Tuesday, March 31, 2015

Golub's Friends Finish His 13th Album, 'The Vault'

 
New single from the late guitarist Jeff Golub 
debuts in the Billboard Top 20

New York City (31 March 2015): A few days prior to New Year’s Day, the day guitarist Jeff Golub passed away at age 59, his frequent collaborators Steven Miller, Rick Braun and Bud Harner put the finishing touches on Golub’s 13th solo album, “The Vault,” a collection of previously unreleased songs and reimagined early career gems that were redecorated with the assistance of some of the artist’s high-profile musician friends. Everyone involved with creating the album that was released today by eOne Music - musicians, producers, songwriters, engineers, mixers, mastering, graphic artists, etc. - donated their time to the project so that all of the money generated by record sales can go to Golub’s family.

One of the new cuts, “Open Up,” featuring the soulful Golub boisterously shredding over a trademark jazzy blues-rock groove produced by Jeff Lorber, debuted last week in the Top 20 of Billboard’s smooth jazz singles chart boding to become the next addition to the artist’s catalogue of No. 1 singles.   

“The Vault” is just the latest rallying of the music community to aid Golub, who succumbed to complications from Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP), a rare, incurable and aggressive brain disease. Although he wasn’t officially diagnosed until last November, PSP stole his vision in the spring and summer of 2011. An all-star contingent played a sold-out benefit concert that autumn in Southern California to raise money to cover medical expenses. Golub’s motor skills rapidly began to deteriorate while touring in 2013 in support of his final set of all new material, “Train Keeps A Rolling,” and eventually left him unable to play his beloved instrument. After his passing, nearly two dozen prominent recording artists gathered January 21 near the guitarist’s New York City home to play a sold-out tribute benefit concert at B.B. King Blues Club & Grill. Many of the musicians who appeared on that high-wattage bill perform on “The Vault,” including Dave Koz, Kirk Whalum, Mindi Abair, Richard Elliot, Bill Evans, Philippe Saisse, Steve Ferrone and Braun. Additional album contributors were hitmen Gerald Albright, Brian Culbertson, Euge Groove, Boney James and Peter White.  

The ten-track “The Vault” consists of vastly different versions of seven Golub songs harvested from seminal album releases that were given a fresh twist by the guest artists personally selected by Golub; a soul-stirring live version of the Golub classic “Naked City”; and two previously unreleased selections, “Open Up” and the Saisse-produced “Swagster,” a sweltering swing sparked by Golub’s scalding guitar and Whalum’s impassioned sax wails.           

To help set the stage for “The Vault,” SmoothJazz.com hosted the world premiere of the record on March 28 along with interviews with the guest artists and producers. Last Sunday’s (March 29) episode of Koz’s radio show that airs nationally on SiriusXM’s Watercolors was devoted to the album spotlighted by interview segments with Abair and Braun, and played multiple tunes from the disc. On April 15, SiriusXM’s Watercolors will broadcast the entire Golub all-star tribute concert.

Golub began his career as an ace guitar slinger alongside superstars Rod Stewart, Billy Squier, Peter Wolf and Tina Turner before launching his own chart-topping band, Avenue Blue, leading to his star-making solo career. The Akron, Ohio native is survived by his wife Audrey Stafford Golub, and sons Matthew (14) and Chris (12).

“The Vault” contains the following songs:

“Funky Is As Funky Does”
“One More Excuse To Play The Blues”
“Open Up”
“Gimmie Some”
“Swagster”
“Keep The Ball Rolling”
“Jeff’s Blues (Mama Didn’t)”
“Groanin”
“Atlanta Nights”
“Naked City” (Live)

For additional information about Golub, go to http://jeffgolub.com.

Monday, March 30, 2015

Winners Announced At 30th Stella Awards Show


 ERICA CAMPBELL WALKS AWAY WITH SIX TROPHIES FOR NEW ALBUM "HELP," FOLLOWED BY RICKY DILLARD AND NEW G WITH THREE AWARDS AND DEITRICK HADDON TIED WITH THE WALLS GROUP 
FOR TWO WINS EACH

Tune in to the Stellar Awards premiere on TV One, Easter Sunday 
April 5 at 9pm ET/8pm CT; Will also air in syndication April 6 through May 10 on 150 stations in over 125 markets. 

The Stellar Awards opening performance featured Michelle Williams and a surprise reunion 
with Beyonce and Kelly Rowland singing her nominated single, "Say Yes."
The Stellar Awards will premiere on TV One Easter Sunday, April 5 @ 9pm ET/8pm CT

Rickey Smiley, Tamela Mann and David Mann


LAS VEGAS, NV (March 29, 2015) - Dubbed the greatest night in Gospel music, the 30th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards at the Orleans Arena in Las Vegas turned "Sin City" into "Salvation City." Celebrating 30 years, the Stellar Awards was co-hosted with comedic flare by  David Mann ("Mann & Wife), Tamela Mann ("Sparkle") and Ricky Smiley ("Dish Nation") during the 2-hour taped telecast premiering Easter Sunday, April 5 at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT on TV One. The Stellar Awards r ecognizes the year's best performances in the genre, honors Gospel music icons and acknowledges the accomplishments of individuals instrumental in advocating for the industry.
 
The big surprise of the evening came at the top of the show, when opening act Michelle Williams was joined by former bandmates Beyonce and Kelly Rowland in a show-stopping reunion that brought the audience to its feet singing her song, "Say Yes," a winner for "Best Music Video of the Year."  

Ten-time nominee Erica Campbell took top honors, winning six awards including Artist of the Year, The Albertina Walker Female Vocalist of the Year, Contemporary CD of the Year and Urban/Inspirational Single or Performance of the Year.  She acknowledged her sister, the other half of award-winning duo Mary Mary in her heartfelt remarks.

"Thank you Tina for saying that you needed a break," said Erica. "...Cause I wouldn't have done it ("Help") if you didn't say that."

Ricky Dillard and New G followed Campbell with three wins, and Deitrick Haddon tied with The Walls Group for two trophies apiece.  On stage after winning the Male Vocalist of the Year award, Haddon expressed gratitude for being recognized following a difficult time in his life. 

 
"A couple of years ago I messed up so bad I thought I could never inspire anyone again," he shared. "I was ready to quit and God spoke to me - He said, if you humble yourself I'll lift you up to places you're never seen. This award is for people who think it's over for them."  

 
Haddon later brought the house down with a star-studded rendition of "My City" collaborating with Dorinda Clark-Cole, Clareta Haddon, Kierra Sheard, J. Moss, 21:03 and Shelby Five. 

The New Artist of the Year award was presented to Tasha Page-Lockhart, making her first Stellar Awards appearance, performing "Great Is Your Love" and "Faith Come Alive," with fellow first-timers The Walls Group.

Other masterful performances included Smokie Norful, Jonathan McReynolds, Erica Campbell and Pastor Beverly Crawford who all delivered passionate hand-clapping and foot-stomping presentations to the delight of the filled-to-capacity crowd.  The Stellar Awards signature is its powerful collaborations, and this year was no exception with Rance Allen Group, Lisa Knowles & The Brown Singers, as well as Uncle Reece, Willie Moore, Jr. and Canton Jones teaming up to deliver amazing musical numbers.

Bishop Paul Morton received the Allstate James Cleveland Lifetime Achievement Award for his accomplishments and was honored in song by Kurt Carr & the Kurt Carr Singers with Zarcadi & Crystal singing a medley of "I'm Still Standing". Al "The Bishop" Hobbs, received the Chevrolet Ambassador Dr. Bobby Jones Legend Award for his career accomplishments on Capitol Hill.  

Yolanda Adams and Israel Houghton performed "How Awesome Is Our God" celebrating the life of Andrae Crouch which set the tone for one of the most moving speeches of the night from his twin sister, Sandra Crouch. Speaking from the heart on behalf of her legendary sibling, Crouch was honored posthumously with the Thomas A. Dorsey Most Notable Achievement Award for his lifelong contributions to Gospel that have influenced artists from every genre and around the globe. 

"When the storms come and when there are no trophies, no Grammys and there's no light shining," she proclaimed, "...you still say to God be the glory."

This year, award show founder and Executive Producer Don Jackson, implemented a new tradition celebrating the extraordinary achievements in Gospel by presenting the inaugural Stellar Honors Club. In the tradition of the Kennedy Center Honors, The Stellars Honors inductees received a medallion to commemorate excellence in their respective fields. The inaugural awards were conferred upon  Pastor Shirley Ceasar, Byron Cage, Clifton Davis, Ricky Dillard, Kirk Franklin, Ambassador Dr. Bobby Jones, Vicki Mack Lataillade, Dottie Peoples and  Vickie Winans.


Prior to the show, this year's celebration began with Tye Tribbett hosting a live stream on the star-studded red carpet featuring Gospel greats, television, film and political luminaries such as Rev. Jesse Jackson, Sr., Gary Dourdan, Pastor Donnie McClurkin, Pastor Marvin Sapp, Adrienne Baillon, Amber Riley, Denise Boutte, Rev. Clifton Davis, DeVon Franklin, Donald Lawrence, Smokie Norful, Hezekiah Walker, Dorinda Clark-Cole, Dottie Peoples, Loretta Devine, Ben and Jewel Tankard, Pastor Shirley Caesar, Byron Cage, Ambassador Dr. Bobby Jones, William McDowell, The Williams Brothers, Miss Robbie Montgomery and Tim Norman, Chante Moore, Earnest Pugh, and Kirk Franklin to list a few.

As a part of the pre-show activities, additional awards were announced during ceremonies held on Friday. All of the Stellar winners are selected by online voters. Following the April 5 premiere on TV One, the 30th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards will air in nationwide syndication from April 5 through May 10, 2015.

Don Jackson, CEO and Executive Producer of the show was humbled by the industry's support and the celebratory mood. 

"It's so kind for people to just show up. We appreciate it. We definitely feel the love here in Las Vegas and we're looking at coming back."


*** THE 2015 AWARD WINNERS ***


ARTIST OF THE YEAR IS ERICA CAMPBELL  - HELP, MY BLOCK/EONE MUSIC

SONG OF THE YEAR WINNER IS TIFFANY JOY MCGHEE, AMAZING - AMAZING (RICKY DILLARD & NEW G), LIGHT RECORDS/ENTERTAINMENT ONE

MALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR WINNER IS DEITRICK HADDON - DEITRICK HADDON'S LXW, TYSCOT MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT

ALBERTINA WALKER FEMALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR WINNER IS ERICA CAMPBELL - "HELP"

GROUP/DUO OF THE YEAR WINNER IS THE WALLS GROUP - "FAST FORWARD"
                                                                       
NEW ARTIST OF THE YEAR WINNER IS TASHA PAGE-LOCKHART - "HERE RIGHT NOW", FO YO SOUL RECORDINGS/RCA
 
*** STARS SHINE AT THE 30TH ANNIVERSARY STELLAR AWARDS ***
2015 STELLAR AWARDS PHOTO ALBUM


Top Winner of the Evening, Erica Campbell

 
Kelly Rowland, Michellle Williams and Beyonce


New Artist of the Year, Tasha-Page Lockhart


Yolanda Adams
Rev. Jesse Jackson, Sr.

 
 

Dr. Bobby Jones, Erma Gray-Davis and Don Jackson

 
Michelle Williams
Tye Tribbett
Loretta Devine
Tim Norman and Miss Robbie

Oxygen Media Increases Original Programming

Oxygen and Esquire Network Greenlight First Ever 

Co-Production With Companion Series 

“Living With Funny” And “Comedians of L.A.” 

 


Network Lands Exclusive Cable Rights To NBCUniversal Domestic Television Distribution’s Daily Syndicated Comedic Program “Crazy Talk”

NEW YORK, NY – March 30, 2015 – The youngest skewing women’s network in prime, Oxygen Media continues its commitment to increase original programming by 25 percent with eight new series targeting millennial women. Reinforcing the network’s new programming filter, these vibrant and bold series include “Douglas Family Gold,” “The Hustle,” “Pretty. Strong,” “Player Gets Played,” “Boss Nails” and the third installment of the popular franchise, “Preachers of Atlanta.”

The network secured the exclusive cable distribution for the half-hour syndicated daily comedic show, “Crazy Talk,” debuting this fall from NBCUniversal Domestic Television Distribution. As part of NBCUniversal Lifestyle Networks, the announcements were made today at the Bravo Media, Esquire Network and Oxygen Upfront Press Presentation. 

An unprecedented co-production, Oxygen and Esquire Network have greenlit companion docu-series featuring talented and successful comedians, but with an emphasis on different aspects of their lives and told from different viewpoints. The Oxygen series, “Living With Funny,” follows their personal lives and relationships, while the Esquire series, “Comedians of L.A.,” focuses on the working life of a stand-up comedian onstage, backstage, and offstage. The series will air during the same period on each network so fans can follow both shows seamlessly.  

After becoming the network’s highest-rated freshman series premiere among all key demos in 2014, “Sisterhood of Hip Hop” has been picked up for season two with all five cast members returning. In addition, successful business mavens Randi Zuckerberg, Ido Leffler, Sarah Prevette and Lauren Maillian will serve as mentors and investors on “Time to Quit Your Day Job.” Previously announced as “The Investment Club,” this risk-taking new series brings passionate young hopefuls together to pitch their innovative new products and make their mark as successful entrepreneurs. 

“Oxygen is unveiling our most ambitious slate, embracing the new brand filter with bold and optimistic programming for young multicultural women,” said Frances Berwick, President, Lifestyle Networks, NBCUniversal Cable Entertainment.  “We are excited to be partnering with leading producers to create content that cuts through the clutter, connects our millennial viewers to the things that matter to them, with depictions of real people living life on their own terms.”

Oxygen was a top 25 ad-supported primetime cable entertainment network among F18-34 and F18-49 and the #3 most social cable reality network in 2014. Among the Top 10 most social cable reality networks, Oxygen reached viewers with the greatest number of followers – helping to drive show and advertiser buzz faster and further. Additionally in 2014, Oxygen was the youngest skewing women’s network in primetime by over nine years. Post rebrand (4Q 2014), viewers of Oxygen’s original series are younger and more likely to be early adopters, influential and receptive to advertising.

“With its dynamic slate of programming, Oxygen continues to strengthen its position as the youngest women’s network in prime while providing creative opportunities to seamlessly weave in marketing messages across platforms to reach this unique and coveted millennial audience,” Laura Molen, Executive Vice President, Lifestyle Advertising Sales Group, NBCUniversal.

NEW SERIES:
“Living with Funny” (working title)
Produced by L. Plummer Media with Lemuel Plummer serving as Executive Producer.
This companion docu-series showcases the personal lives behind the curtain of rising comedians in Hollywood and the women in their lives.  Cameras will follow the howling tale of what happens when they drop the mic and come home to their family, friends and significant others. Because when you are a comedian, the jokes don’t stop just because the show does. Brandon T. Jackson is the first comedian to commit to both series.  Additional cast will be announced at later date. 

“Crazy Talk”
Produced and distributed in the U.S. by NBCUniversal Domestic Television Distribution with Paul Faulhaber serving as Executive Producer. 

Hosted by Tanisha Thomas (“Bad Girls Club”) and Ben Aaron (WNBC’s “New York Live”), the fast-paced, laugh-out-loud first-run comedic syndicated daily program raises an eyebrow on the most outlandish and sometimes bizarre moments on reality television. Taped in front of a live studio audience, this half-hour series filled with raw and hilarious banter also invites reality stars to rehash their “15 minutes of fame” and provide insight behind their most-watched clips.


“Pretty. Strong.”
Produced by Relativity Television and Ellen Rakieten Entertainment with Tom Forman, Brad Bishop and Ellen Rakieten serving as Executive Producers.

It is football like you have never seen it before as fierce, young women engage in one of the roughest, yet fastest growing sports in the country— the Legends Football League. This is full contact, hard tackle football with two-time reigning champions the Chicago Bliss going for the coveted three-peat. These athletes are juggling careers as dentists, lawyers, and receptionists, but come game time, they are on a girl power-fueled mission to inspire, blaze trails and defy the odds. 

“The Hustle” (working title)
Produced by NCredible Entertainment with Nick Cannon and Michael Goldman serving as Executive Producers in association with Evolution Media with Douglas Ross, Alex Baskin and Greg Stewart serving as Executive Producers.

Being a boss is tough, but being an assistant is impossible. This coming-of-age series follows the dynamic and hard-working assistants to successful entrepreneurs and entertainers. With blood, sweat and tears, these ambitious 20-somethings are willing to do whatever it takes to learn the ropes one step at a time so they can climb the ranks. These assistants are exposed to a life of privilege at work, traveling on private jets and attending lavish red carpet events, however, at the end of the day, they struggle just to pay rent and find time for their own personal lives.

“Player Gets Played”
Produced by DiGA with Tony DiSanto, Liz Gateley and Cheryl Horner Sirulnick serving as Executive Producers.

In each episode, one woman with a lurking suspicion will uncover a heartbreaking truth with the help of social media and friends when it’s revealed she is not the only woman in her boyfriend’s life. These young women are given the ultimate opportunity to change the game without letting him in on the plan. The newly empowered women will join together and plot a surprising confrontation to give the player a taste of his own medicine.

“Douglas Family Gold” (working title)
Produced by WV Enterprises in association with Lionsgate TV and Televisa USA with Wilmer Valderrama, Jessica Acevedo, Natalie Hawkins and Gabrielle Douglas serving as Executive Producers.

Gabrielle “Gabby” Douglas stunned the world in 2012 by becoming the first African American in history to win the individual all-around gold medal at the Summer Olympics.  Behind her meteoric rise was a supportive family willing to sacrifice everything for years to help her dream. Now 19, Gabby is ready to do it all over again in hopes of making it back to the medal podium in 2016. The bi-coastal Douglas family shuttles between California and Ohio to support Gabby’s training regimen while also juggling their own lives.  Her brother John is the family's second Olympic hopeful in track and field, while devoted sisters Arie and Joy are eager to blaze their own paths. “Momager” Natalie keeps this tight-knit family in-check, knowing regardless of what happens, “Team Douglas” has already won gold. 

“Boss Nails”
Produced by Jarrett Creative, with Julie Jarrett, Seth Jarrett and Carmen Mitcho serving as Executive Producers and Rock Shrimp Productions NYC with Bobby Flay and Kim Martin serving as Executive Producers.

Welcome to Tippie Toes Nail & Beauty Salon where Miami’s fashionistas come for one-of-a-kind pop-culture nail designs. This series centers on 26-year-old burgeoning business owner Dana Cody, known for her signature crystal embellished manicures that cost upwards of $10,000, as she juggles managing her boisterous staff, expanding her salon empire, and living up to the legacy her late mother left behind.

“Preachers of Atlanta”
Produced by L. Plummer Media in association with Relevé Entertainment with Lemuel Plummer, Holly Carter, Chris Costine and Mark Scheibal serving as Executive Producers.
Atlanta is not only the home to fast cars, sprawling mansions and the southern elite, but a new generation of up-and-coming preachers who are superstars of the pulpit. The third installation from the popular franchise, “Preachers of Atlanta” documents the lives of the city’s young elite mega-pastors as they focus on the daily struggles and triumphs as husbands, wives, fathers, mothers and friends, while also maintaining their duties as men and women of God.

“Time To Quit Your Day Job” (working title)
Produced by Original Productions, a FremantleMedia Company with Phillip D. Segal, Jeff Conroy and Kevin Williams serving as Executive Producers.

Aspiring millennials will have the unique opportunity to pitch themselves and their innovative ideas to Randi Zuckerberg, Ido Leffler, Sarah Prevette and Lauren Maillian, who will also serve as mentors to the young professionals. These hopefuls will have to win the confidence of these four investors and prove they have what it takes to turn their concept into a viable business. 

RETURNING SERIES:
“Sisterhood of Hip Hop” Season Two
Produced by 51 Minds with Christian Sarabia, T.I. and Greg Johnston serving as Executive Producers.
 
With Grammy-Award winning recording artist T.I. as Executive Producer, season two of this powerful and uplifting series will continue to follow the next generation of female MCs on their journey to become the next breakout star with some new twists, more celebrity mentors and break out music.  Navigating the Los Angeles hip-hop scene, these five up-and-coming, ambitious artists— Siya, Nyemiah Supreme, Diamond, Brianna Perry and Bia— are breaking boundaries and rewriting the rules of the male dominated music industry.

Source: Nielsen Media Research, 2014 L7.  Cable ranks includes ad supported cable entertainment networks in M-sun 8pm-11pm primetime, and excludes non-ad supported networks (e.g., pay cable, Disney), sports, news channels and networks that air in less than 50% of the daypart.  Women’s networks = OXY, LIF, WE, OWN, LMN. Social Guide Intelligence; Cable reality networks only, Primetime 8pm-10:59pm, New or Live Episodes. Social ranking based on number of Tweets . Post rebrand = Nielsen Fusion 4Q14 F18-34 (used Apr14-Sep14 study) vs. 4Q13 (used Oct13-Mar14 study).  MS 8p-11p, premieres only.  Influential: People ask my advice before purchasing.  Early Adopter: I’m one of the first to try new products or services.  Ad Receptive: Adv Att: Advertising keeps me up-to-date of products/services that I need/like to have-Describes.  Top Box. Median age of premieres –  4Q14 vs 4Q13, prime MS 8p-11p, premieres only, based on P2+.

About Oxygen Media
Oxygen Media is a multiplatform entertainment brand that targets young, multicultural women.  The network’s relevant and engaging content reflects how real women with real stories see the world – vibrant, optimistic and bold.  Oxygen is the destination where women can come together across multiple platforms to have fun and encourage each other through their individual and collective journeys.  The growing network’s unscripted original programming includes “Sisterhood of Hip Hop,” “The Prancing Elites Project,” “Funny Girls” and the popular “Preachers” franchise.  Available in over 77 million homes, Oxygen is a program service of NBCUniversal Cable Entertainment, a division of NBCUniversal, one of the world's leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production, and marketing of entertainment, news, and information to a global audience.
###

DudeTheArtist Premieres 'Swagg So Loud' Video


(Los Angeles, CA) – After Yahoo Music’s premier of his first music video, “Swagg So Loud” ft. Jemere Morgan, new Hip Hop artist DUDEtheARTIST or “DTA” is releasing the song on all digital platforms. DudeTheArtist has tapped Jemere Morgan, son of reggae legend Roy “Gramps” Morgan, to deliver the infectious chorus “I bet that you can see me now/My swag is so loud/Their screams so loud.”- The overwhelming response from the video has forced Keynote Records to move the availability of the song up a week to capitalize on the momentum. http://youtu.be/KkdoAIOe_Dg
About DudeTheArtist (DTA)
DTA reigns from Palm Beach, FL and is undoubtedly charming, undeniably gifted, wickedly witty and slightly gritty. A part of the college scene, he represents a small breed of college-educated rappers, flowing from Palm Beach State College. His freshman project, Figure of Speech from Keynote Records will certainly make you a fan! The first single, coupled with the music video leaves no explanation as to why he is a guaranteed artist to watch.
DTA’s Figure of Speech EP, highlights his foray onto the music scene. The eight-song collection includes the title track “Figure of Speech,” “Right Now,” “Summer,” “Diss Love Song,” “Side Chick,” “She Got it All” and “Ode to the Legends.” The songs which were produced by DuBloise of Keynote Records showcases DTA’s clever word play and masterful delivery. His songwriting and lyrical display is skillfully intertwined among pulsating beats. For example, “Diss Love Song” is an artful response to a heartbreak from a failed relationship, while “Summer” and “She Got it All” are both fun loving renditions that complements the lead single “Swagg So Loud”. These help to prepare the listener for the grit and street credible “Right Now,” as well as “Ode to the Legends;” both of which DTA uses to pay homage to Hip-Hop industry’s heavy weights that he has tapped into.
DTA’s goal is to not just create music for audiences to hear and forget, he wants to create “mood music” that audiences will listen to and feel, even 10 years down the line. Dude confidently states, “There is a connection between my subject matter, delivery and the public. If I can provoke emotions and thoughts, then I’ve done my job.” With his effervescent charm and confidence beyond his years, he continues stating that in the future he sees himself “making hit music and expanding my brand into other ventures. I see myself on every top ten list with number one hits.” With his talent, level-head and drive, there is no doubt that this will come to fruition.

Maya Angelou Forever Stamp Dedication Set




Dedication to Feature Postmaster General, 
Oprah Winfrey, 
Ambassador Andrew Young and other Notables


WASHINGTON — The public has an opportunity to witness a historic event on Tuesday, April 7 when Postmaster General Megan Brennan will be joined by Oprah Winfrey, Ambassador Andrew Young and other notables in dedicating the Maya Angelou Forever stamp in Washington, DC.

The 11 a.m. first-day-of-issue stamp dedication ceremony will take place at the Warner Theatre, 513 13th St., NW. The event is free and open to the public. The public is asked to RSVP as soon as possible as seating is not guaranteed. Please RSVP at usps.com/mayaforever or by calling 866-268-3243 before 5 p.m. ET April 3. Each RSVP is limited to two (2) seats. Doors open at 9:30 a.m. 

Angelou fans are encouraged to share the news on social media using #MayaForever. The Maya Angelou Forever stamps may be pre-ordered now at this link for delivery shortly after April 7.

Also attending the ceremony will be Angelou’s grandson Colin Johnson; Rep. Danny Davis (D-IL); poet Sonia Sanchez; author and journalist Sophia Nelson; Howard University English professor Eleanor Traylor; poet and civil rights activist Nikki Giovanni; civil rights activist Rev. Al Sharpton; and Atlanta-based artist Ross Rossin, whose portrait of Angelou was used for the stamp. The backstory on the portrait and the connection to Young and Winfrey can be found here. Melissa Harris-Perry will serve as master of ceremonies.

As an author, poet, actress, and champion of civil rights, Angelou (1928–2014) was one of the most dynamic voices in 20th-century American literature. The book, “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings,” an autobiographical account of her childhood, gained wide acclaim for its vivid depiction of African-American life in the South.

The stamp showcases Rossin’s 2013 4ft. by 4ft. oil-on-canvas portrait of Angelou. The large hyper-realistic painting is part of the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery's collection, where it will be on display through Nov. 1. The stamp features this quotation by the pioneering author:  “A bird doesn't sing because it has an answer, it sings because it has a song.”

The stamp pane includes a short excerpt from Angelou’s book, “Letter to My Daughter.” It reads: “Try to be a rainbow in someone’s cloud.” Art director Ethel Kessler of Bethesda, MD, designed the stamp. 

The Postal Service receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.

Friday, March 27, 2015

'One Starry Night' Supports Cure For ALS

A Special Performance Dedicated to Conquering ALS
Monday, April 20, 2015, at 8:00 p.m.

Presented by the ALS Association - GoldenWest Chapter

Produced by Juliana Hansen, Melissa Verdugo, Jonathan White and Patrick McMinn

Music Direction and Orchestrations by Richard Allen

Directed by Bruce Kimmel


This star-studded event will feature (in alphabetical order) Emmy and Golden Globe-winning actor Ed Asner, Micky Dolenz (“The Monkees”), Juliana Hansen (NBC’s “Grease, You're The One That I Want!”), Jean Louisa Kelly (“Mr. Holland's Opus”), Wendy Liebman (“The Aristocrats”), Kate Linder (CBS' "The Young and the Restless"), Kerry O'Malley (Broadway's Into The Woods), Timothy Omundson (ABC's “Galavant”), Reagan Pasternak (Disney Channel's "In A Heartbeat,"), Jonathan Pendragon (NBC's "World's Greatest Magician"), Jason Ritter (NBC's “Parenthood”), Richard Sherman (Academy Award-winning Composer Disney's “Mary Poppins”, “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang”, “The Jungle Book”), Bruce Vilanch (Broadway's “ Hairspray”), Academy Award-winning actress Renee Zellweger, and more to be announced! 

Proceeds will provide funding for The ALS Association Golden West Chapter’s mission critical priorities in care services, public policy, and cutting-edge global research toward treatments and cure for ALS.

Tickets may be purchased online or by calling 818-865-8067. The Pasadena Playhouse, 39 S. El Molino Ave., Pasadena, CA 91101

Wednesday, March 25, 2015

Look Behind The Scenes Of Comedy 'Get Hard'


The Kevin Hart and Will Ferrell comedy, Get Hard, hits theaters nationwide this Friday, March 27. Take a sneak peek behind the scenes.







Djanai's Angels Host Special Needs Family Prom

A FUNdraising Event Supporting inCLUSION Clubhouse 
with Cast of "Ray Donovan"
 

March 25, 2015  - NORTH HOLLYWOOD, Calif. --  Each year over 8,000 babies and infants are diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy and almost a half a million children and adults in the US show at least one symptom of the condition. As Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month winds down, Djanai’s Angels will close out the month with their signature fundraising event- Special Needs Family Prom. The “Wizard of Oz” themed event will be held at the Le Foyer Ballroom located at 6730 Laurel Canyon Blvd, North Hollywood, CA 91606 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday March 28, 2015. Unique and creative events such as this welcomes children and teens living with and without disabilities to have a shared experience in understanding the needs of individuals who have disabilities.

Hosted by actors Octavious Johnson and Kerris Dorsey, of Showtime’s hit series “Ray Donovan”, The Land of Oz will be brought to life as guests arrive on the yellow brick road carpet.  The whimsical fun continues in Munchkin Land with activities including pin the heart on the Tin Man and posing for prom photos. After lunch, guests will dance the afternoon away in the sparkling Emerald City to the tunes of our special needs disc jockey, DJ Kripple King plus be treated to a special performance by Kidz on the Playground.

"We are super excited about this year’s Special Needs Family Prom and the opportunity to raise funds for inClusion Clubhouse. My 17 yr old daughter, Djanai, who lives with Cerebral Palsy has picked out her dress and her dancing shoes and is ready to stroll on down the yellow brick road. It is going to be wheely awesome!” says Djanais Angels Founder Linda Hall.

Confirmed celebrity guests and their families include the cast of Ray Donovan- Liev Schrieber, Pooch Hall, Jon Voight, Dash Mihok, Devon Bagby, Kwame Patterson, Omar Dorsey, plus PJ Byne (Wolf of Wall Street, The GAME), Alimi Ballard (CSI, The Catch), Kellee Stewart (Hot Tub Time Machine, The Soul Man), Aaron D. Spears (Being Mary Jane), Paula Jai Parker(Hollywood Divas), Barry Floyd (THE GAME), Gabrielle Dennis (THE GAME), Nadine Ellis (Let's Stay Together), Dylan Minnette (Alexander & the Terrible, Horrible, No Good Very Bad Day), Joshua Whitley and Harold Bell (Raising Whitley) and many more!

Tickets are $50/person, $25/child (5-17) and can be purchased online http://bit.ly/1CMLDnf.  This year’s event is sponsored by Kadane Foundation, Diva's Brunch LA, Haimoff Enterprises, StarMakers Costumes & Parties, LA Banquets, Anoush Catering, Classic Mobile Bartenders and Karen’s Jewel Bouquet.
 
For more information on Djanai’s Angels visit the website, http://www.djanaisangels.com or inClusion Clubhouse www.inclusionclubhouse.org
 
About Djanai’s Angels
Djanai’s Angels specializes in creative event planning for all-inclusive and accessible events and bring adaptive products to those of different abilities. Our community events help to raise money and awareness for inClusion ClubHouse. We pride ourselves in the daily contribution to individuals and community well-being through our Angel Awareness Projects and Community Partnerships. For more info please visit http://www.djanaisangels.com/.  Follow @DjanaisAngels on Facebook, Twitter & InstaGram.

About inClusion ClubHouse
inClusion ClubHouse is a recreational center that consists of 5 key spaces that provide a safe, inclusive environment allowing children with developmental disabilities such as Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome and Autism to learn and play alongside typical-abled children. It’s a place where the community learns to build bonds, learn compassion and patience, and together create a stronger more tolerant society.  It is also a place for families to connect with others going through similar experiences. Visit: http://www.inclusionClubHouse.org.    Follow us @inClusionClubHouse on Facebook & Instagram and @inClusionClubHs on Twitter.

Tuesday, March 24, 2015

Academy and MoMI Host 'Sound Of Music'

NEW 70MM PRINT FROM ACADEMY FILM ARCHIVE & 
20TH CENTURY FOX TO BE SHOWN 
 

New York, NY - The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and the Museum of the Moving Image (MoMI) will host two special archival screenings in celebration of the  50th anniversary of the film “The Sound of Music “on Saturday, May 2 at Museum of the Moving Image in Astoria, New York.

The Academy will screen a new 70mm print of the film from preservation work done by 20th Century Fox and the Academy Film Archive. The screenings will be introduced by Tom Santopietro, author of The Sound of Music Story, who will also be on hand to autograph copies of his new book.  In addition, “The Sound of Music” actress Marni Nixon (Sister Sophia) will be in attendance to participate in a post screening Q & A.

There will be two screenings of the film at 1:00PM and 5:30PM on Saturday, May 2. Tickets are $15 for the general public, $9 for museum members, and $9 for Academy members. MoMI is located at 36-01 35 Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106.

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and the Museum of the Moving Image.

Monday, March 23, 2015

Actor Ro Brooks Stars In 'Mysterious Ways'


 
Ro Brooks
 
(Los Angeles) --- Actor Ro Brooks has a lot going on! The TV show which he stars in OWN-Tyler Perry’s, The Haves and The Have Nots, will have its season finale on Tues., March 24. He’s currently starring in a National United States Marine Corps commercial, “The Land We Love” coupled with starring in the new film “Mysterious Ways” with Wendy Raquel Robinson (The Game) and Gary Dourban (Being Mary Jane). Mysterious Ways releases on April 21 and available on DVD everywhere.

Brooks can also be seen in; El Rey Network’s “Matador,” Toyota Avalon commercial with Idris Elba, and “Squatters,” a film with Richard Dreyfuss.

Fans can look forward to seeing Brooks in “The Congregation,” (Spring 2015).


 Viewers can remember on The Haves and The Have Nots, when Brooks (Michael) met Hanna (Crystal R. Fox) at the same Hospital Benny, Hanna’s son was in and learned that his six-year old granddaughter Lizzie had been hit and killed by the same person who hit Benny in an hit-and-run car accident.  Both experienced the pain of losing someone they held dear, even if momentarily and had understood what the other was going through.

Brooks has worked on numerous films, television shows and commercials including: Transformers Revenge of the Fallen and A Beautiful Soul.  Television shows include: FX’s Sons of Anarchy, Showtime’s Shameless, FOX’s Brooklyn Nine Nine and 24, CBS’s CSI New York, critically acclaimed HBO’s The Wire and many others.
 
Now an accomplished author, Brooks has written a book entitled How To Go From Extra To ACTOR: The aspiring actors guide to stardom.  His second edition updates and revises material in this pocket guide to success in the film and television industry.  www.FromExtraToActor.com

With a music background, Brooks welcomed acting in music videos as the love interest of Syleena Johnson and Lil' Mo to working with such artist as, 50 Cent, JustinTimberlake, Lil’ Wayne, TI, Jill Scott, Young Jeezy, Ice Cube, Snoop Dog, Master P. and others.

“It continues to be an awesome experience working with Tyler Perry and the cast of THHNs,” said Brooks.  “Tyler is a great director, he's an actors director.  HAHNs has the best cast on TV right now.”