Blogging Black Miami

Get Your Groove On

Reward yourself with an awesome night in a romantic ambiance at THE GROOVE. If you were at the "Grand Opening Special", you know what we mean. Join all of the Groovers for another memorable fiesta! Experience the delight of THE GROOVE'S delectable menu.

 

This month's theme is "Taste of the Islands." Enjoy the unbelievable talents of the "Laissez Faire Dance Group" and move to the rhythm of international music animated by the multi-talented saxophonist and DJ: "ONE MAN BAND".

 

Saturday – March 29, 2008

American Legion Hall

6445 Northeast 7^th Avenue

Miami

 

8 PM – 1 AM

For more information call 786-262-7384.

 

Cost: $25.00

Cash Bar

THE ARSHT CENTER CELEBRATES BLACK HISTORY MONTH WITH THE COLORFUL SONG AND DANCE OF PERÚ NEGRO

 

"A non-stop carnival of rhythm" (Los Angeles Times)

Saturday, February 23, 8 p.m.

MIAMI, FL– In honor of Black History Month, Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County presents Afro-Peruvian troupe Perú Negro in the John S. and James L. Knight Concert Hall on February 23, at 8 p.m., for an evening the Village Voice describes as "an inspiring night of black pride, South American style." The program will feature music from Peru Negro's new CD, Zamba Malató on Times Square Records. Perú Negro is a Chivas 18 presentation.

Multiple Grammy Award nominees (2005) and official Ambassadors of Peruvian Culture, Perú Negro's dynamic group of more than 20 singers, dancers, and musicians celebrates Perú's rich African heritage with an intoxicating mix of  "soulful music and sensuous dancing" (The New York Times).

In addition to Perú Negro's performance, the Center invites the community to celebrate African-American heritage with  Free Gospel Sunday on February 24 at 4 p.m. in the Knight Concert Hall featuring Johnny Sanders, the Florida Memorial University Gospel Choir, Pastor Avery Jones and the Avery Jones Singers, and New Jerusalem Primitive Baptist Church Choir.

The Arsht Center's Black History Month celebration began last weekend with a historic exhibition of '50s and '60s Nightclub Billboards from Miami's "Little Broadway" era and a phenomenal concert by Gospel legends Mavis Staples and The Blind Boys of Alabama.

Perú Negro's music combines African, Spanish and Andean harmonies and rhythms in a genre known as musica criolla. Performances feature ten extraordinary young dancers, throbbing percussion instruments, melodic guitar and passionate singing – a mix that forms the heart of Afro-Peruvian music. This high-energy performance will feature traditional Peruvian instruments such as the cajón, a wooden box-like drum instrument; the batá, a double-headed Afro-Cuban drum; and the unmistakable quijada de burro, the dried jawbone of a donkey (teeth included) which can be used as a scraper, a rattle, or a percussive instrument when struck with the palm.

Founded by Ronaldo Campos de la Colina over 30 years ago, Perú Negro was initially comprised of 12 family members. Now, more than 26 people are involved in the Lima-based music-and-dance ensemble. This tour, the group's most extensive concert schedule ever in North America, features the debut of the youngest member of the Campos clan, 14-year old percussionist Edu Campos.

Perú Negro is generously underwritten by Morgan, Lewis & Bockius, LLP; BiscayneAmericas Funds; Anica and David Shpilberg.

Tickets for Perú Negro are $15-$48 and available through The Arsht Center Box Office at (305) 949-6722 or online at www.arshtcenter.org. For group tickets (15 or more), contact (786) 468-2326.

The Arsht Center Education and Outreach Program will offer a series of master classes and workshops in dance, music and cooking, that will accompany this performance. Please visit www.arshtcenter.org/educate for more details.

For a video clip, audio samples, and additional information about Perú Negro, visit www.perunegro.org.

H.O.T. at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County offers full-time students and seniors (65 and over), and members of the military Half-Off Tickets purchased on the day of performance. Must present current picture I.D. on day of show at The Arsht Center Box Office Window; 1300 Biscayne Blvd., Downtown Miami. Subject to availability of seats at time of purchase. Limit 1 ticket per purchase. The Arsht Center Box Office is open 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday-Friday; beginning at noon on weekends when there is a performance scheduled; and two hours before every performance.

Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts is made possible by the public support of the Miami-Dade County Mayor and the Board of County Commissioners. The Arsht Center also receives generous support from private and corporate contributions to the Performing Arts Center Foundation of Greater Miami through its Alliance Membership Program, City of Miami Omni Community Redevelopment Agency and the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Arts Council, The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, and the National Endowment for the Arts.

CALENDAR LISTING

world music and dance

The Arsht Center presents

Perú Negro

A Chivas 18 Presentation

"A nonstop carnival of rhythm" (LA Times), Perú Negro has performed all over the world as official Cultural Ambassadors of Peruvian Culture.  Their high-energy show, a dazzling combo of celebratory dances and vibrant live music, bring to life the folkloric history of their ancestors. Perú Negro's album Jolgorio (2004 Times Square Records) received a Best Traditional World Music Album Grammy nomination and a Latin Grammy nomination. Their long-awaited new CD "Zamba Malató" was released on January 22^nd.

Generously underwritten by Morgan, Lewis & Bockius, LLP; BiscayneAmericas Funds; Anica and David Shpilberg.

Feb. 23 @ 8 p.m.
$15,$28,$38,$48
Knight Concert Hall

RELATED EDUCATION AND OUTREACH EVENTS

                                                                                            

Afro-Peruvian Dance Workshop                                                           

Thursday, February 21, 2008                                                                   

7:00 PM-8:00 PM, FREE

Ages 16 and up welcome

Beginner Level and above

Please come dressed to move

Peacock Education Center – John S. and James L. Knight Concert Hall

Peruvian Cuisine Cooking Workshop

Friday, February 22, 2008

7:00 PM-10:00 p.m.

Admission: $30.00 per person     

SPACE IS LIMITED                                                                       

Johnson & Wales University

1701 NE 127th ST. North Miami

     

Family Sing-along    

Saturday, February 23, 2008                                                        

11:00 AM-12:00 p.m., FREE                                                                     

Peacock Education Center – John S. and James L. Knight Concert Hall 

Reservations are required. To reserve a space please call 786.468.2270. For additional information, visit www.arshtcenter.org/educate.

ANNOUNCING FREE GOSPEL SUNDAYS AT THE ARSHT CENTER – A MUSICAL CELEBRATION WITH GOSPEL AM1490 WMBM

Inaugural Concert February 24 @ 4 p.m.

Knight Concert Hall

   

MIAMI, FL February 5, 2008 – Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County announced today a thrilling new ongoing partnership with Gospel AM1490 WMBM to host FREE GOSPEL SUNDAYS AT THE ARSHT CENTER, a year-round series of FREE monthly Gospel concerts in the Center's acoustically superb John S. and James L. Knight Concert Hall. All performances are free and open to the public.

   

"This new free Gospel series represents another major step toward fulfilling the Center's commitment to offer all segments of the community access to a word-class facility and quality live entertainment. It is particularly meaningful that we were able to partner on this new initiative with an organization like WMBM that shares the Center's dedication to serving the people of South Florida," said Lawrence Wilker, interim president and CEO of The Arsht Center.

   

"WMBM is honored to have a new partner eager to embrace the Gospel community. Gospel music has played an integral role in history.   Together, we look forward to bringing all genres of South Florida's best and brightest Gospel artists to the Arsht Center for the entire community to enjoy," said Bishop Victor T. Curry, president and general manager of Gospel AM1490 WMBM and host of Morning Glory and Tuesday Talk.

   

The series launches on Sunday, February 24 – as part of the Center's Black History Month festivities – with a spectacular afternoon of Gospel music featuring nearly 200 performers, including national recording artist Johnny Sanders, the Florida Memorial University Gospel Choir, Pastor Avery Jones and the Avery Jones Singers, and New Jerusalem Primitive Baptist Church Choir.

   

"The lineup for Free Gospel Sundays represents Miami's spectacular pool of talent and I am very happy to see that the first concert showcases many performers from my district," said Miami-Dade County District 2 Commissioner Dorrin D. Rolle.

   

"I commend the Center on this new initiative and the involvement of the Florida Memorial University Gospel Choir.  I urge more choirs and gospel performers from my district and all over the community to participate in this series," said Miami-Dade County Vice Chairwoman Barbara J. Jordan.

   

Free Gospel Sundays performances have been scheduled for March 30, April 27 and May 25 and will include groups affiliated with churches throughout Miami-Dade County. The lineup for each upcoming performance will be announced as details become available. The series will then continue in Fall 2008 with year-round monthly performances. Church groups and choirs interested in participating are invited to contact Debra Toomer, WMBM Director of Marketing, at (305) 769-1100 or via email at [email protected].

   

   

TICKET RESERVATIONS

Admission is FREE. Free tickets can be reserved in advance through the Arsht Center box office at (305) 949-6722 or online at www.arshtcenter.org. Tickets will also be available on performance days in the Knight Concert Hall starting at 12pm, subject to availability.

   

The Arsht Center is made possible by the public support of the Miami-Dade County  Mayor and the Board of County Commissioners . The Center also receives generous support from private and corporate contributions to the Performing Arts Center Foundation of Greater Miami, and additional public support from City of Miami Omni Community Redevelopment Agency and the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Arts Council, and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Mavis Staples & The Blind Boys of Alabama

Sunday, February 10, 2008 at 4 pm

Celebrate Black History Month with a Sunday Afternoon of Gospel Music

Mavis Staples is an iconic musical voice of the civil rights era—a member of the legendary Staples Singers, an advocate for social change, a raw and powerful example of the soul and gospel tradition for more than 50 years. The Blind Boys of Alabama have spread the message of soul and gospel music for more than six decades, garnering four Grammy® Awards along the way.

Buy Tickets On-line
Adrienne Arsht Center * Knight Concert Hall, 1300 Biscayne Blvd. Downtown Miami

Oprah Winfrey to Launch Television Channel

OWN is Primed for Success

By George Alexander

January 17, 2008 -- It has been a thrilling week in the black entertainment world. The NAACP received a waiver from the Writers Guild of America for its Feb. 14, Image Awards, The Bucket List" starring Morgan Freeman and Jack Nicholson opened at No. 1 at $19.5 million and Ice Cube's new movie First Sunday coming in behind it at No. 2, with $19 million, while Tyler Perry's House of Payne continues to dominate black households on the cable front. But the most exciting news is that Oprah Winfrey has teamed up with Discovery Communications to form her own television network called OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network.

Scheduled to launch in the second half of 2009 in nearly 70 million households, OWN will is reportedly a 50-50 joint venture that will replace the Discovery Health Channel. The new network will reflect the same themes Winfrey addresses on her daily syndicated talk show and in her monthly magazine: lifestyle, self-help, money, entertainment, and spirituality. Winfrey will have full editorial control.

The move represents Winfrey's second venture into network ownership; she was an original investor in Oxygen Media, a venture whose board she left shortly after the network's launch due to creative differences. NBC Universal bought Oxygen last year for $875 million and Winfrey cashed out.

Her foray back into network ownership comes after a year in which the black-owned cable network The Black Family Channel went off the airwaves, as TV One reached more than 40 million homes, as BET introduced new programming and faced criticism for some of its more traditional fare, and as The Africa Channel crossed the 15 million household level as it expanded in the United Kingdom.

Like much of what Winfrey embraces, OWN will target a mainstream audience, but the network's programming will arguably not alienate black viewers. Interestingly, last fall Nielsen Media Research reported that African American viewers and whites essentially watch the same top-rated primetime TV shows: American Idol Wednesday edition, American Idol Tuesday edition, and Dancing with the Stars. Grey's Anatomy and CSI: Miami were also in the top 10 in both black and white households. The findings were based on data for the 2006-2007 seasons. Much of this shift in viewership has been attributed to the rise in reality TV, the presence of more blacks in mainstream shows, and the merger of the UPN and WB networks to create the CW, resulting in the cancellation of some black-themed shows.

Needless to say, a lot is expected from anything Winfrey touches. The Oprah Winfrey brand is nothing short of formidable. Not surprisingly, even the talk goddess's endorsement of presidential candidate Barack Obama's quest for the White House along with stints on the campaign trail have, in part, been credited with bringing more media attention to the candidate and possibly more votes. With her demonstrated tube and print prowess, there's little doubt that Winfrey will no doubt once again prove that she's a woman in a league of her own.

Celebrate Black History Month at the Arsht Center for the Performing Arts

THE ARSHT CENTER CELEBRATES BLACK HISTORY MONTH WITH

PERFORMANCES BY MUSIC LEGENDS MAVIS STAPLES AND THE BLIND BOYS OF ALABAMA; FREE CONCERTS OF BLUES, SOUL, AND GOSPEL; AND THE INTERNATIONALLY ACCLAIMED MUSIC AND DANCE TROUPE, PERU NEGRO

 

PLUS

THE LARGEST-EVER EXHIBIT OF '50s AND '60s NIGHTCLUB BILLBOARDS FROM OVERTOWN'S VIBRANT "LITTLE BROADWAY" ERA

Miami, FL January 31, 2008 – In honor of Black History Month, the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County is proud to present a series of activities, concerts, and a major historical exhibit celebrating African heritage throughout February.

The exciting and diverse lineup of family-friendly activities includes:

Overtown Rhythm & Soul: An Exhibition of '50s and '60s Nightclub Billboards from Miami's "Little Broadway"

FREE ADMISSION

Count Basie, B.B.King, Duke of Earl, Bo Diddley, Little Eva, Etta James, Ben E. King, The Dells, Nina Simone, Patti Labelle, and Bill Haley are just a few of the many top stars featured in this dazzling retrospective. Relive the vibrant days of Overtown nightlife, when Miami's historic neighborhood was the place to catch America's reining jazz, blues and R&B entertainers. The Arsht Center is proud to host the largest-ever showing of classic billboards from The Black Archives' Clyde Killens/Sam Rabin collection. It is at once a richly hued recreation of a unique moment in our city's past and a stirring tribute to one of the most fruitful eras in the history of American music. "Overtown Rhythm & Soul" marks the Arsht Center's first-ever temporary art exhibit and the beginning of a new tradition of visual arts at the Center.

Saturday, February 9, and Sunday, February 10 , Noon – 7 pm

Carnival Studio Theater

For information, visit www.arshtcenter.org.

Lecture by Dr. Dorothy J. Fields, historian, archivist

FREE ADMISSION

The public is invited to learn more about the nightclub billboards in this exhibit and how Overtown came to have one of the most thriving music scenes in the country from the founder of The Black Archives, History and Research Foundation of South Florida.

Saturday, February 9, 4 p.m.

Carnival Studio Theater

 

Free Concert on the Plaza - Blues and soul man Joey Gilmore

FREE ADMISSION

Miami-based artist Joey Gilmore kicks off the fourth installment of The Arsht Center's free multicultural music festival – Target Globalbeat. With a musical style reminiscent of blues legends from the 1940s and '50s, Gilmore has shared the stage with artists James Brown, Etta James, Bobby Bland, Little Milton, Johnny Taylor and others. Make a day of it! Come for the concert, catch the exhibit, tour the Center, enjoy the strolling street performers and take part in all the activities for kids.

Saturday, February 9, 3 p.m.

Parker and Vann Thomson Plaza for the Arts

Mavis Staples and The Blind Boys of Alabama

A Sunday afternoon of Gospel Music!  Mavis Staples is an iconic musical voice. With both her family group, the Staple Singers, and as a current solo artist in her own right, she has helped to define much of what is righteous and soulful in American music for more than 50 years. The Blind Boys of Alabama have spread the message of soul and gospel music for more than six decades, garnering four Grammy® Awards along the way.

Generously underwritten by Betsy and George Sherman; Kevin J. King; Roberto and Jeff Kirsch; Pathman Lewis, LLP

Sunday, February 10, 4 p.m.

Knight Concert Hall

Tickets $15 - $60

For tickets, visit www.arshtcenter.org or call (305) 949-6722.

Perú Negro

A Chivas 18 Presentation

Perú Negro, a dynamic group of more than 20 singers, dancers, and musicians, celebrates Peru's rich African heritage in an evening the Village Voice describes as "an inspiring night of black pride, South American style." Their high-energy show, a dazzling combo of celebratory dances and vibrant live music, bring to life the folkloric history of their ancestors.

Generously underwritten by Morgan Lewis & Bockius, LLP; BiscayneAmericas Funds; Anice and David Shpilberg.

Saturday, February 23, 8 p.m.

Knight Concert Hall

Tickets $15 - $48

For tickets, visit www.arshtcenter.org or call (305) 949-6722.

Free Gospel Sunday

FREE ADMISSION

The Arsht Center's month-long tribute culminates with a FREE gospel music extravaganza in the Knight Concert Hall featuring several of South Florida's acclaimed choirs and a special guest appearance by a national recording artist. Additional details will be announced soon.

Sunday, February 24, 4 p.m.

Knight Concert Hall

To reserve free tickets, visit www.arshtcenter.org or call (305) 949-6722.

Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County is made possible by the public support of the Miami-Dade County Mayor and the Board of County Commissioners. The Arsht Center also receives generous support from private and corporate contributions to the Performing Arts Center Foundation of Greater Miami through its Alliance Membership Program, City of Miami Omni Community Redevelopment Agency and the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Arts Council, The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, and the National Endowment for the Arts.

###

Press Contacts:        
Suzette Espinosa

(786) 468-2221
[email protected]               Alexis Feldman

(786) 468-2228
[email protected]       
Editor's Note:
related high-resolution photos can be downloaded directly from The Arsht Center press room at www.arshtcenter.org/press

 

About Adrienne Arsht Center for Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County

Adrienne Arsht Center for Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County is Miami-Dade County's largest ever public/private-sector partnership, comprised of an $150 million private capital campaign conducted by the Performing Arts Center Foundation and public funding drawn primarily from the County's Convention Development Tax revenues, as well as the City of Miami Omni Redevelopment District Community Redevelopment Agency. Greatly enhancing the artistic and educational opportunities in South Florida, The Arsht Center also will have significant and long-term economic benefits for the city and the region.

The Arsht Center, designed by world-renowned architect Cesar Pelli of Pelli Clarke Pelli Architects, includes the 2,400-seat Sanford and Dolores Ziff Ballet Opera House, the 2,200-seat Knight Concert Hall, the 200-seat black box Carnival Studio Theater, the Peacock Education Center, the restored Carnival Art Deco Tower, and the Parker and Vann Thomson Plaza for the Arts, which unites the Center buildings across Biscayne Boulevard, providing a magnificent setting for outdoor entertainment and informal gatherings. The key members of the design team include theater planning and design consultant Joshua Dachs of Fisher Dachs Associates, Inc. and acoustician Russell Johnson of ARTEC, Inc., both of whom worked on the project since its inception.

The Arsht Center is a Miami venue not only for its four resident companies (Concert Association of Florida, Florida Grand Opera, Miami City Ballet, and New World Symphony), but also for many smaller South Florida arts organizations that will perform in its theaters on a regular basis, as well as for the finest popular and classical performances from around the world. With state-of-the-art performance facilities in Miami for the first time, The Arsht Center offers South Florida audiences the best and most diverse theater, music, and dance—with a dedication to entertain, challenge, and educate all segments of the community. For more information, visit www. arshtcenter.org.

Suzette Espinosa

Media and Public Relations Manager

The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County

1300 Biscayne Boulevard

Miami, FL 33132

T: (786) 468-2221

F: (786) 468.2003

[email protected]

FLAMENCO FESTIVAL MIAMI, Feb. 7 – 9. Get the best seats in the house by ordering a Premium 3-Pack. Call  305.949.6722 or visit www.arshtcenter.org.

Mavis Staples & The Blind Boys of Alabama

Visit us on-line atwww.jebapresents.com

Mavis Staples & The Blind Boys of Alabama Sunday, February 10, 2008 at 4 pm Celebrate Black History Month with a Sunday Afternoon of Gospel Music Mavis Staples is an iconic musical voice of the civil rights era—a member of the legendary Staples Singers, an advocate for social change, a raw and powerful example of the soul and gospel tradition for more that 50 years. The Blind Boys of Alabama have spread the message of soul and gospel music for more than six decades, garnering four Grammy® Awards along the way. Buy Tickets On-line Adrienne Arsht Center * Knight Concert Hall, 1300 Biscayne Blvd. Downtown Miami

'A Rose Among Thorns' is a well-crafted play on Rosa Parks

By Jack Zink
Theater/Music Writer

January 23 2008

The history behind Martin Luther King Jr. Day is still fresh and alive, enough to bestir annual tributes and celebrations over the weekend leading up to the national holiday itself. Among the more interesting South Florida events culminating Monday was actress Ella Joyce's well-crafted play about Rosa Parks, "A Rose Among Thorns."

The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/entertainment/stage/sfl-0123rosaparks,0,3803784.story

Ebony Fashion Fair ‘Glam Odyssey’ in South Florida

This is the 50th anniversary of Ebony Fashion Fair, the world's largest traveling catwalk extravaganza featuring designer looks from the U.S., France, Italy, England, Japan, Canada, Germany, Lebanon, Argentina and the Virgin Islands.

This year's theme is "Glam Odyssey: A Fashion Journey into Bliss & Beyond." This year's odyssey opened Sept. 12 in Chicago and will travel to more than 180 cities in the United States, Canada, Bermuda and Jamaica by May 2008.

Along the way, the show also raises money for local civic organization and charities. Since 1958, the Ebony Fashion Fair show has donated over $55 million to charitable organizations.

Each ticket includes a choice of a one-year subscription to Ebony magazine or a 6-month subscription to Jet magazine. Three shows will be staged in South Florida.

WEST PALM BEACH

When: Saturday at 8 p.m.

Where: Redemption Pointe by the Lake,

2101 N. Australian Ave.

Tickets: $40.

Call: 561-844-1271 or 561-805-7900, ext. 1109

Hosted by: Delta Sigma Theta Sorority



MIAMI

When: Friday, Feb. 1 at 8 p.m.

Where: Bank United Center at the University of Miami,1245 Dauer Drive, Coral Gables

Tickets: $35.

Call: 305-827-1499

Hosted by: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority



FORT LAUDERDALE

When: Wednesday, Feb. 6 at 8 p.m.

Where: War Memorial Auditorium, 800 NE Eighth St.

Tickets: $30 for adults and $21 for children/students

Call: 954-581-6185

Hosted by: The Charmettes, Inc.

Dwyane Wade to autograph copies of video in North Miami Beach

A video has been made about the life of HEAT star Dwayne Wade. The video will trace Wade's professional career and go all the way back to his childhood days. It sells for $24.98 with proceeds to go to charity.

Wade will autograph copies of Undeniable: The Rise of Dwayne Wade from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the North Miami Beach Wal-Mart Super Center, 1425 NE 163rd St.

Check out Lesley Abravanel’s interview with DJ Irie in the Miami Herald

If you've ever been in the presence of DJ Irie while he's doing his thing, you know you can't help but feel good. If you are human, the tunes he spins and his energetic personality will have you bouncing to the beat before you know it.

Anyhoo, check this interview with DJ; then check out his site and his MySpace page. Peace out. Happy Weekend!

Chief Jimmy Brown Hot Talk Host launches MySpace page celebrating 18 years in radio

"I really appreciate the love and support that I have received from the "Hot Talk" listeners during the past years.  Hot Talk listeners are special people." said Chief Jimmy Brown. 

By Rose Reeder

MySpace.com, the evermore popular networking site for a gazillion people on the planet has a new member, Chief Jimmy Brown of Hot Talk 105.1 fm. (Clap, clap, clap!!) His website is http://www.myspace.com/chiefjimmybrown. For those not familiar with myspace.com, it is one of several on-line communities used by techies, young people, mega-superstars i.e. Halle Berry, Will Smith, Oprah, Kanye West, Former President Bill Clinton (the Black president), Presidential candidate Barack Obama, International Keynote Speaker James Amps, Nationally Acclaimed Author and Motivational Speaker Lisa Rogers-Cherry etc. use to communicate/market services all over the world. Savvy business people in every arena have a site or are setting one up.

Here is a portion of what the viewer will read on Chief Brown's MySpace page in the section called " About Chief Jimmy Brown" :

Somebody say boom-shacka-lacka -( listeners know this is one of Chief's favorite sayings when he agrees with a comment and or statement )

Talk Show Host

"South Florida's number 1 Arbitron Rated talk show, Hot Talk on Hot 105.1 fm presents its esteemed host, "Chief Jimmy L. Brown".

Every Sunday night at 11:00pm (EST) listeners tune in to the most informative "live" talk show in the South Florida market. Regulars know the all too familiar voice who starts the show sending shout-outs to various people and municipalities throughout South Florida with special shout outs to his mom, Mrs. Ida Mae Brown of Perrine and to his "Barbie Doll" (Chief's wife Michelle Brown) in Davie.

The talk show "Hot Talk" was born out of the rage and frustration that erupted into violence on the streets of Miami in 1989 after a police officer shot and killed a motorcyclist, touching off days of civil unrest infamously known as the McDuffie riots.  Brown was part of the army of officers who swept through Miami's Black community, arresting looters and bottle-throwers"…….

To the left of the About Chief Jimmy Brown section are pictures.  As one explores the site, there are various sections to read and listen to. Most notably; "book of the week"; "Go back with Chief and reminisce….letter from the Birmingham jail by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr." and soon to be placed on the page the much requested "Willie Lynch letter". As with all of the MySpace pages people who have them can place their picture(s) and other information on other sites. Programming Producer Missey Bailey was instrumental in galvanizing the experts to put this site together for Chief Brown to pay homage to him. 

Having worked both on the air and behind the scenes, Bailey is enjoying her tour of duty with Hot Talk host.  "Chief Jimmie Brown is like a Father figure to me" said Bailey. "Every Sunday he delivers insightful information to our South Florida listeners with a hard core one, two punch".  In the background assisting is Brotha Maze and the intern, Brandon. (You can see their pictures on the site).

As Chief Brown reminisces about the 18 years on the air he said "I really appreciate the love and support that I have received from the "Hot Talk" listeners during the past years.  Hot Talk listeners are special people." Many callers requested more Hot Talk before and after the demise of the People's station. 

Chief Brown is encourages listeners/callers to let Phil Michaels-Trueba, Program Director know you want more "Hot Talk" .. His email is [email protected] and  phone number is (305) 567-5692.  Stay tuned for more information about Chief celebrating 18 years on the air and be sure to check out the site http://myspace.com/chiefjimmybrown! 

This Christmas: You Can’t Exchange Family, You Just Have to Love Them!

Two months ago I would have told you that Chris Brown was one of the most annoying entertainers around. That's seems a tad cruel but I'm just keeping it real. He was everywhere. The comments equating him to Michael Jackson really did it for me. Anyhoo, I think he was overexposed and rewarded way too early for a neophyte musical career. Well, it seems that young Mr. Brown just may have proven himself in his role in This Christmas. Obviously, his singing talent and appeal to young women are capitalized on to sell this movie and the soundtrack. It works.

 

The cast seems to click so much so that the interaction seems so real and I could definitely identify with my own family members and many of the characters. Now, don't get it twisted, there's nothing new in this movie. The storyline is predictable but ya know what? It still works. The jokes, one-liners and come backs remind me of any of several family gatherings.

If I could have changed anything, I probably would have one less Soul Train line. While black folks like to have a good time, I just don't recall that much extraneous dancing going on in my household. That being said, I love this movie and I could watch it over and over again.

Regina King is awesome, as usual, Sharon Leal, Loretta Devine are fabulous and video model turned actress Lauren London holds her own. Two of my favorite actors, Delroy Lindo and Idris Elba bring sexy back for me every time.

I also like the way black filmmakers are infusing the value of education and attending a historically-black college or university in their work.

If you want to see a feel good movie with a few twists and turns, you'll enjoy This Christmas. Remember, you can't exchange family.

Services set for Dr. Donda West, educator, author, businesswoman and mother of Super Star Kanye West

Services set for Kanye West's mother

By STAFF AND WIRE REPORTS
Published on: 11/17/07

The funeral for the mother of rapper Kanye West will be held Tuesday in Oklahoma City, according to a report on CelebTV.com.

The website said it was told by a spokesman for the Howard-Harris Funeral Home in Oklahoma City that the service for Donda West, who went to high school in Oklahoma City, would be held at the funeral home. The report said Donda West's parents and brother live in Oklahoma City.

West, 58, died a week ago at Centinela Freeman Regional Medical Center in Marina del Rey, Calif., after she stopped breathing. She had undergone cosmetic surgery in Los Angeles and had gone home.

An autopsy was conducted, but an official cause of death won't be made for at least 1 1/2 months, pending further tests, the coroner's office has said.

From the National Hall of Records

Donda West, mother of Kanye West and former chairwoman of Chicago State University's English department, has died. She was 58.

The mother of hip-hop mogul Kanye West died following a "cosmetic procedure" in Los Angeles this weekend, her publicist told CNN Monday. Donda West was known for the strong bond she shared with her son, by whose side she was often seen at parties and award shows.

Kanye West, 30, often spoke of his close relationship with his mother, who raised him as a single mother since Kanye was 3. She was the inspiration for the song, ''Hey Mama,'' on Kanye West's 2005 album ''Late Registration,'' in which he sings: ''Hey Mama, I wanna scream so loud for you, cuz I'm so proud of you ... I appreciate what you allowed for me. I just want you to be proud of me.''

Donda West frequently defended her son against critics who accused him of penning misogynistic lyrics and other purported transgressions. ''I support my baby,'' she said in a Chicago Sun-Times interview. ''He is telling how he feels and he is speaking the truth as he sees it.''

In May, she published the book ''Raising Kanye: Life Lessons from the Mother of a Hip-Hop Star,'' in which she paid homage to her famous son.

Donda West served as chief executive of West Brands LLC, the parent company of her son's business enterprises, and as chairwoman of the Kanye West Foundation, an educational nonprofit that works to decrease dropout rates and improve literacy.

Kanye West told the Associated Press in August that he and his mother worked together to devise the foundation's first program, ''Loop Dreams,'' which helps public school students get involved in music. ''Me and my mother were discussing ways to give back and came up with the concept,'' he said.

Donda West worked in higher education for 31 years, before leaving academia in 2004 to help manage her son's career, according to a biography on the Kanye West Foundation's Web site. She began working at Chicago State University in 1980 and eventually chaired the school's English department, according to the site. She started her teaching career in the early 1970s as an instructor at Brown College in Atlanta.

Please sign the Guest Book and leave your memories, condolences or prayers.

 

Rest in Peace
Dr. Donda West
1949-2007

Dr. Donda West was initiated into Alpha Eta Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority at Virginia Union University.

Alpha Eta Chapter website

What we can learn from American Gangster

Check out the excellent editorial from The Westside Gazette on Denzel Washington's latest work, American Gangster. While the glorification of a criminal like Frank Lucas is not where we need to go as a people, there are some basic principles we should employ for the progress of the black community.

   

Over $700 billion of spending power: Black America, the New American Gangster
"He didn't own his own company. He thought he did, but he didn't. He just managed it. The white man owned it, so they owned him."
— Frank Lucas, The American Gangster
From the Westside Gazette's Editorial Board

Gospel Industry Retreat in South Florida!

---

Please feel free to contact me (954) 830-2019 should you have any questions.    21st Bi-Annual International Gospel  Industry Retreat "Emerging Technologies & its Impact on the Gospel Music Industry"  November 18-20, 2007 Join us for three days of education, great music, and fellowship.  The 21st Bi-Annual International Gospel Industry Retreat kicks off on Sunday, November 18th at Nova Southeastern University with the "Golden Sounds of Gospel Music "Concert, celebrating the release of Dr. Jones' new CD - "Bobby Jones the Ambassador."   The concert will feature performances by Vanessa Bell Armstrong, J. Moss, Cliff Jones, Duraniece Pace, 21:03, and many other gospel greats!  Tickets are available at http://www.ticketmaster.com/ Retreat Highlights Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa - Hollywood, Florida n Podcasting, Music Downloads, Streaming, how has technology affected the Gospel Music Industry.  Learn about these exciting programs and how to use them to enhance your career or ministry.                                               n Dance & Theater - Genesis, the official dance and theater component of the Gospel Industry Retreat will present an excerpt from "Echoes-Voices from the Past, Voices for the Future.  The excerpt from Echoes will chronicle the Civil Rights struggles of the 1960's.  Monday & Tuesday 8 am - 4pm.  Performance Tuesday during the evening television tapings.                               n Salute to Kim Burrell - Monday Evening, November 19th at 7 pm.  A special tribute for Ms. Burrell featuring Dorinda Clark-Cole, Dottie Peoples, Ricky Dilliard and Leonard Scott.  Hosted by Rhonda Ross and Tye Tribbett n   Interested in Producing music. Learn about the hottest software that  producers Teddy Riley, Cedric Caldwell and PAJAM use in their studios. n   Back By Popular Demand - Ace Alexander's Airplay II - How to get your music played on the radio.   The focus of this seminar will be "Airplay and the Impact of Digital Technology."  This seminar will offer a very unique opportunity for participants to gain firsthand knowledge on how to present songs to radio programmers for airplay consideration to the business of digital music downloading. n Salute to Vanessa Bell Armstrong - Tuesday Evening, November 20th at 7 pm.  Produced by Byron Cage, the evening will feature performances by Tye Tribbett, Dorinda Clark-Cole, Ricky Dilliard and others.  Register online now at: www.gospelindustryretreat.com sponsored in part by:                TICKETS MAY BE PURCHASED AT THE DOOR!!  JEBA Media Group, Inc. 1-877-9-GROUPS www.jebapresents.com [email protected] "Nobody Markets This Industry Better"

This email was sent to [email protected], by [email protected] .

Julia E. Brown, Founder/CEO

JEBA Media Group, Inc.

A division of JEBA Enterprises, Inc.

305- 835-0321-Dade

954-445-3779-Broward

1-877-9-GROUPS

E [email protected]

Website: www.JEBApresents.com

__________________________________________________

FAMU Homecoming Drama

Speaking of Florida A&M, there was drama during last weekend's Homecoming football game against North Carolina A&T that resulted in half-time lasting an hour. Yes, an hour. The A&T football team returned to the sidelines before the Marching 100 completed their half-time performance and let's just say there was a stand-off between the two groups. Apparently, objects were thrown on the field (not cool) and the A&T coach had his team return to the locker room. Much discussion ensued until the team returned. FAMU was penalized and the game continued.

Now it's no secret that half-time at FAMU (and probably other HBCUs) lasts far longer than the time allotted. Half-time is a cultural phenomenon far different from predominantly white schools regardless of whether it's high school or college. Instead of going to the concession stand during half-time, folks get seated, watch the half-time show and go to the concession stand after half-time. That's prime time for networking and socializing.

Anyhoo, another lesson learned early in life is that you never break the line of a band when they are performing. Now, it probably didn't help that the A&T team was razzed about the incident but that's another thing black folks do also.

There was little mention of the incident in the FAMU newspaper but here's what the A&T students said…

Controversy overshadows 24-21 loss

Halftime episode nearly leads to a FAMU forfeit and A&T's first win in two seasons

Mike McCray

Issue date: 11/7/07 Section: Sports

Tallahassee, Fla. - Homecoming 2007 at Florida A&M followed the usual homecoming script until a halftime incident involving the Aggie football team, FAMU Marching 100 and Rattler fans sent A&T into the locker room and put the 2nd half of the contest in question.

The Aggies headed into the locker room in Tallahassee down 14-18 after a first half that saw them come out of the gates sloppy and end strong holding the Rattlers scoreless on their last few drives and managing eat away at what was an 18-point deficit.

After an extended halftime for special presentations and a lengthy performance by the band, A&T left the locker room to warm up for the second half, as the Marching 100 were wrapping up their show. As the band, which marches nearly 380 members, began to move off the field, the drum majors marched down the A&T bench just as the football team was getting to the bench area.

The stalemate began as the band, refusing to let the team through stood their ground on the sideline and the Aggie football team kept moving toward their sideline. Upset FAMU fans began to throw items at the players and on the field promoting A&T coaches to send their players back to the locker room.

The players cut through the FAMU band, many with their helmets raised above their heads, to return to the visiting locker room to a chorus of boos. The situation was not aided by the Florida A&M PA announcer who only incited rowdy fans by saying, "Please don't throw anything on the field, if anymore items are thrown the game will be called and we will lose and we all know A&T hasn't won a game in long time."

The PA announcer also jabbed the team with comments like "You can come back now Aggies," "Don't worry Aggies, we will march around you," and other unnecessary remarks that played to the home crowd at Bragg Stadium.

The delay continued for another 30 minutes as referees, coaches, athletic officials and security tried to sort out the conditions upon which the Aggies would return to the field. After agreeing on the penalties, A&T returned to the field pumped for the second half and kicked off from FAMU's 40-yard line.

After unsucsesful drives by both teams, the Aggies drove and got into the end zone on an 2-yard Herb Miller rushing touchdown. The score gave A&T more momentum coming out of tense halftime and silenced the previous boisterous Rattler fans.

A Wesley Taylor field goal tied the score up at 21 going into the 4th quarter. After a Michael Pace interception on FAMU's first 4th quarter possession, Mike Ferguson broke a 51-yard run on the very next play. The drive stalled and forced an Eric Houston field goal attempt that missed wide left.

FAMU marched down the field on the Aggies after the missed field goal attempt but A&T locked up on the goal line forcing a fumble on the 1-yard line, which was recovered by Andre Thornton.

Three consecutive three and outs by both teams gave FAMU the ball with just under four minutes to play in the game.

The Rattlers began a methodical march down field for their final score and after two first downs and two A&T timeouts, FAMU was in place to kick a field goal to take the lead.

Wesley Taylor came onto the field with the opportunity of putting the Rattlers up three points with just 45 seconds to play and did just that, nailing a 33-yard field goal.

A 60 yard kickoff was returned 34-yards by David "Speedy" Robinson setting the Aggies up with decent field position with 37 seconds left to play in the game. Herb Miller completed an 8-yard pass to Mike Ferguson, who rushed for over 100 yards again and went over 1000 yards rushing on the season, and then a 4-yard pass to Mike Caldwell.

After an incomplete pass, the Aggies had on last chance to get the ball in the end zone and an hail mary toss was knocked down and the clock expired.

The loss was eerily similar to A&T's loss to Bethune-Cookman one week before and was the Aggies most recent loss in the nation's longest losing streak.

In case you missed it, here's a taste of the Marching 100 during FAMU Homecoming 2007.

One Love Wednesday: Irreplacable ~ Beyonce

World Premiere! REFUGEE" A Musical of Freedom and Resistance

Refugee Carnival Center, Studio Theatre Miami, Florida November 8 - 11 Ticket ONLY $25.00 JEBA Media Group, Inc. 1-877-9-GROUPS www.jebapresents.com [email protected] "Nobody Markets This Industry Better"

Soulful Sunday Video: Victory ~ Yolanda Adams

One Love Wednesday: You Can Call Me Al ~ Paul Simon

UniverSOUL and Other Happenings

  UniverSOUL Circus

COMING TO MIAMI!

November 13-18, 2007

(To Sponsor the Socially,Economically Disadvantage or Senior Citizens )

1-877-9-GROUPS 

Visit us on-line atwww.jebapresents.com Starring: LisaRaye, Blue Cantrell, Kenya Moore,Christopher Williams, Malik Yoba, Clifton Powell, Tony Grant, Lia Grant, Patrice Lovely Tampa, Florida:  Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center 1010 WC Macinnas Place 813-222-1000 Sunday, October 28th Tallahassee, Florida: Leon County Civic Center 505 W. Pensacola St. 850-222-0400 Thurs. November 1st List Price: $29.50 to $36.50 Group Ticket Sales New World Entertainment & Rick Shaw presents Praize Fest 2007 Featuring:  Mary Mary, Kiki Sheard, J. Moss, 21:03 Hosted by: James Sheppard Saturday, October 27th James L. Night Center 400 SE 2nd Ave, Miami, FL List Price: $33.00 to $58.00 Group Ticket Sales List Price: $35.00 Available ($65.00 SOLD OUT) Group Ticket Sales (Applicable $3.00 service charge applies per ticket.)   Call 1-877-9-GROUPS Nobody Markets This Industry Better Copyright (c) 1996-2007 Constant Contact. All rights reserved. Except as permitted under a separate written agreement with Constant Contact, neither the Constant Contact software, nor any content that appears on any Constant Contact site, including but not limited to, web pages, newsletters, or templates may be reproduced, republished, repurposed, or distributed without the prior written permission of Constant Contact. For inquiries regarding reproduction or distribution of any Constant Contact material, please contact [email protected].

Connecting and Uplifting: A World of Heroes from AfricaWrites

We received the following e-mail from Patrick Gorham of africawrties.com…

On behalf of the staff of AfricaWrites: Heroes, Rituals & Legends, I invite you to experience our fall update to www.africawrites.com. Our newly featured stories are, "The Wassan Shanci - Contest of

Champions", "The Gnbache of King Me" and "Masks & Men Part 1: Soli Oumen and Koma".

These stories represent a window into the epic history and splendor of African culture and we, the staff of AfricaWrites hope that you will both enjoy and find interest in the pages of this update.

After checking the site and a few of the videos, I was impressed with the raw presentation of African culture that many of us have never experienced. As the message referenced a few other videos, I definitely look forward to seeing many more.

Check out the site and let us know what you think.

Soulful Sunday Video: The Prayer ~ Yolanda Adams & Donnie McClurkin

Art Teele Tragedy on Film

Two UM students are putting the finishing touches on a documentary on Art Teele, politician extraordinaire who commited suicide in the lobby of The Miami Herald on July 27, 2005. The highly anticipated film project was made with very little money but is sure to generate a lot of interest. Stay tuned for an early 2008 showing.

Here's an interesting video clip of the production. Do check it out and prepare for the controversy to be re-ignited.

Related Link: Art Teele tragedy now a film project

One Love Wednesday: Music is a Weapon ~ Fela Kuti

Soulful Sunday Video: God's Favor ~ Donald Lawrence and the Tri-City Singers

Nothing to Do in Miami? I Don’t Think So!

How many times have you heard folks complain about nothing to do in Miami? Or how many times have you said it yourself? We know there's always a movie or club to patronize but here's a brief listing of other local events on the horizon.

New World Entertainment

presents

PRAIZE FEST 2007

October 27, 2007-7:00 pm

Starring Mary, Mary,

J. Moss, Papa San, James Sheppard

Hosted by Lorenzo "Ice Tea" Thomas

James L. Knight Center

400 SE 2nd Avenue

CHARGE-BY-PHONE

305-358-5885

1-877-9-GROUPS

www.JEBApresents.com

   

North America Entertainment Group, Inc.

presents

WHATEVER SHE WANTS

November 2-4, 2007

Hollywood Hits the Stage in New Romantic Comedy Stage Play!

Starring Vivica A. Fox plays Vivian Wolf, a woman who has

suffered one heartbreak too many and has no room left for

unfulfilling relationships.  Now she has come up with the

solution to every woman's problem...

Witness the power, laughter, strength

and honesty as Vivian searches for the

perfect man who just may not come in the perfect box.

Whatever She Wants is the story about one woman's determination to rediscover herself Friday -Saturday-  8pm-Saturday, 3:00pm- Sunday, 3:00pm

Sunday, 7:30pm    
Ticket prices range from $35.50-$49.50

James L. Knight Center

400 SE 2nd Avenue

Miami, FL

CHARGE -BY-PHONE

305-358-5885

1-877-9-GROUPS

   

UniverSOUL Circus

November 13-18, 2007

Tickets Are Available

Dolphin Stadium

Gate 6-Blue West Lot

Miami Gardens, FL

www.ticketsmaster.com

www.UniverSoulcircus.com

1-877-9-GROUPS

   

103.5 FM The Beat 

presents

WORLD AIDS DAY

FUNK FEST 2007

Saturday, December 1, 2007

Mills Pond Park

2201 NW 9th Avenue

Ft. Lauderdale, FL

Ticket price $35.00/Advance 

$40.00/Day of Show

VIP $65.00-On-Line www.funkfestconcerts.com

1-877-9-GROUPS

www.JEBApresents.com

A Rain or Shine Event

For Vendor Info:

Please call 704-510-0539

I already had the Funk Fest on my calendar because AIDS is an issue that must still be addressed in the black community and I love Steve Harvey and Frankie Beverly and Maze. If there is any project I'd fund if I had the cash, it would be the UniverSoul Circus. I had no idea it would be here so soon but I'll definitely check that out also. For the folks reading this blog that are not black, check out the UniverSoul Circus. Soul is not a color, it's an experience.

So, my brothers…sisters…and cousins, stop complaining about nothing to do and support these events. A special shout out goes to JEBA for the heads up on these events. Peace and Blessings and…

Smooches….

FAMU Alumni Networking

Join Florida A&M University alumni in their October networking social as they partake of a fun-filled early evening viewing of Tyler Perry's Why Did I Get Married. After their 1 PM meeting at North Miami High School, 800 NE 137 Street, North Miami, the Rattlers will continue the fun at the 5:15 PM showing of Why Did I Get Married at the Muvico Paradise 24, 15601 Sheridan Street, Davie, Florida. (Off I-75)

One Love Wednesday: No Woman No Cry ~ Bob Marley & the Wailers

Soulful Sunday Video: Imagine Me ~ Kirk Franklin

Atlantic Records Tries to Turn 14 year-old Actress Into Lil Kim

By bruce Banter

www.playahata.com 

Keke Palmer, is the 14 year old girl who played Akeelah, in the movie, Akeelah and the Bee. She and her mother Sharon have a huge problem with the upcoming record deal they signed with Atlantic Records in March of 2006. The problem is that the record label wants to market the 14 year old as a sexpot but she does not want that image.

Keke admits "From the very beginning Atlantic's A&R representative tried to get me to record inappropriate music, and my parents and I resisted."

Soon Keke and her mom became tired of fighting the negative images that the label kept trying to force on her, and they started looking for a management company that could deal with the situation. They settled on DAS Entertainment, a management company out of New York.(John Legend label. One problem, the label has been blocking the efforts!

Atlantic kept telling them that "Keke is "urban", and should be singing urban music". Keke's mom Sharon got her in touch with Mr. Edmonds
(Babyface) and he and Keke worked really well together and came up with a good commercial R&B song, but when it came time to pay for the song the label said no, he was "too expensive".

Paul Porter of www.Industryears.com says "Keke Palmer is the poster child for what's wrong with the music industry. Imagine being 12 years old and Atlantic Records trying to mold Keke in the mold of Lil Kim or Foxy Brown."

The problem with the corporate hip hop machine is more than black and white. Unfortunately white America enjoys seeing and hearing about cultural misogyny, sex and violence. They honestly believe black America is the mix of lyrically challenged artist they promote.

The industry spin on Keke is nothing new. When you fail to promote or market a new artist they often fail. If Keke recorded a Jibb type "Chain Hang Low" or say a Plies "Shorty" BET and radio would be all over it. In my eyes Atlantic Records for now has simply passed on one of the most talented artist to come around in decades. Keke Palmer is no one hit wonder.

Who's behind this nonsense? Well the Senior A&R rep, Mike Caren, was the main antagonist, he kept on saying, " Keke is urban", so as long as they refused to record the raunchy tracks that he sent them, he refused to pay for the good clean music they brought him.At one point he even stopped Keke from recording by not paying for studio time.

Unfortunately, Das Entertainment the Management co was also ineffective in dealing with the label, they now began to codify the intent by repeating , " we will not promote her unless she records urban music". This statement confused Keke and her mom. They are unsure of what is really being said indirectly.

Just for the record Keke is from the south side of Chicago. She began singing in her church's choir at the age of five, and she auditioned for a stage production of The Lion King at the age of nine. She grew up listening to Brandy, Aaliyah and TLC, so it was not like she was recording rock music! She was recording good music, with great beats, with good positive lyrics, her music is what all kids want to hear no matter where they live. She was blessed to have worked with some of the top producers in the business, some even cut their price down so that the label would not have an excuse not to pay for the songs.

The only thing she and her parents could figure out was that the subject matters that she chose to sing about were not as, " urban " and they would have preferred.

She is only 14 years old, and when she signed the deal she was only 12 years old, "what did they think she would be singing about?" Anyway, they kept their word and did very little to promote her cd. They refused to provide marketing reports, even when Das management kept asking. Then on Sept 14th they received the report, 4 days before her cd release date of Sept 18th.

Needless to say, it was not a good report, there was absolutely no plans to pay for a national announcement to tell kids that her cd was even being released! They kept their word and did not promote Keke because she was too clean, she refused to go " urban", and sing words that disrespect her and other young girls.

Keke's parents tried to promote the release in Chicago(her hometown), they called the press on their own, and managed to get on some morning shows, but that was only in Chicago. Her debut cd that she worked so hard on sold 1,325 copies, the label supposedly shipped 69,000 copies.
She was on a Disney Channel movie called, JUMP IN, that over 8 million households tuned in to watch it's debut, also the soundtrack to that movie debuted at #5 on Billboard. She was the only artist to have 2 songs on that soundtrack(she can sing). The Akeelah DVD sold 1.2 million copies and on that DVD she has a music video, so her audience, kids from 8-15 know who she is. She also sung the end title credit to the block-buster movie NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM, which grossed over 270 million, her voice is the first voice you hear coming out of the movie. Fox tried to get Atlantic to go half on a music video for Keke, but Atlantic declined stating,

"that song is NOT "Keke's image" so we will not pay, of course they regretted that after the movie grossed so much! This was way back in February, 2007, this was a foreshadowing of events to come!

Last week Keke's mother, Sharon, received a call from an employee of Atlantic Records, a confidential call off the record. The caller told her mother that the president of the label is so disappointed with low sales that she may pull Keke's cd off the shelf. The caller was so upset by this statement that she wanted Keke's parents to know what was being said behind closed doors. She was disappointed that the label refused to promote Keke, and now they are blaming her for poor sales!
Keke was informed that Congress was working to make the labels promote positive music, well her music is positive, but the label will not spend a dime to promote it because she refused to sing raunchy lyrics, and dares to call herself Pop/R&B and not urban / Hip-Hop.

Keke admits "I am only a kid, my parents would kill me if I sang stuff like that". Ask yourself would they want their daughters to sing negative music?

They knew her age when they signed her, they came to her after seeing Akeelah and the Bee, and begged her to sign, so why did they not think that she could really be like Akeelah, a good girl?

In closing, we are asking our audience, should Keke just let it go, accept the fact that this label will not promote this album. Or should they try to get the message out on their own?

Keke wants to try to get the message out because they worked extremely hard on this music and it is good, and the early reviews online are good.

Go to www.kekepalmer.com and listen for yourself.

I think the kids would like it if they knew that it was out. Her parents are so tired of fighting the label. They are not rich and to launch their own promotions would cost a lot of money , so her parents don't want to go broke trying to push a cd that the label should be pushing, they go broke to break the album, and the label just becomes richer.

One Love Wednesday: Johnny Clegg & The Soweto Gospel Choir

Soulful Sunday Video: Ghetto Gospel ~ 2Pac featuring Elton John

WTPS 1080 sold for $15 million

One of the best local stations for talk radio for blacks has been sold to a Christian broadcasting company for a reported $15 million. WTPS 1080 AM is slated to close its doors on October 15^th.

Very little information is posted about the sale and many in the community may be caught off guard by the sudden departure. WTPS has been responsible for keeping the community informed on major issues such as The Jena Six but it's all about the Benjamins.

Not enough revenue coming in meant it was just a matter of time before its doors closed. Now, several folks will be pounding the pavement for employment. That's too bad because the station was good for the community.

Plan Now for Upcoming Events at CCPA

Carnival Center for the Performing Arts Subscribe to our other products, cancel your subscription or manage your account by visiting My Account Please do not reply to this email, as we are unable to respond to messages sent to this address. If you need help please email online help. Written communications concerning this mailing may be directed to Miami Herald Media Co., Interactive Division, 1 Herald Plaza, Miami, FL 33132. About MiamiHerald.com | About the Real Cities Network | Terms of Use & Privacy Statement | Copyright | About the McClatchy Company

Welcome to The Teachers Lounge

Presented by Vivid Blue Holdings, LLC

The Teacher's Lounge featuring The Ruby Baker Band 

created for teachers by teachers!

September 28 @ 6 p.m.

Welcome to The Teacher's Lounge! Come out and enjoy a fantastic evening of music, food and networking with teachers from Miami-Dade County Public Schools. Hear the soulful live performance of the Ruby Baker Band (www.rubybaker.com). The Teacher's Lounge was created for teachers by teachers to uplift and promote the world's most noble profession, TEACHING! Doors will open at 4 p.m. with complimentary hors d'oeuvres served until 6 p.m. For more information and to locate the next Teacher's Lounge visit www.teachersloungemiami.com.

Studio Theater

For tickets visit www.carnivalcenter.org

P.S. You're invited even if you're not a teacher!

Steppin' In South Florida

Steppin' In South Florida      IN THIS ISSUE Martini Monday Steppin' & free introductory workshop It's Steppercise! FOR MORE INFORMATION SOUTH FLORIDA STEPPERS STEPPIN2ITMIAMI Calendar Shades Of Rhythm Dance School The Steppers Set Listen up this Sunday to hear the latest steppers music, special guests, and unique mixes by featured deejays.  Tosca Carroll is taking the lead this season with Jim Berry to bring you the sometimes funky, sometimes smooth, and always intoxicating sounds of steppin'! Tune in every Sunday from 2pm - 4pm or Log on at www.wdna.org. It's not just a dance or a social life...it's a social lifestyle! UPCOMING WORKSHOPS & EVENTS 9/24/07,       4th Monday steppin' @ Cafe Iguana                    Beginners workshop 10/6/07        Steppers Matinee' at Millennium Ballroom 10/13-14/07  THE STEPPERS BOOT CAMP Level I 10/19/07      Tampa, FL with Steppin2itMiami & Company 10/27-28/07  THE STEPPERS BOOT CAMP Level II Greetings! A ball was had by all at Steppin' Into Fall last weekend with Saturday night at Mahogany Grille, L. C. Henderson ("The Technician"), and the Steppin2it & Company demo team with Kindred Family Soul!  We want to say thanks to everyone! This week is Martini Mondays and Steppin2it Tuesday workshop.  We're keeping the parties and the steppin' coming.  Plus, we're gearing up for the big December Anniversary Weekend, so stay tuned! It's the 4th Monday! We're step at Martini Mondays every 2nd & 4th Monday from 7pm until 10pm! Dance to the sounds of HOT105's Savoire Faire spinning the latest upbeat and smooth steppers grooves, enjoy 2-4-1 martinis and order from the $5 menu until 8pm. (NO COVER before 8pm) FREE INTRODUCTORY STEPPIN' WORKSHOP FROM 6PM - 7:30PM Steppin2it Tuesday Classes We've moved into our new home at the Shades Of Rhythm Dance Studio in Miramar and we're doing what we do best...stepping up your steppin'!  It's the smoothest way to have fun...and get a workout, too!  We call it steppercise!  Experienced steppers learn new moves and drill them in The Steppers Casino*, plus we've added a class just to focus on the basic technique of Chicago-style stepping.  Leaders improve their leading and followers follow better...and we do it all to the latest steppin' tracks straight from the windy city!  If you haven't been to a class in a while or just want to experience a really great one, you're welcome to learn and step with us! Check in starts at 7:15pm; Classes start at 7:30pm  $15/class or $45/month  No partner needed; Casual comfortable attire (leather soles recommended) 8910 Miramar Parkway #314 (corner of Douglas Road & Miramar Pkwy)  click here for map 954.438.2000 Check out their website link in this email *What is The Steppers Casino? Moves are called out while dancing in a circle with different partners. Our focus is on bringing our stepping community together for more fun and steppin' than ever. To that end, we've partnered with upscale restaurants, concert promoters, dance studios, and clubs to bring you steppin' at its best.  Hope to see you steppin' soon! Sincerely, Jim Berry South Florida Steppers Tosca Carroll Steppin2itMiami

Forward email This email was sent to [email protected], by [email protected] Update Profile/Email Address | Instant removal with SafeUnsubscribe™ | Privacy Policy. Email Marketing by South Florida Steppers | P.O. Box 560351 | Miami | FL | 33256-0351

Eddie Griffin’s Routine Halted for Use of N-Word

During a recent performance at the 14^th Annual Black Enterprise Magazine Golf & Tennis Challenge in Miami, stand-up comedian and actor Eddie Griffin was summarily dismissed because his routine was heavily peppered with the word "nigger."

More than 1,000 registered for the event and BE publisher Earl Graves received an ovation when he had Griffin's mic shut down and apologized to the audience.

"We at Black Enterprise will not allow our culture to go backward," Graves said. "Black Enterprise stands for decency, black culture and dignity."

The NAACP "buried" the N-word at its annual convention this past July. Whatever made Eddie Griffin think he could get away with such a performance before the high-brow is crowd is a surprise.

While Graves is to be commended for axing Griffin's performance, It's also time for Graves and his associates to seriously move toward building a hotel owned by blacks. Donahue Peebles' attempt to do so on South Beach was doomed for so many reasons but that is another post for another time. Miami's black community could also benefit from outreach activities by the BE participants.

Protesters' rap: Stop using offensive lyrics

BY YAMICHE ALCINDOR

[email protected]

A message to hip-hop artists: Please stop. We're tired of your words.

That's what more than 100 people gathered Tuesday to say at a protest organized by The National Action Network, a civil rights organization headed by the Rev. Al Sharpton.

Amid poetry, speeches, and shouts of anger outside the South Beach FYE Music Store, protesters want hip-hop artists to cease from using degrading lyrics or lyrics that offend racial groups.

The protest, part of ''A National Woman's Day of Outrage,'' was one of 22 demonstrations happening across the country. Click here to read more.