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The Pulse of Entertainment 2015 Archives

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January 2, 2015
 
ThePulseofEntertainment_2014.jpgThe Pulse of Entertainment, year in review, shows a full calendar despite industry politics

Despite, feeling like I am Sony Pictures, because of hackers and being blacklisted - again this year by some - I had an amazing year full with movie reviews and interviews with leading actors thanks to a friend on the "inside." Last year I was also motivated to put together a biographically based book of poems "Journey to Love..." The collection of poems were written in the last four years, they offer my philosophies on life and love, and gives an insight into my personal life (February 14, 2015 release/Freelance Associates).

Last year started with interviews of entertainment industry icons such as comedian/actor Rodney Perry (Johnson Family Vacation), we talked about his hosting job on Bounce TV's stand-up comedy series "Off The Chain;" NBC's "America's Got Talent" executive producer Jason Raff ("Siegfried & Roy: The Miracle") and judge Heidi Klum ("Project Runway); seven-time Grammy Award nominated Charlie Wilson on his Spirit Award honor; play/screen writer and film director David E. Talbert ("The Fabric of a Man") on the DVD release of his Fox Searchlight movie Baggage Claim; Grammy Award winning Denise Williams on her performance at the annual Women's Empowerment Conference; and Grammy Award nominated Will Downing on the release of his new album "Euphoria."

The start of the year also included movie and event reviews. I covered the live announcements of the NAACP Image Awards Nominations that were held at the TCA (Television Critics Association) winter press tour; a week later I went back to TCA to cover the program announcements for ABC and there I had a chance to interview Image Award winner Omar Epps ("House") about his starring role in "Resurrection"; I covered the red carpet arrivals for three-time Grammy Award winner Ne-Yo's Grammy Midnight Brunch and I had a chance to interview Marsha Ambrosius (shares writing credit on MJ's "Butterflies") during the red carpet arrivals; that same week I attended the ASCAP Grammy Award Nominee Brunch and had the pleasure of interviewing seven-time Grammy Award nominee Kelly Price ("R&B Divas") during the red carpet arrivals; I attended the NAACP Image Award luncheon, and the Bergmen's annual Valentine's Romance Oscar Style Lounge & Party where I had a chance to interview Oscar Award nominees and past winners such as Eva La Rue ("CSI: Miami"), and Joe Mantegna ("Criminal Minds"). Movies I screened for review began last year with The Monuments Men, Non-Stop, RoboCop, Noah, Spiderman 2, and Dawn of the Planet of the Apes.

In music, though I don't get a lot of mainstream artists because of my age, I did have a chance to interview and review the album releases of Grammy Award nominated Ledisi ("The Truth"); Grammy Award nominated James Fortune ("Live Through It,"); Grammy Award winner Erica Campbell ("Help"); Grammy Award winner Ann Nesby ("Living My Life"); multi-platinum selling Maxi Priest ("Easy to Love"); four-time Grammy Award nominated Melba Moore ("Forever Moore"); two-time Grammy Award nominee Jonathan Butler ("Living My Dream"); Grammy Award nominated Kierra Sheard, about her new Gospel album "Graceland", and Grammy Award nominated Maysa, about her Christmas album "A Very Maysa Christmas."

The year 2014 ended for The Pulse of Entertainment with interviews and event coverage that included BET's Celebration of Gospel and while there I had a chance to interviewed Academy Award nominated Taraji P. Henson (The Curious Case of Benjamin Button) who hosted the musical celebration; interviewed platinum selling Letoya Luckett (Preacher's Kid) about her role in the feature film From the Rough; talked with Naturi Naughton (Notorious) about her starring role in the STARZ network drama "Power"; covered the red carpet arrivals for SAG's celebrity golf tournament "Actors Fore Actors" and interviewed Tim Allen ("Home Improvement"), who co-hosted the event, Anthony Anderson ("Black-ish"), and Kim Coats ("Sons of Anarchy") while there; I talked to comedienne/actress Luenell (Hotel Transylvania) about her roles in the films Matthew 18, School Dance and Think Line a Man Too; interviewed Emmy Award winner Charles S. Dutton about his starring role in the UP network original movie "Comeback Dad"; covered the ASCAP R&S Awards and interviewed Grammy Award winner producer James Fauntleroy (Rihanna, Justin Timberlake), Grammy Award nominated songwriter Kay Cola (Ne-Yo, Dr. Dre), and RoShon (Disney's "Camp Rock," "Dancing With the Stars") at the red carpet arrivals; interviewed Michael Jai White (Universal Soldier) and Super Middleweight Champion Laila Ali about their starring roles in the feature film Falcon; talked to Stellar and Dove Award nominee Michelle Williams (Destiny's Child) about her new solo album "Journey to Freedom"; covered the BMI Awards which honored three-time Grammy Award and five-time Billboard Award winner Christopher "Ludacris" Bridges and I had a chance to interview actor Larenz Tate ("Rush") about his friendship with the Hip-Hop/actor; interviewed Tracee Ellis Ross about her role in ABC's sitcom "Black-ish"; talked to writer Erick Parker and producer/director One9 about their documentary "Nas, Time is Illmatic"; interviewed comedian/actor Tommy Davidson about acquiring the rights to "Deconstructing Sammy," a book about the life of Sammy Davis, Jr., for a feature film release; talked with five-time Emmy Award nominated comedians Key and Peele about their Comedy Central series "Key & Peele"; interviewed Billboard Music Award winner KEM about his new album "Promise to Love," and had a chance to interview Academy Award nominated Mark Wehlberg (Lone Survivor) about his starring role in The Gambler - along with Golden Globe winner John Goodman (The Flintstones) who co-starred in the film.

Year ended with movie reviews that included A Walk Among the Tombstones, Fury, Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day, Interstellar, The Hunger Game: Mockingjay Part I, and Top Five.

As always I am excited about what the New Year brings for The Pulse of Entertainment. Excited about who I will get a chance to interview or meet, what events I will get a chance to cover, and what movies I will get to screen for review.

I look forward to keeping my estimated ¼ million readers a week informed of my activities. You can listen to me, Eunice Moseley, weekly for "The Pulse of Entertainment Weekly Update" Fridays on Praise 98FM's "Lady Charmaine Live" Show (www.Praise98fm.com) at 11amPT. Also visit my website for other entertainment news and information each week at www.ThePulseofEntertainment.com. The Pulse of Entertainment is also found weekly at www.EURweb.com. Do not forget to visit my free annual entertainment conference "Uplifting Minds II" Saturday, April 18, 2015 in Baltimore, Maryland at Security Square Mall, and in November in Hollywood, California at the Celebrity Centre (www.UpliftingMinds2.com).  

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations/Business consult at Freelance Associates, and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Event/"Uplifting Minds II": The 16th annual "Uplifting Minds II" free entertainment conference arrives in Baltimore Sat. April 18, 2015 at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.com, www.ThePulseofEntertainment.com.)

January 16, 2015

johnnygill_highRes.jpgGrammy nominated Johnny Gill plans to change the game with new album, ‘Game Changer'

"There was something about the album that was beyond my control," said four-time Grammy Award nominated Johnny Gill about his newest solo album release "Game Changer." "The people involved, hands down, brought their A-game."

Johnny Gill's "Game Changer" features New Edition and Babyface, and is released on his own imprint J Skillz Records. Gill has a signature sound and style which you can hear clearly on his hit singles "My, My, My" and "Rub You the Right Way." "Game Changer" offers 12 songs and the first single, "Behind Closed Doors," is already gaining radio airplay.

"I really do believe it was time," he said sincerely when he talked about why he went back into the studio for this project. "Things happen when it is supposed to...I think it's my best project ever."

Johnny started singing seriously back when he was in high school and a member of his family's singing group in church. It was at the suggestion of a childhood friend, Stacy Lattisaw, that the Washington, DC native recorded a demo. The demo ended up in the hands of the president of Atlantic Records and as they say - the rest is history.

Gill released his self-titled debut album in 1983, as well as a duet with Stacy Lattisaw titled "Perfect Combination." In 1987 he was recruited by Michael Bivins of New Edition to join the group. That union resulted in the hit singles "Can You Stand the Rain" and "If It Isn't Love." In 1990 he released another self titled album which included the hit singles "My, My, My" and "Rub You the Right Way" - the album went platinum. In 1997 he joined the group LSG with Gerald Levert and Keith Sweat. Their album release, "Levert, Sweat, Gill," achieved muli-platinum status.

Aside from the Grammy nominations Johnny Gill has won a Soul Train Award and was honored by ASCAP R&S Awards with a Golden Note Award. He has appeared in television and film - from "Family Matters" and "Cuts" to Madea Family Reunion. Gill has performed in the stage play "A Mother's Prayer" with Robin Givens and Shirley Murdock, and is currently a member of Heads of State with Bobby Brown and Ralph Tresvant.

"I love what I do. This is what I was put here to do," the R&B crooner said when asked what keeps him going. "You go through ups and downs...If this is my calling it's not a question."

It seems Johnny Gill has learned how to reinvent himself. That ability and his Soulful R&B signature vocals, is why he has carved his spot in the history books of American music culture.

Marcus Scribner starts his career off with a bang with an Image Award nomination for starring in ABC's ‘Black-ish'
marcusscribner_black_ish.jpgA little over four years ago Marcus Scribner ("Castle") decided to act and the 15 year-old has started his career off with a bang with an NAACP Image Award nomination for starring in ABC's "Black-ish" as the son of Anthony Anderson (Andre "Dre" Johnson) and Tracee Ellis Ross (Rainbow Johnson), and the brother of Yara Shahidi (Zoey Johnson), Miles Brown (Jack Johnson) and Marsai Martin (Diane Johnson). Academy Award nominated Laurence Fishburne (CSI: Crimes Scene Investigation") plays Pops the father of Andre Johnson, his characters' dad.

The sitcom is executive produced by Anderson ("Law and Order") and Tony Award winner Laurence Fishburne. It was picked up for 24 episodes, and its September 24, 2014 premiere episode attracted 10.8 million viewers. "Black-ish" airs on Wednesday at 9:30/8:30c.

"I had not known any of the cast members," said Marcus, who plays Andre Johnson Jr., about working with such iconic actors as Anderson (Transformers), Ross ("Girlfriends") - a BET and Image Award winner, and Fishburne (Matrix). "We're in the 16th episode we're like one giant family. We treat each other like family, a tight knit cast."

As an Image Award nominee Scribner is in the same nominee that includes Boris Kodjoe (BET's "RHOH"), Glynn Turman (Showtime's "House of Lies"), Fishburne (ABC's "Black-ish"), and Terry Crews (Fox's "Brooklyn Nine-Nine").

"I was inside of the hair trailer at the Black-ish studio," he said when asked where he was when he learned of the NAACP Image Award nomination. "The whole trailer erupted. I didn't react... I was standing there with my jar wide open...it's a dream."

"Black-ish" was created by Kenya Barris. It is narrated by Anthony Anderson and it follows Dre (Anderson), a family man, struggling to gain a sense of cultural identity while raising his kids in a predominantly white, upper-middle-class neighborhood. It also stars Jenifer Lewis as Dre Johnson's mother Ruby. Writers on the sitcom, aside from creator Barris, include Yvette Lee Bowser and Njeri Brown. Additional executive producers include Brian Dobbins, Helen Sugland, Larry Wilmore, Paul Young, Peter Principato, and Tom Russo.

For more information on upcoming episodes log onto www.ABC.go.com/shows/blackish.  

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations/Business consult at Freelance Associates, and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Event/"Uplifting Minds II": The 16th annual "Uplifting Minds II" free entertainment conference arrives in Baltimore Sat. April 18, 2015 at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.comwww.ThePulseofEntertainment.com.)

January 23, 2015

ben_jewel_tankard2.jpgGospel music mogul Ben Tankard's Bravo reality show premieres 2nd season, airs Sundays at 9 p.m. ET/PT

"People do what you do," said Pastor and Gospel music mogul Ben Tankard about the reasons he did a reality show, "Thicker Than Water: The Tankards," which airs on the Bravo network on Sundays at 9 p.m. ET/PT. "If I can find a way to include the audience...people will feel like they are a part of it."

The reality show follows the music mogul and Pastor in his day to day life with his wife, also a Pastor, Jewell and their children Brooklyn, Britney, Benji, and Cyrene. It premiered its second season January 4, 2015 as Ben's oldest son Marcus returns home with his wife.

"Our reality show is authentic," said Jewell Tankard when asked if they feel pressure to be more or less than they really are. "Its authentic to who we are as a family. We get transparent. It helps with the healing."

The Tankards live in a mansion in Tennessee that they call the "Tankard Palace". The new season has Ben also celebrating his 50th birthday, and 25 years in the music business. The kids believe Jewell is going through a midlife crisis.

"We are volunteering Pastors in a church we kind of started at home," Ben explained. "As Pastors we get up and talk about...what happens during the week. Tell the story and put scripture to it."

Ben Tankard, a Jazz pianist and producer, has released 18 solo Gospel/Jazz albums and have garnered 12 Stellar Award wins, 11 Dove Award nominations (3 received from last album "Full Tank"), and three Grammy Award nominations. He has produced and collaborated with Take 6, Kelly Price, Fred Hammond, John P. Kee, and Shirley Murdock. In February, 2015 he will release another album "Full Tank 2.0."

The six-time platinum musician's projects are released through his own record label Ben' Jamin/Verity/Sony Music. His "Wow Gospel 2006 Collaborations" album release features Marvin Sapp, Shirley Murdock, and Kirk Franklin. He also did the arrangements for Lionel Richie's "Jesus Is Love."

Ben is a former professional basketball player, and along with his wife Jewell they are Pastors at Destiny Center Church. Log onto www.BanTankard.org, or www.DestinyDome.com for more information about the Tankards.

Kristiana Flowers stars in the Lifetime reality show ‘Preacher's Daughters,' premiers January 23, 2015
kristianaflowers_preachersdaughter_lifetime.jpgInto its third season the Lifetime Network's reality docu-soap "Preacher's Daughters" premiers January 23, 2015 at 10 p.m. The one hour reality show follows nine preacher's daughters and their families as the girls live alone in a house without parent supervision. One of the preacher's daughters is Kristina Flowers (18 years-old) from Detroit, Michigan. She is the youngest child of Reverend Kenneth James Flowers of the Greater New Mt. Moriah Missionary Baptist Church.

"My whole family names begin with a K," Kristiana explained when I complimented her and asked about the unusual spelling of her name. "My grandmother is Ann so Kristiana." When asked about her reality show experience so far she said, "It was fun. Fun is the #1 word. I had so much fun. I made so many connections."

In Lifetime's "Preacher's Daughters" third season Kristiana has left the pressure to be the perfect preacher's daughter living independently with eight others just like her. Through everything on the show she strives to keep God in her heart.

"I think my experiences confirmed what I thought and saw in myself. I always thought I was strong...I proved myself," Flowers said proudly about the first season on the show. "It was my first time away...a week was the most time. My mother was so nervous. My dad was nervous but not as nervous as my mom. She was shaking in her boots."

The third season has Kristiana in college.

"I went straight to college. So they weren't so nervous," she said about leaving home in the third season. "(College) It's been good. I go to Kent State."
Kristiana says she is majoring in fashion, "I always loved fashion...so I took up Fashion Merchandising. I've learned a lot about the business side."

In the preacher's daughters' house living along side Kristiana is Megan Cassidy (17) from South Carolina; Tyche Crockett (22) from New Orleans; Nikki Erimetz (19) from South Carolina; Jayde Gomez (20) from Lakeland, Florida; Kori Haynes (22) from Mississippi; Cierra Vaughn (22) from Chicago; Lolly White (24) from Los Angeles, and Kayla Wilde (20) from Newport Beach, California.

Lifetime's Preacher's Daughters" premiers January 23rd at 10 p.m. Log onto www.MyLifetime.com/shows/preachersdaughters.  

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations/Business consult at Freelance Associates, and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Event/"Uplifting Minds II": The 16th annual "Uplifting Minds II" free entertainment conference arrives in Baltimore Sat. April 18, 2015 at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.comwww.ThePulseofEntertainment.com.)

January 30, 2015

charlieWilson.jpgCharlie Wilson, a 9-time Grammy nominee, launches new album and national tour ‘Forever Charlie'

"I'm still celebrating women's lives and how beautiful they are," said Charlie Wilson, known in the industry as Uncle Charlie. Wilson recently released his newest project "Forever Charlie." "This is one of my best pieces."

"Forever Charlie is followed by a national tour of the same name featuring KEM and Joe - it launches February 12, 2015 in Cleveland. Songs on the album include "Unforgettable," featuring Shaggy, and "Goodnight Kisses" featuring Snoop Dogg.
"There are up tempo songs...so when I go on stage I can perform to my own," the 9-time Grammy Award nominee said.
Charlie is also a BET Award winner whose last album, "Love, Charlie," garnered another Grammy nomination, and hit single "You Are."

The "Forever Charlie Tour" stops in my hometown of Baltimore February 15th at the Arena They will spend Valentines' day in Atlantic City, NJ at the Boardwalk Hall. The tour ends March 27th in Oakland, California.

Charlie, a former lead vocalist of The Gap Band, and he really gives his all during a performance. I saw him perform at BET's Celebration of Gospel concert and he had a white grand piano, enough backup singers to make a choir and violins. He sang so hard he ended up kicking his shoes off. You will certainly get your money's worth at a Charlie Wilson show.

Wilson has also garnered a Soul Train Icon Award, a BMI Icon Award, and a BET Lifetime Achievement Award. You can find out more on the "Forever Charlie" album and national tour at www.CharlieWilsonMusic.com.  

TV One airs the 46th NAACP Image Awards live February 6, 2015 at 9 p.m. ET
sharonBrathwaite_PeresOwino_writers_Lifetime_SeasonsOfLove_46thNAACPImageAwardsLuncheon.jpgOn Friday, February 6, 2015 at 9 p.m./8c TV One will air live the 46th NAACP Image Awards in a two-hour special presentation hosted by Anthony Anderson ("Black-ish," "Law & Order"). Leading the nominations are ABC with 25, Columbia Records and Paramount Pictures with 10 each.

"I been hearing he (David Oyelowo) was snubbed...so I'm just going to say his name because he really did a great job," said comedian/actor Affion Crocket ("CSI: NY," "The District") at the 46th NAACP Image Awards Nominee's Luncheon about the dramatic film Selma. "I have seen a lot of MLK portrayals and he played him in a way that's believable. He made it like MLK was a powerful guy but a powerful guy you can kick it with...just a man on a mission."

David is one of the presenters along with Oprah Winfrey who starred and executive produced the film. Joining them as presenters are Angela Bassett, Common, Laurence Fishburne, Sharon Leal, Larenz Tate, and Kerry Washington. Scheduled to appear are Gabrielle Union, Keegan-Michael Key, Octavia Spencer, Omar Epps, Shemar Moore, Taraji P. Henson, Tracee Ellis Ross, Uzo Aduba, and Wendy Raquel Robinson.

"I'm supper-doper excited. I am so thankful, even if I don't win it is so fantastic to be nominated," said 13 year-old actor Curtis Harris, who stars in the Nickelodeon series "The Haunted Hathaways," about his nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Youth/Children's Program. "I play a ghost. He is very nice, like Casper the ghost."

Lifetime follows ABC with 16 nominations, and BET garners 14. In the recording category following Columbia Records is RCA with 8 nominations and Interscope Records with 5. Following Paramount Pictures in the motion picture category are FOX Searchlight and Universal Pictures both with 5 nominations.
"It was a passion project of ours for many years," said Sharon Brathwaite (Think Like a Man) who is part of a writing team with Peres Owino (The Call) on the Lifetime movie "Seasons of Love," which they received a nomination for Outstanding Writing in a Television Movie. "Luckily the wonderful Taraji P. Henson liked the script and made it happen...and Lifetime gave us a break."

The 46th NAACP Image Awards will be held at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium and aired live on TV One starting at 9 p.m. ET. Sponsors include AT&T, Bank of America, FedEx, Ford Motor Company, General Motors, Hyundai Motor America, PepsiCo, Southwest Airlines and Wells Fargo. For more information on any other presenters, attendees, the pre-show - hosted by Kevin Frazier and Shaun Robinson, and the red carpet arrivals log onto www.NAACPImageAwards.net.  

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations/Business consult at Freelance Associates, and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore TimesHer Event/"Uplifting Minds II": The 16th annual "Uplifting Minds II" free entertainment conference Sat. April 18, 2015, sponsored in part by Security Square Mall. Media sponsored are The Baltimore Times and www.EURweb.comwww.UpliftingMinds2.comwww.ThePulseofEntertainment.com.)

February 6, 2015

lilMo2.jpgLil' Mo preps for 3rd season premiere of ‘R&B Divas LA' on TV One February 11, 2015 and the digital album re-release of ‘SCARlet Letter'

   “It was released in October (2014). We’re re-releasing. It’s a digital album,” said 2-time ASCAP R&S Award winner Lil’ Mo (Cynthia Loving) about her current album “SCARlet Letter.” She said its re-release will coincide with the 3rd season premiere of TV One’s reality show “R&B Divas LA.” She stars in the reality show with a long list of other music industry female personalities. “I (also) wrote a tell-all book to coincide with the album.”

   Lil’ Mo cast members include Chante Moore, Chrisette Michele, Michel’le Toussaint, Christina “Brave” Williams, Leela James, and Stacey Francis. TV One’s “R&B Divas LA” is co-executive produced by Faith Evans and Nicci Gilbert.

   “It’s a build up to the 3rd caliber…navigating through reality TV,” said the BMI Pop and Urban Music Award winner about what we can expect on the reality show. “Some (cast members) are returning and we have some new people. You expect people to be one way…you meet them…and their not that way.”

   Lil’ Mo is a Long Island, NY native living currently in my home state of Maryland. She started out in the entertainment business as a songwriter with credits that include JaRule’s hit singles “Put It On Me” and “I Cry.” She was signed to Elektra Records and debuted with “Based on a True Story” in 2001. In 2003 she released “Meet the Girl Next Door.” Other album releases include “Superwoman Pt II” and in 2011 “PS, I Love Me.”  She has collaborated with Miss Elliot on “Hot Boyz,” Jay Z, Bow Wow, Kelly Price and Keith Sweat. She has also garnered a Teen Choice Award nomination and a MTV Video Music Award nomination.

   TV One’ “R&B Divas LA” premiered in 2013 with the highest viewer rating in its history for ages 25 – 54.

   “My story always goes to the next level each season,” Loving said. “I am an all around entertainer. I signed on to do the best of my ability. So much has changed. People think reality TV is fake...People don’t tell me what to do. It’s a storyline…we try to get through.”

   For more information on the new season of TV One’s “R&B Divas LA” log onto www.TVOne.com/category/shows/rb-divas and you can find out more on Lil’ Mo aka Cynthia Loving at www.TheLilMoShow.com.

 HBO and Fox Searchlight lead in wins for the 21st annual SAG Awards

SAGAwards_215_CatherineCurtin_OrangeistheNewBlack.jpg   The 21st annual Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards aired live Sunday, January 25, 2015 on TNT and TBS. It honored legendary Oscar, Emmy and Tony Award nominated actress Debbie Reynolds with the SAG Life Achievement Award making her the 51st recipient of SAG-AFTRA’s highest honor. HBO and Fox Searchlight Pictures lead with the most SAG Award wins. HBO received a total of 14 wins, and Fox Searchlight Pictures garnered a total of six.

   The SAG Awards are selected by its SAG-AFTRA members, fellow actors.

   “You’re absolutely right, my peers, this comes from my peers,” said Williams H. Macy when asked about the winners selection process including only actors in the process. Macy won for “Outstanding Male Actor in a Comedy Series” for his role in Showtime’s “Shameless.”

   The prominent awards event started with the red carpet arrivals where I had a chance to talk with SAG-AFTRA president Ken Howard who is also an actor with credits that include Rambo and The Wedding Ringer.

   “We had a lot of successful contract negotiations in the collective bargaining,” said Ken when asked about the results so far from the merger of the two actors’ unions SAG and AFTRA. “We’re a merged union and part of those negotiations was that its one contract across the board. It gave us a lot of power, what we hoped for has come.”

   HBO lead with the most nominations at 14. Of the 14 the winners included Mark Ruffalo (“The Normal Heart”) for “Outstanding Male Actor in a Television Movie,” Frances McDormand (“Olive Kitteridge”) for “Outstanding Female Actor in a Television Movie,” and “Game of Thrones” for “Outstanding Stunt Ensemble in a Comedy or Drama.”

   Fox Searchlight Pictures followed HBO with the next highest nominations with six. Of the six nominations the winners included Michael Keaton (Birdman) for “Outstanding Male Actor in a Leading Role” and Birdman for “Outstanding Cast in a Movie Picture.”

   Other winners included Julianne Moore (“Still Alice”) for “Outstanding Female Actress in a Leading Role;” Kevin Spacey (“House of Cards”) for “Outstanding Actor in a Drama;” Uzo Aduba (Orange is the New Black”) for “Outstanding Female Actor in a Comedy Series;” “Downton Abbey” (PBS) for “Outstanding Ensemble in a Drama,” and “Orange is the New Black” (Netflix) for “Outstanding Ensemble in a Comedy Series.” You can find the full list of winners by logging onto www.SAGAwards.org.

   “I play Wanda Bell in ‘Orange is the New Black,’ said Catherine Curtin (The Wolf of Wall Street, The Bourne Legacy) during the red carpet arrival. “I’m in this extraordinary show. The ensemble is nominated, it’s amazing. It’s a show that touches on the heart strings of what’s going on today.”

   The 21st annual SAG Awards were produced by Avalon Harbor Entertainment;

 

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations/Business consult at Freelance Associates, and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Event/”Uplifting Minds II”: The 16th annual “Uplifting Minds II” free entertainment conference Sat. April 18, 2015,  sponsored in part by Security Square Mall. Media sponsored are The Baltimore Times and www.EURweb.com. www.UpliftingMinds2.comwww.ThePulseofEntertainment.com.)

February 13, 2015

billduke.jpgBill Duke, the godfather of black cinema, releases photo book to documentary ‘Dark Girls' and airs sequel with ‘Light Girls' on OWN

"Pain is pain," said famed movie actor/director Bill Duke about why he tackled light skin girls in his new documentary "Light Girls," a sequel to his documentary "Dark Girls" (2011). Bill feels that aside from racism in this country there is "colorism" where you are judged by the tone of your skin. "We bicker over skin tone. Whites go to tanning salons...injections to look like our butts and lips."

Bill's documentary on "Light Girls" aired on the OWN network January 19, 2015 and it coincided with the release of his photo book based on "Dark Girls" (Harper Collins). "Dark Girls" is a documentary celebrating the beauty of dark-skinned women. The photography in the project is that of Barron Claiborne.

"Claiborne is a genius," Duke said when asked why he chose this particular photographer. "Harper Collins gave me his name. I liked the way he was and the way he worked. The writer (Sheila P. Moses) she came on to interview the women participants."

In "Light Girls" there were over 250 interviews of men and women which included Russell Simmons, Soledad O'Brian and Iyanla Vanzant. Some of the light skin women interviewed were Keke Wyatt, Erica Hubbard, LisaRaye, Chante Moore, Kym Whitley, Claudia Jordan, Raven Symone, and Essence Atkins.

"Part of it was based on my experiences growing up as a child, being a dark skin boy," said Bill Duke, known as the godfather of black cinema because of his groundbreaking directorial debut on A Rage in Harlem (1991). "They are similar things today, how dark skin women are treated by media, I want to give a voice to the voiceless."

Bill Duke is also known for his acting with credits that include starring in Car Wash (1970), American Gigolo (1980), Commando, Predicator, Menace II Society, Action Jackson, and X-Men: The Last Standing. As a director his credits consist of Deep Cover (1992), and Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit (1993).

For more information on Bill Duke's "Light Girls" log onto www.BillDuke.com. To order the photo book "Dark Girls" log onto www.HarperCollins.com.  

NAMM TEC Awards honor guitarist Slash and bass player Nathan East
NAMM_slash_stageperformance.jpgI was invited to attend the 30th annual NAMM TEC Awards and went because I love technology. When I arrived I was pleased to hear that legendary electric lead guitarist Slash (Guns and Roses, Michael Jackson) was to be honored with the NAMM TEC Les Paul Award, and bass player Nathan East (Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson) was to be honored with the NAMM TEC Hall of Fame Award.

I had such a great time seeing entertainment industry technicians be awarded for their technological developments and sound quality skills that I stayed until the end. That is so unlike me, I tend to want to beat the traffic leaving events at the same time by leaving early.

Winners of the 30th NAMM TEC Awards included Pharrell's "Happy" for Best Record Production for a Single or Track; the video game "Call of Duty: Ghost" for Best Interactive Entertainment Sound Production; Warner Bros' Gravity for Best Film Sound Production; "Game of Thrones" for Best Television Sound Production; "Sting & Paul Simon on Stage Tour" for Best Tour/Event Sound Production, and my favorite brand for microphones - Shure (Shure GLXC) which won for Best Wireless Technology.

Image Award winning comedian/actor Sinbad (First Kid, Planes) hosted the event, which offered performances by bass player Nathan East and lead guitarist Slash.
"Every single person in this room is worthy of this award," East said when he accepted the NAMM TEC Hall of Fame Award. "We have the same challenges, how we keep it moving forward. I'd like to give a big thanks to NAMM TEC Awards. I also received my first Grammy Award nomination for my first solo record."
Slash, who began his career in music with the band Guns & Roses and became a trademark for Michael Jackson's on stage performances, said when he accepted the NAMM TEC Les Paul Award that he was, "Quite honored. My first electric guitar I ever got was a Les Paul. Some years later I got to meet him. We sort of became friends, he is like a mentor - so thank you."

You can find out more on the NAMM TEC Awards by logging onto www.TecAwards.org.

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations/Business consult at Freelance Associates, and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Event/"Uplifting Minds II": The 16th annual "Uplifting Minds II" free entertainment conference Sat. April 18, 2015, sponsored in part by Security Square Mall. Media sponsored are The Baltimore Times and www.EURweb.comwww.UpliftingMinds2.comwww.ThePulseofEntertainment.com.)

February 20, 2015

macfarland_kevincostner.jpgDisney's McFarland, USA starring Kevin Costner is profoundly inspiring

Academy Award winner Kevin Costner (The Bodyguard) takes on the real-life role of Coach Jim White in the Walt Disney presentation of McFarland, USA. White (Costner) is a former football coach who, after being fired from a former school, was hired by a predominantly Latino high school in a remote location in McFarland, California. The profoundly inspiring sports drama follows White as he sees cross-country racing potential in students who ran to school, then after school ran to the fields to work and then ran home - everyday. McFarland, USA is Rated PG and arrives in theaters February 20, 2015

"I read this story sometime ago. I was taken with the story," Emmy Award winning Costner (Dancing with Wolves) said about why he took the role of a man who inspired and trained a group of young men to race their way to the State Championship for 24 years straight. "The movie came up... Niki Caro (director) asked me did I want to be in it - to play Jim. He is the best of the best. He let them know it was possible."
McFarland, USA is based on a book of the experiences of Jim White written by Bettina Gilois and Christopher Cleveland, which took place in 1987. The Walt Disney/Mayheim Picture production is produced by Mark Ciardi and Gordon Gray, with screenplay by Gilois, Christopher Cleveland and Grant Thompson.
"He gave them goals," Golden Globe Award winner Kevin Costner emphasized about how White inspired the young minds to believe that they could. "I was proud to play the essence of Jim White."

"It's very realistic," Jim White said about the film based on his life. "I'm thrilled it happened, and who played me."

Costner did an outstanding job with the role too. Along with Kevin (Waterworld) the cast of the cross country high school team included Carlos Pratts as Thomas Valles; Hector Duran as Johnny Sameniego; Sergio Avelar as Victor Puentes; Johnny Ortiz as Jose Cardenas, and the Diaz brothers Rafael Martinez as David Diaz, Rodrigo Ramirez as Danny Diaz and Michael Aguero as Damacio Diaz. McFarland, USA is executive produced by Mario Iscovich and Mary Martin, and directed by Niki Caro.

To see the McFarland, USA movie trailer log unto www.Movies.Disney.com/McFarland-USA.com. 

The Bergman's 7th Annual Valentine Romance Oscar Style Party was debonair as always 
BergmansPreOscarGiftSuit_2015_ChrisMcDonald.jpgI was invited to Bergman Public Relation's 7th Annual Valentine Romance Oscar Style Lounge & Party event at the renowned Fig & Olive restaurant on Melrose Avenue in West Hollywood where her sponsors provided a day long stream of food, open bar, and vendors providing complementary items such as dresses, gowns, tuxedos, jewelry, shoes, watches, skin and hair care products, and hats. Former Oscar winners, nominees and other celebrity personalities came to enjoy it all. The event was debonair as always with Doris Bergman as an excellent and attentive host.


I had a chance to talk to Najee De-Tiege known for his role on Nickelodeon's "Power Rangers: Super Samurai" as Blue Ranger. I asked him about upcoming projects, "I just got done with a movie, ‘Actor for Hire,'" he said to me. "It's going to be coming out pretty soon...it's a comedy."


MDSUN was the major sponsor with Pura D'or as the event's presenter. Its list of sponsors that provided the free items is almost endless, but some include Whirl A-Style, Suewong, Hint Water Made Easy, GUESS, Offenbacher, Nitro Cream, Spongelle, Color Wow, and Tanus Designs.


"I got a big one, Zipper, that got picked up by Sundance. It's about sex addiction," said Chris McDonalds ("Beware the Batman," "Boardwalk Empire") when I questioned him about his upcoming projects. "Then The Squeeze a golf movie coming out in April about golf and gambling, and I have Texas Rising a great big mini-series movie that comes out in May."


While at the Bergman's 7th Annual Valentine Romance Oscar Style Lounge & Party event I also saw in attendance Elise Robertson from American Sniper, Celebrity Stylist George Blodwell (Eva Longoria, Bill Maher), and Emmy Award winner Eric Moltsof of "Days of Our Lives."

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations/Business consult at Freelance Associates, and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Event/"Uplifting Minds II": The 16th annual "Uplifting Minds II" free entertainment conference Sat. April 18, 2015, sponsored in part by Security Square Mall. Media sponsored are The Baltimore Times and www.EURweb.com.  www.UpliftingMinds2.comwww.ThePulseofEntertainment.com.)

February 27, 2015

virtue2.jpgSister trio Virtue is back with a new album ‘Testimony: Reloaded,' single ‘You Are' on Billboard Top 50 Chart

"We started back because over the years we never wanted it to end, but we had families so we took a break," said Ebony Holland one of the three sisters that make up the Contemporary Gospel trio Virtue about their much anticipated come-back album "Testimony: Reloaded". "We were asked to join an independent label. The message (from God) was ‘go for it, I opened this door for you that you been waiting to see.'"

Ebony is joined by sisters Karima Kibble and Heather Martin. Their last album was released in 2006. Virtue started in the Gospel music industry on Verity Records in 1997, a subsidiary of RCA/Sony Records. In 2006 they signed with Darkchild Gospel and released their last album "Testimony." In 2003 they received a Dove Award for their Verity Records release "Free", and in 2006 they received a Grammy Award nomination for their Darkchild release "Testimony."

"Every time we prayed on it, everything falls in line," Ebony said about the come back process. "Nothing happens by coincidence. I believe in Devine providence."
Virtue recently released the first single off of the "Testimony: Reloaded," project titled "You Are," which landed at #25 on the Billboard Gospel Chart. They have a long list of appearances to promote the album release. Virtue recently performed on The Word Network's "Rejoice in the Word" program hosted by Bishop George Bloomer. 
On March 8, 2015 the will perform on the "Selma50 Tribute" on the OWN Network, March 21st they will perform at the Gospel Super Fest in Chicago, and March 27-28 they will perform at the Stellar Gospel Music Awards in Vegas.

"Testimony: Reloaded" (Mixed Bag/eOne) is a re-release of their Grammy nominated album "Testimony" originally released on Darkchild Gospel. Fred Jerkins (brother of Rodney "Darkchild" Jerkins) appears on the new album as producer of the "You Deserve" selection.

For more information on sister trio Virtue's new album you can log onto www.VirtueGirls3.com

ABC's new programming starts with the launch of the very funny ‘Fresh Off the Boat', airs on Tuesdays
freshofftheboat_ABC.jpgABC in the coming months will premiere its new programming of which "Fresh Off the Boat" is one. The very funny comedy-series is based on the autobiography of Eddie Huang, "Fresh Off the Boat: A Memoir." Soon after the books' release ABC and 20th Century Fox Television signed on to develop it. The sitcom is about Eddie as a youth and what he went through moving from the inner city of California to suburbia in Florida.

"A hit show will change a brand," ABC Entertainment Group president Paul Lee said when I questioned him about whether through the years ABC's branding had changed. "Brands take a long time to build, its build on strength."

"Fresh Off the Boat" stars Randall Park ("The Office") as Eddie's father Louis Huang; Hudson Yang as Eddie; Ian Chen as Eddie's brother Evan; Forrest Wheeler as his brother Emery, and Constance Wu as Eddie's very funny mother Jessica. Constance's comedic timing on this role will certainly be the glue to keep the show together.

"My mom is an accidental comic," Eddie said when I asked if his mother was really as funny as Constance played her, and on whether he had to coach Constance on how to be his very funny mother Eddie said, "(No) I didn't have to direct Constance."

The life situations the Huang's experience on "Fresh Off the Boat" could be the experiences of you and me in America. I laughed through the episode I reviewed before-hand, and saw myself in the characters. When I asked if we will see the Asian culture as well as their struggles at becoming Americanized Writer and Executive Producer Nahnatchka Khan said, "It will be a mixture of the two cultures."

Melvin Mar and Jake Kasdan are also executive producers, with Eddie Huang serves as producer. For more information on other new programs for ABC's new season log onto www.DisneyABCTV.com.

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations/Business consult at Freelance Associates, and Promotions Director (at-large) forThe Baltimore Times. Her Event/"Uplifting Minds II": The 16th annual "Uplifting Minds II" free entertainment conferenceSat. April 18, 2015, sponsored in part by Security Square Mall. Media sponsored are The Baltimore Timesand www.EURweb.com.www.UpliftingMinds2.comwww.ThePulseofEntertainment.com.) 

March 6, 2015

chappie_scene.jpgColumbia Pictures' Chappie is evolution at its best, arrives in IMAX theaters March 6, 2015

Imagine a world where police are replaced by robots that follow command without question, can be destroyed and rebuilt again, that was Chappie's life until they decided to scrap him. In Columbia Pictures' Sci-Fi action drama Chappie you will see evolution at its best as Chappie played by Sharito Copley (District 9) is saved by his creator Deon played by Dev Ratel (Slum Millionaire). Deon uploads into Chappie a test program that gives him a conscious mind - the ability to think and feel. Chappie arrives at IMAX theaters March 6, 2015.

Directed by Neill Blomkemper (District 9) Chappie excellently gives the viewer an almost realistic view of the future where law enforcement is aided by droid, and the result of what that would do to a society. While stealing the parts to the droid its creator is kidnapped by a street gang played by South African Hip-Hop group Die Antwoord's members Ninja as leader Watkin and Yolandi who plays his lady of the same name. They hope that the stolen robotics expert can build them a "gangster" robot they will steal enough to pay a multi-million dollar debt owed to by the city's biggest gang lord.
Sigourney Weaver plays Michelle Bradley head of the company that produces the droids and she is manipulated by robotics expert Vincent Moore, played by Hugh Jackman, to use his droid creation called Moose instead of the humanoid robot created by Deon. For Chappie times is running out. What he does to survive will give you hope in humanity.

Chappie is Rated PG-13 and is written by BlomKemp and Terri Tatchell (District 9). It also stars Jose Pablo Cantillo and news anchor Anderson Cooper makes a cameo appearance.
You can log onto www.Chappie-Movie.com for the movie trailer on Columbia Pictures' Chappie log onto www.Chappie-Movie.com.

BMI's ‘I Wrote That Song' brings trade secrets to Hollywood

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"The genesis of the project was really about providing the fans, the consumers with a chance to hear the creative process," said Catherine Brewton, BMI's Vice President of Writer/Publisher Relations in Atlanta, about the recent BMI "I Wrote That Song" panel held at 1Oak in West Hollywood. 
Panelists included Grammy Award nominated Hip-Hop mogul/rapper Rick Ross (Maybach Music Group); five-time Grammy nominated singer/songwriter Ester Dean (Rihanna's "Rude Boy, Kate Perry's Fireworks"); Grammy and BMI Award winning songwriter/producer David Hodges (Kelly Clarkson's "Because of You"); Grammy nominated producer Mannie Fresh (Cash Money Records, Def Jam Records), and Country songwriter Natalie Hemby (Mirana Lambert's "White Lie," Kelly Clarkson's "Don't Rush").

"They are sharing their stories and trade secrets," Catherine stressed. "It's free information that you can't get...there is no price, things that are just invaluable."

Aspiring artists, songwriters, songwriters and managers stood in line outside of the club for almost an hour for a chance to get into the free BMI event, they came in ready and eager to learn and network.

BMI (Broadcast Music, Inc,) is a global leader in music rights management. It manages over 8.5 million musical works owned by over 600,000 BMI songwriters, composers, and music publishers. BMI was the first performing rights organization to create the "open door" policy in 1939 welcoming Jazz, Country and American Roots genres.

The "I Wrote That Song" is Grammy "infused," and held during Grammy Award week, and moderated by Catherine Brewton. To learn more about other BMI events and opportunities log onto www.BMI.com. 

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations/Business consult at Freelance Associates, and Promotions Director (at-large) forThe Baltimore Times. Her Event/"Uplifting Minds II": The 16th annual "Uplifting Minds II" free entertainment conferenceSat. April 18, 2015, sponsored in part by Security Square Mall. Media sponsored are The Baltimore Timesand www.EURweb.comwww.UpliftingMinds2.comwww.ThePulseofEntertainment.com.)

 

March 13, 2015

philperry_file.jpgPhil Perry does an exquisite job on new album ‘A Better Man,' features Howard Hewett, Kim Waters and Rick Braun

Phil Perry, one of the music industry's great male vocalist and songwriter, recently released a new solo album titled "A Better Man," it features the talents of Howard Hewett, Kim Waters and Rick Braun. "A Better Man" is released on the Shanachie Entertainment imprint. The project also includes help from Chris "Big Dog" Davis and Perry covers two Curtis Mayfield songs - "Gypsy Woman" and "I'm So Proud."

"Curtis Mayfield was one of the unsung heroes when I was coming up," Phil said about why he covered Curtis Mayfield's material. "You only have four minutes to work with. I felt his was so tasteful, yet so suggestive as the story unfolds. He made the listener become a part of the song. He was unique."

One of his Mayfield covers I listed as one of my very favorite on the album, even though the entire album is exquisite, and that was "Gypsy Woman." Rhon Lawrence is featured on this selection on lead guitar making it superb. The title track, "A Better Man," is another favorite as well because Phil Perry's vocals are the definition of R&B, and lyrically the song is a mighty testimony. I love the sweet "You're the Only One," "Feeling You" which features the legendary Rick Braun on trumpet, and "Sorry I Let You Go," a beautiful masterpiece.

"He (Curtis) and Jerry Butler wrote songs together," Phil added about his hero Mayfield. "'Gypsy Woman' is so descriptive anybody can relate."

Phil Perry is a multi Billboard Jazz Chart topper with duets with some of the best such as Chante' Moore. As a songwriter he has penned for such legends as Aretha Franklin. Visit Phil at www.Shanachie.com for more information on his "A Better Man" album release.

Def Leppard drummer Rick Allen launches the "Angels and Icons" national Wentworth Gallery exhibit 
rickallen_defleppard_art.jpgDef Leppard drummer Rick Allen, combines photography, music and paint to make art, and its showcased at the Wentworth Galleries as "Rick Allen: Angels and Icons" art exhibit. Allen will make a special appearance on March 21, 2015 at the Wentworth Gallery in Bethesda, Maryland 12noon - 3pm and at their McLean, VA location from 6pm - 9pm.

Aside from being the drummer of the iconic Rock band Def Leppard Rick's passion is photography.

"I was inspired by my four year-old daughter. She was painting without fear, doing it with a passion. It inspired me to use less photography and more painting," Allen replied when asked why he started with this unique process combining photography and paint. Art so unique it sold out two art exhibits shows of over 300 pieces.

Allen said his unique art process replaced a paint brush with a light stick.

"It's done with a stick instead of a paint brush," Rick explained. "I sit in a dark room and play songs I grew up playing, and create art out of the rhythm you hear."

The "Rick Allen: Angels and Icons" art exhibit at the Wentworth Galleries is part of his North American tour. Learn more about his exhibit at www.WentworthGallery.com.

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations/Business consult at Freelance Associates, and Promotions Director (at-large) forThe Baltimore TimesHer Event/"Uplifting Minds II": The 16th annual "Uplifting Minds II" free entertainment conferenceSat. April 18, 2015, sponsored in part by Security Square Mall. Media sponsored are The Baltimore Timesand www.EURweb.comwww.UpliftingMinds2.comwww.ThePulseofEntertainment.com.)

 

March 20, 2015

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Grammy and Stellar winning Dorinda Clark-Cole releases new album ‘Living It,' and stars in reality show ‘Preachers of Detroit'

"I'm thankful to be a part of it," said Dorinda Clark-Cole, a three-time Grammy Award and six-time Stellar Award winner, about starring in the Oxygen Network reality show "Preachers of Detroit." "They tried to bring together preachers in Detroit. They thought about me...as an evangelist in the industry for 40 years. I am the highest ranking in my local church and have a national position." 

On the Oxygen Network reality show "Preachers of Detroit" are Pastor Dorinda, Pastor David Bullock, who speaks his mind; Bishop Charles H. Ellis IIII, one of the most respected in the community who works above Bishop Noel Jones from Los Angeles; Bishop Corletta Vaughn, Pastor Tim Alden, Bishop-Elect Clarence Langston, and Pastor Don Williams Shelby, Jr. who is focused on building his Gospel label. "Preachers of Detroit" airs on Fridays at 8/7c.

"When they asked me I said, ‘Let me think about it. How are you going to do this,'" Dorinda said about when the reality show approached her. "They focus on the trials and triumphs of the city of Detroit and how our preachers balance their lives. I am a talk show host, I travel with my sisters (The Clark Sisters), and I have my radio show. That's my part, my story."

Dorinda Clark-Cole's story also includes the recent release of her fifth solo album "Living It" (Light Records/eOne Music). The project's release coincided with the launch of the "Preachers of Detroit" reality show. The first single is titled "Bless This House."

"It happens to be one of my favorites on the album," she said about the first single. "It's gotten such great reviews. The writers got together and did it in three days...inspired by my testimony. The writers sat down with me and listened to my testimony and wrote these songs."

For more information on the "Preachers of Detroit" log onto www.Oxygen.com/shows/Preachers-of-Detroit and for more in Dorinda Clark-Cole's new album release "Living It" log onto www.DorindaClarkCole.net.

Eric Martsolf of Emmy winning ‘Days of Our Lives' plays characters unlike himself for fun, airs weekdays at 1 p.m.
BergmansPreOscarGiftSuit_2015_EricMoltsof_DaysOfOurLives.jpgNBC's Emmy Award winning "Days of Our Lives" was launched on November 8, 1965. It is a day-time drama that has become one of the longest running television programs in the world. The series was created by husband and wife team Ted Corday and Betty Corday, and it focuses on the lives of the Hortons and the Bradys. Eric Martsolf says playing his role on the series is fun because it's a character that is unlike him.

"I play this crazy dude on ‘Days of Our Lives' called Brady Black. It's been my project for the last six years," Eric said about his role playing Brady Black, the CEO of Titans. "It's much more fun to play a trouble guy...it's the uncertainty."


Martsolf maybe best known for his role on NBC's "Passions" as Ethan Winthrop (2002 - 2008). His credits also include "Smallville" and "NCIS."

You can see the very cheerful Eric Martsolf on NBC's "Days of Our Lives" week-days at 1 p.m. ET/PT. www.NBC.com/Days-Of_Our_Lives.

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations/Business consult at Freelance Associates, and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore TimesEvent "Uplifting Minds II": The 16th annual "Uplifting Minds II" free entertainment conference Sat. April 18, 2015, sponsored in part by Security Square Mall. Media sponsored are The Baltimore Timesand www.EURweb.comwww.UpliftingMinds2.comwww.ThePulseofEntertainment.com.)

 

March 27, 2015

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John Ridley's ‘American Crime' focuses on today's issues in a nonpartisan way, airs Thursdays at 10/9c

John Ridley, known for his script for 12 Years a Slave, created and directs the new ABC television series "American Crime." The crime drama stars Felicity Huffman, Timothy Hutton, Regina King and Elvis Nolasco. The weekly series airs on Thursdays at 10/9c on ABC, and it focuses on race, class, gender and political issues in a nonpartisan way.

The same skill Ridley showed in 12 Years a Slave when he portrays the ugliness of the enslavement of black people, while also showing the courage it took for some white people to stand up against it. John approaches the issues of today with the same as the series "American Crime" centers around the different sides of the judicial system during a racially charged case.

Russ Skokie's (Timothy Hutton) son Matt, a war veteran, is murdered and his wife is assaulted in their home. Felicity Huffman plays Matt's ex-wife and she fuels the investigation into the case. The police "finds" four suspects and whether guilty or not their lives will be forever changed.

The four suspects are Carter Nix played Elvis Nolasco (Third Watch). Regina King ("SouthLAnd") plays Aliyah Shadeed a devout and strong Muslim woman, helping Carter find a good defense attorney. Alonzo Gutierrez, played by Benito Martinez ("The Shield"), is a hardworking Mexican immigrant whose son Tony, played by Johnny Ortiz (McFarland USA), is a suspect - maybe it's only because he was in the wrong place at the wrong time. Aubrey Taylor played by Caitlin Gerard (Magic Mike) and Hector Tonz played by Richard Cabral (End of Watch) are both former models who are strung-out on drugs who are suspects as well.

"It's a beautiful religion," Regina King said about her character strong Muslim beliefs. "ABC provided an amazing Muslin woman who lives in Texas...she was there for 24/7."

Learn more about upcoming episodes of "American Crime" at www.abc.gocom/shows/american-crimes.

Chrystee Pharris stars in Steps of Faith with Ted Lange and the POP Network docu-series ‘Queens of Drama'
chrysteepharris.jpg"All of us came together, we wanted to do our own project, write the characters...the plot," said actress Chrystee Pharris best known for her role on the day-time drama "Passions." The project is POP Network's docu-series "Drama Queens," about the lives of the leading ladies of day-time drama. "Meeting these women...they're all so powerful. I've watched them for a long time."

The other day time drama queens include Lindsay Harley ("All My Children", Crystal Hunt ("One Life to Live"), Vanessa Marcil ("General Hospital") and Hunter Tylo ("The Bold and the Beautiful"). The "Queens of Drama" docu-series will premier April 26, 2015 at 10 p.m. ET/PT on POP Network (formerly TV Guide Network).

Pharris also stars in a faith-based film Steps of Faith with Ted Lange ("Love Boat"), Charles Malik Whitfield ("One Life to Live"), Tracey Ross ("Passions"), and Irma P. Hall ("Soul Food"). Directed by M. Legend Brown, Steps of Faith follows Faith (Chrystee) who is not a church girl but has a very close personal relationship with God. The family friendly film is currently on DVD and screening at 16 film festivals.

"I walk on faith," Pharris stated frankly.'

Chrystee is also known for her role on "Scrubs" and her credits include "Castle," "Lincoln Heights," "Nashville" and A Walk in the Woods. To learn more about Chrystee log onto www.ChrysteePharris.com.

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations Strategist and Business Management Consultant at Freelance Associates, and is Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Timeswww.ThePulseofEntertainment.com.)

 April 3, 2015

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Baltimore actor Ro Brooks is turning heads in Hollywood with his acting skills
"I auditioned," said Baltimore actor Ro Brooks (Preacher's Kids, "CSI: NY") about how he received the role in the new film Mysterious Ways, starring Wendy Raquel Robinson ("The Game"), Gary Dourban ("Being Mary Jane") and Erica Campbell (Mary Mary). The faith-based movie arrives on DVD and in theaters April 21, 2015. Brooks can be seen in the Tyler Perry series "The Haves and Have Nots" on the OWN Network. When asked about upcoming projects Ro informed me he has projects that include, "The Clean Up Men...I play an undercover cop, and The Congregation (Spring, 2015 release), I play a Pastor."
 
Brooks can also be seen in a national U.S. Marine Corps commercial titled "The Land We Love" and in Avalon (El Rey Network), a Toyota commercial with Idris Elba, and the film Squatters with Richard Dreyfuss. He can be seen in music videos of singer Syleena Johnson and Lil' Mo.

One of Ro's first roles was on "Homicide Life in the Streets" in 1993. He has since then amassed an impressive list of projects that include working with directors such as Quentin Tarantino and Michael Bey. His credits also include Transformers Revenge of the Fallen, A Beautiful Soul, "Shameless" (Showtime), and "Sons of Anarchy" (FX).

Learn more about Ro Brooks by visiting his website at www.RoBrooks.com.

Chris Spencer, one of the most sought after comedic script writers, credits include ‘Real Husbands of Hollywood' and ‘Wild ‘N Out'
chrisspencer.jpgWith thirty-four credits as a television comedy script writer, Chris Spencer's credits include the highly popular comedy-series "Real Husbands of Hollywood." He has become one of the most sought after writers in Hollywood. Chris is also a comedian, actor and producers.

"As a writer each process is different," Chris said when I questioned him about his process for writing for "Real Husbands of Hollywood" (BET) starring Kevin Hart. "It's really just putting together an idea. Just keep writing it and rewriting. You got to keep writing. If you like to write it's a labor of love. Then it's a point when you say this is enough, this is it. You got to get it right."

As a writer Chris Spencer's credits include "Jamie Foxx Presents Laffapalooza," Nick Cannon's "Wide ‘N Out," "The BET Honors," "Saturday Night Live," and "Vibe". Forty-nine credits as an actor solidifies him in Hollywood for life, with roles in such projects as "Being Mary Jane," "Let's Stay Together," "Charmed," "ER," "The District," and films The Sixth Man and Significant Others.

As a producer Spencer has 34 episodes of "Real Husbands of Hollywood" as executive producer, and his own "Chris Spencer's Minority Report." He consulting producer on "Russell Simmons Presents: The Ruckus." His comedic talents landed him a spot on "The Chris Rock Show," "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" and HBO's "Def Comedy Jam."


(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations Strategist and Business Management Consultant at Freelance Associates, and is Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times.www.ThePulseofEntertainment.com.) 

April 10, 2015

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Guitarist Blake Aaron to release ‘Soul Stories,' a perfect blend of Jazz, Latin, R&B and Funk, May 5, 2015
 

"This is the first I produced completely by myself," said lead guitarist Blake Aaron about his fifth solo studio album titled "Soul Stories." Then project is a perfect blend of Jazz, Latin, R&B and Funk selections and is to be released May 5, 2015 on Innervision Records. "It took a long time. I had 100 ideas for songs. I have a few songs in the can for the next (project)."

Blake said he wanted to show who he was as a musician on this album, to include all the difference genres that have influenced him.

"I change genres," Aaron told me when asked what listeners can expect to find on the new project. "I go through difference genres in my career. In High School I played Rock, in college it was Jazz and Classical. Out of college the gigs were Funk."

Blake hopes the new album "Soul Stories" takes the listeners on an emotional journey.

"I would love for the album to take them on a journey, an emotional journey like a movie. The ups and downs, like my concerts," he pointed out. "I hope they inspire you to get up and party."

Well surely the "Sol Amor" selection was made so the listeners would get up and party, because it is one of my favorites and I can see myself dancing all night to it. "Sol Amor" is one of my favorites because it has that Latin feel I love so much. Blake remakes the Hall & Oats classic "Sara Smile." It took me back to my youth, but he still made it his own by letting his guitar sing those lyrics. Other favorites from the album include "Story of the Blues," a Funky number where Aaron's guitar actually sounds like its screaming as he ends the song on a real Funky note. "Story of My Life" evokes visions of Africa and endless rivers, "Europa" felt like the essence of what Latin music is, and "Groove-O-Matic" is a favorite because its horns gives it that Big Band feel that enhances Blake's Funky guitar rhythm.

Blake Aaron is also a syndicated radio show host of "The Blake Aaron Live" Show on KSBR with Tina Anderson. His music reached Billboard's Top Five Chart and reached the Top #10 on Billboard's Latin Chart for his single "Encantadora." Blake was also the guitarist and theme song composer for MAD TV for 14 years.

One of the best female comedienne/actresses in entertainment, Luenell, celebrates her birthday at OHM Night Club in Hollywood
Luenell2_BDayParty_3_20_15.jpgI was invited to a birthday party for one of the best female comedienne/actresses in entertainment, Luenell. The new queen of comedy was celebrating her birthday at OHM Night Club in Hollywood, and the evening was all about making sure she knew how much we loved and supported her.

The comedienne/actress, who has worked on such projects as Taken 2 with Liam Neeson, Hotel Transylvania with Adam Sandler, and The Rock with Sean Connery and Nicolas Cage, was patient and loving to each and every supporter as she made her way into her red carpeted party surrounded by her manager, body guard and significant other.

Her birthday bash house band was The On Call Band with James Manning. The DJ on sight was DJ Paradise, along with other guest DJs, and special performances were by Kelly Price, Faith Evans, Troop, and many others. Luenell's birthday bash was promoted by Kevin Rouse of Rouse House Entertainment.

The talented and always jolly actress television credits include "The Middle," "Nash Bridges," and "Californication." Her comedic talents landed her on "The Tracy Morgan Show," "The Tony Rock Project," and "Snoop Dogg Presents: The Bad Girls of Comedy." Find out more about what Luenell is doing next by logging onto her website at www.HeyLuenell.com. 

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations Strategist and Business Management Consultant at Freelance Associates, and is Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times.www.ThePulseofEntertainment.com.) 

April 17, 2015

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Con Funk Shun has ‘More Than Love' to give with April 28, 2015 album release on Shanachie Entertainment
 

So fresh was the sound of Con Funk Shun just the name has become a genre. The band whose music has been covered by R&B group Dru Hill ("Love's Train" produced by Keith Sweat) on their multi-platinum selling debut and their "Honey Wild" was sampled by Hip-Hop's Lil' Wayne on his "Kush" single. On April 28, 2015 Con Funk Shun releases a new project, "More Than Love," on the Shanachie Entertainment imprint.

The Con Funk Shun band includes founders Louis McCall (drums/vocals) and Michael Cooper (guitar/vocals), and Cedric Martin (bass), Danny "Sweet Man" Thomas (keyboards), Karl Fuller (triumph), and Paul "Maceo" Harrell (woodwinds) all joined in 1971. Con Funk Shun signed to Mercury Records in 1976 and released an outstanding 11 albums in 10 years garnering such classic hits as "Electric Lady," "Chase Me," and "Baby I'm Hooked."

"We been writing for this album for three years," said Michael about the "More Than Love" development process. "We had to narrow it down."
Cooper said with the suggestion of their wives and family members they decided because of technology and all of them had recording studios in their homes, why not record an album.

"We still love this music...were inspired by our families," Michael admitted. "We still here...so why not do an album"

The current single off the album is "Your Night," and one of Michael's favorites on the album is titled "Big Girl."

"We wanted to address certain issues of men and women," Cooper point out about the song selection criteria. He laughed, "All the women around me are big girls, only my youngest is sticking to a size 6."

Their influences were Earth, Wind and Fire, War, The Commodores, Lakeside, and Kool and the Gang. Con Funk Shun just wants to remind music even though the last album was in 1986 that they are still good at what they do.

"Some songs illustrate us as singers...as instrumentalists, that we still have horns...still do falsetto," said Michael as he continued on about the song selection. "The hard Con Funk Shun stuff we put aside to save for a Michael Cooper album...some the next Con Funk Shun. We wanted to balance our album...so it represents all our skills."

The group collaborated on "More Than Love" with Michael Paran at P Music Group the creative force behind the hit-making second career of seven times nominated Charlie Wilson.

Bishop Noel Jones backed Trent Von Lee album ‘I Am a Praiser' debuts at #13 on Billboard Gospel

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"To celebrate what the Lord has done," Praise and Worshiper Trent Von Lee pointed out to me at his release party for "Bishop Noel Jones Presents Trent Von Lee I Am a Praiser" (Von Lee Entertainment Group). "What God has done and what He is about to do...people are out celebrating that."

In talking to the attendees during the red carpet arrivals it was clear to see they were there to support Trent as well. To Praise and Worship too, while celebrating the March 24, 2015 release of his debut album "I Am a Praiser." "I Am a Praiser" debuted on Billboard's Gospel Charts at #13 and peaked at #9.

The album is produced by Lee, Charles Harris, Jr., Marcus Hodge and Chadwick L. Williams. His listening party was held in late February at Home of Music Entertainment in Beverly Hills, California and hosted by comedian Jonathan Slocumb. Its red carpet arrivals were hosted by stylist Thomasina "Goo Goo" Atkins (Mary Mary).

"Trent is a friend of mine," said attendee Mandell Fraiser, there with his date Adrian Anderson (formerly of Trin-i-Tee 57). "I met him at church. He is passionate and a Praiser. I am so happy to support him."

"I am on the label with Karen Clark-Sheard," said David Johnson said about how he was signed to the label of Karen Clark-Sheard, Karew Records, with Trent Von Lee. "I lead worship...and the Bishop heard me at the national congregation."

If the release party and Trent Von Lee's debut at #13 on Billboard Gospel Charts is any indication of his career in Gospel music I can almost guarantee Trent's is here to stay. You can learn more about Von Lee at www.TrentVonLee.com.  

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations Strategist and Business Management Consultant at Freelance Associates, and is Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times.
www.ThePulseofEntertainment.com.) 

April 24, 2015 

 

 

April 24, 2015

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The pull of love is real and alive in Warner Bros' The Water Diviner starring Russell Crowe, in theaters April 24, 2015
 

Writers Andrew Anastasios and Andrew Knight creatively showed how strong the pull of love is in the Warner Brother's presentation of The Water Diviner starring Academy Award winner Russell Crowe, who also directs. Produced by Troy Lum, Keith Rodger and Andrew Mason The Water Diviner makes real the energy and power of love.

The backdrop of the Rated R dramatic and action film is in Australia and Turkey. It follows Connor (Crowe) an expert Australian water finder who, at the request of his wife before she committed suicide, went in search of the bodies of his sons who enlisted during WWI five years before. Yilmaz Erdogan played the Turkish Commander who ultimately helps him located his sons, at risk of his own life.

During his journey he befriends a widower (Olga Kurylenko) and her son (Dylan Georgiades) who runs a hotel. Their very similar ordeals, widowed with son(s), bond them in a way that shows love is real and always alive. Jai Courtney plays an Australia Officer charged with finding and identifying over 3,000 dead Turkish and Australian soldiers on a beach where the historic "Battle of the Gallipoli" occurred.

A Fear of God Films, Hopscotch Features, Seven Network and RatPac Entertainment production The Water Diviner is full of action, passion and drama. Leading the case and directing the film is Russell Crowe, the makings of an award winning recipe. The Water Diviner also stars Jacqueline McKenzie, Ryan Corr and Cem Yilmaz. Log ontowww.TheWaterDivinerMovie.com.au to watch the movie trailer and for more information.

Fashion Week at ‘Show Up and Show Out' attracts a steam of designer lovers to the fashion show
ShowUpFashionShow_vashaundya_BaskketballWives.jpg"I'm wearing a blazer, I left my pants at home," said Va'Shaundya Karlette Nelson executive producer of VH1's "Basketball Wives" and "Basketball Wives LA" while arriving at the "Show Up and Show Out" Fashion Show. "I felt I wanted to do something different - something out of the box."

Va'Shaundya was one of many who turned out during Fashion Week. I was invited to cover the red carpet arrivals of the "Show Up and Show Out" fashion show, held at the Arena Hollywood. R&B singer Christina Milan's designs were among those shown. Designer lovers, and sports and entertainment industry personalities came out to behold the entertainment and excitement that fashion brings.

"As usual for Fashion Week you don't want to follow the regular trends," Nelson added. When I asked what about fashion excited her she said, "Anything exotic, anything difference, anything that goes against the grand excites me."

This is the third year that the "Show Up and Show Out" fashion show has been held. The event was also collecting can goods and non perishables for the LA Regional Food Bank.

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations Strategist and Business Management Consultant at Freelance Associates, and is Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times.
www.ThePulseofEntertainment.comEVENTSat October 24, 2015the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at the Celebrity Centre in Hollywood, CA. Sat April 16, 2016 the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.com.)

May 1, 2015

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Multi Grammy nominated Jazmine Sullivan releases new album ‘Reality Show' on RCA Records
 

"I watch a lot of reality shows and my life got drama," said eight-time Grammy Award nominated Jazmine Sullivan about the titled of her newest studio album release, "Reality Show," on RCA Records. "It was very therapeutic. I got some stuff off my chest I was not able to talk about, but could write about."

Jazmine stated that she is not in a reality show herself, it is just that her life had a lot of drama as with the reality shows she watches. The album is her third, but already she has garnered eight amazing Grammy Award nominations. On this album she reunited with Grammy Award winning producer Salaam Remi.

Jazmine said her drama was because, "...Of me not listening to myself and to people around me like my mom and dad. I ignored that voice, I ignored God."

Also featured on the "Reality Show" project is producers Key Wane, Chuck Harmony, Da Internz, Ant Bell, Joe Logic & Dilemma and DJ Dahi. Sullivan is executive producer on the album that offers 12 selections.

The Philadelphia native debuted in 2008 with "Fearless" which featured the hit singles "Need You Bad" and "Bust Your Windows." You can log onto www.JazmineSullivanMusic.com for more information about the album release.

Anthony Kelley's first acting role in The Gambler, now on DVD and Blu-ray, was starring with Mark Wahlberg
Anthony_Kelley-0339.jpgA former college basketball player Anthony Kelley was told about an audition by a family member and he went. The result was his first acting role alongside Academy Award nominated Mark Wahlberg (Lone Survivor) in the Paramount presentation of The Gambler now on DVD, Blu-ray, and Digital HD (Paramount Home Entertainment).

Kelley plays Lamar Allen a basketball star asked to throw a game for money. The thriller has Mark Wahlberg as Jim Bennett caught in a high-stakes gambling net, and as he tries to untie himself from the net of debt the result is drama and intrigue. Jim is also a brilliant college professor who seemed more interested in gambling than in reaching his students, of which Lamar (Kelly) is one, along with Jim's love interest played by Brie Larson (21 Jump Street).

"I have three meetings with four major film companies that I can't say too much about," Anthony stated when asked about the results from his outstanding acting in his first role. "I really do what to talk about the caliber of the iconic names."

Also starring in The Gamble is Golden Globe winner John Goodman (Argo) as a gangster looking for his money back, Michael Kenneth Williams ("Broadwalk Empire") plays another looking to get paid back, and Academy Award winner Jessica Lange as Mark's characters' mother who is at the end of her rope supplying funds for his gambling addiction. Jim places his loved ones in danger because of the debt size so he begins a deadly plan to risk it all to keep from losing it all.

"The film is very compelling with topics viewers can relate to," Kelley said as to why the film's release on DVD should be purchased. "Jessica Lange plays a loving mother with a son she is saying, ‘It's the last time' to and he is at a cross-road in his life."

For more information about The Gambler DVD that is directed by Rupert Wyatt (Rise of the Planet of the Apes) and co-produced by Mark Wahlberg log onto www.TheGamblerMovie.com.

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations Strategist and Business Management Consultant at Freelance Associates, and is Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. www.ThePulseofEntertainment.com. EVENT: Sat October 24, 2015 the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at the Celebrity Centre in Hollywood, CA. Sat April 16, 2016 the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.com.)

May 8, 2015

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Lalah Hathaway records live album, ‘Lalah Hathaway Live,' at the historic Troubadour in Hollywood
 

Two-time Grammy Award winning Lalah Hathaway recently recorded her performance at the historic Troubadour in West Hollywood for the Fall, 2015 album release of "Lalah Hathaway LIVE!." Her seventh album "Lalah Hathaway LIVE!" is recorded in the same venue where her father Donnie Hathaway recorded for his live album in 1972.

"He's been gone for 36 years," Lalah said when asked if her father was aware of her outstanding vocals before his untimely death. "...I'm still discovering my voice."

When asked why a live album Lalah said, "The live arena is where I shine. I feel comfortable there. There's no pressure."

A graduate of Berklee College of Music Lalah, who is referred to as the "first daughter of Soul," is noted as a Soul/Jazz singer. A Chicago native currently on the Stax imprint Hathaway released her debut album in 1990 on Virgin/EMI Records.

"I've listened to live albums all my life," Hathaway said on the subject of her upcoming live album. "I was listening to ‘Donnie Hathaway Live' and wanted to create that moment."

A winner of a Billboard and BET Award Lalah Hathaway is a featured vocalist on Kirk Whalums "The Gospel According to Jazz Chapter 3" DVD.
You can log onto 
www.LalahHathaway.com for more information on her upcoming "Lalah Hathaway LIVE!" project.

Talent Manager Cordell Capone seeks to spread the knowledge with ‘Conversation with Cordell Capone' featuring Naturi Naughton
CordellCapone_conversationswith.jpg"It's about how to keep a job, the Hollywood game and making relationships," Talent Manager Cordell Capone said about the release of his DVD, "Conversations with Cordell Capone" features Naturi Naughton (Starz "Power"); his client Natalie Nunn (Oxygen's "Bad Girls Club"); writer/producer Stacey Evans Morgan ("Living Single," "The Parkers," and "Love That Girl"), and talent agent Debbie Haeusler (Innovative Artists Talent & Literary Agency).

"When I reached out to them I was expecting a different result because of their accolades," Cordell said about the talent featured in his "Conversations with Cordell Capone" DVD. "They said sure I'm there. I was shocked that these people wanted to participate on a project for little old me - even with a personal relationship."

Capone said the concept came up because he is often asked questions about how to get into the "Hollywood business" and he would try to answer all of them in detail. He even developed an email list to send out casting notices that he came across while working in the industry as a talent manager (Nunn) and casting producer (Wal-Mart).

"My entire career I always talked to people that asked, ‘how can I get there?' I would respond by email, then on social media because it became overwhelming," he said.

Another reason for producing the "Conversations with Cordell Capone," with Jane Katherine-Watson, was Cordell witnessing many workshops throughout the years not giving the people the information that they need to actually make it in Hollywood.

"They entice people to go to their workshops and never really tell them how to get a job," Capone pointed out. "They just want to get the money. I want to keep the integrity."

"Conversations with Cordell Capone" is distributed independently via his website www.CordellCapone.com. 

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations Strategist and Business Management Consultant at Freelance Associates, and is Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times.www.ThePulseofEntertainment.comEVENT: Sat October 24, 2015the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at the Celebrity Centre in Hollywood, CA. Sat April 16, 2016 the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.com.)

May 15, 2015

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Warner Bros' Mad Max: Fury Road is fully loaded with action, stars Tom Hardy and Academy Award winner Charlize Theron
 

As with the Mad Max franchise films before the Warner Bros Pictures presentation of Mad Max: Fury Road follows Max, played by Tom Hardy (Black Hawk Down), in a savage world void of water and covered in sand. Fully loaded with action from beginning to end the prequel to Mad Max Beyond the Thunder Dome arrives in theatres May 15, 2015. Set in Australia Mad Max also stars Academy Award winner Charlize Theron (Mighty Joe Young) as Furiosa who becomes an unlikely partners in survival with Max Rockatansky.

Mad Max: Fury Road is directed and co-written by George Miller (Happy Feet) the creator of the Mad Max franchise originally released in 1985. Brendan McCarthy and Nico Lathouris join Miller as screenwriter. The Kennedy Miller Mitchell, Village Roadshow Pictures production is Rated R and also stars Zoe Kravitz, Nicholas Hoult, Hugh Keays-Byrne, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Rile Keough, Abbey Lee, Courtney Eaton and Hugo Weaving. Doug Mitchell, George Miller and P.J. Voeten served as producers.

You can log onto www.MadMaxMovie.com for the movie trailer.

DW3 shows they have legendary vocals on new album ‘Vintage Truth' featuring Dave Koz, Brian Culbertson
DW3.jpg"It's our CD release party," said Damon Reel, a member of the R&B group DW3, about the event at Spaghettini's in Seal Beach, California where I was interviewing him. "Right now we are #21 on Billboard's Contemporary Jazz Charts and we've been out a month."

DW3 also include brothers Billy and Eric Mondragon, and "Vintage Truth" (Woodward Avenue) is the title of their sophomore project. The album features Dave Koz (sax), Brian Culbertson (piano), Paul Brown (producer/lead guitar) , Greg Adams (trumpet) and Elan Trotman (sax).

"We've been together going on 13 years," Reel said. "We've all been musicians since we were tiny. We just kept it going. It has to do with the passion for what we do."

My favorite cuts on the "Vintage Truth" project include "Overjoyed" because I love their style of performing the cover song - especially the way they end it. The "California Dreaming" cover, and "When You Cry" which features Dave Koz, because it has the flavor of that old school era when the male tenor was very popular.

"That's why we named it ‘Vintage truth' it has the old and the new," Damon pointed out.

You can log onto www.DW3Music.com for more information on upcoming DW3 performances and their new "Vintage Truth" project.

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations Strategist and Business Management Consultant at Freelance Associates, and is Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Timeswww.ThePulseofEntertainment.comEVENT: Sat October 24, 2015the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at the Celebrity Centre in Hollywood, CA. Sat April 16, 2016 the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.com.)

May 22, 2015

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Grammy nominated Maysa to release ‘Back 2 Love' on Shanachie, features Stokely and Phil Perry
 

"This was suppose to come out before the Christmas record, but I had to have surgery," said Grammy nominated Contemporary Jazz singer Maysa about her new album "Back 2 Love" on Shanachie Entertainment to be released May 26, 2015.

The "Back 2 Love" project features production and vocal help from Stokely Williams (Mint Condition) on the album's first single "Keep It Moving." 
"He is just great. Such a nice man," Maysa said about collaborating with Stokely, lead vocalist of the band Mint Condition. "I've been bless to meet like-minded people."

Phil Perry joins her on the "Last Chance for Love" track and other producers include J.R. Hutson (Jill Scott), Lorenzo Johnson (Ledisi), and Chris "Big Dog" Davis (Kim Burrell).

"The older I get I want less things in life...less material things," said the Baltimore native. When discussing what her listeners can expect on the album she said, "I hope the album encourages people to live their dreams. I put it (love) aside...my son is 16 and I'm ready to meet that person."

With a degree from Morgan State University Maysa headed to Hollywood as a singer in Stevie Wonders backup group Wonderlove. She later moved to London to work as the lead singer in the British band Incognito - lead by Bluey.

Maysa's first solo album was self-titled in 1995 on the GRP imprint. She went on to release three additional recording projects on the label before joining Shanachie Entertainment. "Back 2 Love" is her 8th album release on Shanachie.

"I want financial freedom and to get some weight off. I'm bless those are the only things I'm working on," Maysa said as the interview ended.

You can learn more about the Soul, Jazz, Classical singer or her latest album "Back 2 Love," to be released on May 26th, by logging onto at www.Maysa.com.

Grammy winning legend Kirk Whalum releases ‘The Gospel According to Jazz Chapter IV' on DVD and CD
Kirk-Whalum-in-gold-sweater.jpgI was invited to a screening of "Kirk Whalum: The Gospel According to Jazz Chapter IV" documentary film in Los Angeles. Kirk was there with an impromptu performance and introduction into the film that chronicles an almost 2 hour concert by him and his band of legendary musicians and very talented singers. "The Gospel According to Jazz Chapter IV" is narrated by Kirk as he explains his philosophy on life, his choices in his music career and his style of music, while throughout it introducing his band members. It is a two-disk set of a feature film and recorded CD.

Whalum's saxophone skills have made him an iconic presence on stage and on the recordings of some of the best and most talented singers and musicians in the world. He is most noted for his talents and solo performance on the Whitney Houston song "I Will Always Love you," which is still the best selling single by a female artist in the world.

"The Gospel According to Jazz Chapter IV" has Kirk performing songs inspired by Nelson Mandela ("Madiba"), President Obama ("My Hero"), Curtis Mayfield ("Keep On Pushing"), John Coltrane (Spanish arranged "Un Amor Supremo"), George Duke, and Paul McCartney ("Let ‘em In"). It is released as a DVD and CD set on the Mack Avenue imprint. It is a two-disc package with a total of 19 songs. His band consists of Norman Brown (lead guitar), Rick Braun (trumpet), Kenneth T. Whalum (drums), Kevin Whalum (lead vocals), John Stoddart (piano), Gerald Veasley (bass guitarist), Doc Gibbs (percussionist), and Shelea (lead vocalist).

The Memphis, Tennessee native has garnered 12 Grammy Award nominations, and one win. Whalum has also recorded and released 24 albums in his career. Learn more about Kirk Whalum or his newest project "The Gospel According to Jazz Chapter IV" at www.KirkWhalum.com.

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations Strategist and Business Management Consultant at Freelance Associates, and is Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times.www.ThePulseofEntertainment.com. EVENT: Sat October 24, 2015the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at the Celebrity Centre in Hollywood, CA. Sat April 16, 2016 the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.com.)

May 29, 2015

Naturally7_2.jpgHidden Beach's Naturally 7 featured at 23rd Capital Jazz Fest June 7, 2015 in Columbia, Maryland
 

The Hidden Beach Recording group Naturally 7 is riding the wave of success as they finish their third World Tour with Michael Buble', a performance on "The Today Show," and prepare to perform at the 23rd Capital Jazz Fest Sunday, June 7, 2015 in Columbia, Maryland.

"We can't complain," said Roger Thomas, group vocalist and music director. Naturally 7 also includes his brother Warren Thomas (vocals, guitar, percussion, clarinet), Rod Eldridge (vocals, trumpet), Napoleon "Polo" Cummings (vocals, guitar), Dwight Stewart (vocals, trumpet), Garfield Buckley (vocals, harmonica), and "Hops" Hutton (bass). "We've been in three world tours with Michael Buble'. We've traveled to Europe and around the world wherever we wanted to go, and have performed for 6 million people."

Naturally 7 formed in 1999 by Roger and his brother Warren. They enlisted five others to form Naturally 7. They call their a cappella style of singing "vocal play," and started sharing it at first in their church.

"We started in the Bronx singing in church," Roger said about their humble beginnings. "In 2006 we entered an a cappella competition and a talent agent saw us. He told us to do a showcase. We did it and received 58 shows at one time."

Roger said they had to make a choice cause one of them was in college. The choice was whether to do music full time. Roger said it was a once in a life time opportunity.

Since the talent showcase's success Naturally 7 has recorded three duets with Michael Buble', and one duet with Ludacris on a Quincy Jones project. They performed as special guest with Coldplay, and released their own album/DVD in 2013 "All Natural Live." This year they released "Hidden In Plain Sight" on Hidden Beach Recordings.

To find out more about Naturally 7 log onto www.NaturallySeven.com or www.HiddenBeach.com.

CBE artist Kevin McCall releases new single, ‘Water Bed,' featuring Chris Brown
KevinMcCall.jpg"Everyone thinks of me as a rapper," said Grammy nominated Kevin McCall who is also a fabulous singer, songwriter and producer. "But I'm a singer. I am going to drop the EP and its going to have the West coast sound that is going on with the young kids right now."

Recently Kevin released the first single from his upcoming mix-tape "My Zone III: The Lost Files," titled "Water Bed" featuring Chris Brown. The project has 15 tracks and will be released on the CBE label owned by Chris Brown. His label mate includes Sevyn Streeter.

"It's going to have east coast lyrical content that everybody can relate to," McCall added. "You are going to be dancing!"

Kevin received a Grammy Award nomination for the single "Deuces," and the former RCA artist has collaborated with Brown, Keri Hilson, Joe Jonas, Justin Bieber and Keke Palmer. The self taught pianist has released two EPs and five mix-tapes.

Learn more about this multi-talented artist by logging onto www.KevinMcCallJr.com.

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations Strategist and Business Management Consultant at Freelance Associates, and is Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Timeswww.ThePulseofEntertainment.com. EVENT: Sat October 24, 2015the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at the Celebrity Centre in Hollywood, CA. Sat April 16, 2016 the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.com.).

 June 5, 2015

enoturage-film.jpgWarner Bros' Entourage is a great feel good movie
 

The Warner Bros. presentation of Entourage is a great feel good movie that outlines the struggles in all of our personal and career lives in seeking that one love and being recognized for our achievements. Entourage is a continuation of the HBO Emmy Award winning comedy television series of the same name starring Kevin Connolly (John Q), Adrian Grenier ("90210"), Kevin Dillon (Poseidon), Jerry Ferrara (Battleship), and Emmy Award winner Jeremy Piven (Justice League).

The comedy follows five best friends as they deal with their love lives and career ups and downs. The screenwriter of the film is Doug Ellin ("Entourage") and Rob Weiss ("Entourage"). Producers include Academy Award nominated Mark Wahlberg (The Gambler), who makes a cameo appearance, Doug Ellin and Stephen Levinson.

Other cameo appearances included T.I and wife Tiny, Piers Morgan, Pharrell Williams, Andrew Dice Clay, Kelsey Grammer, Calvin Harris, Mike Tyson, Jessica Alba, and Liam Neeson. Doug also served as director.

Entourage, Rated R, is an HBO, Closest to the Hole, Leverage Entertainment production and is in theaters now. Watch the trailer and learn more about the comedic film at www.EntourageMovie.com.

Jazz vocalist Steven Davis brings back the big band era with new album release ‘What Happened to Romance'
StevenDavis.jpg"It's been a wild, wonderful and crazy ride in less than a year," said Jazz vocalist Steven Davis about his new album "What Happened to Romance". "Recorded three separate projects and a couple of nights ago we finished a Christmas album"

Steven is talking about his music partners Josh Charles and Alissa Moreno who produced the projects. The "What Happened to Romance" release on June 23, 2015 is supported by the Big Band orchestra sound that matches Davis' big band era vocal style reminiscent of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis, Jr.

"I met Josh and Alissa less than a year ago in Nashville," Steven recalled. "He said why don't we write together. We'll produce the music."
Together they bring back the grand sound of the big band era starting with "What Happened to Romance."

"They have come to be known as the After Midnight Band," he said. "Andy Farber arranged all the music. They've played under him for many years."

I truly enjoyed hearing that era music again. My favorite songs off the "What Happened to Romance" album include "Love Comes Right on Time" for taking me back to the Bing Crosby, Dean Martin, and Frank Sinatra sound with his voices; the title track "What Happened to Romance," "I Found Love" for that awesome horn solo - sounding like the essence of the big band era, and "Day In, Day Out" for its big band finish.

The 14 selections on "What Happened to Romance" are more than you will ever need to satisfy your big band hunger. You can log onto www.SteveDavisMusic.com for more information about the new project.

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations Strategist and Business Management Consultant at Freelance Associates, and is Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Timeswww.ThePulseofEntertainment.comEVENT: Sat October 24, 2015the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at the Celebrity Centre in Hollywood, CA. Sat April 16, 2016 the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at Security Square Mall.www.UpliftingMinds2.com.)

June 12, 2015

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Gospel powerhouse Marvin Sapp gives a testimony in ‘You Shall Live,' speaks at Essence Festival Empowerment Experience July 3, 2015
 

"This record is about affirmation and declaration," said 22-time Stellar Award winner Pastor Marvin Sapp about his newest solo album, "You Shall Live." "So many things bombard us. The enemy wants us to succumb...but we should decide to live."

"You Shall Live" is released on the RCA Inspirational imprint and is produced by Grammy and multi-Dove Award winner Aaron Lindsey (Yolanda Adams).

"I've been working with the same guy for a period of time," Marvin pointed out. "We have been winning together."

This is Grammy Award nominated Marvin Sapps' 10th solo album. "You Shall Live" recently released its first single "Yes We Can."

"My focus always was to do music that...uplifts and strengthens," the Grand Rapids native stated.

 "You Shall Live," which debuted at #1 on Gospel and Christian Charts, offers 11 songs. This is his 4th album that debuted at #1. Its single "Yes You Can" is currently #6 on the Mediabase Gospel Chart. Other selections include "Live," "Thank You for the Cross," and "Beloved".

Marvin will speak at the upcoming Essence Festival "Essence Empowerment Experience" Friday July 3, 2015, and preaching at his Lighthouse Full Life Center Church in Grand Rapids. Learn more about Marvin Sapp at www.MarvinSapp.com

Universal Pictures' Jurassic World offers a marvelously wild adventure, in theaters June 12, 2015
JurassicWorld_ChrisPratt.jpgThe Steven Spielberg executive produced Universal Pictures' presentation of Jurassic World offers a marvelously wild adventure - it arrives in theaters June 12, 2015. The science-fiction film is the fourth Jurassic installment. It is directed by Colin Trevorrow, and is based on the characters created by Michael Crichton.

Jurassic World stars Chris Pratt ("Parks and Recreation") who plays Owen Grady an expert "Velociraptor" trainer asked to inspect for safety the enclosures for the parks' genetically modified dinosaur, the "Indominus" Rex. Golden Globe nominated Bryce Dallas Howard ("Parenthood") plays Claire Dearing, Jurassic World operations manager and the aunt of siblings Zach and Gray Mitchell who has come to visit.

The wild adventure starts when the Indominus Rex uses his genetically altered brain to escape the enclosure. Claire and Owen race against the clock to stop the Rex before it reaches the almost 20,000 people at the park. Before they can focus on that they have to find her nephews who went off by themselves - at the wrong time. In the end the hero of the day was a marvelous surprise and ending to an epic film.

Rated PG-13 Jurassic World is produced by Frank Marshall and Patrick Crowley. It also stars Vincent D' Onofrio (Men in Black, "Law & Order: Criminal Intent"), Ty Simpkins (Iron Man 3), Nick Robinson (ABC's "Melissa & Joey") as brother Zach Mitchell, Omar Sy (The Intouchables) as brother Gray Mitchell, B. D. Wong (Jurassic Park, "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit), and Irrfan Khan (Life of Pi).

Jurassic World is an Amblin Entertainment and Legendary Pictures production, with screenplay by Rick Jaffy and Amanda Silver. You can log onto www.JurassicWorld.com for the movie trailer or more information.

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations Strategist and Business Management Consultant at Freelance Associates, and is Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times.www.ThePulseofEntertainment.com. EVENT: Sat October 24, 2015the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at the Celebrity Centre in Hollywood, CA. Sat April 16, 2016 the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.com.)

June 19, 2015 

Cheryl ‘Pepsii' Riley returns with new project, ‘Still Believe'
 
sheryl_pepsi_riley3.jpg

"I did a project independently a few years ago. So many people asked about new music. I've been through a few things...thought it was time," Cheryl "Pepsii" Riley said. Cheryl rose to fame with her 1980's hit "Thanks for my Child" written by Full Force. She recently released independently a new album titled "Still Believe." About her motivation to record another project, Riley said, "You listen to the radio and don't hear what you want to hear. Our audience is being over looked. We still want substance, music you can relate to."

The "Still Believe" project follows her "Let Me Be Me." Riley has been in the industry working in stage productions for Tyler Perry.

"The success was just getting into the studio," she pointed out. "Recording gave me a certain amount of peace. During the session...dad was really sick. We were laying live drums and in the midst I was talking to doctors back and forth. In the middle of recording I lost my father. Artists are people too with health issues, finances... So going in the studio was a release."

"Still Believe" offers 12 passionate selections written by Cheryl and her writing partner Luke Austin.

"Luke is my writing partner. He lives in Los Angeles," she pointed out. "He is an amazing musician."

The first single is "Still Believe in Love." The Brooklyn native who sings R&B and Gospel, also host "Black Velvet Mondays," a jam session for musicians and singers at Village Underground - a very legendary venue.

"New York has the most incredible musicians," Cheryl said. "There is a certain hustle and grind here. Clubs here are full with starving musicians. It's my way of paying it forward...sharing along the way information I learned. I'm a band baby I love live music."

To learn more about Cheryl "Pepsii" Riley's "Black Velvet Mondays" log onto www.TheVillageUnderground.com. "Still Believe" is available on iTunes.

TLC premieres ‘Dare to Wear,' hosted by Tai Beauchamp, Friday June 12, 2015 10/9c
Tai-Beauchamp.jpgThe TLC Network premieres a new reality show, "Dare to Wear," hosted by fashion expert Tai Beauchamp on Friday June 12, 2015 at 10/9c. The show will have two people switch clothes so they can get a better understanding of how clothes can transform you.

"I worked in magazine publishing where I honed my skills as a style expert," Tai said when asked about her back ground. "I work will real women. It feels good to empower them."

Produced by Shed Media for TLC, "Dare to Wear" follows Tai as she selects the woman, introduce them to her concept to switch clothes, motivate and push them to embrace a difference style. The host gig came like most in entertainment through a talent agent.

"I auditioned for the show," Beauchamp said about how she became the host. "I told them my philosophy around style and it melded with the show's concept. I cast the women - they have to sign up for it. They come into my style studio. I really have to connect with the women. They have to believe in me. The point is to have them understand style."

"Dare to Wear" will air each Friday night 10/9c as Tai makes-over women. Beauchamp's experience includes working as a beauty and fashion editor for Vibe, Seventeen, Good Housekeeping, Harper's Bazaar and more. She has hosted at events for Procter & Gamble and InStyle. As a motivational speaker Tai has worked with The Clinton Foundation, Spelman College, and Howard University. She has also been a guest on such shows as "The Wendy Williams Show" and "The View."

For more information about TLC's "Dare to Wear" log onto www.TLC.com.

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations Strategist and Business Management Consultant at Freelance Associates, and is Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times.www.ThePulseofEntertainment.com. EVENT: Sat October 24, 2015the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at the Celebrity Centre in Hollywood, CA. Sat April 16, 2016 the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.com.) 

 June 26, 2015

lyfe3.jpgPlatinum selling Lyfe Jennings releases new album, ‘Tree of Lyfe'

Urban R&B platinum selling singer Lyfe Jennings is back with a new album titled "Tree of Lyfe" (RAL/Sony Music Entertainment). Its new single "I Love You" was the #1 most added song at Urban AC Radio.

"Every song is passion and comes from a place of passion," the Toledo, OH native said about his new project, "Tree of Lyfe." When asked if it was time for a new project or if he had material he just had to release as the reason for the new album Lyfe said, "Both, I try to do an album every two years. It's coming up to that."

On July 20, 2015 he will make a special appearance on VH1's "Love and Hip-Hop." He will be performing off the "Tree of Lyfe" starting July 2, 2015 in Orlando and ending August 21st in Milwaukee.

"Things are diffidently popping," Jennings said about his current schedule. "Sometimes it's best not to be ready so when better opportunities come you are ready."

Lyfe Jennings is also a musician and plays the bass guitar and the piano. He debuted on eOne Music in 2008 with "Lyfe Change," and released "I Still Believe" in 2010, "Lyfe Jennings" in 2011, and "Lucid" in 2013.

His "Tree of Lyfe" project is co-produced and written by him and features duets with Algebra Blessett and Demetria McKinney.

Based in Atlanta Lyfe said about "Tree of Lyfe" that, "My goal for every album is to uplift, not to preach, but uplift everybody."

You can follow Lyfe Jennings on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram and find his music at iTunes.

Jazz singer Steven Davis is the ‘Rat-Pack' in one man, a performance review at Molly Malone's in Los Angeles
StevenDavis_live.JPGI was invited to see the performance of Jazz singer Steven Davis at Molly Malone's nightclub in Los Angeles and I jumped at the chance to hear that big band sound. Steven just released his big band project titled "What Happened to Romance" and the whole Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis, Jr. "Rat-Pack" sound is throughout the album. After his performance at Molly Malone's I am still singing "what happened to romance..."

Performing with a contemporary band in contemporary setting made the old familiar big band sound fresh and new. Steven Davis' performance did not disappoint, with his sophisticated dress, savvy style of performance and his perfect vocal ability I just saw another legend before me and all I could do was smile the whole time.

The "RatPack" in one man is what you will get with a Steven Davis live performance. The band was of excellent quality: keys, lead guitar, horns, drums, and xylophones. The "What Happened to Romance" project was written and produced by Josh Charles and Alissa Moreno.

You can see some of the Steven Davis performance at Molly Malone's by logging onto https://youtu.be/KRBnZaZrnuQ and learn more about Steven Davis at www.StevenDavisMusic.com.  

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations Strategist and Business Management Consultant at Freelance Associates, and is Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times
www.ThePulseofEntertainment.comEVENT: Sat October 24, 2015the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at the Celebrity Centre in Hollywood, CA. Sat April 16, 2016 the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.com.)

 

July 3, 2015

terminatorgenisys.jpgIt's the beginning of a new era for the Terminator franchise with Paramount's presentation of Terminator Genisys

It's the beginning of a new era for the Terminator franchise with Paramount's presentation of Terminator Genisys. The Sci-Fi Action/Thriller stars Arnold Schwarzenegger as Terminator T-800, Jai Courtney (The Water Diviner) as Kyle Reese and Emmy nominated Emilia Clarke ("Game of Thrones") as Sarah Connor. Terminator Genisys, Rated PG-13 and now in theaters, is shown in 3D, Real 3D, and IMAX 3D. Directed by Alan Taylor ("Sex and the City"), Terminator Genisys is written by Laeta Kalogridis (Shutter Island) and Patrick Lussier (Dracula 2000).

This time Terminator has a new twist to the infamous tale of an unlikely human soldier destined to try and save the world from the computer program Skynet's take-over and the ultimate destruction of human life as we know it. It is 2019 and Kyle Reese (Courtney) literally drops in on the past to protect Sarah Connor.

Sarah (Clarke) is ready this time when Reese arrives and she needs no convincing. Terminator T-800 (Schwarzenegger) is there already programmed to raise and protect her. Kyle and Sarah, already knowing what the future holds, decides to change his early demise as seen in previous Terminator films and succeed at destroying the machines before he is killed.

Jason Clarke (Dawn of the Planet of the Apes) is John Conner and in this version he is taken over by Skynet, known in the past as Genisys, and made into a new kind of human. The Skynet controlled son battles his parents - one from the future and one from the past. J. K. Simmons ("The Closer," "Law and Order") is alcoholic Detective O'Brien who witnessed the arrival of Reese and spends his whole life investigating it. Terminator T-800 grows old while he waits for Kyle and Sarah to come back again to save the world from the machines.

Lee Byung-hun (G. I. Joe) is the very convincing Terminator T-1000 sent to kill Sarah. Terminator Genisys, a Skydance Production, also stars Tony Award winning Courtney B. Vance ("Law & Order: Criminal Intent") as the creator of Skynet and Dayo Okeniyl ("The Hunger Games") as his son all grown up now assisting him. David Ellison (G. I. Joe: Retaliation) and Dana Goldberg are producers, and Meagan Ellison is Executive Producer.

For more information about Terminator Genisys or to see the movie trailer you can log onto www.TerminatorMovie.com.

Warner Bros/MGM presents Max, a hero's story, in theaters now
max_themovie.jpgA U.S. Marine ordered with "handling" a German shepherd named Max, used to smell out the wounded during the war in Afghanistan, is killed. The Warner Bros and Metro-Goldwyn - Mayer (MGM) presentation of Max tells a hero's story of a shell-shocked dog that is missing badly his handler and owner. Rated PG the adventure film Max follows the Marines' little brother Justin Wincott (Josh Wiggins), who is already dealing with the lost of his big brother and teen related issues with his father, now the new "handler" of Max.

Thomas Haden Church (Heaven is Real) plays the father Roy Wincott an ex-Marine trying to understand his teen son's attitude while also grieving the lost of his eldest son. Lauren Graham ("Parenthood") plays the mother Pamela Wincott trying to heal all their wounds, and Robbie Amell ("The Flash") is the brother Kyle killed in action.

Thanks to the help of Justin's friend Chuy (Dejon LaQuake/"Bones") he learns a thing or two about German Shepherds from Chuy's cousin Carmen, played by Mia Xitiali, an amateur dog trainer. The bond between Max and Justin tightens as both become dependent on the other for life saving help. It seems his Marine brothers' best friend Sgt. Reyes (Jay Hernandez/"Nashville") could be involved in his death and is now out to kill the only one that knows, Max.

Justin gets introduced by Chuy to a family gang member Emilio (Joseph Julian Soria/"Army Wives") who is dealing guns with Sgt. Reyes. Justin stumbles on the illegal activities with Emilio and Reyes, and to save him Max risks his life - a real hero's story.

Max is directed by Boaz Yakin (Remember the Titans) and written by Yakin, and former Marine Sheldon Lettich (Bloodsport, Rambo III).
Learn more about Max and see the trailer at 
www.Max-TheMovie.com. 

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations Strategist and Business Management Consultant at Freelance Associates, and is Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. www.ThePulseofEntertainment.com. EVENT: Sat October 24, 2015the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at the Celebrity Centre in Hollywood, CA. Sat April 16, 2016 the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.com.) 

July 10, 2015

LouGossett_AMAA.jpgCote D'Ivoire, West Africa's short film Run leads with 13 Africa Movie Academy Awards 2015 Nominations

Founded by Nigerian native Peace Anyiam-Osigwe, as part of the African Film Academy, The Africa Movie Academy Awards recently announced its 2015 nominations at H.O.M.E. in Beverly Hills, California with actress Rolonda Watts as host of its nominations' dinner. The Cote D'Ivoire, West Africa short film Run received the most nominations with 13 in such categories as Best Short Film, Best Production Design, Best Screenplay, Best Female Supporting Role, Best Male Leading Role, Best Actress Leading Role and Best Film Director.

"I love those heady films like Seven. Psychological thrillers and I love a good romance," said event host actress/talk show host Rolonda Watts ("The West Wing") about what films she favors over others. "I love tear-jerker's...films where I feel enriched as a human being, where I want to go out and do something."

The Africa Movie Academy Awards picked the right American to host their red carpeted event, mixed with different cultures, because she is sweet, witty and very funny. Watts started in the entertainment business as a television correspondent for "Inside Edition" before launching her own talk show now called "Sundays With Rolonda" (www.SundaysWithRolonda.com) which is broadcasted online and has recently been picked up by CBS' new digital platform.

A platform is what The Africa Movie Academy Awards provide for film projects of black film makers to the people in Africa and the rest of the world. Its purpose is to celebrate artistry and its vision/mission is to promote African culture, encourage professionalism, offer professional development, and networking opportunities.

"It's a combination and timing," said Oscar Award winning actor Louis Gossett Jr. (Roots), who attended the event, when asked what he feels is most important to a film the script or the actors. "It's what we think the audience will go crazy over. If we do it well the film is still relevant five to 10 years later...those Raisins in the Sun, Roots, Gone with the Wind, plus good luck."

Following Run with the most nominations from the 11th annual African awards event was iNumbers from South Africa with 10. The Africa Movie Academy Awards Nominations' Dinner was red carpeted with a room full of media from around the world, African film makers and actors, and an elegant dinner. American celebrities who came out to support included Oscar winner Lou Gossett and Sheryl Lee Ralph, (Dreamgirls), and American film/TV directors and producers included Film Director Trey Haley co-owner of Tri-Destined Studios (Note to Self, The Man in 3B) and Television Director Eric Seaton (Nickelodeon's "Just Jordan," "Good Luck Charlie").

"Our projects come in many ways," said Trey Haley about films shot in his Los Angeles based film production studio. "We are a full in-house company. Lots of people need a production company to facilitate it (their projects) that has a director. We created a company where people can bring to life their vision."

The Africa Movie Academy Awards' theme this year is "the stories never end." You can see the full list of nominations on their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/africamovieacademyawards/posts/10153378176548468 and learn more about the African awards by logging onto www.AMA-Awards.com.

Aziza Miller, Crystal Aikin, and Frank McComb are a three-some July 19, 2015 at Rams Head On Stage in Annapolis, Maryland
azizamiller_crystalaikins_frankmccombs_ramshead.jpg"Sherry Thompson put that together. It's her vision. I believe in her idea working as a trio," said Jazz pianist/singer Aziza Miller about her performance July 19, 2015 at Rams Head On Stage in Annapolis, Maryland with Gospel vocalist Crystal Aikin and keyboardist/singer Frank McComb. "I always support independent artists. There are so many of us out there struggling, why not? There is strength in numbers and you get to know other people."

A New York native Aziza started out as music director on Rain Pryor's tour. In 1975 she signed on to be music director and pianist in Natalie Cole's band, and in 1979 she debuted a solo album "City Living" (Arista Records). In 2014 Aziza released her fourth album "What's On Your Mind?" On July 26th she will be performing at Blues Alley in Washington, DC.

"Expect me to do two singles from my current CD and a medley I put together of Stevie Wonder, ‘Knock's Me Off My Feet'," Miller added.


"I'm a registered nurse by trade," said vocalist Crystal Aikin, who will be one of the three-some on July 19th at Rams Head. Crystal is also performing with Frank McComb at Howard Theater July 21st in a concert to benefit The Cancer Research Institute. "My parents raised me to go the traditional journey. As a Gospel artist, that's something you can't plan God gives you or ordains you for it. I do believe I have a calling to spread the word of God. Singing is a great tool."

Aikin was the first winner of the "Sunday Best" nationally televised competition which premieres July 19th on BET. Since then she has won a Stellar Award for Best New Artist. She recently released an album titled "All I Need" (RCA Records) and its single is currently at radio titled "So Amazing." Crystal also has a GMA Dove Award nomination for Best New Artist.

"I...still get opportunities (because of the ‘Sunday Best' win). I still get to perform on the showcase (‘Sunday Best')," the Tacoma Washington native said about her big televised talent competition win. "At some degree I am satisfied, but I long to do better."

Learn more about the July 19th performance by Aziza Miller, Crystal Aikin and Frank McComb at Rams Head On Stage by logging onto www.RamsHeadOnStage.com.

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations Strategist and Business Management Consultant at Freelance Associates, and is Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times.www.ThePulseofEntertainment.comEVENT: Sat October 24, 2015 the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at the Celebrity Centre in Hollywood, CA. Sat April 16, 2016 the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.com.)

July 17, 2015

antman_knees.jpgMarvel inspires again with Ant-Man, a Walt Disney presentation, in theaters July 24, 2015

Marvel inspires again with Ant-Man, a Walt Disney Studio Motion Picture presentation, arrives in theaters July 24, 2015 in 3D and IMAX 3D. The super hero Sci-Fi film follows Dr. Hank Pym, played by Academy/Emmy/Golden Globe winner Michal Douglas (Wall Street), a former S.H.I.E.L.D. agent and the original Ant-Man. Dr. Pym is out to stop his protégé' Darren Cross, played by Golden Globe nominated Corey Stoll (The Strain), who stole his shrinking technology to become Yellowjacket - determined to control the world.

Dr. Pym (Douglas) and his daughter/assistant Hope Pym, played by Golden Globe nominated Evangeline Lilly (The Hobbit), enlist Scott Lang a down on his luck father who needs desperately to make child support payments, to wear the Ant-Man suit and stop Yellowjacket before he can complete the formula and sell it to the highest bidder. Ant-Man aka Scott Lang is played by MTV Movie Award winner Paul Rudd ("Friends").

Ant-Man is Rated PG-13 and offers plenty of comic relief from the suspense that Sci-Fi films bring thanks to co-stars rapper T.I. and Michael Pena. Ant-Man also stars Emmy winner Bobby Cannavale (Third Watch), Woody Harris (Remember the Titans), Judy Greer, Abby Ryder Fortson, David Dastmalchian, John Slattery as Howard Stark, Martin Donovan, Garrett Morris, and a cameo by Stan Lee (Marvel). The script writer is Joe Cornish, Adam McKay, Edgar Wright and Paul Rudd. Director is Peyton Reed and it is produced by Marvel Studios.

Fans of George Harrison urges sister for memoir, Louise Harrison publishes ‘My Kid Brother's Band aka The Beatles'
crawford_MYKIDBROTHERSBANDAKATHEBEATLES_LouiseHarrison.jpg"The major reason I decided on writing the book was so many people respect and admire my brother and thought how did that happen," said Louise Harrison (82), sister to The Beatles' lead guitarist George Harrison, about her motivation to publish her memoir, "My Kid Brother's Band aka The Beatles." The book is about her relationship with the group during Beatlemania. "It wasn't a magic wand it was our upbringing, our parent's love, the humor. Both John and Paul lost their moms so our mom was their mom and I want them to know what wonderful parents we had."

"My Kid Brother's band aka The Beatles" (Acclaim Press) recounts the summer of 1965 when Beatlemania hit the UK and she was living in the United States helping to create that same atmosphere here. Her book release marks the group's 50th anniversary.

Here in the U.S. the need for consist updates on the group by media resulted in an on-air radio gig for her as the official Beatles reporter.

"It all happened accidently," Louise said about how it happened. "With the Beatles doing the ‘Ed Sullivan Show' my brother was ill. He had a temperature of 104 degrees. A young teenage cut his hair and it made him very annoyed. When I got back a radio show I had been begging to play their music reported it wrong. I called and told them what really happened and they said to come on the show. I said no at first. The program director called and said because it is of interest and a crazy story we like you to come on (and speak about it)."

In the end Louise Harrison agreed to report regularly on her bothers' band adventures. Louise travels the world now with a band she manages called the Liverpool Legends Band, a Beatles tribute band. The band must be good because they perform consistently all over the world. At the time of the interview they had just performed in Mexico City before an audience of 16,000.

"I still work with my band. We have a private concert (coming up)," she said. "We just formed a non-profit to help keep music alive."

In particular they want to help keep music alive in schools. The Beatles' members include George Harrison, Paul McCartney, John Lennon and Ringo Star. There are only two members still alive Paul and Ringo. The Beatles are members of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and garnered 10 Grammys and a Billboard Award, and an Academy Award for Best Score.

The Beatles have sold 178 million albums in the United States and over 600 million around the world. George died of lung cancer in late 2001 and it is reported that his estate at the time was worth 100 million. Harrison wrote the Beatles' hits "Here Comes the Sun" and "Sometimes." He founded the Dark Horse Record label, co-founded the platinum selling group the Traveling Wilburys and formed Hand Made Films (Time Bandits).

The Beatles broke up in 1970, but remained friends. They left hits such as "Love Me Do," "Help," "Let It Be" and "A Hard Day's Night" to last forever. Paul and John wrote most of the songs which were owned by Northern Songs - Paul and John had 20% share in the company. George had a writing deal with Northern Songs as well but it only lasted three years. The controlling interest in both companies was sold to ATV which eventually brought the entire Lennon-McCartney catalog. Michael Jackson brought ATV and the rights to 200 Beatle songs. Jackson earned a reported 100 million by merging ATV with Sony creating Sony/ATV publishing keeping 50% stake. The merger made Sony/ATV worth half a billion. John and Lennon's estate still holds the writer's royalties on all songs.

Find out more about The Beatles by logging onto www.TheBeatles.com, for George Harrison log onto www.GeorgeHarrison.com, and for more on Louise Harrison's book "My Kid Brother's Band aka The Beatles" log onto Amazon.com. 

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations Strategist and Business Management Consultant at Freelance Associates, and is Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times.www.ThePulseofEntertainment.comEVENT: Sat October 24, 2015the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at the Celebrity Centre in Hollywood, CA. Sat April 16, 2016 the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.com.) 

July 24, 2015

southpaw-jake-gyllenhaal.jpgSouthpaw, a powerful story about overcoming, a Weinstein Company presentation in theaters July 24, 2015

Survival in the rawest sense is what I thought about the sport of boxing when I use to go while in the Navy, but with The Weinstein Company presentation of Southpaw, starring Academy Award nominated Jake Gyllenhaal as Light Heavyweight Boxing Champion of the World Billy Hope; you see a powerful story about overcoming life's struggles. Southpaw makes the dangers of boxing a side effect to surviving something rawer - life. Southpaw is a Sports/Drama Rated R that arrives in theaters July 24, 2015.

The Southpaw storyline follows rags to riches boxer Billy Hope and his sexy and protective wife Mo, played by MTV Movie Award winner Rachel McAdams (Sherlock Holmes), as they struggle with the high stakes decisions of a boxer in a cut-throat business. The environment that that life brings resulted in the death of his wife and subsequently custody of his daughter, played by Oona Laurence.

Thirteen-time Billboard winner Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson plays Billy Hope's savvy manager Jordan Mains. Hope discovers his manager is only in it for the money after his wife dies, but he happens to be the only way to a come-back fight to gain back his title that he dramatically loses.

Homeless and on the street Hope's only option to get back custody of his daughter is a steady job and winning that one last high-stakes fight to win his title back. He enlisted the help of a retired fighter/trainer Tick Willis played by Academy Award winner Forest Whitaker (Take 3), who unlike other trainers used patience and creativity to teach him defensive moves as well as offensive techniques. The result was just as powerful as the storyline.

Starring also with Gyllenhaal (End of Watch) is Naomie Harris (Skyfall) as social worker Angela Rivera, Victor Ortiz (former WBC Welterweight Champion), Grammy nominated singer/actor Tyrese Gibson (Transformers, The Fast and the Furious), singer/actress Rita Ora (Fast & Furious 6), and Miguel Gomez. Southpaw is written by Kurt Sutter, with Todd Black, Jason Blumenthal, Jerry Ye, Alum Riche, Peter Riche and Antoine Fuqua (Training Day) as producers. Fuqua also directs.

NAACP Image Award winner Robert Townsend's romantic comedy youth project, ‘Playin' for Love,' re-airs on UP tv July 24, August 1 and 24, 2015

roberttownsend.jpg

"God uses all of us," said Robert Townsend, NAACP Image Award winning actor and film director/screenwriter, about his mentoring movie production project, "Playin' for Love," which ended in an Up television network movie presentation starring Townsend (The Five Heartbeats) and Sallie Richardson-Whitfield ("Being Mary Jane"). "I said ok, I can give hope."

That is what Robert did for 20 kids by taking on a request from Miami Commissioner, Michelle Spence-Jones. He taught 20 kids how to make a movie worthy of a national television premiere. Townsend reached out and received financial help from Isiah Thomas (NBA) and the American Federation of Teacher's, and Jamba Juice gave over 20,000 free smoothies and breakfast during the production. Dwyane Wade (NBA) donated 500 pairs of sneakers to the cast and volunteers.

"The whole community got together," Robert pointed out. "We were doing it for two cents. The America Federation of Teachers gave money because there is an educational message in the film. I really love kids and I know kids right now, especially of color, who are under attack and want to do something. I'm from Chicago and I think how blessed I am."

"Playin' for Love" is a romantic comedy that follows basketball coach Niven Banks (Townsend) who is stuck on his way of doing things, when his star player's mother (Richardson-Whitfield) cuts in with her two-cent strategy. Her two-cent strategy happened to be on the money because it so happens she knows a thing or two about basketball.

"'Playin' for Love' is an ode' to Claudine. I wanted to do a modern day version. I thought it would be cool to have him do a cameo," he said about casting Lawrence Hilton-Jacob star of the original Claudine movie. The cast also includes Jenifer Lewis ("Black-ish"), Esai Morales ("Criminal Minds") and Hilton-Jacobs (The Jacksons: An American Dream, Claudine). "Sallie is a wonderful actress. Jenifer I've work with five times...but it's really about the kids."

"Once the movie was done my goal was...manage our expectations. It's more about the experience," Robert pointed out. When I asked how the movie received a national premiere on UP he said, "I had a friend at UP tv. They said, ‘Robert it's you. We are about uplifting and it's uplifting."

Townsend, a Chicago native, is a comedian, actor, and film director and writer. He is most noted for his roles in Cooley High, Meteor Man (also directed and wrote), Soldier's Story, The Mighty Quinn, The Five Heartbeats (also co-wrote) and "The Parent ‘Hood." He created the Robert Townsend Foundation specifically to help unsigned film makers.

"Playin' for Love" premiered on the UP television network July 12th and re-airs Friday July 24th at 9 p.m. and 11 p.m., Saturday August 1st at 9 p.m. and 1 a.m., and Saturday August 29th at 11:30 p.m. The UP network is dedicated to providing "feel good" television content to its 70 million cable and satellite subscribers. UP television is a division of UP Entertainment which also operates faith-friendly streaming to ASPiRE network.

Learn more about Robert Townsend by logging onto www.OfficialRobertTownsend.com and about the romantic comedy "Playin' for Love" log onto www.UPtv.com

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations Strategist and Business Management Consultant at Freelance Associates, and is Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Timeswww.ThePulseofEntertainment.com. EVENT: Sat October 24, 2015the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at the Celebrity Centre in Hollywood, CA host by KDAY 93.5FM.EVENT: Sat April 16, 2016 the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference arrives in Baltimore at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.com.) 

July 31, 2015

vacation_2015_movie.jpgTons of laughs with New Line Cinema's presentation of Vacation, stars Ed Helms and Christina Applegate as the Griswolds

The Vacation classic films offered us silliness while on the road and when I went to screen the New Line Cinema's presentation of Vacation starring Ed Helms (The Hangover) and Christina Applegate (Anchorman) as the Griswolds, I was not disappoint. The audience and I reacted with tons of laughter throughout the entire film. Distributed by Warner Bros Pictures Vacation is currently in theaters and Rated R.

Vacation follows Rusty Griswold (Helm) as he tries to reconnect with his wife Debbie (Applegate) and two sons James (Skyler Gisondo) and Kevin (Steele Stebbins). He decides on a road trip to a Wally World where his father, the original Vacation Griswold (Chevy Chase), took him as a kid. The result is tons of laughter along the way. Chris Hemsworth (Thor) shows off his comedic skills as Stone Crandall, Rusty's highly handsome and successfully irritating brother-in-law who is married to his sister Audry.

Goldstein and Daley (Horrible Bosses) wrote the script based on characters created by John Hughes. To view the movie trailer or for more information about Vacation log onto www.VacationTheMovie.com.

Will Downing releases new album, ‘Chocolate Drop,' performs at Voodoo Lounge September 19, 2015 in Kansas City
will-downing-chair.jpg"I can't put it into words," said Grammy nominated Will Downing about his longevity and sold out shows. Downing recently released his 18th studio album "Chocolate Drop" (Sophisticated Soul Records) and is currently on tour promoting it. He arrives at Voodoo Café and Lounge in Kansas City September 19, 2015 at 8 p.m. "I've seen some very talented artists come and go, and to still be in the game... Folks I've held in high regard have passed away. It is incredible to be one of the last standing."

Will Downing has been consistent for 27 years in the music business and garnered a Grammy Award nomination along the way.

"Believing in God foremost," he adds. "But consistency... I'm a balladeer/mid-tempo singer. I like quality songs that last forever."

On "Chocolate Drop" the first single is "I Could Never Say No To You." Other selections include "This Song is for You," "Till U Come Back" featuring Grammy nominated keyboardist Chris Davis, cover of Atlantic Starr's "Let's Get Closer," "Deep as the Ocean" featuring violinist Regina Carter," "Run Away, Fall in Love," "It's Real," and covers "Does Your Momma Know About Me," and "Saving All My Love For You."

The Brooklyn native is known for his signature baritone vocal sound and I have no doubt it shines on this project. Learn more about upcoming performances at www.WillDowning.com.

Grammy nominated Bluegrass singer Claire Lynch to perform at Creative Alliance in Baltimore August 7, 2015
claire-lynch-band-bowling-shoes-seated-bowling-alley.jpgTwo-time Grammy nominated Bluegrass singer/songwriter Claire Lynch to perform at the Creative Alliance at The Patterson (3134 Eastern Avenue, 21224) in Baltimore August 7, 2015 at 8 p.m with her band. The Claire Lynch Band consist of Mark Schatz (bass), Jarrod Walker (lead guitar), and Bryan McDowell (guitar, mandolin, fiddle).

"I started a band at 19," Claire said about her music career. "Dolly already knew who I was." Claire was a studio singer for Dolly Parton, Linda Ronstadt, and Emmylou Harris. "It worked out. I was disbanding the band anyway to raise my daughter. She (Dolly) did an album that was Bluegrass. After that I went on tour with her. Many of the people that tour with her were hired first in the studio."

Lynch is also a songwriter and has written songs for Kathy Mattea and Patty Lovelace. She is also a lifetime member of the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame.

"I got a call from a record company," Claire explained about her venture into the recording studio. When I asked her about her current band she said, "I needed money... I got a call for a gig and threw some people together."

The mixed is crystal clear through and through pure Bluegrass. For more information about the August 7th performance at the Creative Alliance at The Patterson log onto www.CreativeAlliance.org or for more about Claire and her band log onto www.ClaireLynch.com.

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations Strategist and Business Management Consultant at Freelance Associates, and is Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Timeswww.ThePulseofEntertainment.comEVENT: Sat October 24, 2015the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at the Celebrity Centre in Hollywood, CA host by KDAY 93.5FM.EVENT: Sat April 16, 2016 the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference arrives in Baltimore at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.com.) 

August 7, 2015

Jill-Scott-2014.jpgBillboard and Grammy winner Jill Scott debuts at #1 with her new album ‘Woman'

"I try to learn to not do more than I need," Billboard and three-time Grammy winner Jill Scott said about her fifth studio album titled "Woman" (Blues Babe Records/Atlantic Records) which is independently released. "I'm not going to put out anything I don't want. I'm a passionate singer."

Passionate she is, so passionate she became a business woman to get her music out to her fans in a way where she would have creative control - by forming her own label. Her label Blues Babe Records is distributed by Atlantic Records in order to control her music and her image.

"I own my own record label so I don't have that kind of pressure," Scott said when asked about the selection of what songs to include on the album. "I'm in it to win. I contacted some old friends and new friends. All it takes is one good producer."

Jill is also an actress with credits that include Why Did I Get Married, the James Brown story Get On Up and Hounddog. A Philadelphia native Jill Scott started with an independent label, Hidden Beach Recordings, their first artist. She went on to form he own label Blues Babe Records with distribution but Warner Bros Records and now Atlantic Records.

The "Woman" tour kicked off July 9, 2015 and ends August 28th. It arrives in Jackson, MS August 11th at the Durham Performing Arts Music Hall, Houston, TX August 12th at the Bayou, and Oakland, CA August 21st at the Fox Theater. The album debuted at #1 on U.S. Charts according to The New York Times, which also reports it sold 57,000 albums the first week along with 1.6 million streams.

Jill confessed when asked about struggles that "the initial struggle I had was trying to work and be a mom. That was my struggle. Night time is the right time (to record). I would climb in the bed at 4 a.m. and my son is up at 6:30 a.m. wanting to talk. I'm the kind you wake me up and I'm up. It takes me hours to get back to sleep. (As a result) I stayed in a hotel and then picked him up from school. He gets what he wants and I get what I want."

Jill said she enlisted help from producers such as Andre' Harris on "Prepared" and "Can't Wait," David Banner on "Closure", Warryn Campbell on "Wild Cookie" and 98th Wonder on "Beautiful Love." "Woman" is executive produced by Scott and Andre' Harris. Log onto her website at to learn more - www.MissJillcott.com.

Grammy winner David Banner host ASPiRE's new ‘ABFF Independent' series ‘Protect and Serve,' airs August 8, 9 and 10, 2015
davidbanner2.jpgGrammy winning Rapper/Producer David Banner (Lil' Wayne) hosts the new season of ASPiRE's "ABFF Independent" series which showcases popular and winning American Black Film Festival Award short films and documentaries. Banner will host the "Matters of the Heart" and "Protect and Serve" themed episodes.

"Actually it's really, really, really an amazing story," said the three-time BET Award nominated Jackson, Mississippi native about how he obtain this hosting gig. "I moved back to Atlanta to get back to my South roots. The first person I meet was Paul Butler. He was running ASPiRE at the time. We always wanted to work together but didn't want to push it. The show came and he called and said, ‘Well I don't have the money you use to' and I said, ‘Are you passionate about it?"...I said, ‘Yes.' Paul is the type of person, word is bond. I did it for him and I am glad I did it for him. I think it's bigger than what we thought... controlling our own image."

David Banner is also a poet, actor, public speaker and activist. He holds a Masters in Education from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. He debuted independently in 2000, and then in 2003 he signed with Universal Records and released four albums. He is currently with Republic Records and has released "Death of a Pop Star" (with 9th Wonder) in 2010 and "Sex, Drugs and Video Games" in 2012. Born Lavell William Crump, he changed his name to David Banner after the Incredible Hulk character.

As an actor Banner has starred in Ride Along (2014), The Butler (2013) and Stomp The Yard (2010). David's episodes of "Protect and Serve" air August 8th at 12 p.m., 8 p.m. and 11 p.m., August 9th at 4 p.m. and August 10th at 3 p.m.

Find out more about "ABFF Independent" film television series by logging onto www.ASPiRE.tv or about David Banner by logging onto www.David-Banner.com.

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations Strategist and Business Management Consultant at Freelance Associates, and is Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times.www.ThePulseofEntertainment.comEVENT: Sat October 24, 2015the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at the Celebrity Centre in Hollywood, CA host by KDAY 93.5FM.EVENT: Sat April 16, 2016 the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference arrives in Baltimore at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.com.) 

August 14, 2015

straight-outta-compton.jpgUniversal Pictures' Straight Outta Compton gives it to you straight no chaser, the rise of Eazy-E, Ice Cube and Dr. Dre

VH1 and BET Award winner Rapper/Actor/Producer Ice Cube (Barbershop, Ride Along) and six-time Grammy Award winning Producer/Rapper/Entrepreneur Dr. Dre (Aftermath's Snoop Dogg, Eminem, and 50 Cent/Beats by Dre) are producers on the Universal Pictures' presentation of Straight Outta Compton. The gritty film is the true life story of the rise of Eazy-E, Ice Cube and Dr. Dre as members of the Compton based Hip-Hop group N.W.A. released on Eazy-E's Ruthless Records label. N.W.A. also included DJ Yella and MC Ren, represented in the film. Straight Outta Compton gives it to you straight no chaser on how and why Gangsta Rap was birth.

Rated R, Straight Outta Compton is directed by F. Gary Gray (Friday) and stars O'Shea Jackson, Jr. as his father Ice Cube (Lynch Mob Records); Jason Mitchell (Contraband) as Eazy-E; Corey Hawkins (Non-Stop) as Dr. Dre; Aldis Hodges (TNT's "Leverage") as MC Ren; Neil Brown, Jr. (Fast and Furious) as DJ Yella; Paul Giamatti (12 Years a Slave) as Jerry Helley - Eazy-E's manager, business partner and advisor; Keith Stanfield as Snoop Dogg; Marcc Rose as Tupac Shakur; Marlon Yates Jr. as The D.O.C.; Sheldon A. Smith as Warren G, and R. Marcus Taylor as Suge Knight.

The screenwriters are Jonathan Herman and Andrea Berloff, they capture the persona and city struggles of each member of N. W. A. (Niggas Wit Attitudes) to give the audience a glimpse into the mind-set that gave an awe-inspiring producer like Dre the courage to jump off on his own, not once but three times, that made a fresh and passionate rapper and lyrist like Ice Cube leave one dream and start another and another, and that inspired a successful drug dealer (estimated ¼ million) to leave crime and build something legit - a record empire - like Eazy-E, and what gave MC Ren and DJ Yella the courage to take the NWA (Ruthless Record) leap as well.

Dre is reportedly worth ½ billion dollars and Ice Cube has become a well respected television/film writer/producer (Friday, Showtime's "Barbershop," TBS' "Are We There Yet?") worth a reported 140 million. When Eazy-E passed away his estate, Ruthless Records, was worth over 15 million - according to encyclopedia.com.

As in life nothing good last forever or goes on without attacks and pitfalls, Straight Outta Compton showed the realness of life and how each members' passion led to success not one time but again and again. Though hard-core Straight Outta Compton is inspiring and maybe released just in time to remind us that abuse by police and the legal system is nothing new, maybe this raw look into what is real will be the beginning to an end. Bravo!

Straight Outta Compton is a Legendary, New Line Cinema, Cube Vision, Crucial Films, Broken Chair Flickz production. Learn more about Straight Outta Compton by logging onto www.StraightOuttaCompton.com.

Platinum saxophonist Najee blends signature sound with contemporary on new album ‘You, Me and Forever'
najee-concertour-will-holton2.jpg"I wanted to work with people I enjoy working with. Some happen to be in the UK," said Najee, legendary multi-platinum selling saxophonist, about his new album titled "You, Me and Forever." "It developed as I went along...to Texas, L.A. and New York."
Released on the Shanachie Entertainment imprint Najee's "You, Me and Forever" features the assist of pianists James Lloyd (Pieces of a Dream) and Robert Damper (Kenny G), guitarist/vocalist Chuck Johnson (Najee), and vocalists Frank McComb (Branford Marsalis) and Andrea Wallace (Kirk Franklin's God's Property).

"Chuck's been in my live band for seven years and every night he sings and the audience loves it," said Najee when I asked the sax man how he picks his featured vocalists. "Some people don't get the opportunity...this time it's on a broader scale. Andrea, I met in Dallas she did an excellent job...Andrea is someone out of the Gospel world, a member of Kirk Franklin's God's Property. I told her take this (track to ‘Give It All We Got') and see what you can do."

My favorite cuts on the "You, Me and Forever" project include "Fly With The Wind" with Chris "Big Dog" Davis on keys for its trademark Najee sound; "Wave" featuring Robert Damper, not only because I am a ex-Navy Wave, but I love its fresh and smooth sound; "Biggest Part of Me" featuring Chuck Johnson; "Butterfly Girl" because Najee's skills give you the visuals of how it would sound like to see butterflies dancing; "Signature" featuring Frank McComb because of its sassy feel, "Give It All We Got" featuring Andrea Wallace because at the end the Jazz improvisation/scatting done by Wallace was exquisite, and the title track "You, Me and Forever" because the keyboard support of Najee sax playing is superb.

I noticed that Najee was giving up-and-coming artists front row on his tracks and asked if his "giving back" is done in this fashion deliberately and he said, "I don't think of it that way it's not a conscious thing for me," he pointed out. "My access came that way. I worked with the legendary Chaka Khan's band. She had just recorded with all these big names. I can offer that."

The New York native came to the music business influenced by R&B, Soul and Jazz giving him a unique saxophonist style and sound. It was his brother's urging and a soprano saxophone as a gift that started his journey that would mold him into one of the best sax players of our time.

You can learn more about Najee and his latest project "You, Me and Forever" by logging onto www.NajeeMusic.com.

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations Strategist and Business Management Consultant at Freelance Associates, and is Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times.www.ThePulseofEntertainment.comEVENT: Sat October 24, 2015the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at the Celebrity Centre in Hollywood, CA host by KDAY 93.5FM.EVENT: Sat April 16, 2016 the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference arrives in Baltimore at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.com.) 

August 21, 2015

hitman_47_redcar.jpgHitman: Agent 47 is a powerful leap from video game to big screen, stars Rupert Friend as Agent 47

Rupert Friend ("Homeland") is Agent 47 in the 20th Century Fox presentation of Hitman: Agent 47. The American-German action thriller is a powerful leap from video game to big screen. Rated- R. Hitman: Agent 47 is the journey of a genetically engineered assassin hired to kill his creator Dr. Delriego, played by Rolf Kanies (The Down Fall of Berlin), and genetically engineered human Katia Van Dees (aka as Agent 90) played by Hannah Ware (Cop Out) before someone else finds them and their genetic DNA sample.

It's a race against time because wealthy businessman Le Clerq, played by Thomas Kretschmann (In Enemy Hands), is out to capture the Dr. and Katia so that he can make his own personal army of Agents. Katia has no idea what special skills she possesses and she is searching desperately for a face in her mind that she believes is her father. Suspense rises as Le Clerq's genetically altered assassin John Smith, played by Zachary Quinto ("Heroes"), finds Katia first. The result and ending will leave you excited to see Hitman2.

Skip Woods (The A-Team) and Michael Finch (Predators) did an excellent job keeping the feel of the video game, while bringing that major film vibe together to make it a major motion picture. Producers were Adrian Askarieh, Charles Gorden, Skip Woods, and Alex Young. Alksander Bach is director.

Kirk Whalum partners with VODACOM for mentors program with two South African ‘X-Factor' finalists
Kirk-Live-southafrica.jpgGrammy Award winning saxophonist and living legend Kirk Whalum partners with VODACOM Group for a mentors program on South Africa's "X-Factor" that inspired him to bring two finalists - Wandile Mnomya and Gavin Edwards - to perform with him in America. Whalum also performed on the South African version of Simon Cowell's "X-Factor" show, a nationally televised talent competition. The performance Wandile and Gavin joined Kirk on was as opening act for Maze featuring Frankie Beverly at the Nokia Theater in Los Angeles.

"It felt amazing like we won the ‘X-Factor'," said Gavin Edwards about his mentorship and American performance with the great sax man Kirk Whalum. 
Wandile said with a smile, of the "X-Factor" experience, "It gave me a great sense of power. It went away when they started telling me what to do."

Kirk said of the opportunity he gave to the two South African artist, performing as opening act for Maze featuring Frankie Beverly, that he was "honored to have been on stage with them before. Frankie Beverly and Maze has a historical presence in the industry and... Nobody does live like Frankie Beverly and Maze. It's inspiring to represent music. It is a lot bigger thanks to Hollywood."

Whalum's mentorship is a partnership with VODACOM Group, the largest satellite service provider in Africa. They provided him with the opportunity to mentor on "X-Factor" and give the two up-and-coming South African artists a stage to perform on in America.

Kirk Whalum is known world over for his performance in South Africa with Whitney Houston in 1994.

"That was big in South African history," he said about his performance with the legend in South Africa. "They still talk about it. Kids not born before that year talk about it and how they will be - built on the strength of that social experience. Since then I have been back so many times."

"We have worked with him before on the show," Gavin added about performing with the Kirk Whalum. "He is phenomenal."

"It was a great experience for me," Wandile said about working with Kirk on the "X-Factor" show. "I have no word for it. Right now I'm just speechless."

Kirk said working on the South African "X-Factor" show and mentoring the artists, thanks to VODACOM, was because of the great mutual respect he has for African artists.

"There will be many more collaboration with artists that are on the Continent of Africa. We owe a great debt to Africa. It's an opportunity to make this right. I want to undo some of the damage we've done to Africa."

Kirk Whalum is currently promoting his new live album "The Gospel According to Jazz, Chapter IV (GATJ IV) - a two-disk project with 19 songs and an accompanying DVD of the live recording. Whalum won his Grammy Award for "GATJ III."

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations Strategist and Business Management Consultant at Freelance Associates, and is Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times.www.ThePulseofEntertainment.comEVENT: Sat October 24, 2015the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at the Celebrity Centre in Hollywood, CA host by KDAY 93.5FM.EVENT: Sat April 16, 2016 the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference arrives in Baltimore at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.com.) 

August 28, 2015

karen_clarkshard.jpg

Karen Clark Sheard is ‘Destined to Win' with new album release, debuts at #2 on Billboard Gospel

"I think it was inspired," said four-time Grammy winner Karen Clark Sheard (The Clark Sisters) about her newest recording project "Destined to Win" (Karew Records/Entertainment One). "It's been a while. I heard the...fans say ‘when is the next.' So I prayed on it."

The answer must have been yes because she has new music. Karen, a member of the infamous Clark Sisters, solo projects have created her own niche' in Gospel history with four Grammy Awards and the respect of everyone in the music industry.

"Destined to Win" features Faith Evans, her son J. Drew Sheard II and Donald Lawrence who produced the album with Daniel Weatherspoon. It offers 10 selections to inspire, a cover of Richard Smallwood's "The Resurrection". Its single "Sunday AM" has received a Grammy nomination. Selections also include "The Worst is Over," "My God is Big," and "We Acknowledge You."

"Donald has worked with me on my first solo CD," Karen added about featured artist Donald Lawrence. "We jell together, he is like my brother. He knows my work...my likes and dislikes. My whole solo career he has been a great part of its success. Donald believed in me from day one."

"Destined to Win" was recorded live at Chicago's House of Hope.

"We did a tribute to the late and great Andrae' Crouch. It was Donald's idea," Karen said about performing Andrae' Crouch's "Where Jesus Is" during the live recording reuniting The Clark Sisters with her daughter Contemporary Gospel artist Kierra Sheard, along with singer Kim McFarland. "His singers did excellent delivery with the song. I said, ‘we not as young as we use to be'...he called my sisters out and the crowd went crazy. My daughter came out and brought the young flavor. It was great to know we still can remain relevant in this day and time."

Find out more about Karen Clark Sheard's "Destined to Win" at www.KarewRecords.com.

Legend of Mantamaji, a live action graphic novel by Director Eric Seaton, comes alive on screen for eight minutes
EricSaton_Mantamaji.JPGMantamaji, a superhero, in the Legend of the Mantamaji graphic novel series comes alive on screen in an eight minute short film by television director Eric Dean Seaton. The live action short was screened recently at the Harmony Gold Theatre in Los Angeles to introduce the three graphic novels of the same name to the public. Mantamaji is played by stuntman and actor Phillip Michael.

The Legend of the Mantamaji graphic novel includes other characters such as Brother Hope, Noah, villain Sirach, and Candor. Mantamaji is the last of a race of knights who once protected the world. Evil is back and now it's up to him to save the world. The artwork in the graphic novels is done by Brandon Palas. Special effects and 3D mapping in the short is done by Gentle Giant Studios (Captain America).

"I don't know if it's the first of its kind, but it's the first of its kind that I am dong in this style, a short to introduce three books...to do this short and attached it to these books," said Eric, screenwriter and executive producer of the eight minute short. "I wanted...a short so people can see what the characters are about."

Eric started out as a stage manager on "In the House." He later moved on to work as stage manager on "Smart Guy," "The Jamie Kennedy Experiment" and "That's So Raven." He became a director working on 18 music videos and two pilots for Nickelodeon. His directing skills landed him back at "That's So Raven." He went on to direct of over 200 episodes on 38 hit television shows. He was recently nominated for a 2015 Glyph Comic "Rising Star" Award.

Learn more about Legend of the Mantamaji graphic novels and short by logging onto www.LegendoftheMantamaji.com.

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations Strategist and Business Management Consultant at Freelance Associates, and is Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times.www.ThePulseofEntertainment.comEVENT: Sat October 24, 2015the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at the Celebrity Centre in Hollywood, CA host by KDAY 93.5FM.EVENT: Sat April 16, 2016 the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference arrives in Baltimore at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.com.)

 September 4, 2015

 

dorianwilson.jpgDorien Wilson is ‘In The Cut' on Bounce TV with Jackee' Harry, airs Tuesdays at 9pmEST

"It was Bentley who brought it to me," said Dorien Wilson, a NAACP Image Award winner, about how he ended up with the leading role of an original Bounce TV comedy series "In the Cut." "I worked with him on "The Martin Show' and the ‘Jamie Foxx Show'...he good people and when you work with good people..."

"In the Cut" also stars Jackee' Harry, Ken Lawson and John Marshall Jones. Bounce TV was founded by Martin Luther King III and Ambassador Andrew Young. Bentley, whom Wilson refers to, is Bentley Kyle Evans ("Love That Girl") creator and director of "In The Cut" and the iconic comedy series "The Jamie Foxx Show" and "The Martin Show."

"In The Cut" follows Jay Weaver (Wilson), who runs "Jay's Chop Shop" barbershop, as he deals with a son he didn't know he had named Kenny Clark (Lawson), and co-owning a beauty salon a few doors down with ex-wife Nadine (Harry). Jay runs the barbershop with his side-kick Smitty (Marshall Jones).

"We kicked around some ideas," Dorien said when I asked if he contributed his experience to the show. "It's all his concept but the meeting place, the barbershop, was mine... it is important to the black community. It's where we grew up."

Wilson, a graduate of the prestigious Pacific Conservatory of Performing Arts in San Francisco, acting credits also include "Sister Sister," "The Steve Harvey Show," and "The Parkers." Recent projects include "Conflict of Interest" starring Tommy Ford and "Extremities" with Wendy Raquel Robinson. He's also a stage actor.

"In The Cut" airs on Tuesday at 9pmEST.

Debbie Allen's dance academy, DADA, offers free dance scholarship to the next ‘Uplifting Minds II' dance winner
debbieallendanceacademy.jpgDebbie Allen Dance Academy has joined a long list of entertainment industry professionals donating a prize for the next "Uplifting Minds II" (ULMII) free national talent showcase competition (singing, songwriting and dance). "ULMII" returns to Hollywood at the Celebrity Centre (5930 Franklin Ave, 90028 - free parking) from 1 - 5 p.m.

The free one day entertainment conference offers an entertainment business panel discussion from 1 - 2:30 p.m. hosted by syndicated entertainment columnist and author Eunice Moseley, MS, M.B.A., and a national talent showcase competition hosted by KDAY 93.5 FM from 3 - 5 p.m.
Debbie Allen is a Golden Globe and Emmy Award winning dancer/actress ("Cat on a Hot Tin Roof," "West Side Story") and her dance academy is affectionately known as DADA. DADA will provide one of the dance winners with a two month dance scholarship in their pre-Academy program. The winner will get professional dance training for five days a week for two months starting January, 2016. DADA offers dance instructions in Tap, Hip-Hop, Contemporary, Jazz, Ballet and Flamenco.

The dance academy is a 501 (c) 3 organization founded by Allen in 2001 and its popularity in dancer performances and training is now renowned, provoking such entertainers as Grammy winner Chris Brown to stop by to check out the dancers. The DADA Board of Directors includes such entertainment industry giants as Suzanne DePasse, Quincy Jones, her sister Phylicia Rashad, and Denzel and Pauletta Washington. Karen McDonald is the Academy's director. Karen is skilled at Modern Dance and has taught in Los Angeles for over 25 years. McDonald has also taught at the prestigious California Institute of Art.

debbieallendanceacadmy_ChrisBrown_DebbieAllen.jpg

Debbie visited the "ULMII" event when it was housed at the Baldwin Hills Plaza from 2001 - 2004 to announce a show at her academy directed by Dave Scott (Step it Up2), and talked about what the academy had to offer to the dance competitors. That year, 2003, guest panelists included Grammy winner Brenda Russell and Rap living legend MC Lyte.

Held annually in Baltimore (April) and Los Angeles (October), "Uplifting Minds II" offers a platform to showcase young aspiring talent (singing, songwriting and dance) in a competitive environment that provokes the best performances. It also provides information about the business of entertainment. As a result the event is known for its panelists and wide range of developed and developing talents.

To qualify to be one of the ten acts to perform on Saturday October 24th at ULMI in Hollywood at the Celebrity Centre, hosted by KDAY 93.5 FM, log onto www.UpliftingMinds2.com or email Info@ThePulseofEntertainment.com. You can also call 562-424-3836 and ask for the ULMII event coordinator. www.DebbieAllenDanceAcademy.com.

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations Strategist and Business Management Consultant at Freelance Associates, and is Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times.www.ThePulseofEntertainment.comEVENT: Sat October 24, 2015the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at the Celebrity Centre in Hollywood, CA host by KDAY 93.5FM.EVENT: Sat April 16, 2016 the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference arrives in Baltimore at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.com.)

September 11, 2015

LUENELL_photocredit_stevenlittles.jpgComedienne Luenell's role continues in Hotel Transylvania 2, receives inducted into Hall of Fame

"I get confused with the money status. Icon and living legend are words used in reference to me but I'm not on that financial level," said Luenell, the Queen of Comedy, about her achievements on stage as a comedienne and in major motion pictures as an actress. "But if that's what they feel."

I witnessed Luenell's climb to the top of the Hollywood ladder of success as a journalist covering the red carpets of Hollywood since 1986, early 2000 for her. That's how I became close friends with her late publicist Eugenia Wright. During that time she was always warm, kind and patient with us starving media. Luenell has always been at ease with her journey too with a confidence like she knew without a doubt she would become an iconic figure in the entertainment world.

"I had never had a publicist before, never been on the red carpet before she set my feet on the path," Luenell said of her former publicist. "The late great Eugenia...I ‘just' got another publicist."

Luenell was born in Arkansas, raised in Oakland California and lives in Los Angeles. On October 17, 2015 Arkansas inducts her into the Black Hall of Fame. On September 25th her role as the voice of the Shrunken Head continues in the Sony animation Transylvania 2 starring Adam Sandler.

"On the 17th of October I am being inducted in the Little Rock Arkansas Hall of Fame," she said proudly. "...alongside Lenny Williams and Maya Angelo."

KSBT Cable in Oakland was her start in entertainment as a guest on "Soul Beat Talk Show." Then she toured for two years with Katt Williams and appeared in his "Katt Williams American Hustle" DVD. In 2006 she co-starred in Borat: Cultural Learning. That starring role opened the gate to tons of other opportunities that included television appearances on such shows as "The Middle," and major motion picture roles in such films as Taken 2 with Liam Neeson, Hotel Transylvania (1 & 2) with Adam Sandler, That's My Boy with Adam Sandler, and comedic stand-ups for "Snoop Dogg's Bad Girls of Comedy" on Showtime, BET's "Comicview," "Jamie Foxx's Laffapalooza," and "Martin Lawrence's First Amendment Stand Up."

"I don't think I want the Kevin Hart money...Biggie said ‘More money, more problems.' I just want a six bedroom house and some cars," Luenell said sincerely. "I see a lot of things I want to do - charity wise...that need to be addressed. It hurts me to see people with money not doing anything to address them."

Luenell's charity work includes her continuous support of The Kierrah Foundation, which works with girls that age out of the social services system, and campaigns for the causes of breast cancer and HIV/AIDS. On October 17th she will be honored for her contributions to the entertainment world with the Arkansas Black Hall of Fame indictment.

"I am very proud of that and a little shocked and surprised at being inducted alongside dignified people, not that I am not dignified," she laughed. "I've been in Los Angeles for 15 years now. Some (in Oakland where she was raised) don't know I been gone. I was raised mostly in the bay area. People have always been loyal and on my side, but the promoters have been dismissive with me. They have a New Year's Eve Comedy Explosion every year and they haven't asked one time. This is business!"

Knowing that she was passionate about the lack of support from her hometown promoters I gave her my two-cent into why they are and she said, "Paul Mooney told me once, and I didn't understand it then but I do now, ‘Familiar breeds contempt,' and damn if it isn't true."

You can log onto Luenell's website to stay in touch with what she is doing at www.HeyLuenell.com or follow her on Twitter and Facebook.

Ten year-old actor Anthony Michael Hobbs mentors as part of NFLer Joel Gamble's mentoring program on September 18, 2015
Anthony_Speaking.jpg"I am a mentor to my friends by helping them with their homework or helping out if they have a situation or cheering them up if they're feeling down, that is how I am a mentor," said 10 year-old Baltimore actor Anthony Michael Hobbs (Emmy nominated PBS' "The Abolitionists") about his experience mentoring as a guest speaker at the Berkshire Elementary School in Baltimore, Maryland as part of former NFL player Joel Gamble's Foundation's mentoring program. Hobbs will speak on Friday, September 18, 2015. "I am a mentor to my friends because I also teach them and help them proceed in life and help them grow as a person."

This mentoring project is part of Joel Gamble's (Cleveland Browns and Tennessee Titans) Foundation's Career Scholars Program. The program consist of students who could benefit from the mentorship of successful career minded men and woman.

The Joel Gamble Foundation is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit which seeks to increase the number of college ready student athletes. The foundation has several components in order for student athletics to become successful: college acceptance/success, academic success, and athletic success.

In addition to acting Anthony is also a film producer/director. His first short film, One Nation, has screened at five film festivals. His acting credits include performances in the Emmy nominated PBS special "The American Experience: The Abolitionist" where he played a young Frederick Douglas and starring in the DreamWorks documentary "How to Train Your Dragon: Dragons and Dinosaurs."

"A mentor is someone that teaches...helps them proceed on into their career," concluded the very wise young man. Now I know why he was asked to speak.

Learn more about Anthony Michael Hobbs at www.AnthonyMichael.com

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations Strategist and Business Management Consultant at Freelance Associates, and is Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times.www.ThePulseofEntertainment.comEVENT: Sat October 24, 2015the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at the Celebrity Centre in Hollywood, CA host by KDAY 93.5FM.EVENT: Sat April 16, 2016 the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference arrives in Baltimore at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.com.)

 September 25, 2015

Laz Alonzo is Detective Soto in NBC's comedy/drama ‘Mysteries of Laura'

"The business is a marathon not a sprint and television has treated me very well,' said actor Laz Alonzo (Fast & Furious I & VI) about his career as an actor. When asked about his new role as Detective Soto, co-starring along side Emmy and SAG Award winner Debra Messing ("Girlfriends"), in the NBC comedy/drama "Mysteries of Laura" he said, "I love the show, love the cast, love NBC. I grew up watching NBC."

"Mysteries of Laura" recently premiered its second season which airs every Wednesday at 8 p.m. The premiere season generated an average 8 million viewers and the second season of 13 episodes just might surpass that because of its focus.
"This season is much more romantic, sexy, more sexiness," the Howard University graduate said about the show's theme. "Last season we went after bad guys, this season the show is more on the romantic side. There will be an office romance."
Alonzo's works on set with Golden Globe nominated Debra Messing's as the two play homicide detectives investigating crime.

"It's a drama because the cases we're solving are very real cases...taken right out of the news," he pointed out when asked about the comedy/drama mixture. "But a show led by Debra Messing...we find places to fit humor. They hooked us up with detectives. We saw how they stay sane on the job. They tease and joke with each other. Their job is to discover murderers. So that's where they find relief, by cracking jokes...to keep it light hearted."

Laz Alonzo is best known for his role in Avatar and the Fast & Furious installments I and VI. Other film credits include Jarhead starring Jake Gyllenhaal; This Christmas starring Chris Brown; Spike Lee's Miracle at St. Anna; Constantine, Battle of the Year starring Chris Brown; Stomp the Yard starring Ne-Yo and Chris Brown; and Just Wright starring Queen Latifah and Common. Television credits include "SouthLand," "Breakout Kings," "Bones," "CSI: Miami," "NCSI," "The Practice," and "Deception." He has hosted the BET Awards and appeared in music videos for Toni Braxton and Aaliyah.

"There is tons of stuff I haven't done...leading my own big budget action or thriller that's on my bucket list of things to do," Alonzo said about his acting achievements. "I want to get back into film, a big action project."

Learn more about the series "Mysteries of Laura" by logging onto www.nbc.com/the-mysteries-of-laura.
‘Black-ish' returns with more jokes for a second season on ABC, airs Wednesdays at 9:30 p.m.
blackish_anthonyanderson.jpgThe premiere season of ABC's comedy series "Black-ish" averaged 7 million viewers and this second season which recently premiered and airs Wednesdays at 9:30 p. m. Anthony Anderson and creator/executive producer Kenya Barris hope to do more with an increase in African-American viewers. They said African-American viewers make up only 20% of those who tune in to watch the ABC hit show.

After what I felt was a failed joke during the interview on deceased loved ones and funerals by Emmy nominated Anthony Anderson, who stars in the comedy series, only because my mother had passed away a little over a week before, it made me wonder if the lack of African-Americans viewers are due to the jokes on the show. The jokes might be funny to other races or religions but might hit too close to home for the African-American community. So I asked him about how they choose jokes on the show and he said, "I never go out to hurt someone but if it's funny to me and the room laughs we go with it. It's about how characters deal with situations. Our humor comes from situations. Like Pops' character you know he's ‘gonna' come up with the punch-lines."

"Black-ish" also stars BET and NAACP Image Award winner Tracee Ellis Ross ("Girlfriends) as his mixed race wife; Laurence Fishburne ("CSI: Crime Scene Investigation") as his father, and his four children are played by Yara Shahdi (Imagine That), Marcus Scribner, Miles Brown and Marsai Martin. Veteran NAACP Image Award nominated actress Jenifer Lewis ("Strong Medicine," "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air") plays the always complaining mother-in-law. The show follows a middle class family trying to keep their "blackness" in a culturally mixed neighborhood and working environment.

Anderson narrates the show which is also executive produced by him, Brian Dobbins, Helen Sugland, Jonathan Groff, Larry Wilmore, Paul Young, Emmy and Tony Award winner Laurence Fishburne (The Matrix), Peter Principato and Tom Russo. Learn more about ABC's hit comedy series "Black-ish" by logging onto www.ABC.Go.com/shows/blackish.

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations Strategist and Business Management Consultant at Freelance Associates, and is Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Timeswww.ThePulseofEntertainment.comEVENTS: Sat April 16, 2016 the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference arrives in Baltimore at Security Square Mall.  Sat October 22, 2016 (TBC) the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at the Celebrity Centre in Hollywood, CA. www.UpliftingMinds2.com.) 

October 2, 2015

The Fox Searchlight presentation of He Named Me Malala shows we all can be brave and make a stand against immense oppression

"I have two daughters. When I read about Malala, the father/daughter story, a universal story I wanted to know more about these extraordinary people," said Davis Guggenheim, director of the Oscar winning documentary "An Inconvenient Truth," about taking on the task of directing the Fox Searchlight documentary film, He Named Me Malala. "The producers brought the Rights; they said it can't be a movie it has to be a documentary. It was a great journey. It was nice to meet a Muslim family."

Inspired by her book "I Am Malala," He Named Me Malala shows that we all can be brave, stand against immense oppression and make a small difference that may change the world. He Named Me Malala is the story of the youngest Noble Peace Prize recipient garnered for her stand against the Taliban's ban against educating girls in her home town of Pakistan where her father owned a series of schools. The Taliban decided that it was illegal for females to be education, unless it was to read the Koran and anyone found going to school or talking against this law was sentence to death, no trial. As an educated daughter of a school teacher, Ziauddin Yousafzai who was also an out-spoken advocate for non-violent Muslim practices, it was only a matter of time before the two met.

At age 12 Malala Yousafzai wrote a "blog" for the BBC about what was happening in Pakistan during the Taliban rule. The next year the New York Times made a documentary about her life in Pakistan under the Taliban. Her notoriety rose as she gave interviews to the media and she was nominated by Desmond Tutu for the International Children's Peace Prize. By age 15 while on the way to school a gunman fired on her, hitting her and two other students, but not fatally.

Malala was in the worst condition because she had been hit in the head. Her assassination attempt sparked world-wide attention. Fifty Islamic Clergy issued a "fatwa" against those who tried to kill her and the United Nations Special Envoy for Global Education launched a UN Petition in her name demanding that all children worldwide be in school by end of 2015. This UN Petition led to Pakistan's first Right to Education Bill.
Director Guggenheim combined the documentary, which was life with the Yousafzai family while they were on the run from the Taliban and at the same time speaking around the world against the oppression of education, with animated skits. When I asked the director whose idea it was to use the animation in telling some of her story, Guggenheim said, "My idea...one of those ideas that come when you in a corner, you get the best ideas when you get stuck. She was telling the story with longing and I wanted to create that world."

The animation told different parts of her life that the documentary was not able to capture, such as how and why her father named her Malala, the reality of the terror the Taliban brought, and why her mother decided not to be educated. Davis said he used Cal State University's Art School students for the animation. They didn't use the contemporary computer animation process but they did the animation by hand.

"I built a company of 10 animation stations right in my home," he said proudly. When I asked if he would use the animation combination again in future projects he said, "I hope so, it was so much fun. It was challenging though because I had never done it before."

I think he can handle the challenges. Davis was executive producer of the Oscar winning film Training Day and director of the Academy Award winning documentary "An Inconvenient Truth." Other directing credits include television on "The Shield," "Alias," "24," "NYPD Blue" and "ER."
Davis Guggenheim spent 18 months with Malala and her family traveling from place to place for security reasons while speaking out for the education of females all over the world while also helping refugees from her country. He Named Me Malala is suspenseful, funny, heart warming and a blatant look at what life can be like under an oppressive rule.

Learn more about the Fox Searchlight documentary He Named Me Malala by logging onto www.Malala-Film.com.

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations Strategist and Business Management Consultant at Freelance Associates, and is Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Timeswww.ThePulseofEntertainment.comEVENT: Sat April 16, 2016 the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference arrives in Baltimore at Security Square Mall and Sat October 22, 2016 (TBC) the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at the Celebrity Centre in Hollywood, CA. www.UpliftingMinds2.com.) 

October 9, 2015

Universal Pictures' Steve Jobs is a brilliant look into a genius mind

Adapted from the biography "Steve Jobs" by bestselling author Walter Issacson the Universal Picture presentation Steve Jobs is a brilliant look into a genius mind. Michael Fassbender (300, X-Men, 12 Years a Slave) is Steve Jobs and he physically looks a lot like the innovator. Seth Rogen (Neighbors) is Steve Wozniak co-founder, with Jobs, of Apple, Inc. - he is the technical mind of the two-man team.

The film begins when the company has had seven years of success with the Apple I and II computers. Steve Jobs is worth $400 million and they are about to launch the MAC which would be incompatible with any operating system available and he wants it to also talk. The pressure is on and the staff and board members are feeling the heat, but not Jobs. While multi-tasking you see him ignore the pressure and launch the new technology called the MAC even though the staff are still unsure that it will talk. Throughout the film it shows how the two Steve's seem to never be in agreement in how to run the company, and with low sales on the MAC it resulted in Jobs being ousted from Apple, Inc. by his own board.

Directed by Academy Award winner Danny Boyle (Slumdog Millionaire) Steve Jobs literally takes you behind the scene of the launches that changed innovation in America. The film takes the viewer into Jobs' mind of risk taking that resulted in the micro computer (Apple), the MAC and the iMAC. It was a long gamble based solely on his innate belief that the technology could be created. With Jobs leading and motivating the staff to be more innovative throughout the film it ends with the success of the iMAC which had an operating system that was able to use the newest technological advance called the Internet. The success of the iMAC made Steve Jobs a billionaire.

Steve Jobs also stars Jeff Daniels as John Sculley appointed by Jobs as CEO of Apply, Inc. and Academy Award winner Kate Winslet (Titanic) as Joanna Hoffman head of Jobs' marketing team for the MAC and NeXT projects. NeXT, which was a Jobs independent launch, was use by him as a strategy to get back on board with Apple, Inc. where the technical minds were. Watching it unfold is mind blowing, like watching a high-stakes card game played, and the results will leave you wanting to watch the movie again and again.

Steve Jobs is released to New York and Los Angeles theaters October 9, 2015 and all theatres nationwide October 23, 2015. You can log onto www.SteveJobsTheFilm.com for more information or to watch the trailer.

The Bergman's exquisite ‘Celebration of Emmy Season' event attracts all of Hollywood
BergmansPreEmmyGiftSuite_2015_JillWhelan.jpgAfter almost 30 years covering red carpeted celebrity filled events the Bergman's "Style Lounge & Party Celebration of Emmy Season" at the renowned Fig and Oliver is the most exquisite event I have attended. All day long the who's who in Hollywood comes to be spoiled by Doris the head of the Bergman Public Relations firm that holds the annual event. Her many sponsors go all-out to cater to the Hollywood elite with free products and gifts while also offering a delicious buffet and open bar to keep them all happy. Bergman elegantly spoils her press attendees as well.

While there I had a chance to interview a few of the expected 90 Hollywood personalities, which included Donovan Carter who stars in the HBO series "Ballers" starring Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. He plays an NFL player who has The Rock as a financial advisor. I also talked briefly with Jill Whetan best known for her role on "The Bold and the Beautiful."

"I am on ‘Real Husbands of Hollywood,'" Jill said when asked if she had any new projects. "It is going to be out October 3rd or 6th. I am also the Celebration Ambassador of Princess Cruises, we celebrate better than anybody."

I laughed to myself at how an excellent spokesperson she was with that cruise line plug "we celebrate better than anybody." I was able to interview another "Bold and the Beautiful" daytime series co-star Sean Kanan, as well as an Australian singer Katja Glieson who became a Youtube sensation with her rap battle with Snow White video, and Moniqua Plante who stars in the ABC series "Nashville."

"It's all on the down-low," Moniqua laughed when I asked what's happening next on "Nashville". "You have to tune in to find out. (But) You can reach me on Facebook at Moniqua Plante."

The Bergman's "Style Lounge & Party Celebration of Emmy Season" event also held a gift drive to benefit the Wednesday Child at the Dave Thomas Foundation. Some of the many sponsors included Guess, NuBra, Arbonne, Savannah, Personal Touch Lingerie and Pure Water.

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations Strategist and Business Management Consultant at Freelance Associates, and is Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Timeswww.ThePulseofEntertainment.comEVENT: Sat April 16, 2016 the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference arrives in Baltimore at Security Square Mall and Sat October 22, 2016 (TBC) the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at the Celebrity Centre in Hollywood, CA. www.UpliftingMinds2.com.) 

October 16, 2015

Billboard Music winner KEM launches ‘Promise to Love' Tour with Tamar Braxton November 6, 2015 in Los AngelesKem2.jpg

"We've had some fun on the road starting with Charlie Wilson for 12,000 - 17,000 people. We compliment each other. This tour coming up is with my special guest Tamar Braxton," said three-time Grammy nominated KEM about the new leg of his "Promise to Love" Tour launching in Los Angeles November 6, 2015.at the Microsoft Theater (formerly Nokia Theatre) "You're going to see me in an intimate setting, a full show of bells and whistles. You will see me in a new light. I prefer an intimate setting. The nuance is what we do. In arenas we attempt not to loose that. Big arenas there is more money but expenses are big."

KEM's "Promise to Love" album is his fourth studio project released in August, 2014 on his own label Kemistry distributed by Motown Records. "Promise to Love" debuted at #1 for R&B albums. The album features vocal assistance from Snoop Dogg and Ron Isley. The Nashville native, Detroit raised balladeer, has released five singles from the "Promise to Love" project that include "Saving My Love For You," "I Believe in Love" (exclusively at Target), "Pray for Me," "Nobody" which was his second single that reached #1 on the Urban AC Charts, and "It's You" the first single that reached #1 in Urban Charts as well.

‘The album is doing its thing," the Neo-Soul, Jazz and R&B singer said about his latest project. "It diffidently keeps the lights on. It has two #1 singles ‘Its You' and "Nobody." It's exciting to be going on tour."

When I asked KEM if it's intentional or by chance that he releases projects that are about love he said, "It is a combination of both, intentional in that we are all looking for love, to be loved, to love better. I think that's what the world needs and can never get too much of."

"We both have a role to play," he said when asked but his audience. "The more energy you give the more you receive. It goes both ways."

KEM is a platinum selling singer, songwriter and producer who's classic hit singles include "Love Calls," "Share My Love," and "I Can't Stop Loving You." Log onto www.PromiseToLoveTour.com for dates near you or www.MusicByKem.com to learn more about KEM.

Actor Donovan Carter is a ‘Ballers' on HBO with Dwayne ‘The Rock' Johnson
donovancarter.jpg"I am currently on ‘Ballers' right now. We just got back for season two. We start filming the end of the year," said Donovan Carter who stars in the HBO dramatic series "Ballers" with Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson (Furious7) who plays his financial advisor. "It will be out June, next summer."

The first season of HBO's "Ballers" premiered June 21, 2015 written by Stephen Levinson and directed by Peter Berg. It is a series about how football players manage their life and millions of dollars during and off season. Emmy nominated Dule' Hill (producer/actor on "Psych") and Letoya Luckett ("Single Ladies") have recurring roles. Dwayne Johnson is executive producer along with Mark Whalhberg, Peter Berg, Stephen Levinson, Evan Reilly and Rob Weiss.

"The show is about football players and their lifestyles and when the season is over. It's about money, finances, and family problems. The Rock (Dwayne Johnson) is the star. He is my financial advisor. He helps me manage my money. It's on HBO and airs on Sundays," said Donovan who plays a family-oriented NFL player in the series.

On July 10th HBO announced a second season. Carter, a Washington, DC native, was a football player at UCLA before turning his main focus back onto acting. As a young boy he appeared in a music video and a stage play.

"I'm on Twitter and Facebook at DCSoFly90," Carter concluded when asked how we can keep in touch.

Find out more about the second season of HBO's "Ballers" by logging onto www.HBO.com/Ballers.

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment.She is also a Public Relations Strategist and Business Management Consultant at Freelance Associates, and is Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Timeswww.ThePulseofEntertainment.comEVENT: Sat April 16, 2016 the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference arrives in Baltimore at Security Square Mall and Sat October 22, 2016 (TBC) the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at the Celebrity Centre in Hollywood, CA. www.UpliftingMinds2.com.) 

October 23, 2015

Dove Award winner Phillip Bryant goes from word to deed with new album, releases ‘Source' as first single


bryant_phillip.jpgA protégé' child, supported 100% from day one by his parents, Bryant by age 17 had garnered two Dove Awards working on the projects of such Gospel icons as John P. Kee, Marvin Sapp and Richard Smallwood."Everything is a calling. Accept the call not just in word but in deed," said two-time Dove Award winner producer and songwriter Phillip Bryant (Marvin Sapp, John P. Kee) about adding Contemporary Gospel vocalist to his credits with the release of his debut RCA Inspiration/Sony Music album. "I want to tell my story in my own words."

"It's been said," Phillip said modestly went I commented that he was a protégé' child. "I think it was being at the right place at the right time, my mom's belt and dad's good head. I still think that is yet to be seen."

Bryant's mother brought him keyboards at a young age and because of it he was a sort after musician. When his mother heard his peers calling him "cheap keys" his parents mortgaged their home to get him the high quality name brand keyboards that stop the teasing and help take him to another level.

"I am more comfortable creating," he said about his skills. "At eight I was playing the keyboard. At 10 I was writing and at 15 I was playing for people."

A North Carolina native Philip Bryant's skills were spotted by a high-profile production company and at 17 he became part of a team that won two Dove Awards for projects of iconic artists of the Gospel industry. As a producer and songwriter Phillip went on to work on the projects of Kelly Price, Fantasia, Dave Hollister, Mary J. Blige, Anthony Hamilton, Trinidee 5:7 and CeCe Winans. He garnered a Stellar Award nomination in the process. Bryant, a Preacher's kid, is also a Praise Leader.

"They liked my country accent. They said. ‘...and you don't have a big head.' It all happened in a year. In two years I went from ‘cheap keys' to them giving me my biggest break," he laughed.

Getting serious he said, "At 15 I felt I needed to do everything for Mom and Dad's sacrifice. "I was talking to a friend at RCA and he said you need to be an artist. I said I have some songs I start putting to the side that can be part of an album."

As they say the rest is history. Bryant is now a Gospel recording artist for RCA Inspiration, distributed by Sony Music. You can follow Phillip Bryant to find out more on his first single "Source" from his upcoming album release on Twitter at @Phillip-Byrant.

Academy and Emmy winner Louis Gossett Jr. revisits a ‘Haunting' on the Lifetime Movie Network reality show
Bergman_ValentineOscarParty_LouGossettJr.jpgThe Biography Channel was the home of the first four seasons of the reality series "Celebrity Ghost Stories" and The Lifetime Movie Network aired its fifth season. A spin-off of the show, "The Haunting of," recently ended its fifth season. The reality show covers celebrities return to the site of a haunting experience. The fifth season followed such celebrities as Hip-Hop artist T-Pain, Rock legend Meatloaf, actor Orlando Jones and Academy/Emmy Award winning actor Louis Gossett Jr. Louis' episode detailed the attack he experienced by angry ghosts while filming in Louisiana 30 years ago at a hotel.

"I have a potential nomination for a reality show called ‘The Haunting of.' I remember being in Louisiana and slaves came out of the sugar cane fields to tell me their stories. So I went on ‘The Haunting of,". We went back to the sugar cane fields where they came back again."

I mentioned that there are more reality shows on cable and television than creatively scripted shows and asked the opinion of this legendary actor known best for his role as Fiddler in the movie Roots, he said, "It's all good as long as they tell us the whole story. Don't make any opinionated...let it be seen as it is."

When I asked the veteran actor whose credits go back as far as 1958 what makes a good movie a good script or a good actor he said, "A combination of all that and timing. What we think the audience wants. They go crazy over it if we do it well...and it will still be relevant...those Raisin in the Suns, the Gone with the Winds, plus good luck."

Louis Gossett Jr. started acting at 17 years-old appearing on Broadway in Raisin in the Sun (1959) and when it appeared in theaters he starred along Sidney Poitier (1961). A Brooklyn, New York native Gossett credits also include Iron Eagle I and II (1986, 1988), Enemy Minds (1985), Officer and a Gentleman (1982), Roots (1977), the television mini-series "Sadat" as Anwar Sadat (1983), Jaws 3-D (1983), The Deep (1977), "Stargate SG-1" (2005-2006), The Punisher (1989), "The Mod Squad" (1968, '69, '72), "Psych" (2012), and Toy Soldier (1991). He has voice over roles in "Family Guy" (2006) and video game Half-Life 2.

Louis was the first black actor to win an Oscar for Best Supporting role, the second black actor to win an Oscar for Best Leading role and the 3rd black actor to win an Oscar in general. (Photo Credit: Eunice Moseley)

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million withThe Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations Strategist and Business Management Consultant at Freelance Associates, and is Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Timeswww.ThePulseofEntertainment.comEVENT: Sat April 16, 2016 the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference arrives in Baltimore at Security Square Mall and Sat October 22, 2016(TBC) the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at the Celebrity Centre in Hollywood, CA. www.UpliftingMinds2.com.)

October 30, 2015

Sandra Bullock brings documentary to life with Our Brand is Crisis, also starring Anthony Mackie
Sandra-Bullock-Anthony-Mackie-in-Our-Brand-Is-Crisis.jpg

Two time Academy Award nominated and Golden Globe winner Sandra Bullock (Speed) stars in and executive produces the Warner Bros Picture presentation Our Brand is Crisis, based on a 2005 documentary by Rachel Boynton. The documentary follows an American political strategist who planned the 2002 campaign, and won, of a Bolivian candidate who was unlikely to win. The comedy/drama also stars Anthony Mackie (Captain America: The Winter Soldier) who works for the firm that hired Jane Bodine (Bullock) to help the unpopular politician win an election in Bolivia.

Sandra’s comedic talents hit all the marks and Mackie proved again that he is lead actor material. The Bolivian politician Pedro Gallo (Gonzalo Sanchez de Lozada) played by Joaquin de Almeida (“24,” Fast Five) hires James Carville’s consulting firm Greenberg Carville Shrum in Washington, DC. The firm hired retired political consultant Jane Bodine, who lost her last three campaigns to opposition political campaign consultant Pat Candy played by Academy, Emmy and Golden Globe winner Billy Bob Thornton. Bodine successfully used Pedro’s unpopular characteristics and made them popular winning the election.

Our Brand is Crisis also stars Scoot McNairy, Ann Dowd, and Zoe Kazan. George Clooney serves as producer along with Grant Heslove and Smokehouse Pictures, in association with Participant Media and 360 Films. Our Brand is Crisis is directed by David Green.

City of Brotherly Love’s Pieces of a Dream celebrates 40 years with new album, ‘All In’

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“Its our grown folk’s album…we finally got there,” laughed Pieces of a Dream co-founding member James Lloyd (keyboards) about what we can expect on their new album, “All In,” released in celebration of 40 years in the music business. “It will not just be mellow, not just up-tempo, but everything in between…pushing the boundaries.”

Natives of the City of Brotherly Love (Philadelphia) the R&B, Fusion and Jazz band of musicians, Pieces of a Dream, were founded by Lloyd, Cedric Napoleon (bass) and Curtis Harmon (drums) in 1976 as teens. Through the years they have released 16 albums and just released their 17th on Shanachie Entertainment.

“I don’t think I had anything in mind,” said Curtis about what they wanted for the album. “I wrote songs so far a part in time. We want our music to stand the test of time.”

That they have done because after 40 years they are still popular enough to still be on tour because of the demand for their music. Watch for my review of the “All In” album in the coming weeks and in the mean time check out Pieces of a Dream’s “All In” project by logging ontowww.PiecesofaDream.com

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations Strategist and Business Management Consultant at Freelance Associates, and is Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Timeswww.ThePulseofEntertainment.comEVENT: Sat April 16, 2016 the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference arrives in Baltimore at Security Square Mall and Sat October 22, 2016 (TBC) the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at the Celebrity Centre in Hollywood, CA. www.UpliftingMinds2.com.)

November 6, 2015

 Dr. Logan Westbrooks shares expert knowledge on the music industry in his latest book release ‘The Anatomy of the Music Industry'


logan-westbrooks.jpgDr. Westbrooks recently released his second book about the music business titled "The Anatomy of the Music Industry: How the Game Was and How the Game Has Changed" (Ascent Publishing). In this book he interviews music industry experts in varies field such as artists, producers, publishers, promoters, digital music, media, public relations, legal analysis and others fields to question them about their view on the state of the music industry then and now. I am one of those experts included in this enlightening and inspiring project as a pubic relations strategist who has provided P.R. and business plans to young artists and emerging entertainment industry companies since 1993 - through my company Freelance Associates, PRSA. I am joined in the public relations section of the book with legendary publicist Angelo Ellerbee (Michael Jackson) and world-renowned Jazz publicist Rick Scott (Jonathan Butler). Dr. Westbrooks served as head of Promotions at Capital Records working on the projects of such artists as The Beatles, Nate King Cole and Nancy Wilson. At CBS Records he served as Director of Special Markets and Promotions, he was Vice President of Marketing for Columbia International Records and as Managing Executive for CBS Africa."What is constant is major labels are still in control," said veteran music label executive Dr. Logan Westbrooks about what he believes has stayed constant throughout all the changes (record labels merging and number of independent labels on the rise). "They still have more power and more money. They still control radio."

"The music industry is changing everyday but we can still use it as a blueprint," Dr. Logan pointed out. "I want to document what took place and lay out some kind of a plan for those they come after us. It's been a passion of mine for many years, sharing (his knowledge) with young people."

Dr. Logan Westbrooks taught about the music business at California State University for five years. "Teaching was part-time. My income, my job, my 9 to 5 w

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ork was in the music industry," he explained.

Through the years the music industry birthed many experts in the field and when asked how he chose who to feature in "The Anatomy of the Music Industry" he said, "I sat down to look at the backgrounds and careers of those that did not mind sharing and some were already working with young artists...I want to thank you, it took a lot to share your experience."

After each interview Dr, Westbrooks surmised each interview with the highlights of what each person had to say that he felt was of utmost importance. He honored me by mentioning a national entertainment conference I founded and host each year since 1999 called "Uplifting Minds II" saying that, "Eunice Moseley started her organization out of a love for artists...Eunice mentioned the Featherstone Brothers attending her conference...they came to the attention of SisQo of Dru Hill who used their song ‘I Should Be'...it reach #5 on the Billboard Charts."

"I hope that a lot of schools adopt it to use as a textbook and households will pick it up and use it," Dr. Westbrooks concluded.

He is also the author of "The Anatomy of the Record Company." A Memphis native Dr. Logan became one of the pioneering African-America record executives in 1970s working on major projects for Isaac Hayes, Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes, Johnny Mathis, Sly Stone, Earth, Wind and Fire, Miles Davis and Nelly. Learn more about Dr Logan Westbrooks and his latest book release through Ascent Publishing, "The Anatomy of the Music Industry," at www.LoganWestbrooks.com.

‘Sunday Best' winner Geoffrey Golden Jazz up Contemporary Gospel with debut ‘Kingdom...Live,' featuring and executive produced by Kirk Franklin
geoffreygolden.jpgBET's "Sunday Best" winner Geoffrey Golden debut album "Kingdom...Live" features and is executive produced by Kirk Franklin. The project is sure "nuff" good for the soul. The album released on Franklins own label Fo Yo Soul/RCA Inspiration is full of Contemporary Gospel, Praise and Worship and Inspirational selections delivered by the outstanding flavored of Golden's vocals.

"I've been an avid Gospel music fan for a long time. I'd be at my grandfather's house watching Richard Smallwood...Sounds of Blackness," said Geoffrey Golden about his passion for what he does. "I knew before ‘Sunday Best,' I had a plan. I decided to do a live album but did not know when. I didn't know God would send me through the ‘Sunday Best' system. I asked Kirk and Kirk said he been saying the same."

So together they birthed the "Kingdom...Live" project offering eleven inspiring and Praise worthy selections. My favorites on the album include "Expectation" because of Geoffrey's Jazz influences delivery; "A Song Called He Reigns," featuring Kirk Franklin, who wrote the song, because of the signature Kirk Franklin inspired sound and Golden's Pop flavored lead vocals were excellent; "All Things Get Better," written by Kirk Franklin, because I love the violin support, the sweet piano sprinkles and the use of the classical guitar, and "Changed" for his message that brought me back to when I was five and God change me too forever, in addition to Geoffrey's heartfelt delivery makes the song exceptional and letting it with the audience singing the hook until the song faded-out was a perfect ending to a perfect project.

A youth choir director and Preacher's son, Golden said that his experience, "where you try to connect too people...try to sing that message to two different kinds of people (saved and not) from your perspective," is what he brought with him on the "Sunday Best" stage. On his stage presence, which was noted by the show, he said he learned to, "keep your eyes open to connect with the crowd, and study God's Word to receive something that really changes lives."

The "Kingdom...Live" album was recorded in Irving, TX and hosted by Franklin. It reached #4 on the Billboard Top Gospel Album Chart. The Cleveland, Ohio native now lives in Atlanta and has released the first single from the album titled "All of My Help," a testament to the everlasting "assist" that God gives his children all day and all night.

 

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations Strategist and Business Management Consultant at Freelance Associates, and is Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Timeswww.ThePulseofEntertainment.comEVENT: Sat April 16, 2016 the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference arrives in Baltimore at Security Square Mall and Sat October 22, 2016 (TBC) the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at the Celebrity Centre in Hollywood, CA. www.UpliftingMinds2.com.)

November 13, 2015

Calm heads prevail in The 33, a Warner Bros. presentation, in theatres November 13, 2015

Antonio Banderas (The Mask of Zorro) stars in the Warner Brothers' Pictures presentation of The 33, a true incident in 2010 of a Chilean mining disaster trapping 33 workers for over two months. Banderas (Desperado) plays miner Mario who emerges as the leader preserving lives by demanding that food be rationed out. The 33, which arrives in theaters November 13, 2015, shows what can happen when calm heads prevail. Golden Globe and Tony Award nominated Lou Diamond Phillips (Courageous Under Fire) is miner Luis the foreman, who warned management of the pending danger, who emerges also as a leader noted for helping rescuers map out their location.

Outside of the mines it was family that pushed the mining company, as well as the government of Chile, to take action and not give up on the miners as unreachable. Juliette Binoche plays Marie the sister if miner Dario whose passion and love for him helped her in pushing the government representative, Minister of Mining Laurence Golborne (Rodrigo Santoro), into not giving up on the search when it seemed impossible. The 69 day ordeal had the eyes of the world on it to witness in real time a miracle as all 33 miners emerged, frail, but alive.

As always Antonio and Lou gave stellar performances. The 33 also stars Mario Casas as miner Alex, Cote de Pablo, Jacob Vargas as miner Edison AKA Elvis; Marco Trevino as Jose' the miners' Pastor; Oscar Nunez as miner Yonni; Alejandro Goic as miner Franklin; Gabriel Byrneas as Andre Sougarret the engineer who mastermind the never done before rescue, and five-time Golden Globe nominated James Brolin (The West Wing) as a drilling engineer.
The 33 is directed by Patricia Riggen and written by Mikko Alanne, Craig Borten and Jose' Rivera. The Alcon Entertainment, Phoenix Pictures and 360 Films production is Rated PG-13.

A Peter White Christmas with Rick Braun and Mindi arrives at Rams Head in Baltimore December 4, 2015
peterwhite_center_rickbraun_mindi.jpg"I don't think we leave the stage," Award winning Jazz guitarist Peter White laughed about his upcoming Christmas concert with guests Jazz trumpet player Rick Braun and saxophonist/vocalist Mindi Abair. The concert is part of his "A Peter White Christmas" Tour which arrives at Rams Head on Stage Friday December 4, 2015 in Baltimore. "The whole show we're together. We wanted to do a show that's integrated - it's better for the audience...We come to Rams Head every year."

The "A Peter White Christmas" Tour started in 2003 and according to White he hasn't missed a year.

"I love Christmas! It was the first music I ever played," he said. "We use to go door to door as a musicalfamily...me on the recorder. It's a good start. I started playing the piano. After that dad brought me a guitar...It was pretty simple."

Peter White is a London native and winner of the Canadian Smooth Jazz Award, a three-time Oasis Contemporary Jazz Award and a four-time National Smooth Jazz Award winner. He has recorded 13 albums and is known for his classical guitar style. He has written/produced songs for such artists as Grover Washington, Jr. which includes "Midnight in Manhattan" and "Bright" that reached #1 on the Billboard Jazz Song Chart. White is currently signed to Heads Up/Concord Records.

Learn more about the "A Peter White Christmas" Tour schedule by logging onto www.PeterWhite.com or www.RamsHeadonStage.com.

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations Strategist and Business Management Consultant at Freelance Associates, and is Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Timeswww.ThePulseofEntertainment.comEVENT: Sat April 16, 2016 the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference arrives in Baltimore at Security Square Mall and Sat October 22, 2016 (TBC) the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at the Celebrity Centre in Hollywood, CA. www.UpliftingMinds2.com.)

November 20, 2015

The Harlem Globetrotters bring the Great Assist Program to Baltimore for Christmas

The Harlem Globetrotters' Great Assist Program gives smiles away to communities with needs and their next World Tour arrives in Baltimore Saturday December 26, 2016 at the Royal Farms Arena. The tour is also celebrating the 90th anniversary of the Harlem Globetrotters who took the sport of basketball and made it an art form.

"I didn't think you could just become a globetrotter," said member Donte' Harrison when discussing how he became a member. "But they just pick up new members. I learned they been around a long time."

The Harlem Globetrotters have become synonymous with creative basketball playing skills all around the world in 122 countries. In 2016 they will celebrate 90 years of serving communities in need through their The Great Assist program. On the world tour they will play over 330 games in 260 cities. The Harlem Globetrotters are also known as the Ambassadors of Goodwill and will be asking fans during the tour to nominate a worthwhile cause or deserving family in need of a smile.

"(To be a Harlem Globetrotter) you have to be three things," said Harrison also known as the Hammer because of his 360 dunk. "You have to be a good basketball player to join, you have to be a good person because it's a goodwill job - we visit schools through our bullying prevention program, and you have to be a good entertainer - I was always entertaining through basketball in college."

This tour will also feature the basketball talents of Harlem Globetrotter members Big Easy Lofton, Ant Atkinson, Hi-Lite Bruton and Thunder Law. Donte' has a love for basketball so strong it pulled him through rehabilitation and pain after an accident left both legs broken at the age of 11. He not only properly mended his bones but became so good at basketball he played for college and now for the iconic Harlem Globetrotters.

"I heard stories (of the Globetrotters). My first experience with them I was 10 years old. At that age they were kind of more relevant than now with Curley. Fans tell me they came to the games when they were young. Now they're bringing a different generation," he said.

To learn more about the Harlem Globetrotters' and their 90th Anniversary 2016 The Great Assist World Tour, which arrives in Baltimore December 26th at 6 p.m. at the Royal Farms Arena log onto www.HarlemGlobetrotters.com.

Trumpeter Darren Barrett uniquely blends Reggae and America Jazz with his new album ‘Trumpet Vibes'
darrenbarrett.jpg"We just came from filming the video for ‘To Sir with Love'...it is my seventh album. We been working on this record for three years," said award winning trumpeter Darren Barrett (Common, Herbie Hancock) about the single to his new album release "Trumpet Vibes" (dB Studios). "My parents are from Jamaica and my dad played saxophone, it's released in the video. He did not make enough money for five kids so he became an auto mechanic. It was mandatory that we play music because he couldn't. He comes to the concert and his eyes are so full."

Darren is a graduate of Berklee College of Music and is an associate professor there. He has worked with such artists as Esperanza Spaulding ("Radio Music Society") and Roy Hargrove. A native of Canada Barrett currently calls Boston home. Aside from a Reggae and Jazz trumpeter Darren also plays R&B, Pop, Jazz Fusion and Jazz-Funk. In "Trumpet Vibes" Darren uniquely blends Reggae, the music from his parents' native country of Jamaica, with the American Jazz sound.

The single "To Sir with Love" is one of my favorite cuts on the project because of how he blends that Reggae sound in a way that it keeps the essence of the original song but also makes it different; "Chiapas" because of how he flips the trumpet - something I have not heard before; "Everything I Own" because it is so uplifting and provoked images of a crowd of very happy people dancing as they walked down the street, and "The Club Up the Street" featuring Warren Wolf (vibraphonist) because it makes you want to visit the club for a good time, and I love the drum and vibraphone support. Darren Barrett is a winner of the Thelonious Monk International Jazz Competition. He is also a songwriter, band leader, producer, and engineer who has worked with Will.i.Am and Talib Kweli.

You can log onto www.DarrenBarrett.com to learn more about this extraordinary trumpeter.

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations Strategist and Business Management Consultant at Freelance Associates, and is Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Timeswww.ThePulseofEntertainment.comEVENT: Sat April 16, 2016 the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference arrives in Baltimore at Security Square Mall and Sat October 22, 2016 (TBC) the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at the Celebrity Centre in Hollywood, CA. www.UpliftingMinds2.com.)

November 27, 2015

Walt Disney's The Good Dinosaur is a story of a bond of two unlikely friends

The Walt Disney Pictures presentation The Good Dinosaur is a 3D animation about a bond of two unlikely friends who started out as enemies and ended up as each others’ hero. Directed by Peter Sohn and produced by Denise Ream, The Good Dinosaur is about Arlo a baby Apatosaurus who gets lost and the one human that his father wanted him to kill, to save their crop of corn from being eaten, ends up being his hero. His hero is an orphaned cave boy, he named Spot, who is just a baby himself that has survived on his own and has learned a thing or two about food and shelter.

The Good Dinosaur is a comedy/drama that will make you laugh, cry and cheer on the two unlikely friends as they survive life’s dangers. Raymond Ochoa (Drake & Josh) is the voice of Arlo, Jack Bright is the voice of cave boy Spot, and Emmy and Golden Globe winner Jeffrey Wright (Casino Royale, The Hunger Games) is the voice of Arlo’s father Poppa Henry. Rated PG The Good Dinosaur follows Arlo’s almost impossible journey back home after accidental death of his father. As he follows Spot to find food, shelter and his home near Clawed-Tooth Mountain the cave boy teachers him to be brave, something his father Poppa Henry was trying to teach him but failed. In exchange Arlo teaches the orphaned cave boy that family is not always blood relatives, but those that care for you, protect you and risk their lives for you. On the way they meet a family of Pterodactylus (birds) and a group of velociraptor (raptor) in tent on having them for dinner in their escape they loose their way again. It was meeting the T-Rex family that consisted of the dad Butch (Sam Elliot/Hulk) a tyrannosaurus, his daughter Ramsey (Academy winner Anna Paquinas/X-Men) and Nash (A. J. Buckley/”CSI: NY”), who were looking for their lost herd of long horns, that saved them and put them back on their journey “home.”

The Good Dinosaur is now in theater and also stars Academy Award winner Frances McDormand (Fargo) as the voice of Arlo’s mother Momma Ida, Marcus Scribner (“Black-ish”) as the voice of Arlo’s brother Buck and Maleah Padilla as the voice of his sister Libby. The story was developed by Bob Peterson and is a Walt Disney Pictures and Pixar Animation Studios production.

Pieces of a Dream stay true to their name with their new album ‘All In’

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A Philadelphia Jazz/R&B band that has spend the last 40 years providing uplifting music to the world is Pieces of a Dream and after 17th albums, the latest “All In” (Shanachie Entertainment) was released this month, they have developed a sound that has become known worldwide as an American genre. The Pieces of a Dream band’s name is legendary. Their many years performing on stage perfected their stage show and it is heard in the “All In” project as they stay true to their name or self-made genre.

“It developed naturally,” said co-founder James Lloyd (keyboardist) about their stage performance. “We like to have fun and interact with each other and the audience…the show is better than the album”

I tried to envision them performing the album as I listened to it and felt myself wanting to be in the front row seat. My favorite songs on the “All In” project included #3 “Quiet Night in the City” because my mind went to me driving at night on the highway with my radio blasting this song; #7 “Human Interface,” #8 “Up ‘til Dawn” because the mixture of horns from Joe Cunningham and Tony Watson, Jr., the exquisitely sprinkled keys from co-founder Curtis Harmon (Drummer) and Chris ‘Big Dog’ Davis, top with the electrifying lead guitar skills of Rohn Lawrence made me want to stay up all night just dancing; #9 “Dream On”  because those keys played by James Keith Lloyd put me in a dream state of mind, and #10 “How Bout That” because the lead guitar playing by Rohn Lawrence was perfection, especially at the end.

You can find out where Pieces of a Dream will be performing or on how to get the “All In” album by logging into www.PiecesofaDream.net

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations Strategist and Business Management Consultant at Freelance Associates, and is Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Timeswww.ThePulseofEntertainment.comEVENT: Sat April 16, 2016 the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference arrives in Baltimore at Security Square Mall and Sat October 22, 2016 (TBC) the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at the Celebrity Centre in Hollywood, CA. www.UpliftingMinds2.com.)

December 4, 2015 

 With Emmy nominated Rolonda Watts ‘time moves on but destiny lingers'

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I had the chance to talk to Emmy nominated actress, producer and talk show host Rolonda Watts at an event and in gathering information about her achievements I am now humbled that I had the chance to speak to her. Rolonda Watts, who holds a Masters in Journalism, has experiences that range from a television news reporter and anchor to a very versatile actress. "Time Moves On but Destiny Lingers," is the titled of her non-fiction romance novel and it is a great explanation to why she has so many great success stories in media and entertainment.

"I love a good romance," said Rolonda when asked about her favorite storylines in films. "A tear jerker...films where I feel enriched as a human being and want to go out and so something."

Watts has been "doing something" since she graduated with her Masters. Her first job was as an assignment reporter in her hometown of Greensboro, NC at WFMY-TV, then at WNBC-TV where she was nominated for an Emmy Award. She went on to WABC-TV's Eyewitness News team in New York and as host of "Attitudes" on Lifetime-TV. She later garnered a Cable Ace nomination. Watts becomes Senior Correspondent, Weekend Anchor and Producer of "Inside Edition" and in 1994 King World Distributors picked up her talk show "Rolonda" until 1997. In 2005 she became the on-camera announcer for CBS's "Judge Joe Brown" until 2013. She is currently the on-camera announcer for FOX's "Divorce Court" with Judge Lynn Toler. Watts launched an Internet talk show "Sundays with Rolonda" and CBS Local Digital Media Platform recently picked up the show for syndication. It provides inspirational, informative and entertaining news for discussion.

"I think people are tired of being over the top," she said when talking about the number of reality shows airing. "I remember when talk shows and news were called reality shows. I am not a big fan. There's one thing about reality shows...'ain't' nothing real about reality shows. I'm sorry I think people are sick of the crazy."

Rolonda is also a versatile artist who has played so many ranges of roles. Her credits include "Sister to Sister," ""Days of Our Lives" (2002 - 2008), "The Bold and the Beautiful" (2003), "Good Luck Charlie" (2012), Lifetime-TV's "I Will Always Love You: The Whitney Houston Story," "JAG," The West Wing," and voice-over acting roles for Nickelodeon's "Penguins of Madagascar" as Gladys and PBS Kids' animated series "Curious George" (2006 - 2015) and Curious George movie (2009). She serves as CEO and President of her own production company Watts Works Production which projects, that she stars in, include Christmas Mail (2010), A Mother's Love (2011), House Arrest (2012), 25 Hill (2011), Broken Roads (2012), Return to Babylon as Josephine Baker (2013) and Defying the Stars as Dorothy Dandridge. Upcoming projects for her company include Soul Ties and American Bred in 2016.

Listen into Rolonda Watts' Internet talk show "Sundays with Rolonda" at www.Play.It/SundaysWithRolonda.com or www.SundaysWithRolonda.com, or learn more about what Ro, who she is affectionately called, by logging onto www.Rolonda.com.

Silk, Troop, J. Holiday and Men At Large featured on ‘A Growth of a Man' to benefit educational research
JHoliday.jpgAndern Educational Research Inc. (AER) is a non-profit 501 (C) 3 organization that develops, promotes, supports and provides educational opportunities to students of color and families with low income to increase the number of "well-educated" young people of color. They have announced the launch of an album of songs donated by Silk, Troop, J Holiday and Men At Large titled "A Growth of A Man: Inspired By Her" where all proceeds go to benefit the AER organization founded by its CEO Donna Jones.

"We have a Grammy winning producer...they came up with the title and the whole concept," said Donna about the project. "It was first ‘Inspired by Her' and I asked how about ‘A Growth of A Man'."

The launch of "A Growth of a Man: Inspired By Her" and its first single by J. Holiday titled "Hearts for You" will be released in January, 2016. The songs are inspired to uplift the spirits of women around the world and to benefit student education.

"We were thinking of different ways of fundraising. We said how about a benefit concert. So we started with old school artists like the Stylistics...New Birth," Jones explained. "We started another one of 90s groups and it was more attractive. They were easy to work with, humble."

When discussing the artists they picked for the album she said, "We're looking to do many more projects like this. At the time none of them (Silk, Troop, J. Holiday and Men At Large) were in the studio. Now Silk and Men At Large are working on an album. In doing P.R. for this project they are mentioned so it's a win/win for them."

Silk is a five member multi-platinum selling group from Atlanta discovered by Keith Sweat who is best known for their Billboard #1 hit single "Freak Me." Troop is a five member platinum selling group from Pasadena, California that has 10 #1 singles on Billboard Charts and they are best known for their singles "All I Do Is Think of You" and "Sweet November" - original songs of Delle and The Jackson 5. Men At Large is a three member R&B group from Cleveland founded by the late Gerald LeVert who released three songs that reach #5, #9 and #16 on Billboard Charts, and J. Holiday is a Grammy, American Music Awards, BET and Image Award nominated artist from Washington, DC who is best known for his Billboard #5 Chart hit "Bed."

"I do know the value of education," Donna said about why she founded the organization. She holds a Bachelors Degree in Computer Science and had a career supervising medical billing for Dr. Arnold W. Klein (Michael Jackson). "When your heart is in the right place God will protect."

Aside from the "A Growth of a Man: Inspired by Her" album release Donna's organization AER still holds concerts throughout the year as fundraisers. If you want to learn more about the album "A Growth of a Man," or about the organization AER, you can visit their website at www.Andern-Educational-Reearch.org.

 

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment.She is also a Public Relations Strategist and Business Management Consultant at Freelance Associates, and is Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Timeswww.ThePulseofEntertainment.comEVENT: Sat April 16, 2016 the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference arrives in Baltimore at Security Square Mall and Sat October 22, 2016 (TBC) the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at the Celebrity Centre in Hollywood, CA. www.UpliftingMinds2.com.)

December 11, 2015

Ron Howard's In the Heart of the Sea is a thrilling tale of man meets nature
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Academy Award winning Ron Howard (A Beautiful Mind) directs and co-produces the Warner Bros. Picture presentation of In the Heart of the Sea a thrilling tale of man meets nature, based on the novel of the same name about the classic tale of Moby Dick. In the Heart of the Sea stars MTV Movie Award winner Chris Hemsworth (Thor, The Avengers, StarTrek) as the veteran 1st Officer Owen Chase, Benjamin Walker (Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter) as the inexperienced Captain George Pollard of the ill-fated whaling ship Essex and Golden Globe nominated Cillian Murphy (Batman Begins, The Dark Knight) as 2nd Mate Matthew Joy. The Rated PG-13 action adventure film's inspiration is the best selling novel by Nathaniel Philbrick. Pilbrick's novel was inspired by the real-life maritime disaster told by Herman Melville in the classic tale of "Moby Dick."

The thriller follows 1st Mate Owen Chase (Hemsworth) as he deals with leaving his new wife and unborn child for a year or two in search of needed oil and the struggle he has as a veteran sailor desperate for his own ship, but who has been denied again and now must sail the Essex under the orders of a less experienced Captain. The result means a damaged ship early on in the voyage and a desperate crew willing to search for a school of whales protected by a legendary gigantic man-eating white whale - Moby Dick.

You would think seeing the rugged 1st Mate Chase (Hemsworth) meeting the feared Moby Dick face to face would be the movie's climax but Ron Howard (Apollo 13) gives us more by showing us what a shipped wrecked crew will do when trying everything they know how to do to stay alive . He also shows what could possibly happen when man meets nature In the Heart of the Sea. The tale of Moby Dick, in the film, includes what the original book may not have said happened, because of the period (1850s). It was brilliant of Ron to now add it and to include at the end what happened to the remaining crew of the Essex - those who survived and what happened to the oil industry.

Brian Grazer, Will Ward, Joe Roth and Paula Weinstein co-produced with Howard, and the screen play credit goes to Charles Leavitt. A Village Roadshow Picture, Roth Films and Imagine Entertainment production In the Heart of the Sea also stars Tom Holland (Spider-Man) as the 14 year-old cabin boy Thomas Nickerson who the writer Herman Melville, played by Ben Whishaw (Skyfall, Spectre), based his Moby Dick tale on. Melville was an American novelist and poet who published "Moby Dick" in 1851. Brendan Gleeson (Harry Potter, Brave Heart) also stars in the film as the elderly Thomas - as the film recounts his cabin boy story.

In the Heart of the Sea arrives at theaters November 11, 2015. It also stars Michelle Fairley, Gary Beadie, Frank Dillane, Charlotte Riley, Donald Sumpter, Paul Anderson, Edward Ashley, Sam Keeley, Osy Ikhile, Gary Beadle, Morgan Chetcuti, Richard Bremmer, Jordi Molla and Jamie Sives. Watch the trailer at www.IntheHeartoftheSeaMovie.com.

Evan Ross silently builds an acting career as the one to hire in Hollywood
evan-ross2.jpg"I feel like everything is coming together," said Image Award nominated Evan Ross-Naess about his career in entertainment as an actor, singer and musician. Ross has silently built an acting career as the one to hire in Hollywood. "I feel very fortunate."

When I commented that I watched him build his career on talent alone - not by mentioning that he is the son of the living legend Diana Ross - he gave me a hug and that solidifies my support of him always. Evans started acting in 2005 appearing in the Notorious BIG music video; in 2006 he appeared in his first major role in the film ATL with T.I. and Big BOI; in 2008 he had a role in Linewatch with Cuba Gooding, Jr.; in 2009 he had a role in According to Greta opposite Hilary Duff; in 2010 he had a role in the CW dramatic series "90210"; in 2011 he appeared on "The Family Tree" and in the film 96 Minutes, and in 2013 he starred in VH1's bio-film "CrazySexyCool: The TLC Story" as Dallas Austin. His music career started in 2007 when he started recording his debut album which released its first single in February 25, 2011 "Yes Me" which he co-wrote and on May 14, 2015 he released the 2nd single "How to Live Alone" which features T.I.

"I have such as incredible happiness right now with my team, where my music is, the things that are happening - like being on the ‘Rolling Stones'," he said. "It's such a blessing to be able to continue my dream."

As you can see he worked hard for his dream which includes a role as Messalla in The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part I (2014) and II (2015). This year he was cast in the ABC criminal/drama series "Wicked City" as a paparazzo which can be seen now on Disney-ABC Domestic On-Demand. Upcoming projects include a role opposite Columbus Short and Vivica A. Fox in a romantic/drama True to the Game which is filming now. True to the Game is based on the Teri Wood novel of the same name. Woods wrote the novel in 1992 while working in a law firm. She self published in 1998 and its success led to a multi-million dollar publishing deal.

Evan Ross has three siblings on his mother's side and five on this father's side. His father is Arne Naess, Jr. a Norwegian shipping magnate who enjoyed mountain climbing until his death in 2004. Evans married Ashley Simpson in 2014 and they recently gave birth to a baby girl. Learn more about Evan Ross by following him on Twitter and Instagram @RealEvanRoss.

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment.She is also a Public Relations Strategist and Business Management Consultant at Freelance Associates, and is Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Timeswww.ThePulseofEntertainment.comEVENT: Sat April 16, 2016 the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference arrives in Baltimore at Security Square Mall and Sat October 22, 2016 (TBC) the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at the Celebrity Centre in Hollywood, CA. www.UpliftingMinds2.com.)

December 18, 2015

 Evidence prevails in ‘Concussion' starring Academy Award winner Will Smith

Concussion.jpgYou would think the truth would be applauded but Columbia Picture's presentation of Concussion starring two-time Academy Award winning Will Smith (Men in Black, Bad Boys, iRobot) reminds us where money is concerned the truth is the enemy. Regardless, in Concussion the truth in the form of medical evidence prevails. Concussion is based on a biographical book on Dr, Bennet Omalu by Jeanne Marie Laskas who also wrote the GQ Expose' article on the forensic pathologist's ordeal with the NFL (and FBI) which gave him the national exposure he needed.

Dr. Omalu's ordeal began when he published medical evidence that linked brain damage with professional football playing after the death of several veteran players. The first death was NFL veteran Mike Webster, played by Emmy nominated David Morse (12 Monkeys, John Adams). Dr. Omalu personally paid for an extensive autopsy on Webster in order to find the reason why he died. Preliminary findings told him how he died but he wanted to know why it happened. Five-time Golden Globe nominated Will Smith is Dr. Bennet Omalu and as always he gives a stellar and memorable performance. The way Smith delivered the script line "tell the truth" at the NFL head-executive will certainly be the message the audience will take from this film.You would think the truth would be applauded but Columbia Picture's presentation of Concussion starring two-time Academy Award winning Will Smith (Men in Black, Bad Boys, iRobot) reminds us where money is concerned the truth is the enemy. Regardless, in Concussion the truth in the form of medical evidence prevails. Concussion is based on a biographical book on Dr, Bennet Omalu by Jeanne Marie Laskas who also wrote the GQ Expose' article on the forensic pathologist's ordeal with the NFL (and FBI) which gave him the national exposure he needed.

Harassing calls, death threats, stalkers and FBI probing and immigration threats to the Nigerian born doctor, who holds eight Degrees, would not stop him from continuing to publish the evidence and telling everyone about the medical evidence of brain damage as a result of years playing professional football. His family, friends and associates were targeted also, but even they supported his affords to tell the world the truth. His persistence and the mounting number of similar deaths pushed the NFL seven years later to admit publicly that there is a link.

Three-time Golden Globe winner Alec Baldwin (The Shadow, The Aviator) plays Dr. Julian Bailes a neurosurgeon and concussion researcher, who once worked for the NFL, backed Dr. Omalu's evidence. He even presented the medical findings for Dr. Omalu to his former associates at the NFL. Concussion also stars Gugu Mbatha-Raw (Star Wars: Episode VIII) as Dr. Omalu's wife Prema Mutiso; Albert Brooks as Cyril H. Wecht, MD, JD a Forensic Consultant advising Dr. Omalu whom the FBI targeted in an attempt to get him to recant his claims; Arliss Howard as Dr. Joseph Maroon; Paul Reiser as the NFL Commissioner Dr. Elliot Pellman; Luke Wilson as Roger Goodell; Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje as NFL veteran Dave Duerson; Hill Harper as Christopher Jones (NFL official); Eddie Marsan as Dr. Steven Dekosky; Matt Willig as Justin Strzelczyk, and Mike O'Malley as Daniel Sullivan.

Dr. Bennet Omalu, who is currently the chief medical examiner of San Joaquin, CA, partnered with Dr. Julian Bailes and lawyer Robert P. Fitzsimmons to form the Brain Injury Research Institution, a brain and tissue bank. A LStar Capital, Village Roadside Pictures, Scott Free Productions, The Shuman Co., Cara Films, and the Cantillon Company production Concussion is Rated PG-13 and arrives in theaters December 25, 2015.

SAG Awards' Nominations led by Netflix, Universal and Idris Elba, winners announced January 30, 2016 on TNT and TBS
sagawards_nominations_sag_aftra_credit.jpgI attended the early morning SAG Award Nominations' announcements in West Hollywood hosted by Oscar nominated Anna Faris (Scary Movie, The House Bunny) and Anthony Mackie (Captain America: Winter Soldier, The Falcon, Ant-Man and Avengers: Age of Ultron) and Netflix led the nominations with eight for Outstanding Network Programs, Universal Pictures followed with six for Outstanding Motion Picture Films, and for actors Idris Elba ("Beast of No Nation") led with three. The winners will be announced live on TNT and TBS simultaneously at 8 p.m. ET on January 30, 2016 at the Los Angeles Shrine Exposition Center.

The 22nd Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards will also honor Emmy and five-time Golden Globe winner Carol Burnett with the 2015 SAG Lifetime Achievement Award. She will join Julie Andrews, Elizabeth Taylor, Shirley Temple and Sidney Poitier of the 51 previous recipients. Burnett was honor for being a comedic trailblazer, actress, singer, dancer, producer and author. The SAG Award is received only by SAG-AFTRA members and they are the only ones that can vote on nominations and winners. This year marks the 19th year the awards have been telecasted on TNT and this year it will be telecast internationally, as well as to U.S. military installations overseas through the American Forces Network Broadcast Center.

Netflix led the nominations because of such SAG member favorites as "Beast of No Nation," "Orange is the New Black," and "House of Cards." Universal Pictures followed Netflix with the most nominations of a motion picture company because of projects that include Straight Outta Compton, Furious 7, Steve Jobs, and Jurassic World. Of the actor nominations Idris Elba led with three because of his roles in "Beast of No Nation" and "Luther." In addition Comedy Central's Key & Peele received their first SAG Award nomination for "Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series." Other nominees that are favorites of mine include Queen Latifah for HBO's "Bessie" and Brad Pitt for his role in Paramount Picture's The Big Short.

The Screen Actors Guild Post-Awards Gala benefiting the SAG-AFTRA Foundation will be hosted for the 20th consecutive year by People Magazine and Entertainment Industry Foundation. For more information about the SAG Awards, SAG Post Awards Gala, SAG-AFTRA membership, TNT or TBS visit www.SAGAwards.org/About.

SYNDICATED COLUMN: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations Strategist and Business Management Consultant at Freelance Associates, and is Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times.www.ThePulseofEntertainment.comEVENT: Sat April 16, 2016 the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference founded by Moseley arrives in Baltimore at Security Square Mall and Sat October 22, 2016 (TBC) the "Uplifting Minds II" Free Entertainment Conference at the Celebrity Centre in Hollywood, CA. www.UpliftingMinds2.com.)

 

 

 

 

 

 

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