmag.com.

For more information on Good Charlotte or American Rag visit:

www.myspace.com/goodcharlotte
www.goodcharlotte.com
www.raggedmag.com

About Good Charlotte

Good Charlotte is an internationally recognized and award-winning rock band hailing from Waldorf, Maryland, set to release their fifth full-length album and Capitol Records debut, Cardiology. Since their self-titled debut release in 2000, Good Charlotte has sold over 10 million records to date and toured the world with top radio hits like "The Anthem," "Lifestyles Of The Rich & Famous," and "Hold On." Good Charlotte is: vocalist Joel Madden, his identical twin brother guitarist Benji Madden, guitarist Billy Martin, bassist Paul Thomas, and drummer Dean Butterworth.

About Macy’s

Macy's, the largest retail brand of Macy's, Inc., delivers fashion and affordable luxury to customers at more than 800 locations in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and Guam. Macy's stores and macys.com offer distinctive assortments including the most desired family of exclusive and fashion brands for him, her and home. Macy's is known for such epic events as Macy's 4th of July Fireworks^® and the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade^®, as well as spectacular fashion shows, culinary events, flower shows and celebrity appearances. Building on a 150-year tradition, Macy's helps strengthen communities by supporting local and national charities that make a difference in the lives of our customers.

For Macy’s media materials, images and contacts, please visit our online pressroom at www.macys.com/pressroom.

About FILTER Creative Group

FILTER Creative Group is a fast-growing entertainment and lifestyle-marketing agency devoted to championing quality music, fashion, film, products, and services of substance. FILTER has implemented marketing and advertising campaigns for numerous major companies, including Toyota, Macy's, Dickies, Nike, Universal, Warner Brothers, Capitol Music Group, Interscope Records, Columbia Records, MTV, VH1, Comedy Central, Ben Sherman, Landmark Theatres, VTech, Denny's and many others. FILTER Creative Group also has a publishing company that produces the international music magazine, FILTER. For more information please visit www.FILTERcreativegroup.com

About FILTER Magazine

Good music will prevail. These are the words that we here at FILTER live by. In an ever-evolving musical landscape, we're here to help. Through FILTER's various outlets - our informative website, our irreverent blog, the FILTER Good Music Guide, our local listening parties and the jewel in our music-loving crown, FILTER magazine - we want to help you discover your new favorite band.

Additional Sources: Macy's and Filter

CELEBRITY SPOTTING: The Clash meets Hypnotic Brass on Ensemble's home turf

2010-10-21T04:43:00.013-05:00

Chicago—Before their upcoming Plastic Beach tour stop in L.A. on Oct. 27, 2010, Chi-town boys Hypnotic Brass Ensemble rocked the UIC Pavilion Oct. 16, with a stellar performance followed by an equally electrifying after-party at the House of Blues' Foundation Room.The Bacardi-sponsored event, dubbed "The Chicago Experience," was attended by an array of specially invited and celebrity guests that including Damon Albarn (Blur, Gorillaz), soul legend Bobby Womack, and De La Soul, Yukimi Nagano (Little Dragon), Abel Girabaldi, Kano & Bashy, Pharcyde, and The Clash's Paul Simeonon.

Deejays BWS, Hollywood Holt, and Maseo of De La Soul kept the crowd pumped while Hypnotic Brass prepared to hit the stage (again!), to perform three songs "Kryptonite," "Let's Get the Party Started," and Outkast’s "SpottieOttieDopaliscious."

For more information on the Hypnotic Brass Ensemble.

CELEBRITY SPOTTING: Cassie and Yung Joc at Prince Malik Record Label Launch Party

2010-10-21T01:19:00.000-05:00

New York City—Monday night, R&B star Cassie hit NYC’s 1OAK to host the Prince Malik Record Label (www.princemalikrecords.com) Launch Party and was joined by the likes of power duo Ice-T and Coco, artist Yung Joc (who is featured on Malik’s premiere single “Billionaire”), music manager Screwface (of “Making of the Band” fame), and media personality Diana Falzone.

With Cassie arriving together with Prince Malik and posing for red carpet pics amidst sharing laughs, spectators wondered if Cassie had tapped into some new found royalty.

Kim Kardashian and her 22 carats

2010-10-20T05:12:00.012-05:00

Chicago—Well, you know I wasn't talking about her famous butt (being tiny)!

The "Keeping Up with the Kardashians" star made an appearance at the Michael Hill store in Water Tower Place last night after mall hours. She was a lot shorter—and friendlier—than I'd expected. Kardashian came to promote the jewelry store's "Search for the World's Best Couple" contest, as she has done in New York City and Toronto. The winner of the competition, which involves undertaking a series of online challenges, walks away with a 22-carat diamond ring.

I'd been told earlier as we all waited for her arrival that staff in various cities had found her delightful. Patrons at the private event kept busy chatting and enjoying the free drinks and hors d'oeuvres. Many of them decked out in Louboutins and Louis Vuittons appeared to be keeping up with the Joneses and the Kardashians with no problem. One staff member wore a replica of the winning prize.

Also on hand, store owner Michael Hill, who's referred to in his homeland of New Zealand as the "lord of the rings." As Hill removed the nearly quarter-size square-shaped rock ring from its locked box, Kardashian seemed to be salivating in anticipation for the jeweler to slip the ring on her finger.

Store officials have declined to say how much the diamond is worth. But here's a hint: If the "measly" 18 carats Jay-Z bestowed upon Beyonce's hand is worth five million, I think it's safe to say we're somewhere in that ballpark. Or perhaps the figure for Hill's ring is out of the ballpark?!

CELEBRITY SPOTTING: CeCe Segarra at W City Center ACCESS event

2010-10-19T11:46:00.010-05:00

Chicago—Pop recording artist CeCe Segarra, of Miami-based Weight Records took over W City Center on Wednesday, Oct. 13, as part of ACCESS—the insiders look at IPO (the new premier restaurant in the Loop), expanded W Living Room Bar, redesigned guest rooms, refreshed meeting space and Telepresence Suite.

The evening included sips and bites from the new IPO menu, a human vending machine, and a dynamic live musical performance by CeCe Segarra.

About CeCe Segarra
Latina Pop Princess predicted to be this year’s breakthrough artists who has opened for Ne-Yo, Busta Rhymes, Flo Rida, Cece Segarra began singing at an early age in the neighborhoods of New York City. At the age of 15, she trained professionally at the world renowned Joffrey Ballet School and continued her passion for performing. Segarra relocated to Miami and signed to Weight Records in Winter of 2009. Currently, Segarra's singles “Like Me” and “Go Your Own Way," featuring rapper Gucci Mane, are at radio and heating up airwaves across America.

What Else Is Going On Today?

Magic Johnson sells his stake in the L.A. Lakers

2010-10-19T01:37:00.008-05:00

Los Angeles—Earvin "Magic" Johnson, who was believed to own as much 10 percent of the L.A. Lakers is no longer a part-owner of the team.

Team officials announced Monday that Johnson had sold his stake in the Lakers to billionaire Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong, a prominent UCLA surgeon and longtime Lakers season-ticket holder, for an undisclosed sum. Johnson purchased his share of the team in 1994 for a reported $10 million.

Although Johnson's reasons for selling his share of the franchise were not revealed, this transaction frees up Johnson, a Lansing, Mich., native, to seek a role in the Detroit Pistons franchise, which he has previously expressed interest in.

What Else Is Going On Today?

Mother on 'Leave It to Beaver,' Barbara Billingsley, dies at 94

2010-10-18T00:57:00.008-05:00

As June Cleaver, Billingsley was the model 1950s mom, clad in dresses, high heels and pearls even while vacuuming. 'She was the ideal mother,' Billingsley said of her character.

Santa Monica, Calif.—Barbara Billingsley, who played June Cleaver, the quintessential 1950s sitcom mom on "Leave It to Beaver," and later did a memorable send-up of her white-bread image playing the "jive-talking" passenger in the hit comedy "Airplane!," has died. She was 94.

Billingsley, who played small parts in B movies and appeared on television before achieving sitcom immortality, died Saturday at her home of the rheumatoid disorder polymyalgia, said publicist Judy Twersky.

"Ward, I'm worried about the Beaver," Billingsley's June would say to her TV husband, played by Hugh Beaumont, on "Leave It to Beaver."

The gentle-humored series, which viewed life from a kid's point of view and ran from 1957 to 1963—on CBS before moving to ABC in the fall of '58—featured Jerry Mathers as Theodore "Beaver" Cleaver and Tony Dow as his older brother, Wally.

As June Cleaver, Billingsley was the personification of an Eisenhower-era stay-at-home mom—at least one residing in fictional Mayfield, U.S.A.: a mild-mannered, perfectly coiffed housewife who typically wore dresses, high heels and a strand of white pearls even while vacuuming or baking cookies for her boys.

"She was the ideal mother," Billingsley said of her character in 1997 in TV Guide. "Some people think she was weakish, but I don't. She was the love in that family. She set a good example for what a wife could be. I had two boys at home when I did the show. I think the character became kind of like me and vice versa. I've never known where one started and where one stopped."

As for the idealized TV family on "Leave It to Beaver," which continues in reruns on cable more than half a century after its debut, Billingsley had her own explanation for the Cleavers' enduring appeal.

"Good grief," she told TV Guide, "I think everybody would like a family like that. Wouldn't it be nice if you came home from school and there was Mom standing there with her little apron and cookies waiting?"

Born Barbara Combes in Los Angeles on Dec. 22, 1915, she and her sister grew up in a single-parent household after her parents divorced when she was an infant.

She always wanted to be an actress. She was attending Los Angeles City College when she joined the cast of "Straw Hat," a comedy that went to Broadway in late 1937. The show closed after four performances, but she "decided New York was more fun than college" and found work as a $60-a-week fashion model. She later toured with Billie Burke in a production of "Accidentally Yours."

Her marriage in the early 1940s to restaurant operator Glenn Billingsley, nephew of Stork Club owner Sherman Billingsley, produced two sons and prompted her move back to Los Angeles, where her husband managed the Mocambo nightclub.

When the marriage ended in divorce in the late '40s, Barbara Billingsley already had begun playing uncredited bit parts and small roles in a string of B movies. That continued into the '50s, when she also began landing roles on "Four Star Playhouse" and other television anthology programs.

In 1955, she played co-star Stephen Dunne's wife on the short-lived situation comedy "Professional Father," and she portrayed Gale Gordon's girlfriend on several episodes of the situation comedy "The Brothers."

In 1953, Billingsley married director Roy Kellino, who died three years later of a heart attack at age 44.

"It's a terrible blow, but you can't wallow in your grief," Billingsley said in a 1993 interview with The Times. "When Roy died, my agent made me work all the time. And six months later, they called me to start the series."

"They" were Joe Connelly and Bob Mosher, the creators of "Leave It to Beaver," the first TV series to show life from a child's point of view.

"Joe Connelly had seven children, and Bob Mosher had two, and they had a lot of material right there," Billingsley told the Nashville Tennessean in 2003. "Every show was taken from some kernel of truth, something that had happened to their children or a relative."

As for her trademark white-pearl necklace, Billingsley said in 2003 in The Times that she wore it "because I have a big hollow in my neck" and the necklace covered the spot perfectly.

"So no matter what I was doing—cleaning, cooking or answering the phone—I had those darn pearls on," she said. And there was a practical reason she wore high heels on the show.

"In the beginning of the series I wore flat shoes, but then Wally and the Beaver began to get taller," she said. "That's why they put me in heels. The producers wanted me to be as tall or taller than the kids."

But even with heels, Billingsley said, "sometimes I would stand on the stairs for a scene so I could have some more height."

After "Leave It to Beaver" ended in 1963, Billingsley made occasional TV guest appearances. But she primarily maintained a low public profile with her third husband, Dr. William Mortensen, whom she had married in 1959. He died in 1981.

In 1980, Billingsley was firmly back in the public eye with her cameo in the disaster-movie spoof "Airplane!"—as the unlikely passenger who volunteers to translate the incomprehensible urban ghetto talk of an ailing black male passenger for the flustered flight attendant. ("Oh, stewardess, I speak 'jive.'")

In 1983, Billingsley returned as June Cleaver in "Still the Beaver," a made-for-television film that reassembled the old series' cast, with the notable exception of Beaumont, who died in 1982.

"No father on television was ever better than Hugh," Billingsley once said.

Beaumont's wise and caring father figure was there in spirit in the reunion film, however, as Billingsley's June would visit his grave and say, "Ward, what would you do?"

The success of the "Still the Beaver" TV movie led to the series "Still the Beaver" on the Disney Channel from 1984 to 1986, with Billingsley returning as June. Retitled "The New Leave It to Beaver" when it was picked up by the cable superstation WTBS in 1986, the series ran until 1989.

Billingsley, who provided the voice of Nanny on the animated "Muppet Babies" series that aired from 1984 to 1991, appeared on television only sporadically in the '90s. She also played a cameo, as Aunt Martha , in the 1997 feature film "Leave It to Beaver."

Billingsley is survived by sons Drew Billingsley of Granada Hills and Glenn Billingsley of Phillips Ranch; stepson William Mortensen Jr. of Pacific Palisades; 16 grandchildren; and 23 great-grandchildren.

Services for the actress are private.

Source: Dennis McLellan for Celebrity Deathwatch

Deathwatch mailing list

Hilary Duff hits the book tour circuit

2010-10-17T09:28:00.008-05:00

Naperville, Ill.—Pop singer and former "Lizzie McGuire" and "Gossip Girl" actress Hilary Duff was met by a relatively subdued crowd on Saturday evening, when she arrived to sign copies of her new young adult novel, Elixir at Anderson's Bookshop.

This response was not due to lack of excitement on the part of the more than 500 folks who lined up with purchased books in hand to be sign; rather, it more indicative of the tight ship Anderson’s runs since they hold more than 200 signings a year. One staff member wielding a bullhorn reminded patrons that there would be no climbing on shelves and knocking down books to catch a glimpse of Duff (dressed in sky-high Christian Louboutins and donning the reportedly $1 million wedding ring) as they waited; indeed, the patrons obeyed so that when Duff finally entered the store, nearly a half-hour late, the screams for her were mild and mostly contained until many of them got outside and the surrealism wore off.

“Oh my God, I just met Hilary Duff!” one young teen squealed presumably to another on her cell phone.

Others took pictures of the SUV she rode in while her chauffeur waited patiently and vigilant as she signed books until well after 9 p.m. “She’s not as sweet as I thought. In fact, she was a bit standoffish,” one disappointed fan commented, noting that Duff would not sign a copy of her fanzine also.

In Duff’s defense, I explained to the young woman that authors on book tours are usually under contract from their publishers to only sign copies of books. This is something to remember when you’re buying autographed memorabilia; what items are/aren’t signed is one form authenticating that item, besides the signature itself.

Alicia Keys gives birth to a baby boy

2010-10-15T21:32:00.004-05:00

Singer Alicia Keys and her husband, Swizz Beatz, welcomed a son. The baby, named Egypt Dauode Dean, was born late Thursday night in New York City at St. Luke's Roosevelt Hospital. Although this is the couple’s first child Beatz, whose real name is Kasseem Dean, has three other children from a previous marriage.

Bacardi after-party with Gorillaz and Hypnotic Brass Ensemble in Chi-town

2010-10-15T10:51:00.012-05:00

The Chicago Experience, a.k.a. Plastic Beach after-party, hosted by Hypnotic Brass Ensemble and Bacardi, with Special Guests Gorillaz

Chicago—Jazz artists Hypnotic Brass Ensemble—fresh off recent collaborations with major artists such as Mos Def, Erykah Badu, Maxwell and Gorillaz—celebrate their first major U.S. tour, Plastic Beach, with an after-party in their hometown. This event, dubbed the “Chicago Experience,” takes place at the exclusive Foundation Room on Saturday, Oct. 16, 2010, and features not only special celebrity guests but a live performance from the band you won’t want to miss.

Their tour schedule has included stops at NYC's Lincoln Center and Brooklyn Academy of Music, as well as international dates at the U.K.'s Glastonbury Festival. Incomparable to any new band in music today, Hypnotic Brass Ensemble has not only won a diverse and international fan base but also the respect of the industry.

“Hypnotic Brass is fierce … unbelievable,” said Posdnuos from De La Soul, the legendary hip-hop trio. “When it comes to blowing your mind away with the soul in everything they do, this what you got to be apart of; this is the movement you got to know about.”

“If it’s a feeling you're talking about I feel that they have the spirit and working with them on stage is akin to everybody using their spirit together and making something alive,” said Gorillaz frontman Damon Albarn of Hypnotic Brass’ tour. “When I think of Hypnotic I think of life.”

The after-party is expected to attract not only the hippest taste-makers, but major celebrities: Special invited guests include the Gorillaz, De La Soul, N.E.R.D, Damon Albarn (Blur, Gorillaz), Yukimi Nagano (Little Dragon), Q-Tip, NO I.D., Abel Girabaldi, Kano & Bashy, Twista, along with other celebrities whom Hypnotic Brass Ensemble has collaborated with. There is an exclusive cocktail reception hosted by Bacardi, along with signature and discounted drinks for purchase.

For more information on The Hypnotic Brass Ensemble, please visit www.hypnoticbrassensemble.com.

What Else Is Cindy Thinking About Today?

Mary J. Blige hosts official Music Save My Life Tour after-party and Ebony Magazine's 65th birthday celebration party at Le Passage

2010-10-15T00:32:00.008-05:00

Chicago—Mary J. Blige, the "Queen of Hip-Hop Soul," and Chicago's own Ebony magazine celebrate the magazine's 65th anniversary in print at Le Passage powered by Nu Face Entertainment. This event also serves as the official after-party for Blige's Music Saved My Life tour, featuring R&B singer Jazmine Sullivan. Several notables are scheduled to attend this event.

Location
Le Passage

937 N Rush St.

Chicago, IL

Event Date
Sunday, Oct. 17, 2010, at 9 p.m. - 3 a.m.

Toasting and Tasting until 11 p.m.

About Mary J. Blige

Mary J. Blige is an American singer, producer, songwriter, actress, and rapper. A recipient of nine Grammy Awards and many other honors, Blige has recorded eight multi-platinum albums. Blige has received the World Music Legends Award for combining hip-hop and soul in the early 1990s. She was ranked number 100 in the list of 100 greatest singers of all time by Rolling Stone magazine. Her first two albums What's The 411? and many critics and publications have heralded My Life as two of the most acclaimed soul albums of all time. As of 2010, Blige has sold over 50 million albums and 15 million singles.

About Ebony Magazine

Ebony, a monthly magazine for the African American market, was founded by John H. Johnson and has published continuously since the Autumn of 1945. Ebony cove photography has since its inception focused on African American celebrities and politicians, from Dorothy Dandridge and Mariah Carey, to Michael Jackson to Ebony C—Sausa and Barack Obama. Persistently upbeat, Ebony has striven always to address African American issues, personalities, and interests in a positive and self-affirming manner. Advertisers have for decades created ads specifically for the pages of Ebony that featured black models using their products. The 65th Issues cover is graced with Usher, Mary J. Blige, Samuel L. Jackson, Taraji P. Henson.

Bid On A Piece Of Blackhawks History

2010-10-14T23:08:00.005-05:00

Red Line, Blue Line and now ON-LINE!

All the celebrations for last year's Stanley Cup have, ended but you can keep the party alive with your own banner that hung from the city's street poles for the Blackhawks Victory Parade.

Beginning this Friday, Oct. 15 at 9 a.m., through next Friday, Oct. 22 until 5 p.m., you can bid on line for two of the player banners.

The Mayor's Office of Special Events is pleased to announce the on-line auction will feature two player banners: Assistant Captain and Forward Patrick Sharp and former Blackhawk Kris Versteeg.

In addition to the two Chicago Blackhawks banners, the on-line auction also include one of this year's Marathon banners in both the large street pole version and the collector's mini size; a perfect gift item for a 10-10-10 participant.

To place your bids, visit www.explorechicago.org/specialevents. All proceeds benefit the Sharing It program, which raises funds for job training for the underprivileged. Donations are made to the Chicago Anti-Hunger Federation and the Greater Chicago Food Depository and to purchase holiday gifts and provide holiday entertainment for needy Chicago children.

More banners including a Stanley Cup Champions banner are available at live auction on Wednesday, Nov. 17, at noon at the Daley Center in the East Lobby.

Source: Mayor's Office of Special Events

What Else Is Cindy Thinking About Today?

Christy Turlington's documentary premiere to benefit woman's health organization Jhpiego

2010-10-14T01:45:00.006-05:00

Christy Turlington Burns Visits Baltimore to Present Her New Documentary Film, No Woman, No Cry

Baltimore, Md.—More than 500,000 women die each year from complications related to pregnancy and childbirth. On Monday, Oct. 25, Jhpiego, a global-health nonprofit affiliated with Johns Hopkins University, hosts a special event with former supermodel-turned-maternal-health advocate and filmmaker, Christy Turlington Burns, to increase awareness about the state of maternal health.

The event, a fundraiser for Jhpiego, supports the organization’s work to prevent the needless deaths of women and their families, and serves as the Baltimore premier of Turlington Burns’ documentary, No Woman, No Cry. Following the screening of the film, Turlington Burns and Jhpiego representatives participate in a Q&A to discuss the film and maternal health issues around the world. Additionally, guests enjoy a dessert reception immediately after the Q&A. Tickets can be purchased online at www.jhpiego.org or by calling 410-537-1813.

In her directorial debut, Christy Turlington Burns shares the powerful stories of at-risk pregnant women in four parts of the world, including a remote Maasai tribe in Tanzania, a slum of Bangladesh, and a prenatal clinic in the United States. By bringing people together through the universal experience of birth, we can help create a movement that works to prevent the needless deaths of woman worldwide. More information about No Woman, No Cry is found at www.everymothercounts.org.

What
Baltimore Debut of No Woman, No Cry—Christy Turlington Burns’ documentary and fundraiser for Jhpiego

When
Monday, 7:00 p.m. on Oct. 25, 2010

Where
Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) Brown Center
1301 West Mount Royal Avenue
Baltimore, Md. 21217

Ticket Information
$200 per person for a special reception with Christy Turlington Burns before the event, includes film, parking and dessert reception
$100 per person; $75 each for two tickets or more
$10 student tickets
Prices include the film and a dessert reception following the film
Tickets can be purchased online at www.jhpiego.org or by calling 410-537-1813.

About Jhpiego
Jhpiego (pronounced "ja-pie-go"), is an international non-profit health organization affiliated with Johns Hopkins University. For 35 years, Jhpiego has empowered front-line health workers by designing and implementing effective, low-cost, hands-on solutions to strengthen the delivery of health care services for women and their families. For more information, go to www.jhpiego.org.

What Else Is Cindy Thinking About Today?

Yung Joc and Jim Jones join Prince Malik for video shoot of single "Billionaire"

2010-10-12T19:25:00.005-05:00

Queens, N.Y.—As promised, here photos of the video shoot for the upcoming single “Billionaire,” by emerging artist Prince Malik with rapper Jim Jones. There's also a remix version featuring hip-hop talent Yung Joc. The trio was on hand this past weekend at Prince Malik’s mansion to shoot the music video.

Related: Rapper Jim Jones and Prince Malik Video Shoot on Oct. 8-9 in NYC

Hell or high water: Bret Michaels returns to Joe's Bar Nov. 4

2010-10-12T02:18:00.005-05:00

Chicago—No heart attack or stroke can seem keep singer Bret Michaels from the stage. The "Rock of Love" star and winner of the "Celebrity Apprentice" returns to Joe's Bar on Nov. 4, 2010! You won't want to miss it—he puts on an awesome show! Purchase tickets now!

What Else Is Cindy Thinking About Today?

Related: My Concert Review of Bret Michaels at Joe's Bar in March 2010

Is Tyler Perry Next?

2010-10-11T01:42:00.009-05:00

Not for his crass Madea movies, but for some of the more serious flicks he's made like The Family That Preys and Why Did I Get Married?, but does it seem possible that Tyler Perry could be the next black film star to warrant a Black Perspective Tribute, as actor Forest Whitaker did on Saturday, Oct. 9, 2010, in which he received a Career Achievement Award at the Chicago International Film Festival?

The event was hosted at the Chase Auditorium by "Fox News" anchor Robin Robinson and moderated by actress Regina Taylor, who had walked the red carpet Tuesday at the Harris Theater for her latest film, Stone, also starring Ed Norton and Oscar winner Robert DeNiro.

Whitaker won an Oscar for his chilling portrayal of Idi Amin in The Last King of Scotland. He is one of only five black actors to win the Best Actor category, including Denzel Washington and Jamie Foxx. Other Oscar winners who are also Black Perspective honorees include Jennifer Hudson, Sidney Poitier, Morgan Freeman, and Halle Berry.

Perry may not yet carry the long accolades, but he has been influential in the last few years and already surpassed film maker Spike Lee (who has criticized Perry for perpetuating black stereotypes) and the other aforementioned actors in net worth. In 2009, Forbes magazine ranked Perry as the sixth highest-paid man in Hollywood.

Related: Pictures from the 46th Annual Chicago International Film Festival

Damn! Leave Michael alone already

2010-10-09T02:28:00.011-05:00

In my reading, I ran across an article talking about how Michael Jackson's two oldest children, Prince and Paris, were finally going to an outside school (The Buckley School in the San Fernando Valley) after having been entirely home-schooled.

The article goes on to state that the children wanted to finally get out and about, perhaps to have a more "normal" childhood, but that their grandmother Katherine has opted for them to have a full-time security detail following them around throughout the school day. It also suggests that although they are not the only children with bodyguards, they are the only kids with bodyguards full time. The other children of celebrities attending the exclusive school have bodyguards that seem relegated mostly to dropping the kids off and picking them up.

While I took no exception to the article itself, I found the comments made by some of the individuals responding to the article upsetting.

As a journalist and advocate of our Constitutional right to free speech, I surely understand that these comment sections are forums of opinion, but I really loath people who make comments that aren't factual, especially when those comments are malicious, such as Michael being ghetto; a has-been with white children who don't belong to him; or that the children were pretending to his kids to get his money. As a public figure, Michael isn't above criticism. But most of these statements just aren't true.

And the comment of his death was the best thing that could have happened to his children was just downright despicable and insensitive to the children and the rest of the Jackson family.

There were many responses that I didn't appreciate as a fan; yet in my own response I really stuck to the items that I could argued and dispute with facts. Therefore, I didn't talk about whether he was a great singer because that's objective and relative. Many of the readers were critical of Katherine arming the kids with body guards; some readers thought that the other kids might find having bodyguards around all day intimidating, in turn making it harder for Paris and Prince to make new friends. This I understood and agreed with somewhat. But I didn't think their constant presence would render the children dysfunctional. I like the astute analogy that one reader made about all the U.S. presidents' children having full-time bodyguards also. That I know of Chelsea Clinton, Caroline Kennedy, and Amy Carter are functioning quite well.

In this vein, even though the other schoolchildren have minimal security, I can say unequivocally that their parents aren't as famous or scrutinized as Michael Jackson was.

Read on, and you'll see that I really tried to underscore the extraordinary impact he made on music and pop culture, which whether you like his music or not, you can't deny: He was one of the most influential musicians of his generation and certainly the most influential musician in the last 30 years, especially since and with the release of Thriller, still the best-selling album of all time. If you disagree and can dispute with facts anything I've said, please share your thoughts.

Honestly, do you really wonder why Katherine Jackson has hired a full-time security detail for three of her grandchildren, Michael’s children?

Look at the way you are talking her son? I can’t imagine he’s done anything to any of you personally to deserve the malicious comments you’ve made about him. I doubt many of you, if any of you, even knew Michael personally.

He’s not here to defend himself, and if he were, I doubt he’d waste his time trying to please a bunch of haters—he pleased enough people in his lifetime, more than any of you will in your own. In his absence, I’m going to defend him.

I’ll bet if someone talked about your child the way you’re talking about Katherine and Joseph’s son, and wishing your child dead, you’d be ready to fight that person. That’s very insensitive. No parent ever expects to lose a child. I can only imagine that it must be heart-wrenching.

Katherine is trying to protect her grandchildren from this type of negative talk as much as she can. I don't blame her. That’s what Michael entrusted her to do. They’ve just lost their father, and all of children are still minors. It must be hard. If he weren’t a good father, Paris would not have stated at memorial that he was the best father that anyone could imagine. No one’s proven yet that’s he’s abused his children or any child.

And I'm sure we can all identify with wanting to protect our children and don't want anyone else telling us how to raise our own kids, especially someone not related to us.

I’m sure when Katherine feels the time is right for the children to be on their own, she will allow them to be. She’s had nine children—and the children she’s raised have all became successful entertainers and millionaires. I’m sure she knows what she’s doing as a mother and grandmother.

What’s with you guys calling the Jacksons ghetto? Certainly, they came from humble beginnings—the family has made no secret of this. There’s nothing to be ashamed of if one was born in a ghetto. Some people aren’t as fortunate as others.

Country singer Loretta Lynn also came from humble beginnings herself, as did countless other people. But to their credit many of them have risen above those sparse beginnings. They may have come from the ghetto, but the ghetto is not in them. Michael Jackson and his family fit into that category.

Last I looked Mike was paying more than a $100,000 a month to rent his Holmby Hills mansion. If those are “ghetto” prices, that’s news to me. He and his family have been wealthy longer than they’ve been poor. And I don’t know anyone in the ghetto who has a personal chef. Of course, I’ve never lived in a ghetto, so if I’m wrong, please let me know.

I understand when folks are passionate about their arguments, but when those same arguments are totally stated without fact to support them—like most of the comments here—they mean nothing, unless perhaps you’re some kind of thought leader.

And let’s say you were some kind of thought or opinion leader. Most credible “thought leaders” should arm themselves with facts to support their arguments. I haven’t seen any facts stated by the people criticizing Michael here. He's not above criticism, but much of what you said is not true. Some of this crap you've stated in flimsy opinion espousing.

Anyway, no so-called thought leader, whether he or she liked Michael’s music and talent or not, could deny he was immensely success and that he influenced the music industry and pop culture, in general, at least in the last 30 years more than any other musician. Elvis and The Beatles are the only other musicians at a similar level; and both Elvis and The Beatles were influenced by black artists. But don’t take my word for it. Read your music history books, a credible newspaper article, or some trade publication. They’ll tell you the same thing I’m telling you.

I’m not espousing my opinion. I’m stating facts for those of you on the board who are saying he wasn’t a pop or rock star. There are articles on this information.

Michael Jackson was a pioneer in the music industry—period.
His music crossed racial, cultural, and socioeconomic boundaries more than any other artist.
He couldn’t go ANYWHERE in the world and not be mobbed by fans and paparazzi.
At the height of his career, he was as famous if not more famous than The Pope. And no one was more famous than either of them. Again, these are facts. I’ve yet to espouse my opinion of him.
News outlets reported that hundreds of women cried and fainted at his shows in Vienna and London, alone. They were just that riveted about seeing him perform.
ANY artist who’s made a music video after Thriller owes Michael a debt of gratitude because he pioneered the way the music video was conceptualized, made and marketed; hence, the Library of Congress preserved the “Thriller” music video—the first-ever music video—in their permanent collection. I’m sure they wouldn’t have bothered to preserve it if the work were not seminal.
He pioneered the music video—period. That’s also why the folks at MTV renamed their Video Vanguard award after him in 2001.
The couple years before Thriller was released, the music industry suffered an album-sales slump. The album Thriller singlehandedly—did you HEAR ME?! I said SINGLEHANDEDLY—turned the music industry around.
Thriller is still THE BEST-SELLING ALBUM of all time. Read the Guinness Book of World Records: it’s published there. Mike is also in Guinness Book for his charitable contributions and record-breaking concerts.
The movie This Is It is also the top-grossing concert film of all time.
"Thriller" is still the most successful music video of all time.
In 1999, MTV ranked it as the Greatest Music Video Ever Made.
If Michael Jackson were a “has been,” how did he sell out a record 50 shows at O2 Arena? That’s more than any other artist. And "has-beens" don't sell out stadium-size concert arenas.

Sure, Michael didn’t invent the moonwalk; neither did Marcel Marceau, although Marceau influenced Michael, as did Fred Astaire. But Michael mainstreamed the dance and took it to another level, where it became synonymous with him as his signature dance move. Kids mimicked his clothing and dance moves all over the world.

This brings me to the statement that someone on the board made that anyone could have sung the song “Thriller.” You are correct about that. But anyone didn’t just sing “Thriller”; Michael Jackson did. Also, anyone couldn’t have sung “Thriller” and made it a hit. That’s why writer Rod Temperton gave the song to Michael.

The individuality and interpretation that a musician brings to a piece of music is why songwriters write songs for specific people: because they feel that particular singer can fulfill whatever musical vision the songwriter is trying to achieve—that’s not rocket science; that’s same reason why gave Steve Porcaro gave “Human Nature” to Michael to sing; otherwise, he could have recorded the song himself in his band Toto; but he must have felt there was a quality in Michael’s voice that lent itself to that song. He and members of Toto also performed on the song.

One more point to that, both “Beat It” and “Billie Jean,” which Michael wrote, shot to number 1 on the Billboard charts. He also combined his vocals with deft showmanship, which made him one of the music industry’s greatest entertainers; some argue he was the greatest entertainer. He influenced Madonna, Usher, Justin Timberlake, and many others too numerous to name. But read up on it; those artists will tell you he influenced them. Even those artists who don’t, you can see and hear his influence in them.

If anyone can sing a song, why didn’t Fall Out Boy and Chris Cornell, respectively, achieve the same chart success in remaking those two Michael Jackson songs as Michael did.

Jennifer Hudson remade Jennifer Holiday’s song “And I Tell You I’m Not Going,” and sung it almost similarly but didn’t have experience the same chart success with her version either. Not anyone can sing a song that moves listeners the same way with that same song.

What I hear here seems to be a bunch of haters and jealous folks who I bet aren’t a third as successful as Michael Jackson was. His legacy is still relevant and growing.

It doesn’t matter if Michael was weird. I’m weird, too. All of us creative folks are set apart from others in society. I’m proud of that. We’re no better, but we are different. Albert Einstein was eccentric, too, but his personality in no way devalues his contribution to the sciences.

And this thing about race, get off that—it’s tired and pointless. Mostly, it’s pointless.

All of us mixed-race people come in so many colors it isn’t funny. Look at Slash, Mariah Carey, Rashida Jones, Neneh Cherry, Maya Rudolph, Lenny Kravitz, Sydney Simpson, Paula Patton, Carol Channing, and Jennifer Beals, who are just a handful of famous people mixed with black ancestry.

Karyn Parsons, Halle Berry, and Victoria Rowell are also products of black and white parents; both Berry’s and Rowell’s daughters have blue eyes. Rowell’s and Parsons’ daughters have blond hair and can probably pass for something other than obviously a black heritage. So to keep harping on how Michael Jackson’s children look is just stupid, like I said, pointless.

I don’t know that I’ve said anything here that can be disputed because I’ve stated facts. So if you want to naysay the aforementioned statements, bring it on! I dare you to dispute any of my statements. I haven’t touched on even half of Michael’s accomplishments.

Now, for my opinion: Michael was the most riveting entertainer I’ve ever seen. It will be a long time before anyone will—if they ever do—come close to influencing the music industry the way he did. Even though this is my opinion, I doubt that any of you can dispute the latter statement either. But like I said, Bring it on!

Ne-Yo brings his Champagne Life Tour to Chicago!

2010-10-08T14:33:00.009-05:00

Chicago—Ne-Yo has partnered with Moet & Chandon champagne to host an album-release party at Le Passage on Oct. 13. The invitation-only party, which is being called "The Moet Rose Lounge presents Ne-Yo Champagne Life," includes a preview of Ne-Yo's new album, Libra Scale, and champagne tasting.

What Else Is Cindy Thinking About Today?

Related: More Photos from Ne-Yo's Champagne Life Tour

Actor Edward Norton hits the red carpet to opening night of the Chicago Film Festival and screening of new film

2010-10-08T05:15:00.014-05:00

Chicago—Last night Edward Norton walked the red carpet for opening night of the 46th Chicago International Film Festival at the Harris Theater. He was there to screen his new film, Stone, also starring Oscar winner Robert De Niro and Oscar nominee Regina Taylor.

Folks lined the red carpet and packed the theater lobby with cameras in hand to catch a glimpse of the Oscar-nominated actor. The screening started late due to Norton arriving a bit late at 7:00 p.m. to the screening. I overheard one woman complaining about the long wait, saying she had arrived at the theater at 4:30 p.m. to secure a prime spot.

Actress Regina Taylor and the film’s director John Curran also attended the screening, although no one saw Curran walk the red carpet.

Just before the screening began, WGN-TV’s Dean Richards introduced Curran, who spoke briefly to the audience about how he enjoyed working with the cast, while Norton also walked on stage but didn’t speak; he stood about five feet back from Curran. The two left shortly thereafter, but Taylor stayed the entire evening and was spotted leaving the theater after the screening's Q&A session. Although attendees generally raved about the film in which Norton portrays a convicted arsonist, one woman interviewed by Richards described the movie as “contrived.”

What Else Is Cindy Thinking About Today?

Rapper Jim Jones and Prince Malik video shoot on Oct. 8-9 in NYC

2010-10-07T09:22:00.005-05:00

New York City—See if you can become the next Karen Steffans: a.k.a "video vixen" (among her other names). Rapper Jim Jones collaborates with new artist Prince Malik to film the music video for their new single “Hey Ladies” at 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 8 in Bayside, N.Y., and Saturday, Oct. 8 in Brooklyn.

About Prince Malik
Emerging artist Prince Malik is no stranger to developing his versatile talents into a budding successful career. Achieving his first bachelor's degree in journalism where he expanded his love and talent for writing, Malik then decided to explore another educational path of interest—medicine. After working his way through school, he succeeded in achieving a master's degree and a doctorate in the field. Aside from this career track, he has also become licensed in some of his favorite hobbies—a licensed pilot to fly a helicopter, certified skydiver, and scuba diver. Now looking to tap into his passion for performing and music, Malik is ready to burst onto the scene with his unique sound, talent and song writing ability.

His music career began with his organic love for writing. He then learned how to piece well-expressed words together with even more meaningful sounds and melodies. He looks for his music and lyrics to share a glimpse into his life for his listeners and fans. Under the management of Joseph “Screwface” Charles, Malik’s first single “Billionaire” features good friend and world champion boxer Zab Judah.

Born and raised in New York alongside a large family of seven brothers and a sister, Malik is heavily influenced by the unfortunate early passing of one of his elder brothers which was cataclysmic in his life, pushing him to live each moment to the fullest—valuing education and looking to build upon experiencing an array of new things life has to offer. His musical career is the next phase of fulfilling a passion and innate talent that has yet to come to full fruition.

Malik will be releasing his debut album under the newly created label Prince Malik Records in early 2011. For more information about Malik, please visit www.princemalikrecords.com.

What Else Is Cindy Thinking About Today?

Related: Yung Joc and Jim Jones Join Prince Malik for Video Shoot of Single "Billionaire"

CELEBRITY SPOTTING: Raekwon rocks BET’s 106 & Park’s 10th-year anniversary party

2010-10-07T03:20:00.002-05:00

Hollywood—Last night at BET’s 106 & Park’s 10-year anniversary party, Wu Tang’s Raekwon got the night started with shots of 1800 Tequila with the West Coast’s up and comers at Wonderland in Hollywood. The party was hosted by 106 & Park alums Free and Big Tigger.

What Else Is Going On Today?

Jennifer Hudson comes home to help Chicago-area magazine celebrate anniversary

2010-10-06T01:04:00.017-05:00

Chicago—Last night, Grammy and Oscar winner Jennifer Hudson headlined the Michigan Avenue magazine two-year anniversary celebration presented by Bing. Guests mingled, sipped complimentary cocktails, and waited anxiously for Jennifer to take the stage. Beforehand, Hudson also walked the red carpet for about 10 minutes; this was usual given the small space tightly packed media converged upon.

Singing to a packed house of over a thousand attendees, the Chicago native, sporting a svelte size-6 figure, belted out “I Will Always Love You” Whitney Houston style, as well as brought down the house with her hit from the movie Dreamgirls, “And I Tell You I’m Not Going,” accompanied by her cousin on piano. Hudson is featured on the cover of the magazine’s September issue.

At the end of her performance, Hudson helped the magazine’s staff cut into a three-tier Eli’s Cheesecake, said to weigh 150 lbs, and topped with sparkler candles. Guests were also given complimentary turtle brownies upon leaving.

The list of attendees to the gala read like a Who's Who in Chicago, including Michael Jordan’s ex-wife Juanita Jordan, socialite and former Playboy bunny Candace Jordan, former baseball star Garry Maddox, and the Cubs' Kenny Williams.

Although Hudson is a decent singer, I was never a huge fan (because I tend to like heavier music); but I have to say I admire her as a woman. Honestly, over the past couple years, she has handled the murders of her mother, brother, and nephew with such strength and grace. She's moved forward, had a baby, became the Weight Watchers spokeswoman, and has a film in which she stars as Winnie Mandela in the works. I'm sure I join all her true fans in wishing her well. She deserves it.

Steven Tyler, Idina Menzel and Ziggy Marley guest star in New Wonder Pets! musical extravaganza

2010-10-05T09:01:00.007-05:00

“ADVENTURES IN WONDERLAND!” PREMIERING FRIDAY, OCT. 15,
AT 10AM ET/PT ON NICKELODEON

New York City—Steven Tyler, Idina Menzel and Ziggy Marley take a musical trip to Wonderland in a brand new half-hour special of the hit Nickelodeon preschool series, The Wonder Pets!, premiering Friday, Oct. 15, at 10:00 a.m. (ET/PT).

Paying homage to the film classic, “Adventures in Wonderland!” follows the Wonder Pets as they track down the Mad Hatter (Tyler), the Queen of Hearts (Menzel) and the Cheshire Cat (Marley) to invite them to Ollie the Bunny’s special tea party.

“I get to be the Mad Hatter on The Wonder Pets! which is a role made for me,” said Steven Tyler. “All my life I’ve wanted to get into cartoons and voice-overs and what a blast! It’s something I’ve wanted to do forever and to get a chance to do this is just another dream come true, another feather in the cap!”

Mad Hatter (Steven Tyler) singing from NickPress on Vimeo.

In “Adventures in Wonderland,” Ollie the Bunny is having a tea party in Wonderland but he forgot to invite the guests! It’s up to the Wonder Pets to find the Mad Hatter (Tyler), the Cheshire Cat (Marley) and the Queen of Hearts (Menzel) and invite them to the party. But the Mad Hatter wants the Wonder Pets to try on a variety of hats before he’ll listen to their invitation, the Cheshire Cat keeps disappearing and the haughty Queen of Hearts refuses to go. It’s going to take a lot of teamwork to get this party started.

Nickelodeon rolls out content from “Adventures in Wonderland!” across the following platforms:

Beginning Monday, Oct. 11, Nick Jr. Video, Nick Jr.’s broadband video service available on Nickjr.com, begins streaming a two-minute sneak peek from “Adventures in Wonderland!” Additional clips are available following the television premiere.
Following the premiere, the episode is available for purchase via our download-to-own partners.
“Adventures in Wonderland!” simulcasts on Nickelodeon Mobile on Friday, Oct. 15.

Nickelodeon’s award-winning website, www.nickjr.com, provides families with activities and games to complement the premiere of “Adventures in Wonderland!” The site features crafts, printables and recipes “Adventures in Wonderland” game, where they have to collect all the hats, plates and tea cups they can for Ollie’s tea party. so families can create their own Wonder Pets in Wonderland-themed party. Kids can also play the Emmy award-winning The Wonder Pets!, from creator/executive producer Josh Selig of Little Airplane Productions, Inc., is TV’s first mini-operetta for preschoolers and the first preschool series to feature an extensive lineup of Tony award-winning and nominated Broadway composers. The Wonder Pets! chronicles the adventures of three funny, singing classroom pets: Linny the Guinea Pig (Sofie Zamchick), Ming-Ming Duckling (Danica Lee) and Turtle Tuck (Teala Dunn), who travel the world and use teamwork to save animals in distress. Like real preschoolers, The Wonder Pets! have no actual super powers, but they work together as a team to overcome adversity and achieve great success.

About Little Airplane Productions

Founded by Josh Selig in 1999, Little Airplane Productions created and produced The Wonder Pets! for Nick Jr. (winner of the 2009 Japan Prize for Best Television Series), Oobi! for NOGGIN and 3rd & Bird for the BBC's CBeebies. Additionally, Josh Selig was the Head Writer for Little Bill on Nick Jr. He has received 10 Emmy Awards for his writing on Sesame Street and was the Resident Producer of the historic Israeli/Palestinian Sesame Street co-production (winner of the 1998 Japan Prize). Josh writes a weekly column for KidScreen Magazine called "Planet Preschool" which can be read at www.kidscreen.com. Little Airplane has also launched the Little Light Foundation (www.littlelightfoundation.org). The mission of the Little Light Foundation is to create programming that will help children around the world learn about conflict resolution and mutual respect. For more information about Little Airplane Productions please visit www.littleairplane.com.

Source: Nickelodeon

What Else Is Cindy Thinking About Today?

Bruce Willis 'beefs up' for his appearance on Letterman

2010-10-05T06:02:00.016-05:00

Bruce Willis appeared on "The Late Show with David Letterman" sporting a "meat hairpiece" that he explains was inspired by outrageous pop star Lady Gaga. Lady Gaga drew everyone's attention—and the ire of animal-activist group PETA—when she wore a dress made of steak to the MTV Video Music Awards in September. Gaga's dress has inspired a jewelry line. She also appeared on the cover of Vogue Hommes Japan modeling a meat bikini.

The Die Hard actor said his headgear was "all natural" and made from "a hundred percent ground beef sirloin."

"Did you eat?" Willis asked, adding seasoning to his dome.

Letterman replied, "Yeah, I have. I'm fine."

In the words of Archie Bunker, Willis is a "meat head!"

What Else Is Cindy Thinking About Today?

Rob Zombie in-store signing in NYC on Oct. 11

2010-10-04T17:50:00.008-05:00

New York City—Calling all Rob Zombie fans!

The acclaimed musician/filmmaker is on hand to sign the special edition of Hellbilly Deluxe 2, which is out now, along with copies of the brand new issue of Royal Flush magazine, which features Rob Zombie on the cover, at New York City’s Forbidden Planet.

The cover of Royal Flush is an artist rendering painted by the legendary Ed Repka, who has designed album covers for the likes of Megadeth and Venom, to name a select few. The signing takes place on Oct. 11 at 6 p.m. EST at the comic store Forbidden Planet at 840 Broadway, New York, N.Y., 10003

Source: Roadrunner Records

What Else Is Cindy Thinking About today?

Where did all the dancers go?

2010-10-04T06:40:00.009-05:00

Is there even a little rumba or foxtrot left within us? Or are people too ashamed, uninspired, and square to dance anymore?

I went to a party with a seemingly nice turnout on Saturday night in Rosemont, Ill.; folks decked out in their Sunday best to benefit Kids Fight Cancer. The worthy cause alone of celebrating those who are alive and well—and in comedian Joe Piscopo’s case, a cancer survivor—alone should make one bust a move in gratitude.

My excuse is that I was working (see more of my pictures here), so under the circumstances I gave jigging only mild consideration. Plus, I didn’t want to invite anyone to take my picture (photographers rarely do). I partook briefly, breaking into my best Bill Cosby ala “The Cosby Show,” when as I was leaving the dance floor to find something more interesting to photograph, a man who’d been previously working on his moves solo grabbed my hand and pleaded with me to partner with him.

Piscopo performed a couple songs, so of course he cut the rug while also shredding his ruby-red guitar. Now, I doubt “My Kind of Town” or “Mack the Knife,” which Piscopo performed, spun at Studio 54 as deejay staples—not even with Piscopo injecting the latter tune with an impression of James Brown. But I was surprised that local-area band Catfight’s cover of “Bootylicious” didn't encourage more than a few booties to commence shaking. The girls a ripped through a handful of heavier songs from their arsenal Slade’s “Cum On Feel the Noize,” banking on the crowd’s irresistible urge to head-bang. As hard as they tried, the girls could not get anyone to budge—tough crowd: They drank, they laughed, they gambled; and many of the attendees even sang along (which was extremely hard not to do with lead singer Julie Dutchak sticking a microphone in their faces), but few of them danced.

I was relieved when Pat Benatar’s “Hit Me With Your Best Shot” finally charmed a handful of women in shiny cocktail dresses into hitting the dance floor, waving their spangled arms and twisting their tightly corseted torsos with Ed Grimly abandon. From tough crowd to “tough cookies”—ha!

Billy Idol’s “Dancing With Myself” reeled in a few more.

By contrast, when I crashed the Joffrey Ballet benefit last week, those folks were nearly scaling the chandeliers with deft moves! But I suppose for one not to dance at Joffrey would have been sacrilegious, as well as bad for the renowned ballet company’s public image.

I left Rosemont at 11 p.m., disappointed with barely a shuffle across my camera frame. There’s always that assumption that perhaps folks need to get a bit more liquored up to break their inhibitions, but as in Cinderella’s case, maybe the stroke of midnight morphed into the magical hour. The beautiful women certainly wore enough glass slippers to make it so; and hopefully their princes followed.

What Else Is Cindy Thinking About Today?

Anna Kournikova appears on 'The Biggest Loser'

2010-10-03T00:01:00.007-05:00

Former tennis pro-turned-model Anna Kournikova is heading to NBC's "The Biggest Loser" to lead the remaining 15 contestants in a tennis workout contest as they compete to win the cash prize for losing the most weight. The episode featuring the 29-year-old Russian beauty airs Oct. 5.

The reality TV show, now in its 10th season, has also featured other althetes: Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kurt Warner appeared on Season 7; Olympians Jeret Peterson and Julia Mancuso and Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo were on Season 9.

Speaking of "the biggest loser," does Kournikova have to give birth to five children for Enrique Iglesias, her steady since 2001, before he finally marries her. His father, Julio, just married the mother of five of the elder Iglesias' children, Dutch model Miranda Rijnsburger, after 20 years together.

An FYI, the English word for iglesias is "churches." So said Kenickie to Rizzo in the movie Grease, "I'm going to make an honest woman outta you."

Sheek Louch of The L.O.X. and D-Block signs to Def Jam Recordings

2010-10-02T03:18:00.004-05:00

Sheek Joins Ghostface for 5-week Cross-Country U.S. Tour, Opening Oct. 12 in Boston

New Single “Quarter After 2” Set to Impact Mixshow and the Streets!

NEW SOLO ALBUM DONNIE G. SET FOR DEC. 7 RELEASE

New York City—New York rapper Sheek Louch – best-known for his roles as D-Block entrepreneur and founding member of hip-hop super-trio The L.O.X. – finds a new home at the label he was always destined to join, as Def Jam Recordings announces the Dec. 7 release of his new solo album, Donnie G. Production details and guests on the new album, as well as the first single pick and video, will be revealed in the weeks ahead. Donnie G., the fifth album by Sheek (a.k.a. Don Gorilla, or Donny G.), is the highly anticipated follow-up to his independently released Life on D-Block (May 2009).

Three weeks before the new album release, Sheek hits the road with fellow Def Jam artist Ghostface for more than a month of U.S. dates. The cross-country tour opens Oct. 11 at Toad’s Place in New Haven and concludes Nov. 13 at Brick by Brick in San Diego, California. (Please see complete itinerary below.)

Sheek Louch (Sean Jacobs) is always at the eye of the storm – just like Jadakiss (Jason Phillips) and Styles P (David Styles), his long-time partners in The L.O.X. and D-Block. The road to Def Jam began for all three as kids growing up and rhyming in Yonkers, New York. Fellow Yonkers hip-hop first lady Mary J. Blige hooked them up with Bad Boy in 1996, where they became known as The L.O.X. (‘Living Off Xperience’). They were a ubiquitous presence on “It’s All About the Benjamins,” as well as Bad Boy joints from Notorious B.I.G. and Mase, and cuts by Mary J., Mariah Carey, J-Lo, DJ Clue, and many others.

The first L.O.X. album, Money, Power & Respect, arrived in January 1998, with “If You Think I’m Jiggy” and the all-time classic title-tune (featuring DMX and Lil’ Kim). By the next year they had moved to a new imprint founded by DMX’s management, Ruff Ryders, which had already signed Jadakiss as a solo. We Are the Streets, the second and (to date) final L.O.X. album, was released in 2000 on Ruff Ryders.

Sheek’s solo career began with 2003’s Walk witt Me, and then went the indie route with After Taxes (2005), Silverback Gorilla (2008), and last year’s Life on D-Block. Along the way, Sheek has played a key role in establishing The L.O.X.’s D-Block brand, whose Yonkers-based holdings include a recording studio, a car wash, and the clothing line known for its unisex jerseys and signature D-Block logo navy flat brim fitted hat.

“I’m like a new artist right now,” Sheek says proudly of his departure from the (rather lucrative) indie grind and his return to the majors with hip-hop powerhouse Def Jam, which was announced via Twitter. “I feel great! Def Jam really feeling the energy, so I’m ecstatic, man, I’m excited!”

Sheek Louch on Tour with Ghostface

Oct. 11: New Haven, Conn. – Toads Place
12 Boston, Mass. – The Paradise
13 Providence, RI – Lupo’s
14 Philadelphia, Pa. – Trocadero
15 Syracuse, N.Y. – Westcott Theatre
16 Portland, ME – Asylum
18 Burlington, VT – Higher Ground
19 Manchester, N.H. – Rocko’s
20 Poughkeepsie, N.Y. – The Chance
21 Farmingdale, N.Y. – Crazy Donkey
22 New York, N.Y. – BB King’s
26 Carrboro, N.C. – Cat’s Cradle
27 Asheville, N.C. – Orange Peel
28 Cincinnati, Ohio – Madison Theatre
29 Ann Arbor, Mich. – Blind Pig
31 Chicago, Ill. – Abbey Pub

Nov. 2: Milwaukee, Wis. – The Rave
3 Iowa City, Iowa – Blue Moose
4 Omaha, Neb. – Waiting Room
6 Denver, Co. – Summit Music Hall
7 Colorado Springs, Co. – The Black Sheep
8 Salt Lake City, Utah – Urban Lounge
10 Fresno, Calif. – Frank’s Place
11 San Francisco, Calif. – Slim’s
12 Los Angeles, Calif. – The Roxy
13 San Diego, Calif. – Brick By Brick

Source: Island/Def Jam

New show casting from the 'Amazing Race' Producers

2010-10-01T10:59:00.004-05:00

From the people who brought you Amazing Race comes a new show called Rally Across America, where teams of two compete in an action-packed rally race across the United States.

They are searching nationwide for teams who are outgoing, adventurous, and charismatic—who want to win a lot of money just for competing in the trip of a life time. All applicants must be over 21 years of age. If interested please send the following info to casting at tanzman.casting@gmail.com:

Name, Age
Contact number
Two current photos
Email address
Why you should be considered for the show

Callbacks and an open casting call occur in October at Rock Bottom in Chicago.

Source: Mayor's Office of Special Events

What Else Am I Thinking About Today?

Korn’s James “Munky” Shaffer and 'Machete' Star Michelle Rodriguez Featured Together in the first "ROGUE ON ROGUE" Interview

2010-10-01T02:43:00.002-05:00

This past week ARTISTdirect.com and IAMROGUE.com paired legendary Korn guitarist James "Munky" Shaffer and actress Michelle Rodriguez (Machete, Avatar, Lost, Girlfight) for an exclusive video interview, a filmed conversation between these two provocative people, who met for the first time, in front of the cameras.

Watch the video here!

The interview is the first in a series of interviews entitled "Rogue on Rogue" that pairs two distinctive and influential artists from diverse mediums in a unique, ‘first meeting’ video setting that leaves the chaos and comedy uncut and unedited.

Michelle and Munky bond over everything from Metallica to Apocalypse Now, and sharing intriguing personal stories along the way.

Be sure to check out the video now! Stay tuned for more from Korn, Michelle Rodriguez, iamROGUE.com and ARTISTdirect.com.

What Else Am I Thinking About Today?

Drake hosting after-party at The Shrine in Chicago on Oct. 14.

2010-09-30T17:46:00.005-05:00

Source: The Shrine

Greg Giraldo, insult-humor comic, dies at 44

2010-09-30T10:24:00.010-05:00

New Brunswick, N.J.—Greg Giraldo, a comedian famous for his stinging insult humor, disgruntled rants and frequent appearances on Comedy Central’s highly watched roast series, died on Wednesday at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital. He was 44.

Mr. Giraldo had been hospitalized since Saturday night after he was found unconscious in a hotel room in New Brunswick, where he was scheduled to perform at a club. Mr. Giraldo had suffered a drug overdose, The Home News Tribune of East Brunswick, N.J., reported, citing New Brunswick police. The precise cause of death on Wednesday was unclear. A hospital spokesman said the family declined to release that information.

A former lawyer who gave up a job at a law firm to pursue comedy, Mr. Giraldo became a wildly successful stand-up comic touring the country as a headliner at many clubs and dispensing his own brand of sharp and often brutal humor.

As Mr. Giraldo’s following grew so did his presence on radio and television. He performed more than a dozen times on “The Late Show With David Letterman” and “Late Night With Conan O’Brien” and become a radio regular on “The Howard Stern Show.”

Mr. Giraldo was particularly known for his clever and exasperated rants, which he used to great effect on Comedy Central shows like “Tough Crowd With Colin Quinn” and Lewis Black’s “Root of All Evil.” But it was his regular appearances on that network’s roast series—one of Comedy Central’s most successful shows—that drew particular attention. Mr. Giraldo was a mainstay on that series, taking the stage in more than a half-dozen shows to mercilessly ridicule pop-culture figures like Pamela Anderson, William Shatner, Chevy Chase—“I could only dream,” he told Mr. Chase, of making “three good movies” and 40 horrible ones—and, in 2009, a fellow comedian, Larry the Cable Guy.

“Some people say Larry’s only successful because he’s pandering to the lowest common denominator,” Mr. Giraldo said. “Don’t listen to these people, Larry. They’re just bitter and jealous and right.”

Mr. Giraldo’s fame grew quickly, and by 2010 he was making prime-time appearances on network television. Earlier this year he was a judge on the NBC reality show “Last Comic Standing” and a panelist on “The Marriage Ref,” the Jerry Seinfeld brainchild that also airs on NBC.

But Mr. Giraldo’s humor had a dark side, which he sometimes referenced in his stand-up act. He had been a heavy drinker, but in interviews in recent years he spoke of being sober—with occasional slip-ups.
Mr. Giraldo was born in New York in 1965. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Columbia and a law degree from Harvard. He was divorced with three children.

As something of a running joke, Mr. Giraldo was often needled by fellow roasters on Comedy Central for being the comedian no one had ever heard of. But on Twitter Wednesday night, “R.I.P. Greg Giraldo” was the top trending topic, and his fans posted countless notes and tributes on his YouTube videos and Facebook and MySpace pages.

Mr. Giraldo’s last major appearance on Comedy Central was in August during “The Comedy Central Roast of David Hasselhoff,” in which he hectored Mr. Hasselhoff about his own alcohol abuse.

“You used to have a car that started when you talked to it; now you have a car that won’t start when you blow into it,” he said.

Mr. Giraldo was one of the most widely praised and talked about comedians on the roast that evening. The show drew 3.5 million total viewers and was the highest-rated cable show of the night.

Source: Anahad O’Connor for Celebrity Deathwatch

Deathwatch mailing list

What Else Am I Thinking About Today?

CELEBRITY SPOTTING: Rihanna, Busta Rhymes, Trey Songs at Drake’s after-party in Greenhouse NYC

2010-09-30T02:04:00.014-05:00

New York City—Drake’s after-party in the VIP section of Greenhouse was presented by Three Olives Vodka and 1800 Tequila.

Trey Songs, J Cole, Rihanna, and Busta Rhymes all were spotted drinking shots of 1800 Tequila.

Celebrating her birthday was Melody Thornton, who was spotted drinking Three Olives Vodka and 1800 Tequila with her friends in which DJ Clue played her new single "Love Gun," which has been featured on Perez Hilton.

Drake and his band and dancers and friends took over the VIP are at Greenhouse for his after-party—the club gave them plenty of bottles for their big crew of 1800 Tequila and Three Olives Vodka. Also sitting with him was Trey Songs, J Cole and Rihanna. Jay-Z (a.k.a. Mr. Beyonce!) and Young Jeezy and 40 of Jeezy’s friends also came to party. They were escorted to dance floor, where Fabolous was sitting, but the area was way too overcrowded. The waitress brought out bottles of Three Olives Vodka for them—they were bumrushed by the crowd, so they ended up leaving soon after.

If anyone else was there, y'all please share your additional pictures and/or thoughts here!

What Else Am I Thinking About Today?

Clint Black and Jewel among the stellar lineup at Chicago Country Music Festival in Millennium Park on Oct. 7

2010-09-29T14:32:00.014-05:00

Chicago—Admission is FREE. Find out more at: http://www.chicagocountrymusicfestival.us/. Please also view the Chicago Country Music Festival video:

Be the First to Bid on a Piece of Blackhawks History

2010-09-29T04:12:00.009-05:00

Silent Auction for Streetpole Banners - Oct. 8

CHICAGO COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL IN MILLENNIUM PARK

Chicago—Here come the Hawks and here comes an opportunity to own a piece of Chicago Blackhawks Stanley Cup history.

For the first time since the Blackhawks won the Stanley Cup Championship, banners that hung from streetpoles in the downtown area are available to the public.

The Mayor’s Office of Special Events is pleased to announce a silent auction to be held at the Chicago Country Music Festival Friday, Oct. 8 on two of the championship banners that graced Chicago streets during the victory parade for the Blackhawks. Also included in the auction are classic banners for the Chicago Marathon, Chicago Bears and the Chicago Country Music Festival signed by the headliners.

Oct. 8-10 is a huge sports weekend in Chicago with the Stanley Cup Champion Chicago Blackhawks hosting their first home game of the season and the running of the Chicago Marathon. The Country Music Festival is thrilled to host the silent auction in the Americana Tent on the South Promenade in Millennium Park. Bidding takes place from noon – 6:00 p.m. and the winning bid is announced that evening at the Jay Pritzker Pavillion before Clint Black takes the stage between 7:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Get a sneak peek of the banners to be auctioned off on Thursday, Oc. 7 at the Country Music Festival Preview at Joe’s Bar on Weed Street from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00p.m. There’s no cover and The Slim Picken’s Band takes the stage at 7:00 p.m.

The Chicago Country Music Festival is presented by the Mayor’s Office of Special Events and sponsored by Best Buy, Bud Light, Chicago Transit Authority, Chicago Tribune, Communications Direct, 2011 Ford Explorer, Ram Truck Brand, Hinckley Springs, Hyatt Regency McCormick Place, LaGrou Distribution System, Metromix.com, Millennium Garages, Pepsi-Cola, and US 99.5. For more information on the silent auction visit www.explorechicago.org/specialevents or call the Mayor’s Office of Special Events at (312) 744-3315.

Florida police raid Australian rock band’s show

2010-09-28T06:26:00.010-05:00

The On Fires—and Fans—Move Show Down the Street to Another Venue

Boynton Beach, Fla.—Every rock band has a story like this at some point in their career—you’re on stage rocking out one minute, someone is pulling the plug the next. The band is too loud, or the club didn’t clear it with their neighbors that they could host live music, or a combination of both.

Rock band The On Fires is an indie rock/punk band from Australia that grew up in the thriving Melbourne pub scene and formed in 2004.

Currently on tour in the U.S. through early October, they experienced their "rock-and-roll moment" on Wednesday night on Sept. 1, 2010, at the Tiki Tavern in Boynton Beach, Florida. According to their publicist, the police raided the bar and pulled the plug on the band, who with the help of fans and the opening band moved their gear down the street to another venue: One for the Road in Lake Worth, Fla.

“It turned out great for us,” said frontwoman Max Harman. “At the end of the night we were heroes. The real loser was the venue. We keep hearing how tough the economy is in Florida; yet the venue lost its entertainment and all its patrons in one fell fascist swoop.”

She then smiled and added, “I've never had so many men in uniform all focused on me. It was kind of sexy and scary at the same time.”

Fans were equally enraged, defiant and amused.

# # #

For video of the shocked band and fans, and the band's move down the street to rock out at another club (successfully, of course), watch here:

If anybody has any additional pictures or images from this event, please do share them!

About The On Fires
The band has been traveling to Europe since 2007 and had their first U.S. performances in early 2010. Audiences of The On Fires are left exhausted, elated and inspired by the infectious energy and obvious enjoyment of the band. Dubbed "refreshing" and "different" the group has developed an ability to entertain diverse audiences: soldiers at far-flung outposts, bikers in Ukraine, Pacific Island village kids, metal heads in Poland, businesspeople in an Embassy boardroom, Austin SXSW-goers and college hipsters in the East Village.

Backing up their explosive live performances are well-crafted songs. You can hear pieces of The Strokes, Blondie, The Sex Pistols, Pink Floyd, The Hold Steady, Led Zeppelin, Stereophonics, Kaiser Chiefs, Nick Cave, New York Dolls, The Clash and much, much more in their music. The On Fires' latest album Betrayer was recorded in L.A. with producer Rick Parker (Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, Dandy Warhols, Von Bondies).

Album reviews have said, "The On Fires have not only mastered creating music, but they have done it in the most brilliant, energetic, and creative way possible" and "Betrayer truthfully embodies that old cliché in music reviews: no two songs sound alike. You’ll be riveted to your seat throughout the ride."

Tour Dates
Sept. 30: Ithaca, N.Y. – Castaways

Oct. 1: Allentown, Pa. – Crocodile Rock
2 Boston, Mass. – All Asia
3 Asbury Park, N.J. – The Saint

For more information, please visit http://e2ma.net/go/8601499831/3070822/98195029/12888/goto:http:/www.theonfires.com/

CELEBRITY SPOTTING: John Legend partied with Fever CEO Delmond Newton in D.C.

2010-09-27T03:44:00.004-05:00

As new song "Wake Up!" climbs the Billboard charts, music sensation John Legend partied with Fever CEO Delmond Newton this weekend at Washington DC hotspot The Park at 14^th, during the Congressional Black Caucus.

Already a celeb favorite among athletes like Ochocinco and Darrelle Revis, Fever Stimulation Beverage heated up the music scene during Legend’s performance, as the crowd enjoyed an all-natural, detoxifying, and rich in antioxidant formula for a stimulation beverage – ideal for any party.

Video "Don't Trip" LC ft. Donell Jones

2010-09-26T05:48:00.002-05:00

Fresh on the heels of the success of his debut single “Don’t Trip” with Donell Jones, emerging artist Lavon “LC” Collins (http://www.lctheone.com/) has now released the video of his red-hot single for viewers. Currently #23 on the Billboard Hot Singles Sales charts, the video is quickly gaining popularity on the internet before making its official television debut in the coming weeks to coincide with the release of his debut album, Hold That.

# # #

To view the video, please visit: Video - LC ft. Donell Jones "Don't Trip."

About Lavon “LC” Collins
http://www.lctheone.com/
www.facebook.com/lavoncollins
www.twitter.com/lcthe1

Born and raised in Bronx, Lavon Collins, professionally known as “L.C.”, developed his love for music at an early age. L.C.’s parents encouraged his natural talents by gifting him with a keyboard on his 12th birthday, which is when the true musician in him started to surface. L.C.’s passion helped him to stay off the streets, unlike many of his peers, and to remain focused in order to make his dreams of becoming a notable hip-hop artist a reality. Through his music, L.C. hopes to influence people in a positive way as his lyrics were written to inspire and encourage others.

Relying on influences ranging from Rakim, Kool G Rap, KRS One, 2Pac, and Nas, L.C. began writing, making beats and arranging music in hopes of following in their footsteps. Much of his lyrical content early on reflected his mentor “ALM” who gave him hands-on experience to composing music. L.C. then began recording in his apartment where they produced and duplicated their music. He did local shows, performed at parties from “Sound View” to Bronx Park East and has created a buzz for himself performing in rap showcases throughout NYC.

Now managed by Artists-First Entertainment LLC, rapper and music enthusiast L.C. is making waves on the scene with the recent release of “Don’t Trip” featuring Donell Jones. L.C. is committed to changing the game; and he plans to take his career to the next level one solid story at a time with a true heart for hip-hop and developing his natural gift of being a performer.

L.C.’s next level includes securing a single deal on Street Scholar Music Group; which is distributed by Bungalo/Universal. His red-hot single, “Don't Trip,” continues to gain momentum amongst audiences. After opening for such artists as Full Force, Rob Base, Bell Biv DeVoe (BBD), and Nina Sky at Foxwoods Resort, L.C. also tapped into the modeling realm for T.I.’s “Akoo” clothing line on BET’s Rip The Runway, as well as sharing the stage with his icon, Rakim, for several shows.

Slipknot Special Screenings of (sic)nesses in Three Cities this Week

2010-09-25T04:50:00.001-05:00

Slipknot has just confirmed three special screenings of Clown's Director's Cut of (sic)nesses!

There are screenings taking place in New York City, Los Angeles and Chicago. Clown himself will be attending the NYC showing making it a very special event definitely not to be missed. The New York and Chicago events take place on Sept. 27, while the L.A. event occurs on the release date, Sept. 28.

All three screenings are free to the public, but space is limited so make sure to get there early to ensure that you won't miss out! There will be special giveaways throughout the night at all three events! Full details on the screenings are below:

New York City:
Monday 9/27 - 8:00 p.m.
Anthology Film Archives - Clown is attending!
32 2nd Ave.
New York, N.Y. 10003

Chicago:
Monday 9/27 - 9:00 p.m.
1901 Gallery
1901 W. Belmont Ave. (entrance on Wolcott*)
Chicago, Ill. 60657

Los Angeles:
Tuesday 9/28 - 8:00 p.m.
Echo Park Film Center
1200 N Alvarado St (@ Sunset Blvd.)
Los Angeles, Calif. 90026

Watch the trailer here.

Source: Roadrunner Records

Nickelodeon’s TV Channels and Websites Go Dark

2010-09-24T10:14:00.015-05:00

NICKELODEON’S TV CHANNELS AND WEBSITES GO DARK
FOR SEVENTH ANNUAL WORLDWIDE DAY OF PLAY
SATURDAY, SEPT. 25

Nickelodeon’s Own Victoria Justice, Keke Palmer and casts of True Jackson, VP and Big Time Rush to Host Celebration Dedicated to Active Play

Wyclef Jean, NBA Star Chris Paul and Nick’s Miranda Cosgrove to Make Special Appearances at Flagship Worldwide Day of Play Event—Big Brothers Big Sisters of New York RBC Race for the Kids in New York City

New York City—For the seventh straight year, Nickelodeon empowers kids to get up and get active when its TV channels and websites go off the air and offline during its Worldwide Day of Play (WWDP) on Saturday, Sept. 25 from 12 to 3 p.m. (all times EST/PST). Nickelodeon, Nicktoons, Nick Jr., TeenNick, Nick.com, NickJr.com, Nicktoons.com and TeenNick.com will participate. Additionally, for the first time in the history of the event, Nick stars will serve as hosts during the hours the network is on the air. They will share health and wellness messages and cover the activities at the flagship WWDP event in New York, the Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) of New York City RBC Race for the Kids.

“We hope to once again inspire millions of kids around the world to embrace an active and healthy lifestyle during our seventh annual Worldwide Day of Play,” said Marva Smalls, Executive Vice President of Public Affairs, Nickelodeon Kids and Family Group. “This year, we’re enlisting all of our star power to help spread the message of health and wellness to kids and families across our collective media platforms and at our flagship event in New York.”

On Sept. 25, Nickelodeon will kick off its health and wellness messaging at 9 a.m. (all times EST/PST) with interstitials featuring Victoria Justice, star of Victorious, and Keke Palmer, Ashley Argota, Matt Shively and Robbie Amell from True Jackson, VP—all live from Nick’s flagship WWDP event, the BBBS of NYC RBC Race for the Kids in New York City’s Riverside Park. The race festivities will include a 4K fun run/walk, face painting, games and special guests, including Wyclef Jean. Throughout the morning programming, the Nick stars check in from the event to share tips on staying active. At noon, Big Time Rush, who currently serve as the spokespersons for Nickelodeon’s The Big Help’s health and wellness efforts, will “turn off” the channel, signaling kids and families to get up and get moving. When the network goes dark, a message encouraging viewers to go play will appear on a loop.

At 3 p.m., the cast of True Jackson, VP will “turn” the network back on. Health and wellness messaging will continue on-air with interviews and a behind-the-scenes look at the WWDP event in New York, culminating with appearances by NBA star Chris Paul (New Orleans Hornets) and Nick’s Miranda Cosgrove (iCarly).

Kids in 10 countries and every state across the U.S. are expected to participate in Nickelodeon’s seventh annual WWDP at more than 3,000 local events scheduled worldwide.

Additional partner events scheduled include:

Boys & Girls Clubs of America chapters in all 50 states and several international territories will host play events on and leading up to Sept. 25.

The National Parent Teacher Association will provide schools and PTAs across the country with resources and information to help them host their own Worldwide Day of Play events.

The National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF) has also partnered with Nickelodeon to celebrate Worldwide Day of Play with events planned across the country in conjunction with National Public Lands Day.

National Wildlife Federation will also celebrate WDDP in conjunction with their “Be Out There” campaign that encourages “outdoor family fun.”

WWDP is part of Nickelodeon’s The Big Help health and wellness efforts, which include grants programs, public service announcements, websites, games and more. Through Nick’s health and wellness efforts over the past six years, more than 2 million kids have pledged to get healthy. The Big Help campaign aims to inspire a kid-led movement for positive change and focuses on four key issues: the environment, education, health and wellness and community service. For more information about Nickelodeon’s WWDP or to register an event, visit

http://pro-social.nick.com/world-wide-day-of-play/.

Nickelodeon, now in its 31st year, is the number-one entertainment brand for kids. It has built a diverse, global business by putting kids first in everything it does. The company includes television programming and production in the United States and around the world, plus consumer products, online, recreation, books and feature films. Nickelodeon’s U.S. television network is seen in almost 100 million households and has been the number-one-rated basic cable network for 16 consecutive years. For more information or artwork, visit http://www.nickpress.com. Nickelodeon and all related titles, characters and logos are trademarks of Viacom Inc. (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B).

Source: Nickelodeon

What Else Am I Thinking About Today?

Ludo Hits the Road

2010-09-24T09:18:00.012-05:00

LUDO GETS FRESH ON “WHIPPED CREAM,” NEW SINGLE WITH VIRAL VIDEO ON WILL FERRELL’s FUNNY OR DIE WEBSITE!

Lead track from Prepare the Preparations, second album on Island Records, due Sept. 7 and followup to 2008’s You’re Awful, I Love You, Top 5 Heatseekers debut

Five-week, 29-city headlining tour opened Sept. 9 at the Metro in Chicago

“I want it with whipped cream on it/ Baby, gimme gimme gimme your love...”

—“Whipped Cream” by Ludo

After more than two years of road work in support of their major label album debut on Island Records in 2008, Ludo returns to the racks with their long-awaited new album, Prepare the Preparations, arriving Sept. 7. Paving the way for their new album’s release is “Whipped Cream,” a new single breaking at rock radio formats, with a viral video that was featured on the front page of Will Ferrell’s Funny or Die comedy website: http://www.funnyordie.com/videos/b456441be0/whipped-cream.

With all the elements in place, Ludo returns to the road with a mammoth 29-city headlining U.S. tour, kicking off Sept. 9 at the Metro in Chicago, concluding five weeks later on Oct. 15 at the Eagles Club (The Rave) in Milwaukee. In advance of the big tour, Ludo will play the biannual Pointfest in their hometown of St. Louis on Aug. 14 (with Stone Sour, Puddle of Mudd, Flyleaf), sponsored by alternative radio powerhouse KPNT 105.7, The Point.

About Ludo:

Andrew Volpe (vocals, guitar)
Tim Ferrell (guitar, vocals)
Tim Convy (Moog synthesizer, keyboards, vocals)
Matt Palermo (drums, vocals)

Best Alternative top honors at Clear Channel’s Best of NEW! 2008 Awards for “Love Me Dead,” the first Top 10 hit from their Island debut, You’re Awful, I Love You (released February 2008).

They performed “Love Me Dead” on ABC’s "Jimmy Kimmel Live" and NBC’s "The Tonight Show" with Jay Leno, then hopped onto the Warped Tour ’08 for 22 shows across North America, playing on the Hurley stage. Relient K’s Uncle Fest Tour followed in the fall (with This Providence and House of Heroes). Ludo wrapped up their premiere first year at Island Records with “Go-Getter Greg,” the second single from You’re Awful, I Love You. The album rose to #5 on the Billboard Heatseekers chart and sold over 100,000 copies.

With “Go-Getter Greg” featured on AOL’s Music Mainpage, and added to FUSE's Steven's Untitled Rock Show, on mtvU, and on Music Choice, Ludo closed out the year with a very successful headlining coast-to-coast tour. They hit the road again in 2009 for the Broken Bride Tour where they resurrected their 2005 rock opera and performed it in its entirety to the delight of long-time fans nationwide. They then began the writing and recording for what would become Prepare the Preparations.

For further information go to http://www.blogger.com/www.LudoRock.com.

Tour Dates

Sept. 9: Chicago, Ill. – Metro
10 Columbus, Ohio – The Basement
11 Cleveland Heights, Ohio – Grog Shop
12 Pittsburgh, Pa. – Diesel
14 New York City – Highline Ballroom
15 Washington, D.C. – 9:30 Club
16 Boston, Mass. – Paradise Rock Club
17 Philadelphia, Pa. – The Trocadero
19 W. Columbia, S.C. – New Brookland Tavern
20 Atlanta, Ga. – Masquerade
21 Orlando, Fla. – The Social
22 St. Petersburg, Fla. – The State Theatre
24 Houston, Texas – Warehouse Live Studio
25 Austin, Texas – Emo’s
26 Dallas, Texas – The Loft
28 Tucson, Ariz. – The Rock
29 San Diego, Calif. – Soma
30 Anaheim, Calif. – Chain Reaction

Oct. 1: Los Angeles, Calif. – Key Club

2 Orangevale, Calif. – The Boardwalk
5 Portland, Ore. – Hawthorne Theatre
6 Seattle, Wash. – El Corazon
8 Salt Lake City, Utah – Avalon Theater
9 Denver, Co. – Marquis Theatre
11 Omaha, Neb. – Sokol Underground
12 Kansas City, Mo. – The Beaumont Club
13 Des Moines, Iowa – The House of Bricks
14 Minneapolis, Minn. – Triple Rock
15 Milwaukee, Wis. – The Eagles Club (The Rave)

Source: Island Records

What Else Am I Thinking About Today?

Show Your Support for Lauryn Hill in Strong Comeback via Predicto Mobile

2010-09-24T03:32:00.010-05:00

The Return of the Queen
Fans Support Lauryn Hill in Strong Comeback via Predicto Mobile

With her 1st R&B hit in 10 years, will Lauryn Hill's 'Repercussions' crack Billboard's Hot 100 before October?

No - 25% √ 1892 Votes
Yes - 75% 306 Comments
Live Survey Results: Here

Who says comebacks never happen? With a name that the industry has not been heard in over a decade, and memories of a precarious exit from the industry still surrounding her; the originalqueen of hip-hop and R&B Lauryn Hill has recently confirmed she is working on a new album. With her first single “Repercussions” leaked onto the web, giving her fans just the enough of a taste to want more and leaving critics to wonder if the release of this album will mark her big comeback - she is certainly poised to hit the Billboard Chart hard.

Predicto Mobile, the largest paid mobile subscriber community with over 2 million nationwide active users voting on popular topics in the current news, celebrity world and sports determined that 75% of the public believes that Lauryn Hill’s “Repercussions” will crack the Billboard’s Hot 100 list before October; while a mere 25% believed otherwise.

Live Survey Results: Here

What Else Am I Thinking About Today?

'Perform for Akon' contest and Annual Music Industry Event IMSTA FESTA James Brown Band 'Funky Drummer' on Sept. 25

2010-09-23T10:56:00.009-05:00

SAE Institute New York Hosts the Annual IMSTA FESTA Music Industry Event on Sept. 25

Appearance by 'Funky Drummer' of the James Brown Band, and On-Site Contest to Win Chance to Perform for Hip Hop Star AKON

Who: School of Audio Engineering (SAE INSTITUTE) and IMSTA (International Music Software Trade Association), Mr. Clyde Stubblefield from the James Brown Band, highly trained clinicians and product specialists, and experts in the music field.

What: The best and brightest on the cutting edge of audio technology host their annual music industry event where the top audio technology companies come together in an environment where they can interact with music makers face-to-face. (Full list of attendees: here)

Highlights include

Appearance by 'funky drummer' from James Brown's band of the 60s and 70s, Mr. Clyde Stubblefield; who will be making a rare NYC appearance and be accessible to answer questions and sign autographs.
Opportunity to enter the Hitlab Song Competition, bring an mp3 file of your best recorded song and you'll have a chance to perform in front of Akon and winning a record label contract. The first, second and third place winners will receive software prizes given away by world-class music software companies.
Opportunity to meeting the top music technology companies in a hands-on environment.
Opportunity to ask questions and learn from highly trained clinicians and product specialists.
Opportunity to attend the Shocklee Innertainment Panel Series hosted by Shocklee Entertainment. These panels include industry heavy weights who will coach you on how to get the most out of your music.

Just for attending, you will receive $100 of FREE software courtesy of IK Multimedia.

Where: SAE Institute – New York (1293 Broadway 9th Floor) New York, N.Y. 10001 Tel. 212-944-9121

When: Saturday, Sept. 25, 2010, 11:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.

For more information and to register for free please visit: http://www.imsta.org/imsta_festa.php.

About SAE New York

Located at 1293 Broadway (Herald Square). One of over 50 campuses around the world, SAE NY educates for careers in the audio industry with a focus on hands-on training and individual studio time. Students graduate with the experience and foundation necessary to enter the exciting and multifaceted entertainment industry. Graduates also gain the advantage of joining SAE's established alumni network built of industry professionals around the world.

SAE NY occupies over 15,000 sq. feet with over 30 studios and workstations including SSL 4000G+ and Neve 88R control rooms, a Digidesign Icon 5.1 surround studio as well as Mackie analog and Yamaha digital control rooms. With exclusive AMS-NEVE and SSL training, as well as included SAE Audio Production Bundle for every student in the Audio Technology Program, SAE NY is the clear choice to jump start your career in the audio industry. Please visit the website: http://newyork.sae.edu/en-us/home/

About IMSTA

IMSTA FESTA, a celebration of music software is coming to the heart of New York City. The First IMSTA FESTA started in Japan where it was highly successful for technology companies, producers and hobbyists alike. IMSTA FESTA brings a collection of the top audio technology companies together in an environment where they can interact with music makers face-to-face. If you use music software you will benefit from this event in a number of ways. While the primary goal of the IMSTA Association as a nonprofit is to represent the interests of the music software industry and chance end-use behavior in order to reduce the demand for pirated music software this is an event that you can’t miss. Please visit the website at: http://www.imsta.org/imsta_festa.php.

What Else Am I Thinking About Today?

It's Mayhem Time!

2010-09-23T05:27:00.013-05:00

Methods Of Mayhem to Perform on “The Tonight Show” Tonight!

Tommy Lee to Appear on “Access Hollywood Live” Thursday, September 23, and “Chelsea Lately” Tuesday, October 5

NEW ALBUM A PUBLIC DISSERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT IN STORES NOW

New York City—Welcome to the Mayhem…Tommy Lee’s Methods Of Mayhem, that is!

Tommy and company have a busy few weeks ahead of them. On the heels of the release of the brand new album, A Public Disservice Announcement (out today via Roadrunner/Loud & Proud Records), Methods Of Mayhem performs the smash hit single “Time Bomb” on "The Tonight Show" tonight, Wednesday, Sept. 22.

Tune in to NBC at 11:35 p.m. EST. The video for “Time Bomb” recently premiered on NBC’s "Extra!" and can be viewed here.

Tommy Lee is next be seen as a guest on the new daytime entertainment show "Access Hollywood Live" on Thursday, Sept. 23 (syndicated, check www.accesshollywoodlive.com for local listings and times). Early next month, Tommy is the featured guest on E!’s "Chelsea Lately" at 11:00 p.m., EST/PST on Tuesday, Oct. 5. In other Tommy Lee/Methods Of Mayhem news, the rock icon graces the cover of the October issue of Drum! and the November issue of Rebel Ink.

About the Album

Methods Of Mayhem’s new album A Public Disservice Announcement is in stores now via Roadrunner/Loud & Proud Records and features Lee collaborating with the world. Lee and his team, including producer Scott Humphrey, singer-guitarist J3 and others, wrote and recorded the songs for the album, then made the core components of each available for download on www.thepublicrecord.com to anyone who wished to add their playing or otherwise re-interpret the music however they saw fit. The song files were made available on The Public Record on Oct. 5, 2009. By the end of the submission period in February 2010, the page was viewed over one million times and over 10,000 submissions were uploaded.

Lee listened to every single submission that was uploaded, chose the best, and integrated the actual audio tracks into the album’s final cuts. Every musician whose part was used is credited and thanked on the album…and those who made the cut found out for the first time on Tuesday, Sept. 21, 2010, when the album was released!

Methods Of Mayhem self-titled debut was released in 1999 and certified Gold. The album featured Snoop Dogg, Kid Rock and Fred Durst among others. Methods Of Mayhem’s set was a featured highlight of 2000’s Ozzfest.

Source: Loud & Proud/Roadrunner Records

What Else Am I Thinking About Today?

Sugar Ray's Mark McGrath to Be People Magz first 'Daddy' Blogger

2010-09-22T00:24:00.001-05:00

Okay, we already know what a nut Mark McGrath is....

(Please check out additional pictures I shot of him and other celebs on Flickr.)

Usually, the celebrity bloggers on People Magazine's "Moms&Babies" blog are usually the mothers (hence the name "Moms&Babies"), but McGrath, first-time father of twins Lydon and Hartley with longtime girlfriend Carin Kingsland, is the first Dad to sign on to blog on the site.

So far, so good. In addition to sharing with readers the joy and shock of being a new father, he reveals that after many tries to get pregnant naturally he and Kingsland decided upon in vitro fertilization, wondering aloud why celebrities are so reluctant to admit this when the consequences bring about such joy to couples who may not otherwise have the privilege of parenthood.

His is the first blog I really care to read because his voice in telling the story is filled with a childlike wonder that only a man (who purposely relishes in being immature and a typical "clueless" guy when it comes to so-called girly things) could have. It's so much fun to hear him brag about how he's mastered the task of swaddling. Go Mark!

Even before he signed on to blog, I knew watching him grow into fatherhood was going to be a hoot, when he announced the twins "are going to have trouble playing with their toys because I’ll be using them all the time!"

Comedian Shang Forbes Appearing Live in Chicago, Illinois, at Jokes and Notes on September 17-19, 2010

2010-09-17T01:26:00.040-05:00

Seriously, this guy is gut-busting funny.

He's appeared on HBO and BET. The LA Times called him "provocative ... and funny." And you can expect equal parts political, sexual, and racial humor. Raw and unpredictable, he neither discriminates nor censors himself.

*******

2 FRI & SAT 2 SHOWS EACH NITE 8:30PM ($15) / 10:30PM ($20) SUN 9PM $10

Note: Friday Special - 2 for $20 (8:30pm ONLY)
Both Persons Must Be at the Door to Receive Special

Jokes and Notes
4641 S. King Drive Chicago, IL 60653-4113
Call for info (773) 373-3390
http://www.jokesandnotes.com/

Make sure to sign up for venue appearance notification and updates on his social networking sites Facebook, BlackPlanet, Twitter, Myspace, etc., through his website http://www.iamshang.com/.

Finding a Compact Flash Reader/Writer That Doesn't Suck

2010-09-11T00:11:00.011-05:00

Gosh, I must be a magnet for acquiring crappy electronic products.

While most digital cameras allow photographers to easily download their pictures directly from their cameras, I prefer to use a reader/writer. I'd like to, to save my camera battery. But I can't seem to find one that doesn't fail within a month or two of owning it.

Digital Concepts is the latest in a string of USB reader/writers I've owned over the last couple years. I've had this one less than a year and since it was still under warranty when it malfunctioned initially a couple weeks ago I received a new one from the manufacturer free of charge and, already, the product doesn't want to work. Although when I first received the drives, my computers (laptop and desktop) recognized them when I plugged the drives in. Now, the computers do not, so I'm back to draining my camera batteries. If anyone has found a reliable, long-lasting reader/writer, please do share the brand name.

Mike Portnoy leaves Dream Theater

2010-09-09T15:07:00.007-05:00

In the wake of founding member Mike Portnoy’s announcement that he is leaving Dream Theater, the remaining members of the band have issued a statement:

“To all of our loyal fans and friends: It is with profound sadness—regret—we announce that Mike Portnoy, our lifelong drummer and friend, has decided to leave Dream Theater. Mike's stature in the band has meant the world to all of us professionally, musically, and personally over the years. There is no dispute: Mike has been a major force within this band.

While it is true that Mike is choosing to pursue other ventures and challenges, we can assure you that Dream Theater will continue to move forward with the same intensity -- and in the same musical tradition -- that you have all helped make so successful, and which is truly gratifying to us. Fans and friends: File this episode under Black Clouds and Silver Linings. As planned, we begin recording our newest album in January 2011, and we'll follow that with a full-on world tour. "The Spirit Carries On."

All of us in Dream Theater wholeheartedly wish Mike the best on his musical journey. We have had a long and meaningful career together. It is our true hope that he finds all he is looking for, and that he achieves the happiness he deserves. He will be missed.”—Dream Theater

Source: Roadrunner Records

Tito Jackson Plays the 2010 African Festival of the Arts

2010-09-07T22:02:00.024-05:00

Tito Jackson, the older brother of the Michael Jackson (aka the “King of Pop”), performed at the 21^st annual African Festival of the Arts in Washington Park. The park is located about a mile from President Barack Obama and his family’s home Chicago’s South Side when they’re not in Washington, DC. Over the four-day Labor Day 2010 holiday weekend the elder Jackson, Chaka Khan, and Javon Jackson featuring Les McCann were among the more than two-dozen musical acts that appeared on the Dee Parmer Woodtor Main Stage.

Jackson wore jeans with his brothers’ likeness and signature on one leg and that of his three sons (the band 3T) on the other. Backed by an eight-piece band and four backup singers, he performed mostly blues songs, which he first premiered during the A&E reality TV series The Jacksons: A Family Dynasty.

He removed his bowler hat and replaced it with an afro wig during the portion of his set where he treated the ecstatic audience to a medley of earlier Jackson 5 hits (which included “ABC” and “I’ll Be There” and The Jacksons “Heartbreak Hotel” and “Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground).” Jackson did not sing the earlier songs himself. On the songs where the preadolescent Michael Jackson’s voice was high, Tito relied on his female backup singers to take the lead. Earlier in the day, SugarStrings, a black female string triplet who are first cousins (aged 12-18), performed classical pieces that included the Habanera from Bizet’s Carmen and a medley of “spy” tunes (the themes from James Bond, Mission: Impossible, and the Pink Panther).

For the finale, the group, who has performed for the Chicago and Milwaukee symphony orchestra galas, gave salute to the late brother of Tito Jackson, who followed a few hours later, they played a medley that included a haunting version of “Human Nature,” as well as “Billie Jean,” and “Smooth Criminal.” The audience members, many of whom wore Michael Jackson T-shirts, cheered with wild applause.

Teber, born in the Congo (Central Africa) and the leader of Tambours San Fontieres, performed native dances with his troupe. As did Soweto Street Beat, a South African dance theatre company based in Atlanta, Georgia, said to be the only professional South African dance/music company in the United States.

Angelique Kidjo, the energetic Grammy Award–winning West African singer and activist, was born in Benin and speaks four languages fluently, including English. She sang tunes in her native language, and covered Curtis Mayfield’s “Move On Up,” and shook her booty and shimmied like James Brown as she performed the Godfather of Soul’s 1967 hit “Cold Sweat.” Of Brown, she said, “He does not only belong to [America]; he belongs to the world.” From the South Side of Chicago, Chaka Khan closed out the festival Monday night to an overflowing crowd. Many stood off to the side out of view just to hear Khan’s powerful voice. Additional festival photos can be found at NBC Chicago.

Additional Resources:

Angelique Kidjo website. Accessed September 5, 2010. Available at: http://www.kidjo.com/.

My Hubpage is Rocking with Controversy!!

2010-08-25T18:52:00.007-05:00

Didn't mean to get political on my hubpage since I only want to relegate it to arts and entertainment--who know? that may change--but please join us in a discussion on whether Obama is Muslim, the consitutionality of the proposed Islamic mosque at Ground Zero, and other great stuff!

Sarah Palin

2010-08-21T09:21:00.015-05:00

I worship her--NOT! Seriously, why does everyone keep saying she is a potential contender for the 2012 presidency race. How does she go from not being able to debate veep Joe Biden or being able to see Russia from her home in Alaska to being a serious contender for the presidency (I wonder what John McCain is thinking). What's changed in the last year (other than her becoming an overnight celebrity and $12 million richer). Someone on my Facebook page mentioned something about folks drinking the Kool-Aid. I'm glad I gave that habit up as a kid. I was only moderately surprised when a woman told me a few months ago while I was covering Palin's appearance at the Rosemont Theatre that she'd flown in from, I think it was, South Dakota (!) to hear Palin speak.

I had some interesting conversations with fans afterward. When I asked if Palin will run in 2012, one woman replied, "She's not that kind of leader." I didn't know how to take that answer. My thought was Palin can't be that type of leader because she doesn't have the intellectual capacity, although she is somewhat intriguing.

She debated against the veep and interviewed with Katie Couric horribly; yet she could stand at the podium before a soldout crowd and debase Obama for what he hasn't done for the public. But, at least, Obama continues to serve out his term. And he can stand up to his critics without writing the answers on his hand.

Check out the interesting answers I've gotten to the Palin question on my hubpage.

Summer Vacation

2010-08-20T16:02:00.006-05:00

Well, I haven't had much of one, but it sucks. I just got out of school last week, and I was so busy reading and writing that I now feel useless even though I'm making pictures and have lots of media events to cover this weekend (stay tuned...). There's something fulfilling about homework and doing things with a purpose. I never thought I'd live to say this: But I can't wait for school to start back again in a few weeks. In the meantime, I'm blogging and using the rest of summer vacation to expand my homework papers into articles, which means some reading. Right now, I'm rereading Buszek's Pin-up Grrrls where I want to build on some arguments I've raised. I'm also reading Foucault's Birth of the Clinic. When school is back in session I will go back to blogging on my Media, Culture, and Psych page. I'm still a bit new at this, so I'm feeling my way through how I want to handle each of my three blogs. I may look back a year from now and wonder, What the heck was I thinking? But today everything seems semi-logical. My hubpage, I think, will talk about arts and entertainment, whereas I want to tackle any topic here. We'll see. As I said, Stay tuned.