Producer Will Packer has officially taken
the film industry by storm. Having produced two box office hits
in one year has propelled him to the top of his game. In
September of 2007, the industry trade magazine Daily Variety
selected Packer as one of their “10 Producers to Watch.” Subsequently, Packer was acknowledged on several high
profile lists including; Giant magazine’s “The
Giant 100”, JET magazine’s “Who’s Hot To Watch in
2008” and Black Enterprise’s“Most
Powerful Players Under 40.”
Packer is Co-founder and Chairman of the Atlanta
based production company, Rainforest Films. Earlier this
year, Packer and his business partner Rob Hardy were
honored by Black Enterprise as one of the“Top 25
Money Makers in Hollywood.”
As Co-Founder and Chairman of Rainforest Films,
Packer is responsible for producing and overseeing the company’s
studio financed and self-financed films and distribution
projects. His tenacious and visionary leadership fueled the
production and led to the successful independent distribution of
the company’s first theatrically released motion picture
Trois. Trois grossed $1.2 million dollars
and became the fastest million dollar grossing film distributed
by African Americans.
Based on the company’s success as an independent
distributor, Packer brokered a profitable partnership in 2001
between Rainforest Films and Sony’s Columbia Tri-Star
to produce and distribute urban films. This partnership
resulted in Packer producing the company’s largest project to
date, Stomp The Yard, which held the #1 position
at the box office for two weekends in January of 2007 and
received Movie of the Year honors from the
BETHip Hop Awards.
Packer’s other urban-themed releases are This
Christmas and The Gospel. But hold on to your seats
because Will Packer has taken his game to the next level.
Obsessed, Packer’s latest project is set to premiere in
theaters nationwide on April 24, 2009.
Highly anticipated, Obsessed is a femme
fatal thriller starring Beyoncé Knowles, Idris Elba
and Ali Larter. Packer says the world will see
Beyoncé in a way we never have before. After her husband
in the movie, Idris Elba, has a moment of weakness with
the femme fatal, Ali Larter, Beyoncé is left to
fight for her family at all costs.
With Obsessed, Packer has done it
again. Only a hand full of movies become block busters each
year, and it’s my guess that Obsessed will rank at the
top of the list.
Our Entertainment Reporter Vanessa Werts caught
up with Will Packer last week for an exclusive interview.
Left to Right: Will Packer, Idris Elba and Beyoncé
Knowles
BMIA:
Tell me more about Obsessed; something other than what we know
from seeing the trailer.
Will Packer:
Well you know, it’s a movie that follows this couple. Idris
Elba and Beyoncé Knowles play this couple Derrick and
Sharon Charles. They’ve got this idyllic life, .you know,
they’ve got the house with the good job, and the new baby, and
the white picket fence, and all is well. Well Beyoncé
started off. The way that she met Derrick is that she used to
work for him as his assistant. This is back before Derrick was
married and he was a bit of a player and she used to help like
route his calls and help run interference with all the ladies
that he had who were after him. And of course they ended up
falling in love and they got together, and now they have this
really, really perfect life. Well… and all is well until Ali
Larter (the femme fatal in the movie) shows up. She is tipping
on Derrick’s desk and well that automatically raises a red flag
because Beyoncé knows what used to go on at [Derrick’s]
desk. So when [Ali Larter character] won’t get the hint that
Derrick is not looking for the same thing that she is looking
for, she won’t stop. And Beyoncé is forced to then take
matters into her own hands because the authorities prove useless
and her husband has been put in a disadvantage, and now
Beyoncé has got to protect her family – her husband, her way
of life, all that she knows – against this woman who won’t
stop.
BMIA:
So why Beyoncé for this role? We haven’t seen her like
this before.
Will Packer:
And you know what, that’s exactly why. It’s because this is
something she hasn’t done before. And it’s one of those things
where the reason she wanted to do this role, to participate in
this film was because she doesn’t play a singer here. She’s not
singing, she’s not playing a singer...she has nothing to do with
music in this role. She is you know, a very, very relatable
wife, mother, homemaker type. And it’s very different from that
global superstar persona that’s put out there that everybody
knows, and that so many people love. And she wanted an
opportunity to do something totally different and we gravitated
to her because of that, and we thought it would be really
interesting and intriguing to present her in a totally different
light than we’ve seen her in her past films.
BMIA:
On-set, was getting into character easy for Beyoncé or
was it more challenging for her to play a character or role that
had nothing to do with singing?
Will Packer:
One of the things you realize when you work with Beyoncé
is the fact that she has a tremendous work ethic. Tremendous.
She’s somebody who takes everything she does serious and goes
and gives one hundred and ten percent no matter what it is. And
so with this role, she really, really delved into it. And I
think that there is a physicality that is required for this role
and she was really prepared for that...and she handled that well
because she’s so physical in her performances, and in concert
and in her music videos, so that came very, very naturally for
her. And the dramatic arts that this character ah, has to
undergo, she was very, very prepared for it. And that’s one of
the things about working with somebody who’s such a consummate
professional like her – you know you’re going to get her best
every day.
BMIA:
Obsessed is a thriller which is very different from your other
credits like Stomp the Yard, The Gospel, Trois,The
Escort and Motives. Was this a challenge for
you?
Will Packer:
It was...and I welcomed it. And that’s one of the main reasons I
wanted to be involved with it because it was different. I really
want to be a filmmaker who is constantly growing and
diversifying and expanding my body of work.
BMIA:
This is a very diverse film, unlike your other works. So is this
another level for Will Packer?
Will Packer:
Absolutely. You know, I’m interested in telling films that have
universal theme. And I find it interesting to tell those stories
through the eyes of African-American characters. Ah...and this
is one of those opportunities. This couple could be any race or
ethnicity...and the femme fatal could be of any race or
ethnicity. And I think that’s what makes this movie that much
more interesting.
BMIA:
The trailer leaves you with great anticipation for the movie.
Can movie goers expect any surprises when they actually see the
film?
Will Packer:
Absolutely. We can’t give it all away. We’ve got some surprises.
There’s gonna be some things in there that I don’t think people
will expect. It does definitely have those ah...tinges of a
Fatal Attraction type of film. Ah...but we have some
surprises...we go there in a very different way, and from a very
different perspective than that film.
Obsessed,
opening worldwide April 24th. Hold on to your popcorn.
This film promises twists and turns that will have you sitting
on the edge of your seat.
BMIA:
Thank you Will for taking time out for this
interview.
Will Packer:
Thank you Vanessa.
Packer is also preparing to put an urban spin on
a remake of the classic
film The Big Chill, which willstar
Regina King and is set to begin production in 2009.
More about Will Packer
Will Packer is a dynamic and inspiring
speaker who has delivered educational and motivational speeches
to industry groups, as well as youth and community groups
nationwide. Packer serves on the Board of Directors of
IMAGE Film and Video, an Atlanta non-profit organization
that exists as a support system for independent film and video
artists. He also lends a substantial amount of his time as a
volunteer fundraiser for Readers Make Leaders, Inc.,
a nonprofit organization that encourages urban teens to read.
Additionally, Packer recently received the Meritorious
Achievement Award from his alma mater Florida A&M University,
the highest honor the University bestows.
This interview was posted on March 23, 2009 and
conducted by Vanessa Werts. Thanks to Lisa Sorensen of
LSPR & Marketing Inc. for arranging this interview.
TRUE TO THE GAME MUSIC RELEASE
In 1947 Jackie Robinson broke the “color line” in
professional baseball, becoming the first African-American since
the end of the 19th century to play alongside white
players in an official game. For many, Jackie Robinson’s
entry into Major League Baseball presented a view into a future
where much of American society would be fully integrated. As
important as Robinson’s achievement was, it would overshadow
perhaps an even greater example of the legacy of
African-American success. Before they could suit up alongside
their white peers, black baseball players were relegated to the
Negro Leagues. But rather than see the Negro Leagues as an
inferior version of white baseball, visionaries like Andrew
“Rube” Foster and players like Josh Gibson, James “Cool
Papa” Bell, Leroy “Satchel” Paige and Buck O’Neil helped create a
vibrant testament to African-American ingenuity and survival.
Though the Negro Leagues are too often forgotten in an era when
African-American athletes compete at the highest levels of
virtually every professional sport, Stadium Entertainment
aims to celebrate the Negro Leagues with the compilation CDTrue to the Game, Volume 1. A portion of the
gross proceeds from the sale of True to the Game, Volume 1
will be used to support fund-raising efforts for the Negro
Leagues
BaseballMuseum
in
Kansas City, MO.True to the
Game, Volume 1 launched its release on March
24, 2009
on
Stadium Entertainment.
The current single and video, TheBig Screen, features protégé GLC and
hip-hop icon Kanye West. GLC is clearly an emerging voice
in urban music. His success started when childhood friend,
Kanye, offered GLC a guest appearance on his debut
album, The College Dropout. GLC delivered
a verse which engendered critical acclaim from music critics and
fans alike, followed by another stellar performance on “Drive
Slow,” from Kanye’s sophomore LP, Late
Registration. GLC and Kanye West were the first
artists who agreed to lend their talents on the True To The
Game project.
The CD is comprised of
14 tracks featuring platinum and multi-platinum selling artists
paired with emerging new artists. The line-up includes:
Yung Joc,
Raiyn and
Talib Kweli,
Tay
Dizm, T-Pain
and Rick Ross,
Macy
Gray and Marsha Ambrosius,
GLC
and
Kanye West,
Sam
Chris and Big Boi,
Mikkey
Halsted and
Klass,
Ziggy
Nina
and
Chingy,
Porta
Prince and
Ray J,
Jarvis and
Ludacris,
Mario,
DJ
Pharris with Shawna, Paul Wall and
Lil Scrappy,
Brandon
Hines,
and
Hustle Boyz and
Snoop Dogg.
Bronx
born dancer and actor Darrin DeWitt Henson is one of the hottest choreographers
in the entertainment business. Darrin learned his dance
craft on the streets of New York and got his first break
performing with world-renowned music and dance producer
DJ Scott La Rock. After a
successful stint on Broadway, Darrin set out on his career
as choreographer.
In
2007, Darrin starred in the critically acclaimed
HBO film "Life Support," starring Queen Latifah,
Wendell Pierce and Evan Ross.
Without any formal
training, Darrin became one of the hottest dancers and
choreographers in the world, working with all of the major
players in the music industry including LL Cool J,
Michael Jackson,
Prince,
Britney Spears,
Christina Aguilera,
Usher, Justin Timberlake,
‘N SYNC and Jennifer Lopez.
His skill and dedication as dance teacher has won him
numerous awards including the highly prestigious MTV Music Award for Best
Choreography.
In 2002, Darrin released
his first DVD, Darrin
Henson’s Dance Grooves
– it was a massive success across the world and became the
one of the biggest dance instructional video of all time!
The DVD sold over 3,000,000 copies worldwide and won a
Billboard Award for the biggest selling Health and Fitness
Video.
In 2005, Darrin produced
his follow-up DVD: Darrin
Henson’s Dance Grooves 2.
With 5 new routines, fresh from the street, this new DVD
breaks down the moves step by step to give you an insight
into how to get into professional dancing, keeping fit and
how to learn the secret dance moves of the stars. In 2000,
and again without any training, Darrin landed a starring
role in hit TV show Soul
Food, which ran
for five seasons. Christmas 2005 sees the release of The Salon
in which he stars alongside
Vivica Fox.
Darrin is currently filming The Last Stand with
Anthony Anderson and Guy Tory, and early next year he will
produce and star in his first feature, In The Groove,
with Loretta Devine.
Darrin uses his experience
and knowledge of street dance to keep his students up to
date with the hottest moves and at the cutting edge.
Darrin’s Dance Grooves Workshop has traveled throughout the
US, and on to Iceland, Japan, Germany, France, China and
this August he took the school to the United Kingdom.
Darren recently took time
to talk with us about his career.
The Darrin Henson
Interview
BMIA.com: Darrin,
thank you for taking the time to participate in this
interview. Brother, you are some kind of talent. Where do
I start? Tell us about your background.
Darrin
Henson: I grew up in
the Castle Hill section of the Bronx, with 6 brothers and 2
sisters in the same neighborhood as Jennifer Lopez and just
minutes away from where Africa Bombarda would throw Zulu
Anniversary jams.
BMIA.com: You are
accomplished at so many things. Tell our readers a little
bit about your career as an actor, choreographer, producer
and as a director?
Darrin
Henson: I started off
as a dancer, I was frustrated for certain artists that I was
dancing for and I didn’t always like the steps they were
doing… so, I started making up my own. Whilst I was
choreographing, I kind of blew up after a about 5-6- yrs in
the business and then, after wining the MTV music award I
didn’t feel challenged anymore so, I decided to start acting
and partaking in my own career. As an actor, I learned about
camera work and lighting, which segued me into directing my
first film Violation for Showtime – I guess you can say that
I caught the bug. I am, currently producing, directing and
starring in my own musical, Dreams Do Travel (11/25/05 and
11/26/05).
BMIA.com: How long
have you been in the entertainment business?
Darrin
Henson: All my life.
BMIA.com: What TV
shows and movies have you been a part of?
Darrin Henson:
Soul Food, The Salon, April Fool’s, The Last Stand, fabric
of a man Stage play, if these hips could talk, stage play.
BMIA.com: Who are
some of the musical artists that you’ve worked with?
Darrin
Henson: Michael
Jackson, Prince, Britney Spears, J-Lo, MVP, Christina
Aguilera, *NSYNC.
BMIA.com: Do you
consider your talents to be a gift? Hard work? Or both?
Darrin
Henson: Both.
BMIA.com: When you
think about all of your entertainment talents, which one is
your favorite?
Darrin
Henson: I don’t have
a favorite. I love them all. BUT, if I could only do one
thing it would be dance.
BMIA.com: There are
several shows on TV that have renewed an interest in
dancing. (Ballroom, Steppin’ and Handancing). What do you
think about all of the interest in dancing now?
Darrin
Henson: I think
America is slow to wake up in general. They have been
sleeping. If they would have taken notice they would have
seen that dance is in just about every medium (TV, Movies,
Commercials) either selling products or just being the
driving energy in a movie or TV show.
BMIA.com: Tell us
about Darrin’s Dance Grooves?
Darrin Henson: Darrin’s Dance Grooves was created after
I booked Soul Food. I could not be in the normal areas that
I was used to being in as I was in a TV series now. So, I
devised a video that could be everywhere. I took the dance
steps that I created for the stars and gave them to the
world.
BMIA.com: How many copies has the video sold?
Darrin Henson:
It has sold over 3,000,000 copies, won numerous awards
including a Billboard Award for Best Fitness Video and was
the biggest selling direct response TV product of 2002.
This year I produced, directed, choreographed and starred in
the follow-up, Darrin’s Dance Grooves 2. This video focuses
on street and Hip Hop dance and I’ve been getting the most
amazing response from people who bought the first video and
those new to the Darrin Henson experience.
BMIA.com: Who are
some of the people in your life that you admire?
Darrin
Henson: Michael
Jackson, Prince, Mohammed Ali, my dad and truthful,
spiritual leaders
BMIA.com: Who are some of the people in “show business”
that have mentored or helped you in your career?
Darrin Henson: Gregory Hines was a big inspiration, God
Rest His Soul. Prince. Jim Brown.
BMIA.com: What role did they play in
your personal and/or professional development?
Darrin
Henson: Knowledge and information.
BMIA.com: OK, this is
the part of the interview where we “strap” you in the Black
Men In America.com Hot Seat. This is our version of “Call
and Response,” where we say something and you call out the
first thing that comes to mind. Are you ready?
Darrin Henson: Ready
BMIA.com: Great.
BMIA.com: Who is your favorite
choreographer?
Darrin
Henson: Jerome Roberts
BMIA.com: Favorite musical artist
Darrin
Henson: Michael Jackson
BMIA.com:Favorite dancer
Darrin
Henson:Gregory Hines
BMIA.com:Favorite movie
Darrin
Henson:West Side Story
BMIA.com:Movies or television
Darrin
Henson:Soul Food
BMIA.com:Snoop Dogg
Darrin
Henson: Weed
BMIA.com:James Brown
Darrin
Henson: Bad
BMIA.com: Beyoncé or Mariah Carey
Darrin
Henson:Fine
BMIA.com:Your Best Album or CD
Darrin
Henson:Best of Lionel Richie
BMIA.com:Darrin Henson,
you are officially off of the Black Men In America.com Hot
Seat!
BMIA.com: What’s the
best thing about being Darrin Henson?
Darrin
Henson: Being Darrin
Henson
BMIA.com: What’s the
hardest thing about being Darrin Henson?
Darrin
Henson: Being Darrin
Henson
BMIA.com: You spend a
lot of time trying to educate people about HIV and AIDS.
Why?
Darrin
Henson: It’s an
ongoing problem in the Black Community and I feel that I
have a voice now that people will listen to so I must use it
to help.
BMIA.com: In your
opinion what’s the biggest challenge facing black men in
America?
Darrin
Henson: Education
BMIA.com: How can
people reading this article support you?
Darrin
Henson: By educating
themselves firstly, and second, research.
BMIA.com: What’s next
for Darrin Henson?
Darrin
Henson:Dreams Do Travel
is scheduled to play for two dates in November 2005 (25th
and 26th) if all goes well the show will be
picked and be an ongoing off-Broadway show. Then who knows?
BMIA.com: What advice
would you give to someone who wants to get into the
entertainment industry?
Darrin Henson:
Educate, research and study. Know your craft.
Click here to check out
Darrin's web site or to buy one of his tapes and DVD's.
Special thanks to
Pippa Lambert for
arranging this interview. This interview was posted on
December 5, 2005 and conducted by conducted by Gary Johnson.
Jesse
Norwood: Reflections Of A Legend Through The Eyes Of His
Son
In March
of 1948, Jackie Robinson
and the Brooklyn Dodgers came to Mobile, Alabama, on a
whistle stop tour that had remarkable consequences for the
city, the black community, and for baseball itself.
Robinson's brief appearance fueled a passion for the game
among the city's black population. One man, however, saw
more than just excitement for a sport. Thirty-year-old
Jesse Norwood saw a way to help the kids in his
neighborhood.
Ten
years ago, writer Joe Formichella got a call from Jesse
Norwood Jr., who said, "If you like to write about baseball,
have I got a story for you." The story has now become a
book
Here’s to You Jackie Robinson: The Legend of the Prichard
Mohawks,
about the Negro/Black baseball league in Prichard (Mobile,
Alabama).
The book chronicles the making of a youth
baseball team in Prichard in the 1950’s and how the team's
founder, Jesse Norwood Sr., used the game to teach a group
of neighborhood kids who played stickball in the streets
life skills.
Jesse Norwood was a man who lived in the
segregated south. With no baseball experience and no
knowledge of the game, Norwood transformed a group of
neighborhood boys into a strong team and a genuine force in
the community. The Mohawks weren't just a baseball team,
they were part of a community that taught kids much more
than how to hit and field. Norwood, Sr. taught these young
men how to grow up and become good citizens.
With very little money, the team started
off with “baseball bats” that were actually broom handles.
Step by step, the team took form until the Mohawks were
playing in a league, wearing uniforms and playing in a field
in a corner of a cornfield. The field started as the
makings of a diamond and eventually became the community's
top entertainment attraction, complete with dugouts,
backstops and concession stands.
Gary Johnson caught up with Jesse Norwood,
Jr., who shared heartwarming stories about his father. You
can read that interview below.
The Jesse
Norwood, Jr. Interview
Johnson: Mr. Norwood, thank you for arranging your
schedule to accommodate me. Can you give me a little bit of
background about the team?
Norwood: Sure. In the late 50’s, I guess 1956 or
57, my father, who was born in Albany Georgia, left at an
early age, he was about 13 or 14 years old. He barely
finished the 6th grade. He traveled to Mobile,
Alabama and settled in a little community called Prichard.
My
father worked at an Air Base. In the afternoons after he
would come home from work and see the little boys playing
stickball in the streets. He would see them get into
arguments and fights. They only had broomsticks and bottle
caps to play with. So, one day, he bought them a couple of
balls, and said, “Here are some balls so you guys can stop
hitting those bottle caps.” A few weeks later he organized
the kids to play baseball with help from some of his
co-workers. After a while the team grew pretty large, I
mean beyond the standard baseball team size. They got so
large until they developed a facsimile of a baseball farm
system.
Johnson: No kidding.
Norwood: Oh yeah. They had the “Apaches” which
were the younger guys, and there was another team that I
can’t recall that was for the younger guys. They started
playing on a vacant lot in Prichard, Alabama. Soon after
the crowds grew so large they moved to another open field in
an area called Trinity Gardens. Later the crowds were so
large that my father leased an old cornfield in Mobile and
the guys got together and turned that into a baseball park.
Johnson: Did your Dad talk about racism during that
time and how it affected him and the team?
Norwood: There were very times when they had
encounters with white players or white teams, that were
negative. There’s this one story I was reminded of on
yesterday, where they were playing in Mississippi and a
white sheriff was umpiring the game and he was really
cheating the boys because the white hometown crowd was
hooping it up. And, I understand that my father pretty much
got tired of it and went and stood up to him and told him
“either you gonna call this game right or we’re going to
pack up and go.” Well at this time, some of the deputy
sheriffs came out of the stands and they came down to
support the umpire, who was the sheriff, and he stood up and
the players were all standing and the crowd, I’m told, was
pretty quiet. Everybody was a little tense. And the
sheriff said, “Okay, we’re going to play ball.” And, I’m
told that from that point on the Mohawks went on the win
that ballgame. Now, that’s a significant story in that you
had to be in lower Alabama, or lower Mississippi to
appreciate a black man and 15 or 16 little black kids
standing up to an all white crowd, where the sheriff was
being accused of cheating the game. (Laughter)
Johnson: Absolutely. I’ve been reading a lot about
your father.
Norwood: You know, I was at a reception recently
and one of them boasted about the fact that of all the
players that came through the Mohawks Ball Team, not a one
of them ever got into any kind of trouble, you know with the
law or criminal activity or anything. And all of them
turned out to be bright, hardworking individuals. We have a
couple of lawyers, we got a couple of dentists, and we got
some preachers and teachers, and everything else that came
out of that group. But, what they learned in addition to
camaraderie was the value of organization, because that was
the linchpin, if you will, of the club. They played great
ball, they were champions, but their organization was one
that was the envy of everybody else because they ran it
pretty much like a major league baseball team and like a
business. There were rules and fines. They had to raise
money because they weren’t getting paid.
Johnson: Do you recall any sacrifices that your dad
had to make?
Norwood: I can remember as a kid when he would come
home and tell my mother that there were certain things that
we had planned as a family that he had to put off because he
needed to buy a couple of guys shoes and he needed to buy
somebody a class ring for high school and somebody else
needed a necktie or shirt, because they just didn’t have
it. And, of course welfare in the South was non-existent.
My father did those things because he loved those kids. He
never wanted recognition for his hard work.
Johnson: But, you know, from what I’ve read, your
father was quite an entrepreneur.
Norwood: Yes, he was. You know having such limited
formal education, my father was the kind of person who used
to tell me that the whole world was at your disposal and
that all you had to do was pick up the books and read. And
that’s pretty much how he taught himself the game of
baseball and the game of business. He read. He read
profusely. And he instilled that in all of us, not only in
our household, but also in the team. He used to say, “If
you want to keep a secret from people, put it in a book.”
Johnson: Yea, unfortunately, I think that holds
true for too many people in our community.
Norwood: I know, sad but true. But, you know, his
legacy, you’re right, will live on because long after he’s
passed, I think he passed in 1970, those guys over the years
and they insisted over ten years ago that I do something
about writing the legacy, writing the story, and so for ten
years we worked on it off and on. About two years ago these
publishers out of San Francisco contacted me and said,
“We’ve got to write this story.” “We just cannot let this
story go untold.” So, they convinced me, two years ago, or
maybe three years ago, it was three years ago, to try and
help them pull together these guys and this story back on
track, because it was one they had inkling to get done.
Johnson: Do you have any stories or memories that
stand out in your mind?
Norwood: I tell you, one of my most memorable
stories as a kid of traveling with the Mohawks was the
warden at one of the state prisons in Alabama would call my
father and ask him if he would bring his Mohawks up to play
the prisoners who were incarcerated, which was usually a big
draw at the prison, and my father, he went because he knew
that those players needed interaction. I think we were the
only team they played. It kind of reminds you of The
Longest Yard, the football story.
Johnson: Yea.
Norwood: But we were the only team that they played
outside of the prison. And so, once a year he would carry
his little Mohawk players up to this prison and they would
play. And, of course, the Mohawks would be hanging in
there, but the prison had a variety of player that were
really good. So, some years they’d win and some years
they’d loose. I can remember one year, the year that
stopped the baseball games was when one of the prisoners
escaped and blended in with the crowd. And the warden said,
“We can’t have that.” And I think that ended the Mohawks
playing the prisoners every year.
Johnson: There are some people here in Washington
DC, for example, like Dwayne Simms, who runs the Negro
League Legends Hall of Fame, who will be very interested in
this story. Who are some of the people that you recall your
father talking about who influenced him?
Norwood: You know that’s an interesting question.
I think at the time that my father organized this team I
must have been seven or eight years old and I don’t remember
his influencing factors as much as it was the kids in the
neighborhood who had no outlet. I think he was driven by
the fact that he saw he was making a difference and I will
tell you that some of the people who was able to help
influence were Amos Otis, who played I believe with San
Francisco. In 1957/1958, Jackie Robinson was still a big
name in baseball and of course, I remember him always
talking about Roy Campenella, who was another very
influential baseball player.
Johnson: That’s great. I’ve got two questions that
stand out that I want to make sure that I ask you, and I
want to ask them right now. What are some of the biggest
challenges facing Black men today?
Norwood: You know, oddly enough, I would say that
the biggest challenges are some of the same grassroots
challenges that we faced in the late 50’s. There is such a
lack of Black men standing up and being responsible and then
when they are, and they are successful, I am always happy
about that. Too many forget what my father used to say,
“each one teach one.”
Johnson: You know I checked out your
Mohawk Foundationweb site. I really liked the site and
will encourage our readers to visit your site. What can
people do to help your organization?
Norwood: Well, you know, the best thing for them to
do is to make a donation of their time and/or money. Of if
they have access to a partner who can help us with the
enrichment of children’s lives through some of the
activities that we have on the site. We’ll accept any kind
of assistance.
Gary,
I applaud you for taking the mission that you have with this
web link and doing the work that you’re doing. I’ll tell
you, I think it’s bold, I think it’s refreshing, and I will
tell you that if there’s anything we can do with our little
small sphere of resources, you can count on to help out.
Norwood: Oh yea. Well, first let me tell you that
the book publisher as well as the writer is donating 40% of
their royalties and proceeds to the foundation.
Johnson: Excellent.
Norwood: And, the book, itself is
absolutely awesome. I mean, we’re not in this for the
money; we just want to make sure the story is told. And if
someone else, somewhere else, can do something to help them
and give some resources then I think my father’s dream will
leave. And, I think a lot of those guys who are still
Mohawks will remember and know that their time spent was not
in vain.
Johnson: Well, I have a copy of the book. I haven’t
finished reading it. But, from what I can tell it is a very
good book and it’s, I haven’t read a bad review. The reviews
are great.
Norwood: Well, let me tell you, I think an outlet
like Black Men In America.com is awfully powerful.
Norwood: Thank you Gary. I
appreciate your time and thanks so much for your help.
Johnson: Mr. Norwood, it has been my pleasure.
Thank you.
Thank you
Tammy Richards-LeSure
of RICHARDS PUBLIC RELATIONS for arranging this
interview.
Kevin Eubanks is gifted guitarist, who
is probably best known as the Musical Director of "The Tonight Show
with Jay Leno." Eubanks who is Leno’s “setup man” and comic foil
appears on television as a good-natured guy. Guess what? From all
that we could gather, Kevin Eubanks is the guy that he appears to be
on television.
This son of a preacher has been with
the show since 1992 and is in his 10th year as the
Musical Director of the show. Eubanks replaced the band’s original
director, saxophonist Branford Marsalis.
For those who
don’t know, at one time, Kevin Eubanks is one of the hottest music
players in the music business. Kevin Eubanks has toured extensively
and recorded with many top jazz artists, including Branford
Marsalis, Buster Williams and Dave Grusin. Eubanks lists Wes
Montgomery, John McLaughlin and Jimi Hendrix as his major musical
influences.
He remains of
the most prolific jazz guitarists in the country and has recorded 12
albums in his 17-year recording career. In addition, Eubanks also
scored the HBO Pictures presentation, “Rebound,” directed by
“ER’s” Eriq La Salle and
composed the score for the five-part PBS documentary series, “Black Westerners,” which
traces the story for African-American leaders, heroes and others who
lived in the old West.
The Kevin Eubanks Interview
BMIA.com:
Hey Kevin, thanks for taking time out to chat with us.
You’ve been with The Tonight Show since 1992, and as Musical
Director since 1995. What’s been the best part of being with the
show?
Kevin Eubanks:
Thanks for having me, a pleasure to be here. Let's see the best
part? Well I can pay my rent now. I guess I could always do that but
now I can get an apartment with heat. I use to have this place in
Brooklyn that had no heat. Serious. And I had to get up at 4:00 am
to get the Village Voice newspaper, find the place and get there
before anyone else did so I'd have a better chance of getting an
apartment with no heat. I was experiencing life in New York and
being broke. Actually as it turned out I did pretty good there.
Let's see the other “best part,” of being on The Tonight show is
that I get to meet and hear musicians and comedians from all over
the place. I also get to play with some of the groups too when they
ask, like Willie Nelson, Al Green, Little Richard, Isaac Hayes etc.
You ever been on Willie's bus?
BMIA.com:
Uh, no Kev. (Laughing)
Kevin Eubanks:
It's always a fun show when he's there. He has a great tour bus. So
much talent comes to the show. Oh yeah, I get to watch Serena
Williams walk across the stage. In my mind it's all happening in
slow motion. Hmmm, I'd better stop right there.
BMIA.com:
Yeah, let’s move on before we both get in trouble. Most
people associate you as a guitar player. A lot of folks don’t know
that you also play the piano, violin and trumpet. What other
instruments do you play?
Kevin Eubanks: Well I just kind of dip and dab at the
piano and I don't play trumpet at all anymore. I do consider myself
a pretty decent electric bass player though. I wish I could sing.
I love singers but I am way too shy. Scares the hell out of me. Did
you see the time I had to sing on the show?
BMIA.com:
Actually, I did. You looked very nervous. I remember watching you
and saying to myself: “It’s a good thing he’s a solid musician,
because he can’t sing a lick.”
Kevin Eubanks:
Opening my mouth during the monologue can be dangerous, that's how
the whole thing started, I was doggin' Jay and I wound up having to
sing. That was a big mistake, but I did my best.
BMIA.com:
Where did you grow up?
Kevin Eubanks: The home
of the worse fans in pro sports, Philadelphia--North Philly. I love
it but if you start losin' in Philly, forget it. You get no love,
none. They call it the City of Brotherly Love. A Brother better be
winnin' or you'll get the “Brotherly Shove.” GO EAGLES! Can we get
Iverson some help please?
BMIA.com:
Yeah, y’all need some help with all your teams. It looks like T.O.
(Terrell Owens) is cutting up this year with his contract, and
[Chris] Webber and Iverson don’t look like a good match on the
basketball court.
BMIA.com:
What was your earliest or most vivid
recollection of being different?
Kevin Eubanks: That's a
strange question. Why do you say different? In what way? You
think I'm gay? Yo, you should rephrase the question man. Just
cause a brother gave up cheese steaks don't mean a brother is gay.
LOL! LOL! I'm just a vegetarian, that's all.
BMIA.com:
Naw Kev. C’mon man, it OK to be down with the vegetarian thing and
NOT be gay. (Laughing) OK, let me try to ask the question in a
different way. Who’s had the most
influence over you in your life?
Kevin Eubanks: My
mother and father. You know the things I really learned I learned
from watching my parents. They take care of business. Always
have. Yeah we had the ‘ol’ school ‘ discipline, but it was all
love and concern and somehow I knew that. Dad made it to Gold
Shield Detective, so you know he always busted Robin, my oldest
brother and me. Always got caught whatever we were doing'. In
those days as my father found out, Gold Shield was as far as they
would let him go. You could at that time, and then pursue a
Captainship and from there a whole other level of things were open
to you. The glass ceiling was very much in place. So he split and
worked executive security management for ATT. He was and is cool
and I learned to do a good job when I gave my word to do something.
Mom has a Masters degree in Music Education so the music thing is in
my blood. I can remember her giving music lessons. As a matter of
fact most of my first memories is of Mom giving lessons. Hearing
J.S. Bach inventions. I knew those melodies from such an early
age. She also has directed Gospel choirs since she was 13 years
old. Mom is a retired public school teacher of music. My
Grandmother had a ministry and we all came up in her Baptist
church. Mom can play her ass of. She hates it when I use that
word, but she can play. So Dad and Mom had mad discipline and as a
child when that is such a routine part of what you see day in and
day out, you learn. I mean in an emotional way. It becomes a part
of you because you see it with love and just a way of livin', no big
deal. But it was a big deal. I just didn't
know it at the time. I took it for granted. I am blessed to have
Mom and Dad.
BMIA.com:
Wow! That’s great man. Kevin, what’s
the best part about being Kevin Eubanks? Is there a worst part of
being Kevin Eubanks?
Kevin Eubanks: I guess
the best part is…man you ask some different kind of questions?
BMIA.com:
Is that a good thing?
Kevin Eubanks:
I don’t know yet. The best part of being Kevin Eubanks is that I
still like the same things I liked since I was a kid. Playin'
guitar with a great band and watchin' good movies. I still like a
few other things too but I know Mom is goin' to read this so I don't
want to see her shakin' her head side to side. The rest is all
gravy. All added fun. But really the best part is that I really
live a simple life and don't need very much to feel good and happy.
Don't get me wrong; I believe you should get want you earn.
Sometimes you have to fight for it and no one wants to be cut
short. In this business you have to keep an eye out. But my Spirit
just needs a few simple things to be happy. I like that. The worse
part? Hhmmm, okay the worse part is that sometimes I feel like I'm
not ambitious enough. There's so much out there but like I said I
don't need much and add that to being a basically shy person and
sometimes I feel like there are a lot of things that people wish
they had the opportunity to go for, I have no drive for it. You
know what I mean? So sometimes I wonder if I got lulled into not
wanting things because I grew up Black in this country. The "this
is good enough for me syndrome” or is it really my natural
personality to not need much to be chill with myself. The worse
part is the doubt. When you doubt yourself, which we are taught to
do, you can get lost. But it seems to be that the simple things in
life ground me and keep me focused so I'm able to do a good job with
what is in front of me. However, ambitious or not, one should be
properly compensated for the work one is doing, and like I said
sometimes you have to fight for what you've earned. Sad but true.
BMIA.com:
On the show Jay is always kidding you
about your love life. So let’s talk about it. How is the love
life?
Kevin Eubanks: My love
life is like everyone else's great and then terrible. I'm starting,
okay I ain't gon' lie, I've been thinking this for a while now that
the women in L.A. and maybe it's an American thing, an entitlement
thing, I hope not, but I know it's an L.A. thing. The women here
can say they love you and they really mean it, it's just that I
assume that means it's at the top of the list. You know the list we
all have of things that are important to us, the people that are
important to us. But I have the feeling that for women in this
town, “Love” is more like ninth on the list. There is an agenda,
and all that stuff comes before or because
they love you. Loving you makes all the other things on the list
possible, in their minds anyway. You carry their “Love Load,” in a
manner of speaking. I question, I do now anyway, I didn't use to, I
question is it love or is it the things that you can get from me
loving you? And if those things are not coming then even though you
“love” me, you can treat me in a way that may not really be my idea
of love. Or maybe the actual love part is ninth or tenth on the
list. The agenda comes first. I know there has to be some kind of
real exchange, but both people need to contribute. Both people, and
no one wants a bum, male or female, but the thing I see in L.A. and
I single out L.A. because it's so damn obvious here, is that maybe
we've forgotten how simple a thing love should be. I f there is an
agenda attached then call it what it really is. You know what I'm
sayin'? I'm a simple guy at heart but in L.A. being simple can get
yo ass kicked up and down the “streets of love.”
BMIA.com:
What do you look for in a woman?
Kevin Eubanks: Clarity,
openness, willingness to be responsible for their life so we can
both be confident with our own lives and truly be happy for each
other each others success and empathy on the days that are not
successful. A woman that wants to help raise her man's confidence,
not attack it. Support. Not financial, in other ways. Be on my
side when you know I'm fighting the good fight. Of course I look
for what I particularly like aesthetic wise. I won't go into that
and I don't think that's what you meant by the question. But you
know we all want the “freak factor” to be in the same range.
BMIA.com:
Alright now. Let me keep moving.
Is
Jay Leno as down-to-earth as he appears? The chemistry between you
seems genuine.
Kevin Eubanks: He
really is. He has a bit of a car fixation, but you know, it's nice
to know what you like in this and be able to experience it in this
life. I like that about him. I think Jay and I just get along
quite naturally. If we saw each other at a gig somewhere and didn't
know each other I bet we'd start talkin' about things. Just in a
hangin' out sort of way. That of course makes things a lot easier
at the show. Jay’s a cool guy.
BMIA.com:
What is your favorite segment of the
show? I can tell you that I love the “Jaywalking” and “The Fruit
Cake Lady” segments of the show.
Kevin Eubanks: My
favorite parts are when things happen that are not planned but they
work because there's good energy in the studio that day. Of course
I have my favorite guest that come on every now and then. Oh you
said segment, hmmm, okay, I like the segment “Point what's Your
Point.” That's where these two college students get asked
questions about various things and they are free to elongate their
answers. Man it's incredible what they say. College students. I
wish we did more of that segment. Says a lot about this country.
BMIA.com:
Name one thing about you that the
general public doesn’t know about you that you want them to know.
Kevin Eubanks: That I
consider myself a serious musician and that doing a comedy show does
not take away from that in any way. In fact, for me, being as
versatile a person as I am, it adds to the depth of the way I can
appreciate music. I take offense to the notion that no serious
musician would not be doing a late night talk show gig. Perhaps one
has to be versatile enough and open enough in other areas to be able
to contribute in the right ways to a show like this. It also
enables one to work on starting businesses that could help other
serious musicians that are finding it harder and harder to have a
voice in the world of music these days. Like a record company that
can preserve our cultural music.
BMIA.com:
How long have you been a vegetarian?
Kevin Eubanks: Thirty
years. The food in college was so bad and I was so broke, it made
sense to try it and it agreed with me. One of the best things I've
ever done for myself.
BMIA.com:
How often do you and your band get out
on the road?
Kevin Eubanks: My band
is Marvin “Smitty” Smith on drums, Bill Pierce on Sax
and Carlos Puerto on Bass. We do about eight concerts a
year, sometimes more. We do some clubs when we have the time but
it's really a matter of catching Friday night red-eye flights and
returning to L.A. on Sunday. It's not easy to keep that up. I wish
we could do more but it seems most of the gigs are on the East
Coast. Can't really do Sunday gigs. I use to do them and we did
more shows but one time the flights got canceled and I had to rent a
jet to get us back in time for the show. Renting jets across the
country is not cheap. (Laughing) But you know we love to play so we
do what we can. We do get a few weeks off during the year and I
like to book gigs during that time. But a brother needs some R&R
(rest and relaxation) too. Go visit Mom and Dad and be with the
rest of my family back east. Mom makes the best, the very best Mac
n' Cheese too.
BMIA.com:
On TV it looks like you enjoy being
part of the comedy sketches. Is this true?
Kevin Eubanks:
Sure, it's fun to do something different and out of my personality.
It's fun and I don't take it too serious, which makes it more fun.
I don't think I'd ever be an actor though, a whole other world that
is.
BMIA.com:
In your opinion, who has been the best
guest during your tenure on the show?
Kevin Eubanks: Well,
there have been a few that are consistently great as guests. Will
Smith and Robin Williams are the best. On the music tip,
Al Green always turns it out.
BMIA.com:
OK, this is the part of the interview
where we “strap” you in the Black Men In America.com Hot Seat. This
is our version of “Call and Response,” where we say something and
you call out the first thing that comes to mind. Are you ready?
Kevin Eubanks:
I’m ready!
BMIA.com:
Great.
BMIA.com:
Johnny Carson
Kevin Eubanks:
Late night legend
BMIA.com:
Best standup comic
Kevin Eubanks:
Richard Pryor
BMIA.com:
Funniest guest
Kevin Eubanks:
Robin Williams
BMIA.com:
Best artist (male or female) that you’ve played with.
Kevin Eubanks:
Art Blakey
BMIA.com:
James Brown
Kevin Eubanks:
James Brown is the reason I play guitar. I remember leaving his
show at the Uptown Theatre in Philly and I was standing right at the
curb of the street and said to myself, "I'm going to play guitar." I
never looked back.
BMIA.com:
Beyoncé or Mariah Carey
Kevin Eubanks:
Mariah
BMIA.com:
Destiny’s Child or The Emotions
Kevin Eubanks:
The Emotions (Skoolin')
BMIA.com:
Your Best Album or CD—Why?
Kevin Eubanks:
“Opening Night” - Because I didn't know any better, I thought people
cared about music in a deep way, so I was writing to that spirit in
people and in myself. It guided the entire CD. Now days I have to
remind myself, convince myself of the need. Back then it was just
part of the way I thought. It was me, thinking I knew what was up,
for all the right reasons. Youth, who else can change the world?
BMIA.com:
How long have you been associated with
the Playboy Jazz Festival?
Kevin Eubanks: I've
been playing it for a few years with Bill Cosby and the Coz of Jazz
groups and last year I was asked to co-host with Dr. Cosby. This
year Coz is leaving me there to do the best I can without him. I
plan to do him proud. He's the man, but we all know that.
BMIA.com:
How important is it to have music and
arts programs in the schools?
Kevin Eubanks: It's so
important that every other industrialized country in the world, even
some of the so-called Third-World countries maintain it in their
school systems. At a very high level I might add. As a matter of
fact a large percentage of scholarship recipients come from these
very countries that feel it's very important to the well-being and
balance of their country's future. It's shameful what's happening
in this country in terms of what wedeny our
children. My mother taught music in the public school system for
thirty-five years. I got to try different instruments and it helped
me not be at the wrong place at the wrong time. I was always
practicing.
BMIA.com:
In your view, what are the greatest
challenges facing black men today?
Kevin Eubanks: Seeing
ourselves as men of the world and not just as an isolated and
fragmented part of this country. The belief that we are what the
media says we are, what people perceive we are, is soon to be what
we think we are. Because we are treated based on this warped
perception and it is hard to get away from it in this country. We
sometimes react by getting so caught up in fighting the perception,
that we fall into it deeper by indenturing too much of our time in
seeing ourselves as a color to be defended and thus having not
enough time or energy to pursue life as a man. Not a guilty until
proven innocent Black man, just a man of the world. A person. It
is hard for a Black man to just be himself. A man, a human being.
We spend so much time in defense of something that is indefensible
because there is nothing to defend. How and why must we defend
being born in Africa? There is nothing guilty about that, but our
whole lives are bent on it. I don't see White people defending
their part in the genocide of the Native (American) Indian. Life is
fine and there's time and energy to achieve. At that reallytook place. Where is our time and energy going?
How much is left after the daily grind in Minority Court? Is there
time and energy enough for me to be a man, a man with dreams? Or do
I have to go to court today and get home just in time for dinner and
worried sleep before I have to get up and go to court again, again,
again?
BMIA.com:
Do you have any causes that you are
affiliated with and/or support?
Kevin Eubanks: I
volunteer at CHLA, Children's Hospital of Los Angeles. Going
on six years now or is it seven? It's been a while. For the first
five years I supported it with my time and as of late I support it
in other ways but I miss the people and will probably soon return to
giving my time. It's a very active support group for teens with
cancer. I miss the retreats to Disney Land and I miss Kiki and Mac
most of all, they were close friends. They were too young.
BMIA.com:
Final Question: How can people reading
this interview learn more about you, your band and just stay
up-to-date with what’s going on with you?
Kevin Eubanks: Go to my
web site Kevin Eubanks.com (www.kevineubanks.com).
That's the best way. You can write questions and really get answers
and check out CD's, see where the gigs are. All those things are
there. It's a fun site.
BMIA.com:
Kevin, thanks for a great interview. You’re going to give our site
visitors a lot of insights about different things and an opportunity
to see a different side of you, and not just the guy we see on TV.
Thanks again.
Kevin Eubanks: Thanks so much for having me. The
questions gave me things to think about, in a good way. I appreciate
it.
This interview was conducted by
Gary Johnson for Black Men In America.com and posted June 2, 2005.
A
special thanks goes out to Makeda
Smith from
Jazzmyne PR for arranging this interview.
Do You Wanna Dance? The 7 Step Hand
Dance Academy Is About More Than Just Dancing
BMIA.com:
Thank you Mr. Sloan for taking time out for this interview.
Edward Sloan:
My pleasure Gary. Many of the answers to your questions will be
answered jointly and in conjunction with the other committee members
here.
BMIA.com:
That's OK. Alright folks, tell us about the 7 Step Hand Dance Academy (7SHDA). Does the
number 7 have any significance?
BMIA.com:
What is the group’s mission or commitment to the community?
7SHDA:
Our commitment to the community is to provide quality dance classes to
all participants, and to help our youth to become the best that they can
be through structured academic programs. Currently, we manage an after
school program at a local housing complex at no charge, and we donate
school supplies and equipment to support the program. We recently
conducted classes for a senior citizens group and we continue to make
hand dance classes available to senior citizens who are interested.
One of our 2005
goals is to provide financial management workshops for individuals and
families at no charge.
BMIA.com:
What makes the 7 Step Hand Dance Academy different from other hand
dancing groups?
7SHDA:
What makes us different is that the “7” Step Hand Dance Academy realizes
everyone doesn’t learn at the same rate. Within our structured format we
provide personalized attention to ensure that everyone understands what
is being taught. Our classes are on going and we’re always willing to
give additional help to students who may be challenged by a particular
move. We don’t just teach hand dancing; we put effort into knowing our
students. Our classes are where you come to get exercise, have a laugh,
get a hug, or maybe just a word of encouragement. We develop
friendships, all while learning to hand dance.
BMIA.com:
Is there a difference in “stepping” and “hand dancing?”
7SHDA:
Let me qualify my response by saying I am not an “authority” on either
form of dance. It is important to note that there are many forms of
“hand” dancing, i.e. the Shag, the Philly Bop, various forms of swing
dancing as well as, Chicago Steppin.
Steppin originated
in Chicago, Illinois. It was originally known as the “Offtime Dance”
which was a form of the jitterbug (in half-time) and the Bop during the
1940’s and 1950’s. The “Offtime Dance” evolved into Stepping (Steppin)
in the 1960’s.
D.C. Hand Dancing
is unique to the Washington, D.C. area. D.C. Hand Dancing derived from
the Lindy Hop, a six-count rhythm swing dance that originated in Harlem,
New York in the 1930’s. The Lindy Hop evolved into D.C. Hand Dancing in
the 1950’s. In it’s current evolution, D.C. Hand Dancing combines
sophisticated, slick moves with syncopated, rhythmic footwork that
allows the dancers the opportunity to blend their creative talents into
showcase artistry. Hand dancing is an important part of the Washington
D.C. culture. In 1999, Mayor Anthony Williams declared hand dancing as
the official dance of the District of Columbia.
In general, D.C.
Hand Dancing and Chicago Steppin are different styles of dance. The
specific differences include, the dance rhythm/music, the steps and the
footwork.
Executive Assistant and
Membership Chairperson Ray Morton and Yolanda Sweitzer
7SHDA:
Our classes are structured according to the students dance level. The
beginner classes are usually made up of students who have never hand
danced. In this class, we teach the basic steps using a “7” count.
The intermediate
class is made up of students who already know the basic steps. In this
class we emphasize footwork and combining moves to expand the students
basic knowledge to a higher level. We also introduce the Cha-Cha and
the Bop.
The advanced class
is made up of students that have a firm foundation of hand dancing
skills. At this level students are taught more intricate moves.
BMIA.com:
What are some of the benefits of learning how to hand dance?
7SHDA:
Hand Dancing is a great aerobic workout. It also allows for greater
socialization. It affords the individual the opportunity to become a
member of a unique culture, to meet good people, and to be creative.
For some, it may be a form of social development.
BMIA.com:
What kind of people does your academy attract?
7SHDA:
The hand dance community is comprised of people from all walks of life
and economic and social backgrounds. We attract people who genuinely
want to learn to hand dance. We have couples who want to learn together
and singles that may want to expand their social circle while doing
something positive. We also are attracting teens, and senior citizens.
Currently, we have a 7-year-old student, and we also have a student who
is 82.
BMIA.com:
I know that the board of directors would like to work more with the
youth in the community. What are some of the things that the group
would like to do?
7SHDA:
We would love to get more youth involved in learning the art of hand
dancing. Contrary to popular belief, there are many young people who
are interested in learning how to hand dance. One of the things we are
doing to attract youth is, offering free lessons to youth between 8 – 17
years of age. One of our goals is to organize a youth division. In
addition, we would like to be able to offer an academic program as well
as, workshops on social skills, conflict resolution, and financial
management.
BMIA.com:
What is the Homework Study Club?
7SHDA:
The Homework Study Club is an after-school program we manage (at no
cost) at a local housing complex. We also donate supplies and equipment
to support the program. The purpose of the Study Club is to provide a
supervised, structured learning environment for the student to complete
their school homework assignment. Each student must have his or her
homework checked for completion and accuracy before leaving the
facility. In addition, we also include some fun activities using various
games and exercises in math and geography.
The Study Club
meets from 4:00 – 6:00 pm, every Monday during the school season. Since
February 2004, two hundred students have attended the Home work Study
Club.
BMIA.com:
Is hand dancing expensive? What is the time and monetary commitment?
7SHDA:
While there is an associated cost for taking hand dance classes the cost
are minimal. The average time invested is 1 hour per week. However,
class time is not limited to 1 hour. Students are encouraged to come to
class ½ hour early and are given the opportunity to stay later if they
want additional instruction.
BMIA.com:
Does the group need additional resources and funding?
7SHDA:
The bottom line answer to that question is yes. As stated earlier,
we’re a non-profit organization under Section 503 (c) (3) of the
Internal Revenue Service. As such, we are eligible to receive public
funding. Unfortunately, we have not been successful in obtaining grants,
gift and donations. Consequently, we are always in need of resources and
funding, whether from individuals, groups, or the corporate and business
communities. Our objective is to have our own facility for teaching the
fore-mentioned academic programs in addition to conducting our hand
dance classes. We would even be willing to accept a quid-pro-quo
arrangement where we would offer programs to youth for the use of
building space. Because of our 501 (c) (3) status, individuals and
organizations that give us gifts, grants and donations are entitled to a
tax deduction in exchange for their contributions. We are also seeking
volunteers to help with our academic programs.
BMIA.com:
If someone reading this article wants to join your academy or support
the group’s efforts, what should they do?
7SHDA:
If someone is interested in joining our organization, or supporting our
efforts, we can be reached via the following methods.
Our
address: The “7” Step Hand Dance Academy, Inc.
5006 Megan Drive
Clinton, MD 20735
Telephone: (301) 297-7180
Fax:
(301) 297-7666
E-mail:
edwardsloan@msn.com
For membership
information please contact Mr. Ray Morton, Executive Assistant &
Membership Chairperson at (240) 271-6697, or e-mail,
rstrdm@aol.com. Our web address is:
www.7StepHandDanceAcademy.org.
Private lessons
are available, and we are willing to travel to other cities to conduct
classes.
The “7” Step Hand
Dance Academy is open to anyone who wants to learn Hand Dancing. The
organization does not discriminate against any person because of race,
color, religion, gender, national origin, sexual preference, or age. We
foster an atmosphere of positive learning and fun. And we try to treat
our students with dignity and respect.
For more
information please contact Mr. Ray Morton, Executive Assistant &
Membership Chairperson at (240) 271-6697, or via e-mail,
rstrdm@aol.com.
You can also contact Edward Sloan at (301) 297-7180 or via
e-mail at edwardsloan@msn.com.
The group's web address is:
www.7StepHandDanceAcademy.org.
One Fine Lady: A
Conversation With Yolanda Joe
Yolanda Joe
Author Yolanda
Joe always wanted to be a writer. She earned her Masters of Science
degree from the Columbia School of Journalism in New York. She later
returned to her hometown of Chicago to work in news radio for CBS and
later switched to television news and worked as a writer/producer before
beginning a full time writing career.
Yolanda has
written the bestselling novels, Falling
Leaves of Ivy, He Say, She Say, Bebe's By Golly Wow, This Just In
and The Hatwearer's Lesson. Her latest book,
My Fine Lady is getting great reviews.
Yolanda was gracious enough to take time out for this interview and talk
about her life as a writer.
The Yolanda Joe Interview
BMIA: My Fine
Lady is getting excellent reviews. How does
that make you feel?
Yolanda Joe:
I’m overjoyed. I worked so hard to write a hip,
humorous, historic novel.
BMIA:
Have you always wanted to be a writer?
Yolanda Joe:
Oh yes… ever since I was six years old and read
Cat in the Hat, I knew that I would be a writer. And how cool, to know
what you will be when you grow up and not have to bumble around trying to
figure it out.
BMIA:
You urge parents and others who around children to
praise them and steer them toward developing their dreams. What’s your
motivation behind that?
Yolanda Joe: My
grandparents raised me and always encouraged me… we didn’t have money but
they had faith that they passed on to me. It worked for me, I tell others
because it can work for them too.
BMIA:
What was your earliest or most vivid recollection of
being different?
Yolanda Joe:
Maybe seven, the fact that I’d rather make up
character than play dodge ball!
BMIA:
How did your career in radio and television prepare to
be a fulltime writer?
Yolanda Joe:
Broadcasting is fast paced. You must write well
and quickly and conversationally. That helps me to meet deadlines and to
write dialogue well.
BMIA:
Tell us about your mystery series.
Yolanda Joe:
I love it! My next mystery will be out in June
2005 and it’s called Video Cowboys. I have a character Georgia Barnett who
is a TV journalist—her boyfriend Doug is a cop and they solve crimes and
kick up a little romance. Her sister Peaches is a blues singer… she
provides the family drama. Gotta have the drama y’all.
BMIA:
When do you find time to write?
Yolanda Joe:
Whenever I can! Mornings. Weekends. On the
plane.
BMIA:
What prompted you to write
My
Fine Lady?
Yolanda Joe:
I like to write different things and I thought
the story could be update well and I thought it was very strong in terms
of potentially being a film. It’s my fair lady meets drum line, ya know?
BMIA:
How
would you describe your style of writing?
Yolanda Joe:
Fast paced, funky, and funny with a since of
history.
BMIA:
What
do you want people to get or take-away as a result of reading your book?
Yolanda Joe:
I hope they learn about how we treat our
relationships and historically what chasing our dreams have meant in the
black community, especially for men, and students on a black college
campus.
BMIA:
Character development is important. Do you have a favorite character in
My Fine Lady? Why?
Yolanda Joe:
No favorite characters like a mother should not
have a favorite child. I love and slaved to raise `em all!
BMIA:
You’ve written about 8 books. Do you have a favorite? Please explain.
Yolanda Joe:
I love The Hatwearer’s Lesson. It’s a story
about a grandmother and her granddaughter, she helps her with love and
life lessons. My grandmother raised me and that’s why it’s my favorite.
BMIA:
How
long did it take you to write My Find Lady?
Yolanda Joe:
A year and a half.
BMIA:
Was
it difficult to get a book deal?
Yolanda Joe:
No I was already under contract so I just had to
decide what I wanted to do.
BMIA:
Were there any writers who inspired when you were
growing up? Who were they?
Yolanda Joe:
Zora Neale Hurston, Maya Angelou, James Baldwin,
and a few more. I read a lot.
BMIA:
What’s the best part of being Yolanda Joe?
Yolanda Joe:
I can write books and travel to promote them. I
love what I do everyday.
BMIA:
What’s the worst part of being Yolanda Joe?
Yolanda Joe:
I overwork myself and I’m still looking for that
special man to start a family with and it’s tough.
BMIA:
Do you have any mentors?
Yolanda Joe:
Any good book I read I believe is a mentor
because it helps me to be better, also my agent is wonderful in helping me
think about the things I should do as a writer.
BMIA:
What kind of books do you like to read?
Yolanda Joe:
All kinds. And I like history.
BMIA:
What advice would you give to aspiring writers?
Yolanda Joe:
Write! Write! Write! Then edit!
BMIA:
How can we support you?
Yolanda Joe:
Go on amazon.com and write a review and please tell folks to go to the
bookstores, especially black bookstores and support me and other writers!
That and some prayer! Love y’all and God Bless.
To learn more about
Yolanda Joe you can visit her web site at
www.yolandajoe.com.
Gillis Triplett Is Ministering To The World
Gillis Triplett founded
Gillis Triplett Ministries (GTM) with a strategic and tacticalmandate from the Lord to “raise up” Believers who
are strong in the Lord, full of faith and full of power. Gillis is also
founder and pastor of (ECC) Embassy Christian Center, headquartered in
Atlanta, Georgia. ECC is a diverse group of anointed men and women of
God who hear, know and follow the voice of the Holy Spirit. Triplett is
very clear about the direction of his organizations. They are faith
based and open to people who want to improve the way that they live
their lives. What is appealing about GTM is that his messages have a
very broad appeal.
The Gillis Triplett Ministries web site
has something for everyone. You can get guidance and spiritually based
advice on love, sex, relationships, mastering manhood, and physical and
mental healing. The site is well designed, easy to navigate and a
wealth of information.
The Mastering Manhood seminar was of
great interest to us. According to Triplett, Mastering Manhood
is leading the way by delivering what men and boys need most: true role
models, passionate mentors and camaraderie and instruction from men of
faith, wisdom and power. Triplett also manages a cyber bookstore
stocked with powerful faith building books, tapes and CD’s.
We wanted to know more about Gillis
Triplett and his ministries and thought we’d share our conversation with
you.
Gillis Triplett Interview
BMIA.com: What
prompted you to start Gillis Triplett Ministries (GTM)?
GTM: My name,
“Gillis,” means: a shield that protects. I was born for the purpose of
serving and protecting God’s people. I protect them by sowing the Word
of God in their hearts. Once a person learns the rules of prayer and the
laws of faith, divine protection and prosperity, they have just signed
up for the highest form of protection known to mankind. My commission is
to insure that everyone understands these laws and rules so that they
are empowered to fulfill their God-ordained destiny and live life to the
max!
BMIA.com: Tell us
about Mastering Manhood and Relationships 101.
GTM: Almost
everyone knows the myriad of issues Black men face. From Black-on-Black
violence, misogynistic manhood, racism, to the high rates of
incarceration, drug/alcohol issues, HIV/AIDS and the educational
shortcomings. Mastering Manhood is the answer to the questions, “How do
we reach the Black man and how do we restore him back to his original
splendor?” There’s only two ways to be a man, either: (a) meandering
manhood, or (b) Mastering Manhood. Furthermore, a man must be trained to
master manhood. When a man misses or skips that critical step, as most
young Black males do, the default is always meandering manhood. At
Mastering Manhood, we show men the steps to manhood, what being a man is
all about and how to successfully negotiate life’s obstacles and
barriers. Under our guidance and mentorship Black men flourish!
Concerning
Relationships 101, we have some issues within the Black family that we
must openly address. Prevalent issues such as abortion, men abandoning
children they fathered, cohabitation, domestic violence and safe sex miseducation. If we remain silent about these issues, I perceive
that by the year 2024, the Black family could be facing near extinction.
Only to be replaced with a glut of single moms, broken homes, and
fatherless children. Relationships 101 is a training ground for men and
women to learn the naked truth about love, sex and relationships. Our
primary focus is twofold: (1) protect men and women from falling into
harmful and sometimes deadly - love, sex and relationship booby traps
and pre-marital pitfalls. We show them how to enter into
relationships minus the harmful baggage, and (2) show men and women how
to have healthy marriages and build strong families.
BMIA.com: Did you
have any special motivation to write your books?
GTM: My
passion and driving force to write stems from a burning desire to help
men and women find and fulfill their God-given purpose. When I write, I
envision lives being positively transformed: spiritually, mentally,
financially, socially and physically. One of the greatest joys I get in
life is looking into the eyes of men and women after they have read one
of my books or articles or attended one of my conferences or services.
They have this special glimmer in their eyes that says, “My life has
been eternally changed!”
BMIA.com: How long
did it take you to write your book “Why
People Choose The Wrong Mate: Avoiding The 9 Deadly Booby Traps?”
GTM: It took
me approximately three and a half years of writing and about eight years
of investigative research to complete, “Why
People Choose The Wrong Mate: Avoiding The 9 Deadly Booby Traps.”
During that time I counseled, prayed with and stood by over three
thousand spouses, live-in lovers, boyfriend and girlfriends and people
viewed as booty calls and casual sex partners. These individuals chose
the wrong mate or became the wrong mate and found themselves entrenched
in traumatic experiences such as: domestic violence, bitter divorces,
adultery, paternity fraud and marital fraud. I walked through the fire
with spouses who contracted the HIV virus from their mate, women who
married men on the down low and men who were unfairly arrested because
their bitter ex-girlfriends, ex-wives or sex partners filed false
abuse/rape charges against them. I assisted countless women who were
left pregnant and alone and families of victims of spousal murder. I
took my time with this book because when a person chooses the wrong
mate, they usually don’t realize it until its too late… but their life,
peace of mind and physical health is literally hanging in the balance.
Why People Choose The Wrong Mate:
Avoiding The 9 Deadly Booby Traps is designed to help
individuals avoid adding their name to swelling ranks of men and women
who have had their hearts broken and lives shattered because they chose
the wrong mate. If they have traveled down that dark cold road, they’ll
learn why and know how to avoid repeating their mistake. I have some
good news for the men and women who visit
www.Blackmeninamerica.com.
You can find
and experience True Love! But, you must first learn how to
avoid the various love, sex and relationship booby traps and pre-marital
pitfalls. I’ll show you how!
BMIA.com: OK.
You’ve written several books. What do you want people to learn as a
result of reading your books?
GTM: Every
man and woman born into the earth realm came from their mother’s womb
with these two essential elements pre-installed: (a) Specific
God-given gifts, talents and abilities, and (b) a road-map from God on
how to utilize those gifts, talents and abilities to succeed and excel
in life. It’s called your God-given vision. Hear me clearly on this next
vital point… once a person puts (a) and (b) together and gets busy about
bringing that vision to pass, the color of their skin, their present
lack of education, negative credit rating, lack of funds, unpleasant
living conditions, nor racism, can stop them from fulfilling the vision
of God for their life! That’s what I want people to learn.
BMIA.com: Did you
always want to write or did other circumstances bring you to this time
and place?
GTM: I
started writing poetry when I was just a kid. It just came naturally. By
the time I reached high school people were paying me to write poetry for
their wives and girlfriends. Things took off from there and the rest is
history!
BMIA.com:How would you describe your relationship with God?
GTM: Marked
by obedience, transparent, up close and personal. I purposefully live my
life so that I can look in the mirror every morning and not have to
regret the decisions that I made the previous day. So many valuable
Black male leaders and critically needed Black male role models have
lost their credibility and clout and given up their voice in the
community, church and government. All because of a moment of
indiscretion. That is not a criticism. It’s just a statement of fact.
This is a clarion call for all Black men to stand up in the face of
racism. “Man up,” in the face life’s pressures and adverse media
scrutiny and be men of integrity, honor and godly character. When you
understand the principles to Mastering Manhood and what God put in you,
you won’t crack under pressure.
BMIA.com:What’s the hardest part of being Gillis Triplett?
GTM: I have
been training men for about 12 years. I have ministered to men in jails,
spoke in schools, taught at mandatory court enforced programs and held
men’s seminars and workshops, and I can say without reservation that the
hardest part of being Gillis Triplett is seeing the mass number of
mentally strong intelligent Black men who are meandering manhood instead
of Mastering Manhood.
BMIA.com: What’s
the easiest part of being Gillis Triplett?
GTM: The
easiest part is knowing that God has gifted and enabled me to empower
Black men and show them the way of life.
BMIA.com: Did you
have any mentors? If so, what role did they play in your personal
and/or professional development?
GTM: I have
been blessed to have a strong group of mentors in my life. Each man
instilled in me a critical facet of manhood. My father taught me how to
“Man Up,” in the midst of life’s pressures. As a child I watched my dad
like hawk and not once did I see him crack under pressure. When the
circumstances were insurmountable and spelled sure defeat, he’d get
before the Lord in prayer, at times, all night long. But we always came
out victorious! My father also taught me the critical value of having a
disciplined work ethic and how be a man of unwavering commitment. From
Dr. Myles Monroe I learned the
unquenchable power of knowing your God-given purpose. From Dr. Frederick K.C. Price, I learned
the principles of walking by faith and from Bishop Charles E. Blake; I learned the importance of
extending mercy to others. Every Black man must have a team of wise
godly men in his life to help guide him through the challenges, pitfalls
and roadblocks of being a Black man in America.
BMIA.com:In your opinion what’s the biggest challenge facing black men in
America?
GTM: The
biggest challenge facing black men in America is the current lack of
true Black male role models. I emphasize true Black male role models
because unfortunately, many Black males are participating in subverting
our men from true manhood. For example, in April of 2004, I was asked to
speak to a group of 16-year-old boys, (about 200) at one of the
largest high schools in Atlanta, Georgia. These teenage boys had been
indoctrinated by other Black males to believe that manhood is about: (a)
constantly grabbing your crotch/genital area in public, (b)
communicating in unintelligible street slang, (c) having numerous sex
partners, (d) cutting a rap CD, and (e) being a thug, player, baller or
shot caller. They were just sophomores but already they had been
persuaded by their subversive mentors to sneer at education, laugh at
proper enunciation, view incarceration as a badge of honor, despise
authority, demoralize Black women, mock marriage and derail fatherhood.
Once we raise up a mass number of Black men who understand true manhood
and who refuse to allow other Black men to be subverted from manhood, we
will have affectively dealt with one of the greatest challenges facing
Black men in America… a lack of true Black male role models.
BMIA.com:
Growing up, what was your earliest or most vivid recollection of being
different?
GTM: I was
about 15-years of age and one night I had a dream that forever changed
my life. I had a book in my hand and I was speaking to a large group of
people who were obviously immersed in what I was saying. I remember
telling some friends and relatives about that dream, but everyone just
laughed. Twenty-seven years later, I’m standing in front of audiences
and congregations delivering vital life-changing words of wisdom, faith,
salvation and healing.
BMIA.com:
Did you learn anything as a result of writing your books? If so, what
did you learn.
GTM: First
and foremost, I learned that an ordinary man such as myself could
accomplish extraordinary things. I started with nothing. No money. No
help. No publishing skills or experience and no publishing contacts or
contracts. All I had was a God-given vision and a will to see it come to
pass. Today, I regularly receive e-mails, letters and phone calls from
men and women whose lives have been positively impacted by articles and
books I have written. Had I focused on the circumstances at that time, I
would have thrown the towel in. Had I given up, countless men and women
would never know how to find and fulfill their God-given vision.
BMIA.com: How can
people reading this article support your ministries?
GTM: I
believe in the law of sowing and reaping. Log on to our ministry
website:
www.Gillistriplett.com and partake of the numerous teaching
articles, books and other resources. Give us the opportunity to sow into
your life. Then, if the ministry the Lord has entrusted me with has been
a blessing to you, by all means reciprocate by sowing a financial seed.
You will be empowered to prosper! Finally, you may be called to join us,
to assist us in fulfilling this monumental vision. If so, contact our
offices and let us know what you sense in your heart.
BMIA.com: What
advice would you give to someone who aspires to serve?
GTM: Before
committing to any area of ministry, first, get to know God’s voice
explicitly. This step protects you from being led by the flesh, whether
it is yours or someone else’s. Secondly, clearly define your giftings,
callings and abilities. This step protects you from delving into areas
of ministry you were not equipped to be in. No training in the world can
aptly prepare a person to pastor a church if they weren’t born with the
giftings of a pastor from their mother’s womb. Thirdly, fully know your
God-given purpose. This step insures that you stay on track for God’s
glorious plans for your life. The last step is: don’t get caught up into
the current day hype of religious titles, degrees and licenses to
preach. Titles, seminary degrees and licenses are impressive. But they
don’t heal the sick, restore families, break curses or empower Believers
to prosper. It takes an anointing and gifting from God to accomplish
those feats. Not taking these four steps is the primary reason so many
ministers are spiritually ineffective. They obtained or received
licenses to preach, ordinations, ministry certifications and Bible
College or seminary degrees, only to realize they were not called or
equipped by God for that office. Essentially, they were ordained and
appointed by man, but not by God! To learn the five-fold secret to
clearly hearing God’s voice and to learn your God-given purpose, log on
to my website at: www.Gillistriplett.com God
bless!
Left to
Right: Chris Cokley, Gary Johnson and Aaron Blake
Authors
Christopher J. Cokley and Aaron M. Blake
Folks, there’s a book out that’s shaking up
the relationship world. The name of the book is “Why Can’t You See Me? Good Men Do Exist!
Authors Christopher J. Cokley and Aaron M. Blake, have written a book that
has just the right amount of data to spark intelligent conversations about
the relationships between black men and women.
Now you can learn about the myths of dating and
have a halfway decent chance of finding success in the relationship world.
No matter how much experience you have in relationships, or how much of a
“player” you think you are, there is something of value to be gained by
reading this book. This book will help you have healthier relationships and
hold you accountable for doing so. In short, this book is not about
blame—it’s about change.
Chris and Aaron just
flat out “tell it like it is” when it comes to myths. They’ve been friends
since grade school. When you talk to them one-on-one and you read their
body language it is clear that their words and body language are congruent.
When you read their interview, many of their answers are “joint answers.”
Although they’ve had different relationship experiences, their collective
advice to others is pretty much the same.
I recently had dinner with Aaron and Chris at the
Everlasting Life Health Complex
when they came through Washington, D.C., while promoting their book. In
fact, they enlightened the entire
Black Men In America.com team. Our dinner
table slowly evolved into a relationship forum that soon included the owner
of the facility and few of the patrons.
With all of the recent hype and media attention
about black men being on the “D.L.” and all of the other negative portrayals
about the way we supposedly live, it is refreshing to see two brothers who
are out here “telling it like it is.” Chris and Aaron are not sugar coating
anything. They are giving us a balance view of the relationship world in
our community based on their research and personal life experiences.
This book is not rocket science. It is written
from a perspective that almost all of us can understand. Simply stated,
Christopher Cokley and Aaron Blake are sharing what good
black men are experiencing in relationships in hopes that all of us can grow
and learn to have meaningful interactions with each other. The concept is
simple, however, the solution requires honest and hard work, as it is more
complex. Despite that reality, the book gives you a strategy and a clear
sense of hope that all of us can manage our relationships better. If we can
manage our relationships better, then “model” the appropriate behavior in
front of our children. This is how you start to rebuild aspects of our
community.
It is with great pleasure that I introduce
brothers Christopher Cokley and Aaron Blake. Remember their names, these
brothers are something special.
Gary Johnson -- Founder &
Publisher, Black Men In America.com
The Cokley - Blake
Interview
Click On Photo To
Enlarge
BMIA.com:
Your book is hot! It is different in that it is practical, easy to
understand and fact based. What were the circumstances that caused you to
write a book that reflects what a lot of us guys have been thinking and
saying about relationships for years?
Chris-
I’m a man that has always wanted to be married with children. After my
first marriage failed I didn’t believe it would take long to find love
again, only to find myself dating for the past eight years. I have found
one of three recurring themes, women who found it impossible to believe that
a good man without children, who is not gay still exist. Women who have
been hurt and abused by their ex-boyfriends, but they still love them so
their dating to pass the time until the ex gets their acts together. Or
women who feel that all men are dogs and should be used for money and sexual
pleasure only. They were all willing to have sex, but not willing to fall
in love. Although their mouths said they were interested in marriage, their
actions said, “I’ll never trust you. I’m never getting hurt again. I don’t
need you. I’m going to use you before you use me.” This left me with one of
two options, give up hope and play the dating games that are destroying love
or do something to bridge the gap in communication and restore the hope of
love and marriage in the African American community. After talking to so
many men that felt the same way, I chose the latter.
Aaron-
I’m a brother that believes in love, believes in romance and
especially believes in family. You would think that with so many single
women in the world it would be easy to find someone to share those things
with. After continually running into challenges, issues and drama I had a
choice to make. Be part of the problem or be part of the solution. I chose
the latter. I wanted to write a book that could really help people and
represent what was truly going on in the dating game from the male
perspective.
BMIA.com:
Tell us about your background. What were you doing before you became
authors?
Chris–
I was a Vice-President and Financial Analyst for 17 years with one of the
largest financial service companies in the world.
Aaron– I was in the financial services field
specializing in mortgages.
BMIA.com:
What qualifies you guys to write about relationships?
Chris
– I’ve spent 12 years dating, 8 years married and 17 years in the homes of
thousands of married, single and cohabitating individuals discussing love,
life and family so I could help them achieve their financial goals. I
taught them about money and they taught me what to do and what not to do to
have a successful family life. Add a lot of research, interviews and you
have this book.
Aaron– I feel that experience is
the best teacher and I am trying to share what I have learned.
BMIA.com:
What do you want people to “get” or learn as a result from reading your
book?
Chris:
- Understand there are a lot of good men out there that want to be in love,
married and building strong families. We believe this is what our community
needs most. In order to make this happen we need our women to have
standards and faith.
BMIA.com:
Why should people buy your book?
Because it gives a voice to
good men and insight to good women allowing us to get on the same page,
communicate, let go of the past and grow together. Hopefully it will help
you open your minds and hearts to each other again. Began to have
conversations between black men and women about what it’s going to take for
us to rebuild our families and communities.
BMIA.com:
What are some of the myths about black men that negatively affect their
relationships?
Chris and Aaron:
They’re all either in jail, gay, cheating, married or single and can’t be
trusted. They only want sex and successful women intimidate them. Although
these things may be true in some cases, the percentage of bad men is smaller
than women think.
BMIA.com:
A lot of men who visit
Black Men In America.com complain that many
of the black women in their lives have too much of an “attitude.” Some of
these men claim that white women don’t have an “attitude” and are more
supporting of them as men. What have you learned about this in your
research?
Chris and Aaron:
Yes our research found that a lot of men
feel that way. The reason why is because 100% of black women have had at
least one bad experience with a black man and 72% of black women have been
told something negative about black men by one or both of their parents. Do
we need to mention the negative stories our women share with each other? So
the attitude is real, while women of other cultures having no history come
to the table with an open mind and a clean slate prepared to risk it all for
love.
BMIA.com:
How has the hip-hop culture changed the practice of dating?
Chris and Aaron:
The talent of our young men and women opened our community to a world
audience. The world not only got to see the best but also the worst of our
culture. The worst being our personal relationships and we suffer from
material deprivation. The business world took this as an opportunity to get
rich and began to exploit our weaknesses with adult entertainment, designer
cloths, diamonds and cars. This has changed what many black men and women
want and expect from each other in relationships and life.
BMIA.com:
Let me preface this question by informing you that this will sound crude. A
common complaint by women is that the only thing brothas want is the pussy.
Many men complain that there are quite a few sistas who are gold diggers and
only want a man for his money. What does your research say about this?
Chris and Aaron:
We have found these feelings to be prevalent in our research as well. The
reason why is because good men and women have reduced their dating to a
minimum, leaving the dating scene saturated by the players, pimps and gold
diggers giving the appearance every time you go out that these are the
desires of the masses.
BMIA.com:
What qualities do women want in a man?
Chris and Aaron:
We would have to say that nobody knows for sure. When asked they say things
like honesty and spirituality, yet so many are attracted to the bad boys of
our culture who don’t posses either. Most women admit they don’t have a
list of what they want and they claim not to need a man at all.
BMIA.com:
Based on your research, what do men want in a woman?
Chris and Aaron:
There are eight primary things that men told us they want in a wife. The
four that is necessary to start a committed relationship are (The four Fs –
food preparation skills, fun to be around,
financiallyresponsible, fantasticsexually). You must read the
book to understand them all. It’s deeper than it sounds.
Chris and Aaron:
Look for a woman that is conscious of the need for a man in her and her
children’s life. A woman not afraid of change. A woman that has faith. A
woman with the ability to trust. A woman that is passionate about you and
the relationship because true passion cannot be faked.
BMIA.com:
What are the main ingredients of a successful and long lasting
relationship?
Chris and Aaron:
In the book we talk about ten secrets of a successful marriage and family
life. Things like love, respect, and communication etc… The ten
ingredients in the book are time tested, a must read.
BMIA.com:
It seems that many folks put too much emphasis on the “hook-up” and don’t
pay enough attention to getting to know the person as a person. How do you
respond to that?
Chris and Aaron:
We absolutely agree that people are putting more emphasis on being in a
relationship than getting to know the person they are hooking-up with.
Communication has become somewhat of a lost art. It only takes a few things
to bring us together but a lot of things will keep you together and only
through communication can you find out what those things are before you end
up in a situation instead of a relationship.
BMIA.com:
How much of a factor is race in relationships? Is the “forbidden fruit”
theory across racial lines fact or fiction?
Chris and Aaron:
Race is becoming less
and less of a factor as people struggle with the search for someone to share
his or her lives. The forbidden fruit theory once was fact, but today
appears to be more fiction.
BMIA.com:
How much of a factor is sex in a healthy relationship?
Chris and Aaron:
Well that depends on the stage of the relationship. In a marriage it is
extremely important and just as important to sexually active people that are
dating. If you choose to be celibate then date someone that has made the
decision on his or her own to practice the same lifestyle. Sexual
dissatisfaction is ranking right next to financial problems as the number
one cause of relationships failing.
BMIA.com:
Are there any secrets to the love game?
Chris and Aaron:
First off, we must stop viewing love as a game. Nor is love a disease you
catch or a blessing bestowed on you by God. No, there are no secrets. Love
is a decision you make after a process of getting to know someone that
reveals you’re evenly yoked and compatible. If you mess up the process you
will make the wrong decision and find yourself loving the wrong person. Who
and how you love and live are what will determine your happiness and
blessings.
BMIA.com:
What is the one thing men should know or do to have a healthy and fulfilling
relationship?
Chris and Aaron:
Know what you want! When you find her be consistent throughout the
courtship and the marriage. What it takes to get her it will take to keep
her happy.
BMIA.com:
What is the one thing women should know or do to have a healthy and
fulfilling relationship?
Chris and Aaron:
Know what you want! When he finds you, trust and believe in him throughout
the dating process and this will lead to marriage. Men truly want a
helpmate not a challenge.
BMIA.com:
What is the greatest challenge facing black men in America?
Chris and Aaron:
Life without our women believing in us. The family is the foundation of any
strong community as individuals we all loose.
BMIA.com:
Does the business side of being an author get in the way of your research
and creativity?
Chris and Aaron:
When working on your first book the answer is no, you should stay focused on
producing a great product and once it is complete, then focus on learning
the business side before you get published. If you began to work on your
second book while promoting the first one the answer becomes yes. You must
work hard at striking a balance between business and creativity.
BMIA.com:
What advice would you give to new or aspiring writers?
Chris and Aaron:
We would advice them to find a mentor and write about something that both
you and your target readers can identify with. They must develop a tough
skin and never, never quit!
BMIA.com:
What’s next for you guys?
Chris and Aaron:
We are going to take our book and seminar across the country, evangelizing
the message that good men do exist. Also that marriage and family are the
answers to the problems that plague our community. We are starting the Love
Life and Family Foundation, which will help provide support to struggling
intact families in our communities. We are also working on a Stage Play
loosely based on the book. We’re developing a DVD of the seminar for house
parties to invoke some positive dialogue between good men and women.
BMIA.com:
How can we support you?
Chris and Aaron:
By continuing to do exactly what you’re doing, helping us to get this word
out. Black
Men In America.com has continued to be a vehicle of support and
communication, your leadership and enthusiasm is refreshing and inspiring,
thank you. We are also looking for corporate sponsorship for our tour so
that we can take this message to as many cities as possible. Last, but not
least we encourage everyone to purchase and read the book and attend the
seminar.
Editor's Note: If you would like to purchase a copy of Chris and
Aaron's book
click here.
You can also see more
of Chris and Aaron in our Celebrity Photo Gallery.
Click here to go there now.
A Visit With Funny Man Vic Christian
By Gary Johnson,
Black Men In America.com
I
first met Vic Christian in Memphis, TN, at the Black Writers Conference.
Christian was supporting his friend author S. James Guitard. Christian is
rapidly becoming one of the most talked about comedians in the country. His
politically charged brand of humor is delivered with laid-back energy and a
no nonsense style. After spending a few moments with Vic Christian you begin
to learn that he's not your average stand up comic.
Christian entered the world of comedy on a dare by his friends at the age of
20. A year later, he had his first professional gig and earned $20.00.
Inspired by Richard Pryor, Eddie Murphy, George Carlin and Dennis Miller,
Christian has been featured on “Comedy Central”
and Black Entertainment Television’s “Comic
View”. He’s also appeared on UPN’s hilariously funny half-hour
sitcom, “The Parkers” and Second
City’s “New Faces Showcase.” Christian
also delivered a red hot, explosive and funny performance on the nationally
syndicated radio show “Russ Parr with Olivia
Fox”.
Having experienced some success, Christian is quick to point out the
comedians who created opportunities for him and helped him develop his
craft. He readily acknowledges support from Ken Reeves, T-Rex, Mike
Washington, and the Fat Doctor.
Knowing that comedy is a rough business, I asked Christian to recall his
worst and best moments as a comedian. His reply:
“My worst moment as a comedian was losing Comedian of The Year in 1989. My
best moment as a comedian was winning Comedian of The Year in 2001.”
Christian is multidimensional in that he also acts and does impressions.
Christian aspires to be the best performer and highest paid actor in the
world. His film credits include “Along Came a
Spider” and “The Enemy Within.”
Christian's wide range of impressions include some of some of today’s most
notable personalities such as Bill Clinton, boxer Mike Tyson and actor Sean
Connery.
While many comedians come from dysfunctional backgrounds, Christian doesn’t
like talking about it and does not describe his background as
dysfunctional. He does admit that growing up “there were a lot of hard times.”
According to Christian, he’s funny because he doesn’t take the world as
serious as the grown-ups told him. Vic would like to star in a sitcom and
explore the depths of his creativity. Christian showcased his talent
opening for “Kings of Comedy” royalty &
comedic actor, “Cedric The Entertainer”,
as well as the infamous John Witherspoon (“You got to coordinate”). His
political views coupled with his street corner savvy keeps his audiences
constantly in stitches. Christian will talk about any politician or
situation that makes headlines. He’s been known to deliver sidesplitting
material on President Bush and Osama Bin Laden. Christian’s all time
favorite political figure is former president Bill Clinton.
Clearly on the road to success, Christian has graced the stage in some of
the top comedy clubs nationwide; grabbing the microphone at Philadelphia’s
Laughhouse, the Laffapolusa and Caroline’s in New York City. He’s also an
Improv favorite in Washington, DC. His wildly popular performances have
also been showcased at the Laugh Factory and the Improv in Los Angeles, CA.
As
Vic’s talent continues to gain exposure nationwide, so will his unique brand
of humor. When I asked Vic: “Who makes you laugh?” He replied:
“It’s tough to make me laugh, but if I had to
choose, I would select Mike Washington and Todd (T-Rexx) Rexx. They both
have different styles. One is very smooth and calm, while the other is high
energy all the way through. However, both guys have one thing in common.
They don’t take the world as seriously as they were told.”
Remember the name
Vic Christian, he's headed for great things.
Click On Photo To Enlarge
Mike McKoy
Mike McKoy Proves That
Clean Comedy Can Be Funny Comedy
About a month ago a few
of us at Black Men In America.com received VIP tickets to a comedy show. We
went to the club, sat at the front row of tables, and enjoyed a show
featuring 8 comedians. Before the show started, the Master of Ceremonies
announced that we were about to enjoy a “clean” comedy show—a lineup that
consisted of clean and Christian comedians. From start to finish, we
laughed hard and we laughed often. By the end of the show, it was pointed
out that we didn’t hear one curse or profane word or phrase. This was my
first “clean” comedy show and clearly everyone had a great time.
After the show I thought
about comedian Vyck Cooley, a comedian I interviewed about two years ago.
His manager, Mike McKoy, facilitated that interview. Coincidentally, Mike
called me a few days later to update me on his business and to let me know
that he had a new comedian named Darian Perkins on his talent roster.
McKoy has a new company
called FullBlown Entertainment (FBE),
a company that specializes in delivering different types of comedy featuring
two styles--Improv and Stand Up. What makes FBE different than most, is
that McKoy's stand up stable highlights clean, Christian comedy. That’s
right. Clean comedy. Comedy that is profanity free. Comedy that you can
sit through and enjoy with your family. No matter the occasion, McKoy says that
FullBlown Entertainment
has the comic to fit your needs.
Located in the ATL
(Atlanta, Georgia),FullBlown has a talent base
that appeals to a variety of cultures. Each of their comedians have cable
television experience and specialize in providing high quality comedians for
corporate, nightclub, or Christian venues.
I recently caught up with
Mike McKoy to feature him and not the comedians that he
represents. McKoy is truly a "behind the scenes" kind of guy who would
prefer to shine the spotlight on his talent roster. He's also the kind
of guy that I like to feature on this web site--an ordinary man, doing
extraordinary things.
Comedians Darian Perkins
and Vyck Cooley
The Mike McKoy Interview
BMIA.com: How
did you get into the entertainment business?
Mike McKoy: By mistake, actually; I
really wasn’t interested in it. My friend Vyck Cooley wanted to make his
way into the comedy world as a clean comedian on a full time basis. Vyck
had a manager at the time, but the guy was sent away to Kuwait, which kind
of made it difficult for Vyck to be represented properly. After that Vyck
asked me to help call some people and schedule shows.
Trust is a really big
thing in this type of business. Vyck and I have been close friends for over
a decade now, but I was really skeptical since I had no idea how I could
help him. I just couldn’t understand why he wanted my help.
Reluctantly, I went to a
couple of gigs that Vyck had and all of these people were really hot to get
him booked. All they wanted to know from me was “how much and when is he
available?” After I booked my first show I felt really good about the fact I
played in it all. It just wasn’t as hard as I thought.
BMIA.com: What
is your background?
Mike McKoy:
My
background is pretty rough and diverse. I went to NC A&T University in 1994
and UNC Greensboro in 1997-98. I was always somewhat independent. I
graduated from high school 1 year early at 17 and almost immediately moved
out on my own. Soon after, I found it to be extremely difficult to support
a car, apartment, school, and pay bills while working at a grocery store.
So like others my age I turned to other ways of making money. Some were
legal. Some weren’t.
I was definitely a
different person at that time. I was heavy into women, partying, and doing
whatever it took to get by. My priorities as a teen and young adult were
really messed up. If there was alcohol at a party I drank the most of it.
If people were looking for other things they could find it through me.
Being intimidating in character was a survival skill that I tried to
perfect. And all of this before I was even 19. I’ve matured drastically
since then. You know what is amazing? I’ve still have a lot of growing left
to do.
Things changed for me in
1996. Things were so bad my only option was to join the military. I was
pretty arrogant then and Uncle Sam taught me how to stay out of trouble.
Returning home it was like I just learned to read. I had a marketable job
skill, a tiny bit of discipline, and options. Options were something I
never had before then. Ever since I’ve wanted more than the day to day life
that comes with being streetwise and living from paycheck to paycheck. It
was like I wanted to know everything. I know I felt like I could do
anything.
BMIA.com: Tell
us about FullBlown Entertainment (FBE).
Mike McKoy:
FullBlown Entertainment is a clean and Christian comedian agency. It
started as a spin off of Creator Productions, with pretty much the same
business plan except I’m not a manager in title anymore and I work with more
then one comedian. FBE is my brainchild. Clients contact us with a need
for exceptional talent and we deliver. Right now we specialize in
corporate, Improv, and stand up comedy. All of our comics have television
experience. No amateurs here. Visit the
website and see for yourself.
BMIA.com: What
makes FBE different from other firms?
Mike McKoy:
Two
things really. FullBlown doesn’t sign artists exclusively. No comedian is
bound to us for anymore then one show at a time. That means the artists are
free to perform or practice their art anywhere. Most companies don’t work
that way. Also every artist has a say in how they are marketed. That’s
another thing other companies don’t do. Every new concept for promotional
media gets review by the artists before it’s sent of to print. That way the
artists don’t have to worry about their reputation.
The second thing is the
family atmosphere. There is a passion in this for me. It’s not just
another way to make money. There is a sense of accomplishment I can’t
describe at the end of each show. It’s different from working your average
9 to 5 corporate job. For instance there is a fund raising show coming up
where Vyck will headline the event to build schools in war torn Liberia.
Just thinking about that makes me feel good. Not only am I doing something
I love, but also there are people out there, people I’ve never even met that
will be better for it.
BMIA.com:
There are some brilliant comedians in the business. Who are some of the
comedians that make you laugh?
Mike McKoy:
Of
course first I’m going to mention my closest friend Vyck Cooley and Darian
Perkins. Still I’ve got to mention those that inspired us all. Cedric the
Entertainer is my modern favorite; but who could forget Redd Foxx or Richard
Pryor? Those guys made a life telling jokes about their lives. It’s easy
to see their influence in stand up routines of all comedians; Christian,
clean, and secular. Really I could name them all day. D. L. Hughley, Rickey
Smiley, Robin Harris, Chocolate, Jonathon Slocum, Small Frie, Sommore, Adele
Givens, etc. Whenever I go to an open mic it’s easy to see the new comics
trying to imitate their style.
BMIA.com:What’s your position on the use of gratuitous profanity by
entertainers?
Mike McKoy:
From
a spiritual point of view I don’t think it’s necessary; however, I don’t
down anyone for cursing. I think that when a person uses profanity they
show pain and frustration. It tells others you’ve lost control of the
situation. It’s not a way to deliver a message and when celebrities curse
it’s almost like they’ve put an “ok” license on it. The public responds and
repeats the things that my comedians and other comedians say for long
periods of time. Ask anyone. You can memorize a funny joke in an instant,
but it takes longer to commit a song to memory. Plus jokes never get old and
songs do. So wouldn’t we want people to remember positive stuff? Artists
that don’t curse have a wider audience then those that do. They can take
their art pretty much anywhere. So why limit yourself?
BMIA.com: Do
you find your talent or does your talent find you?
Mike McKoy:
Depends on the situation, I’ve been at shows and open-mics and have seen
people that were just so talented that I had to talk to them. Then there
are others that contact me through e-mail and of course by phone. Atlanta
itself is a beautiful place to live because there is so much talent here.
BMIA.com: What
do you look for in a talent?
Mike McKoy:
First
I look to see if their heart is really in it. Seriously, I look for the
motivated people. There’s a great deal of talented people out there but a
number of them aren’t serious about anything except “right now” or “how can
I get over”. Some people just dream about the “glory” side of entertainment
and fall apart when the real trials begin. True, we are a family and we’ll
motivate each other but I can’t lead anyone by the hand. They have to pull
their share and that has to come mostly from within. If a person gives me
50% while I’m giving 100% then they are taking from me and everyone else. So
don’t come at me like that.
Any prospective comedian
should have already taken the time to invest in himself or herself. I’m
looking for the package. Professionally edited video, audio, and bios. I
need acts that are witty, take initiative and adapt quickly. If you can’t
adapt you just won’t last long.
BMIA.com: Tell
us about your current roster of talent.
Mike McKoy:
Currently I have two comedians that I work with on a full time basis: Darian
Perkins and Vyck Cooley. Both are the most innovative clean comedians I
know and both have a deep Christian background. I really couldn’t ask for
more. Not only are they talented from a business point of view, but also
they are both trustworthy. That’s very hard to find in this business.
As far as their styles, I
find Darian to have a very laid back type of delivery. He’s extremely
passive and his jokes tend to sneak up on you. It’s almost like experiencing
humor in a crescendo experience. First he makes you relate, then you
visualize and by the end of it you’re in stitches.
Vyck has a more in your
face style. He’s very aggressive. Mix Bernie Mack, Richard Pryor, and Eddie
Murphy, & Della Reese
in Petri dish and the baby will be Vyck Cooley. Everything he does is
visual. He can make a prop out of anything and uses his body, the mic, and
the stage a part of the delivery. It’s an experience.
BMIA.com: What
separates your talent from the other comedians on the circuit?
Mike McKoy:
My
talent always has a spiritual background. We’re clean and not only do we say
positive things, but we reflect those things in our lives. The business
part just makes everything fun. And all of my talent has a vote in things.
It’s really like being a member of an extended family. If new comedians are
brought on we all sit down and review their material before deciding to add
them to the roster or consider them for a show. It allows us to decide
collectively whether someone will represent us as a family. Not just
themselves. If something goes wrong with the new guy it’s “our” fault and
not just mine. Once any one of our comedians has done a show, we’re
confident that the client can trust any FullBlown act to satisfy their
audience.
BMIA.com: What
advice do you have for someone looking to make a career as a comedian?
Mike McKoy:
Open
Mics, open mics, and more open mics! Find a good premise. A premise is the
topic you want to talk about. It’s the idea behind the joke. Develop about
ten to fifteen minutes of material within a live audience atmosphere. Watch
how the crowd reacts to your material and realize you’re in control of
them. If they don’t react they way you want to it doesn’t mean you’re not
funny. It just means you need to adjust the delivery. It’s also good to
have someone video tape it and critique you. It’ll help develop stage
presence as well as fine tune your material.
A good ten to fifteen
minutes of material is all that’s needed to become the opening act for any
paid comedy show. Once you’ve mastered ten minutes begin to expand your
show. Take it slow. God is more rotisserie then microwave.
If you need the services
of Mike McKoy and FullBlown Entertainment, please click here to visit
his web
site.
