thepulseofentertainment_logo_enlarge.jpg

The Pulse of Entertainment 2014 Archives

Home | Column | Broadcast | Calendar | Guest Writers | Archives | FAQ | About Us/Media | Dr. Eunice Moseley | Freelance Associates | Webinars | Merchandise | Contact Us

January 3, 2014
‘The Pulse of Entertainment’ 2013 in review, garners double readership
  By Eunice Moseley 

   LThePulseofEntertainment_2013InReview.jpgooking back on interviews and event coverage for my syndicated column, The Pulse of Entertainment, for 2013 I see that I garnered double the readership numbers for its website www.ThePulseofEntertainment.com. The year began with 30,000 hits a week and ends with over 60,000. As always when I look back on the year I am astounded at the interviewees and the hard-to-get-in events I was blessed to partake in.

   Highlights of the year starts with my favorite interviews that include former BET president Reggie Hudlin about co-producing the film Django Unchained starring Jamie Foxx; rapper/actor Common about his starring role in LUV; multi-Grammy winning Mary J. Blige, who I interviewed twice in 2013, for her role in Betty & Coretta - where she played Dr. Betty Shabazz -  as well has her role in Black Nativity (I also interviewed Tyrese, Angela Bassett and Forest Whitaker); comedian/actor Katt Williams on his role in Scary Movie 5; Jeff Clanagan (Codeblack Films) about his partnership with Lionsgate to produce films and the success of producing comedian/actor Kevin Hart’s film/comedy ventures; record label executive Kevin Liles (Warner Bros Records) about his charitable event brought to my hometown of Baltimore that benefited young disadvantaged students; Arsenio Hall about the return of his late night talk show, “The Arsenio Hall Show,” on CBS;  Sheryl Lee Ralphs (original Dreamgirl) about her life’s coverage on TV One’s “Life After”; Queen Latifah, whom I interviewed twice in 2013, about her new talk show “The Queen Latifah Show” executive produced by Will and Jada Smith’s Overbrook Entertainment, Sony Pictures and her company Flavor Unit;  Terry Crews about his first voice-over role in Sony Picture’s Cloudy 2; Tom Hanks about his starring role in Columbia Pictures’ Captain Phillips; Neicy Nash about her starring role in the TV Land sitcom “The Soul Man” staring and produced by Cedric The Entertainment; Cedric The Entertainer about his new hosting job on ABC’s “Who Wants To Be A Millionaire,” TV One’s Roland S. Martin about his new daily news show; playwright and film producer David E. Talbert about his Fox Searchlight film Baggage Claim, and American Music Award winning Rock star Lenny Kravitz about his role in the Lionsgate film The Hunger Games: Catching Fire and designing Queen Latifah’s talk show stage called “Big Sexy”.

   My favorite reviews - some with interviews and some without - include the 19th Annual SAG Awards; Keith Sweats book “Make It Last Forever” which came with an interview;  Charlie Wilson’s album “Love, Charlie,” which came with an interview; Chante Moore’s “Moore is More” album release, with interview; the film 42 about the life of Jackie Robinson; Pain & Gain starring Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Mark Wahlberg and Anthony Mackie another true story about fitness center extortionists; Disney’s Frozen; the performance of multi-platinum selling Dru Hill in my hometown of Baltimore at Rams Head Live; the BET Awards, the film White House Down starring Jamie Foxx and Channing Tatum; the Gracie Awards; the true drama Fruitvale Station starring Michael B. Jordan; multi-platinum selling Marques Houston’s “Famous” album, with interview, as well as his a review of his album release private concert; TriStar’s Elysium starring Matt Damon; R&B singer Mack Wilds, also known as Trishan Wilds (Red Wings), on his debut R&B/Hip-Hop album “New York: A Love Story;” Sony Picture’s Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2; 14-time Grammy winner Ricky Skaggs’ “Ricky Skaggs and Bruce Hornsby Live” album release; Lionsgate’s The Hunger Games: Catching Fire; Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom, and Jonathan Butler’s “Merry Christmas To You,” with interview.

   As the New Year begins my calendar shows up-coming coverage of the NAACP’s 45th Image Awards, Disney/ABC’s press tour - a presentation of the 2014 program schedule, and the 20th Annual SAG Awards. Learn more about The Pulse of Entertainment and where it is published at www.ThePulseofEntertainment.com, and me - Eunice Moseley - also a public relations strategist and business management consultant at www.FrelanceAssociatesInc.com.

New York native Elease Donovan stars in Oxygen’s ‘Bad Girls All-Star Battle’ premiering January 7, 2014

eleasedonovan.jpg   “I never had someone to purposely push my buttons,” said reality star Elease Donovan about her role in the Oxygen reality show “Bad Girl’s Club,” which is premiering the “Bad Girls All-Star Battle” Tuesday, January 7, 2014 at 8/7c. “It made me stronger. It’s a tough show and some leave early. I learned a lot on my first show. It took me out of my aliment…taught me how the world really is.”

   Donovan, a model and swim wear designer, said when she was first approached during season one she felt the show wasn’t for her.

   “I was still in school and I wanted to graduate,” Elease pointed out about the reality show created by Jonathan Murray for Oxygen. “By season two I was working on my third swim wear collection and not much was going on.”

   Launched in 2006 “Bad Girls Club,” a reality show about aggressive, quarrelsome and unruly women where the contest is to see who can last the longest until the last day premiered its 12th season in July of 2013. On January 7th the Oxygen Network premiers the 3rd season of the “Bad Girls All-Star Battle.” The franchise has had five spin-offs - “Bad Girls Road Trip” (2007); “Love Games: Bad Girls Need Love Too” (2010); Bad Girls Tanisha Gets Married” (2012); Bad Girls: Flo Gets Married” (2011), and “Bad Girls All-Star Battle” (2014) - where the winner gets $100,000.

   Born in Kingston, Jamaica and currently based in Miami, Florida Elease Donovan has appeared on the cover of such magazine’s as “Blackmen Magazine,” “The Pulse,” “7 News,” and “FCM.” Learn more about the “Bad Girls Club” franchise, which also airs in Australia on MTV, the Netherlands and in Sweden, at www.Bad-Girls-Club.Oxygen.com.

 (Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment – she is also a Public Relations/Business Management consultant and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Event: Baltimore "Uplifting Minds II" one day national entertainment conference (seminar panel & talent competition) at Security Square Mall Sat. April 19, 2014. www.FreelanceAssociatesInc.com, www.ThePulseofEntertainment.com, www.UpliftingMinds2.com).

January 10, 2014

Bounce TV premieres second season of ‘Off the Chain’ hosted by Rodney Perry January 14, 2014
  
By Eunice Moseley 

RodneyPerry_orange.jpg   “I saw there was something missing from comedy,” comedian/actor Rodney Perry (Madea’s Big Happy Family) said about taking on the task of hosting Bounce TV’s second season of their stand-up comedy series “Off the Chain” featuring the best in black comedians. “Comedy shows have been over produced.”

   Perry said hosts of comedy shows are over scripted as well. He hopes to depend on his talent for improve as host of “Off The Chain,” which premieres Tuesday, January 14, 2014 at 9:00 p.m. EST. This first season of the Bounce TV comedy show had Rodney as one of the comedians presented.

   “The show had a life already,” Perry pointed out his role in the show. “They were looking to revamp what the show was…because of my set and how I conducted myself…they asked me. I had clear visions because I have been on everything. As I saw it there was something missing from comedy shows. We added improve as part of the show. No one knows what is going to happy.”

   A Chicago native Perry’s first job was as a writer/warm-up guy for Kym Whitley’s show “Oh Drama” on BET. Doors started to open for him and he had the opportunity to perform as opening act for Cedric the Entertainer, Steve Harvey, Mo’Nique and George Lopez. He was also co-host on “The Mo’Nique Show.”

   Rodney acting credits also include a role in the Johnson Family Vacation (2004). As a stand-up comedian his credits include “Who’s Got Joke’s” as the man on the street (2006 – 2008) and in “Cut ‘N It Up: Dallas” and “Cut ‘N It Up: Chicago” DVD releases of live performances.

   “Career changing performances will be on the show,” Rodney said in a serious tone. “It gives people a chance to make it, to feed their family. That’s what it’s all about. I hope it builds my personal brand. To be at the helm is the greatest. It’s good for comedy. It continues what Martin Lawrence… Cedric the Entertainer left us.”

   Bounce TV’s “Off the Chain” hosted by Rodney Perry airs Tuesday, January 14th at 9 p.m. EST. Visit www.BounceTV.com OR www.RodneyPerry.com for more information.

Dayo Okeniyi co-stars in Lionsgate’s The Spectacular Now, to be released January 14, 2014 on DVD and Blu-ray

DayoOkeniyi_stairs.jpg   Known for his role in The Hunger Games (2012) as Thresh, Dayo Okeniyi is now taking on the role of Marcus in the Lionsgate Home Entertainment coming of age film The Spectacular Now. His co-starring role has him as part of a high school scene which follows Sutter Keely, played by Miles Teller (21 and Over), as his life is changed unexpectedly when he falls in love with a “good girl” Aimee Finecky, played by Shailene Woodley (The Descendants).

   “I play Marcus West, a goodie-two-shoe guy in high school that is great at everything,” Okeniyi said about his role. “I am a bit of a control freak and dating Teller’s character’s ex, so we are not the best of friends.”

   Dayo, who will be starring in Ben Affleck’s film Runner Runner, said the script for The Spectacular Now has been floating around in Hollywood for a long time.

   “It was very difficult to get it made,” said Dayo, a Nigerian native. “So they decided to make it independently. It was a minor role…but I felt I could do it well.”

   Other co-stars include Brie Larson (21 Jump Street), Bob Odenkirk (“Breaking Bad”), Jennifer Jason Leigh (“Weeds”) and Kyle Chandler (“Friday Night Lights”). The Spectacular Now has a bit of humor mixed with romance and drama. It is directed by James Ponsoldt (Smashed), and written by Scott Neustadlker and Michael H. Webber (Days of Summer)

 (Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment – she is also a Public Relations/Business Management consultant and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Event: Baltimore "Uplifting Minds II" one day national entertainment conference (seminar panel & talent competition) at Security Square Mall Sat. April 19, 2014. www.FreelanceAssociatesInc.com, www.ThePulseofEntertainment.com, www.UpliftingMinds2.com). 

Janurary 17, 2014

America’s Got Talent’ auditions arrive at the Baltimore Convention Center January 30, 2014
  
By Eunice Moseley 

JasonRaff_NBCProducer_chair.jpg

   ‘It was Simon’s idea, a variety show,” said Jason Raff, executive producer of America’s Got Talent which auditions for season nine arrives in Baltimore at the Convention Center Thursday, January 30, 2014.  “It’s a little like the Gong Show. It’s the only show where anyone can make it. It’s a family show. There is always something unique. We have singers, magicians, ventriloquist… some things you have never seen.”

   Jason’s Furry Prawn Productions company produces “America’s Got Talent,” hosted by Nick Cannon (TeenNick Chairman) and judges include Howie Mandel, Howard Stern, Melanie Brown, and Heidi Klum. The new season of “America’s Got Talent” airs in the summer of 2014 on NBC.

   “Nick brings everything,” Jason said about the show’s host, since 2009, when asked. “He has the hardest job…acts come out with hopes and dreams, and then get three Xs…he get’s them coming back.”

   Raff said just being on the show changes lives.

   “You be on television with 10 million people watching,” he pointed out. “How many professional performers want that?”

   There will be three months of auditions across the country.

   To Baltimore Jason says, “Come down and meet us…auditioning is a good experience.”

   Jason’s production company has produced such shows as Dateline (2000-2003), “Will & Grace” (2006), “Three Wishes” (2005), “Momma’s Boys” (2008 – 1009), and the documentary “Siegfried & Roy: The Miracle.”

   The show garnered a 2014 People’s Choice Award and it prides itself on showcasing unique, cutting edge talent.

   “If it’s entertaining and unique we want to see,” Raff concluded.

   The winner of “America’s Got Talent” receives a million dollars and a career launch from the exposure. You can pre-register to audition at www.AGTAuditions.com.

The NAACP Image Awards nomination are led by BET, RCA and The Weinstein Company, airs live February 22, 2014 on TV One

JoeMorton_NAACPImageAwardsNomineeAnnouncements.JPG   The 45th NAACP Image Awards nominations were recently announced during a TV One panel at the TCA (Television Critics Association) Winter 2014 Press Tour in Pasadena, California. The panel, prior to the announcements, was for TV One’s programming such as its “Unsung Hollywood” series where iconic actors such as Pam Grier, who was on the panel, lives are highlighted.

   “TV One is in its 10th year in 57 million homes and it is the home of “Unsung” and “Unsung Hollywood,” “Love That Girl,” “The Rickey Smiley Show,” “R&B Diva’s ATL” and its spin-off “R&B Divas LA,” and “News One Now” with Roland Martin,” said Alfred Liggins, President and CEO of TV One. “We are in partnership with the NAACP Image Awards to air the show live for the next five years.”

   “When TV One came to me with a proposal,” said Leonard James, Chairman of the NAACP Image Awards Committee. “I was impressed with how they embraced our music…I said if they can do that for me…I’d be grateful.” 

    The NAACP Image Awards nominees were announced by David Oyelowo (The Butler), Keke Palmer (“CrazySexyCool”), Joe Morton (“Scandal”), and Gina Torres (“Suits”). BET received a total of 19 nominations and CBS received 16 for the television categories. In the recording category RCA led the nominations with 10 and in the motion picture category The Weinstein Company received 17 nominations, followed by Fox Searchlight Pictures with seven.

   “The Image Awards is a major fundraiser,” said James. “The funds are used all year round for different programs.  It celebrates artistic achievements.  In 2014 it represents the 100th anniversary of the Negro Improvement Association founded by Marcus Garvey, the 60th anniversary of Brown VS the Board of Education making segregation illegal, and the year Martin Luther King, Jr received the Noble Peace Prize. The NAACP is the oldest civil rights organization.”

   Some nominees that I hope will win include  TV Land’s “The Soul Man;” Cedric the Entertainer for “The Soul Man’” Nick Cannon and Kevin Hart for “Real Husbands of Hollywood;” Brandy Norwood for “The Game;” LL Cool J for “NCIS: Los Angeles;” Regina King “SouthLAnd;” Eric I. Keys, II for “Live, Life and Win!;” Justin Timberlake for “Outstand Male Artist;” Mariah Carey featuring Miguel for “Beautiful;” Boney James for “The Beat,” and Charlie Wilson for “Love, Charlie.”

   The 45th NAACP Image Awards will air live Saturday, February 22, 2014 on TV One at 9 p.m. ET. It will have an hour long Red Carpet Pre-Show at 8 p.m. ET. For the full list of nominees visit www.NAACPImageAwards.net.

 (Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment – she is also a Public Relations/Business consultant and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Event: Baltimore "Uplifting Minds II" one day national entertainment conference (seminar panel & talent competition) at Security Square Mall Sat. April 19, 2014. www.FreelanceAssociatesInc.comwww.ThePulseofEntertainment.comwww.UpliftingMinds2.com).

January 24, 2014

 

Lisa Gay Hamilton co-stars in Jake Goldberger’s’ drama Life of a King, starring Cuba Gooding, Jr.
  
By Eunice Moseley 

 LisaGayeHamilton2.jpg

   Film director Jake Goldberger’s Life of a King starring Cuba Gooding, Jr. as Eugene Brown an ex-con using the game of chess to help inner city youth with the concept of making the right choice is in theaters now. Rated PG-13 Life of a King also stars Malcolm Mays, Richard T. Jones, Paula Jai Parker and Carlton Byrd.

   “I think people will be moved,” said Lisa Gay Hamilton, who co-stars in the dramatic film as high school principle Sheila King. “Jake offered the role to me and I was pleased to get it. She is principle of the school. It’s an inner city school in DC. She is dedicated, full of integrity and fair.”

   Hamilton said the film is loosely based on the life of Eugene who spent 18 years in jail for bank robbery. While there, through the game of chess, he learned many lessons he then, upon release, tried to introduce to inner city youth in his Washington, DC neighborhood.

   “The film brings out how everyone tries to do the best with the budget it has,” Lisa pointed out about the public school system’s portrayal. “On a national level it’s to get kids to…think constructively. That’s the message.”

   Life of a King is an Animus/Serena/Steak Haus Production distributed by Millennium Entertainment. Other co-stars include Dennis Haysbert, Kevin Hendricks, Pepi Sonuga, Jordan Calloway, and Rachae Thomas.

   “My hope is that more and more will go to college and get the tools… get that exposure,” Lisa Gay said about what inner city kids and young actors can take from the film. “Come to stage and theater. Some kids have a notion it’s all about fame and money, and that doesn’t exist.”

   Life of a King was released to selected theaters January 17, 2014.

   Lisa Gay Hamilton credits include Beloved, Clint Eastwood’s True Crime, The Soloist, “Men of a Certain Age,” “All My Children,” “Grey’s Anatomy,” “SouthLAnd,” and “The Practice.”

   Learn more about the film at www.LifeOfAKing-Movie.com.

ABC announces 2014 programming, “Resurrection” starring Omar Epps added

resurrection.jpg   I went to support the Disney/ABC Television Group 2014 Winter Press Tour (TCA) session when they announced their new and recurring programs. ABC Family Network president Tom Aseheim gave the welcome and ABC Entertainment Group’s president Paul Lee was on hand for a Q and A session about the programs.

   ABC Family brings back “The Fosters” starring Teri Polo (Meet the Parents) and Sherri Saum (“Rescue Me”) for a second season which premiered January 13, 2013 - it airs on Mondays at 9 p.m. ET/PT.  ABC introduced a new series “The Black Box” starring Kelly Reilly (Flight) as Dr. Catherine Black a neuroscientist, to premiere April 24th at 10 p.m. ET.

   ABC brings back for a third season “Suburgatory” starring Jeremy Sisto as George Altman (“Six Feet Under”) a single father from New York trying to make it in the suburbs, it premiered January 15th and airs on Wednesdays at 8:30 p.m. ET/PT. ABC will premiere a new series “Mind Games” starring Christian Slater (“The West Wing”) as Ross and Steve Zahn (“Treme”) as Clark, two brothers that sell psychological manipulation as a business - it premiers February 25th at 10 p.m. ET.

   ABC’s reality show “Nashville” returns for a second season with Connie Britton. ABC’s “Mixology,” executive produced by Ryan Seacrest, will be a new comedy series about one night with a group of people at a bar. “Mixology” premieres February 26th replacing “Super Fun Night” - to air on Wednesdays at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT.

   It also announced a new dramatic series “Resurrection” starring Omar Epps (“House”) as J. Martin Bellamy a stranger with a hard-to-believe message for Henry Langston played by Kurtwood Smith (“The 70s Show”) and Lucille Langston played by Frances Fisher (Titanic) that their son thought died - Jacob Langston played by Landon Gimenez – for almost 32 years has been found alive, but he is still at the same age.

   “Resurrection” will premiere Sunday, March 9th at 9 p.m. ET/PT.

   “J. is in it for the long hall, he is committed to the boy,” said Omar Epps, a multi-NAACP Image Awards winner, about his role in the dramatic series. Epps is known for his recurring role as Dr. Eric Foreman in the Fox Network series “House”. “The town as a whole is committed. You discover that in the first season.”

   “It’s based on a book called “The Return,” said Michele Fazekas co-executive producer of the series. “That book was the start off point. A lot of the characters in the book are not in the show. It’s a continuing story line…there are goals but its continuing.”

   “Eventually, you open up to the possibility,” Epps pointed out about the message of the supernatural/science fiction/fantasy series.

   The author of “The Return” is Jason Mott who is also a co-executive producer on the show, along with Brad Pitt. Mott and Pitt, along with co-executive producer Aaron Zelman developed the series.

   Learn more about ABC’s 2014 programming at www.ABC.Go.com/shows.

 (Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment – she is also a Public Relations/Business consultant and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Event: Baltimore "Uplifting Minds II" one day national entertainment conference (seminar panel & talent competition) at Security Square Mall Sat. April 19, 2014. www.FreelanceAssociatesInc.comwww.ThePulseofEntertainment.comwww.UpliftingMinds2.com).

 

January 31, 2014

ASCAP’s 2014 Grammy Nominee Brunch attracts heavy hitters in entertainment

By Eunice Moseley 

ASCAPGrammyBrunch2014_KellyPrice.jpg    “I have six of them, I’m so blessed, “said DJ Camper, music producer. “I have ‘R&B Song of the Year’ from Tamar Braxton…’Best Rap Album’ from Jay Z. Tamara Braxton has 3 or 4 of them…I also got Chrisette Michele.”

    A stream of high-profile entertainers, producers and songwriters - that are members of ASCAP (The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers) - graced the red carpet arrivals for their 2014 Grammy Nominee Brunch held recently at the SLS Hotel in Los Angeles.

   While there covering the red carpet arrivals I had a chance to talk to many of them such as music producer DJ Camper who garnered an astounding six nominations for projects he worked on for Jay Z, J Cole, Tamar Braxton, John Legend and Chrisette Michele. Some heavy hitters that stopped by the red carpet for photo opportunities included Jermaine Dupree, Sharon Osbourne and husband Ozzy Osbourne (and members of his group Black Sabbath - Geezer Butler and Toni Loomi).

   ASCAP’s Grammy Nominee Brunch is a major event held the week of the Grammy Awards that supports and honors that year’s nominees.

   “This year we received a nomination for ‘Best R&B Album’ for the original ‘R&B Divas’ cast from Atlanta,” said seven-time Grammy Award nominee Kelly Price about the 2014 nomination she was there on the red carpet representing. “All proceeds went to the Whitney Houston Performing Arts School…the entire case from the first season, plus me and Fantasia are on the album.”

   Nominees and ASCAP members I had the chance to either interview or take pictures of included music producer/DJ Rebel, Country songwriter Deric Ruttan for Blake Shelton’s “Mine Would Be You” for “Best Country Song”; Goapele, Ne-yo, and movie director Sheldon Candis (LUV).

   To learn more about ASCAP and how it can help you reach the next level as an artist, producer or songwriter log onto www.ASCAP.com

Ne-yo’s 6th Annual Grammy Midnight Brunch gets a visit for Will Smith and Kevin Hart

Neyo_GrammyMidnightBrunch_KevinHart.jpg   Las Vegas native singer, songwriter, producer, dancer and actor Ne-yo (Shaffer Smith) held his 6th Annual Grammy Midnight Brunch, honoring the Grammy Award nominees, attracted the support of many of the entertainment industry’s top-notch performances such as Will Smith and Kevin Hart. While there covering the red carpet arrivals I had a chance to interview or either take photographs of Hart, Ne-yo, Scottish group Downtown Drive (Compound Entertainment), actress/singer Antonique Smith (Notorious), singer and executive producer of “R&B Divas Los Angeles” Nicci Gilbert; singer/actor Quincy Brown (We The Party); Nathan Morris (Boyz II Men), Salaam Remi (Sony Music’s VP of A&R), Sevyn Streeter, Trina Braxton (“Braxton Family Values”), and Marsha Ambrosius.

   “Young artists coming up you can do it for you now,” said Marsha Ambrosius (formerly of Floetry) whose song writing credits include Michael Jackson’s “Butterflies,” Angie Stone’s “My Man;” Kelis’ “Circus;” Alicia Keys’ “Go Ahead;” and Jazmine Sullivan’s “Music (All I Need).” “You have access to the Internet and social media…your own empire.”

   Ne-yo is a three-time Grammy Award winner, as well as a two-time BET Award and MTV Video Music Award Japan winner. As an actor his credits - under his real name Shaffer Smith - include Red Tails, Save the Last Dance 2, Stomp the Yard, Battle: Los Angeles and “CSI: New York.” He contributed songs to the projects of Mary J. Blige, Christina Millian, Teedra Moses, Faith Evans and Musiq.

   Ne-yo wrote Mario’s hit song “Let Me Love You,” which resulted in a contract with Def Jam records when Jay Z was head executive.

   Ne-yo and Compound Entertainment’s 6th Annual Grammy Midnight Brunch was sponsored by Malibu Red. You can log onto www.NeyoTheGentleman.com or www.CompoundEnt.com for more information about Ne-yo and his artists.

 (Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment – she is also a Public Relations/Business consultant and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Event: Baltimore "Uplifting Minds II" one day national entertainment conference (seminar panel & talent competition) at Security Square Mall Sat. April 19, 2014. www.FreelanceAssociatesInc.comwww.ThePulseofEntertainment.comwww.UpliftingMinds2.com).

February 7, 2014

The Monuments Men, a fresh twist to the art of war, stars George Clooney and Matt Damon

By Eunice Moseley 

themonumentsmen.jpg

Columbia Pictures in association with Fox 2000 Pictures presents The Monuments Men. The comedy/drama is loosely based on the true story of a group of American men who came together to save the priceless art history of the Jewish people. Written, directed, produced and starring George Clooney, The Monuments Men is based on a book by Robert M. Edsel with Bret Witter.

The exciting tale follows a group of art historians and architects going to the frontlines during World War II to save and retrieve as many historically significant pieces of art as they could. Hitler was a well known frustrated artist and his evil Nazi take-over of the Jewish wealth and people was coming to an end, his last order was to destroy all art work, monuments and anything of historical value of the Jewish people.

So it begins the journey of a group of Americans as they presented a plan to President Roosevelt who authorizes the hand picking of museum curators, architects, scholars, educators and artists to volunteer for military service to protect the world’s art treasures.

The Monuments Men also stars Matt Damon, Bill Murray, John Goodman, Jean Dujardin, Bob Balaban, Hugh Bonneville and Cate Blanchett. The Rated PG Smokehouse production has Grant Heslov co-producing with Clooney, and they both share screenwriting credits with Robert M. Edsel and Bret Witter.

Edsel wrote such New York Best-Selling books as ‘The Monuments Men: Allied Heroes,” “Rescuing Da Vinci,” “Nazi Thieves and the Greatest Treasure Hunt in History” and “Saving Italy: The Race to Rescue a Nation’s Treasures from the Nazis.” He is also the founder and president of The Monuments Men Foundation for the Preservation of Art, which has received the National Humanities Medal, the highest honor given in the United States for work in the Humanities.

The real Monuments Men at the end of the war amounted to about a dozen, but those whose characters are touch on in the film include Lt. George Stout, a well known art restorer; Second Lt. James J. Rorimear, a world famous museum curator; Captain Walker Hancock, a well known American sculptor; Captain Robert Posey, an architecture with a family rooted in the military; Private Lincoln Kirstein, a cultural Impresario who later co-founded the New York City Ballet, and Private Harry Ettlinger, a German-born American-Jew serving in the Army.

The Monuments Men, which was executive producer by Barbara A. Hall, will arrive in theaters February 7, 2014. Log onto www.MonumentsMen.com for the official movie trailer or for more information.

NBC’s ‘America’s Got Talent’ auditions end in Los Angeles February 8 - 9, 2014, premiers this summer

HeidiKlum.jpg“I want to be surprised,” said NBC’s “America’s Got Talent” judge Heidi Klum (“Project Runway,” Victoria’s Secret Angel) about the talent she will be voting on for the 9th season of “America’s Got Talent,” hosted by entertainment mogul Nick Cannon (TeenNick Network). “It would have to be something I haven’t seen before. Would I buy a ticket? Would I go watch a whole show? Did I stand up and clap?”

Heidi said the show will go through about 40 people a day, “People come on and can sing, but I say, ‘yea, but they have no star quality.’ You can see when someone has it.”

Klum is a German native who is a well known dancer, fashion model and designer. She is a judge on “Project Runway,” which received an Emmy Award win in 2013, and she spent 13 years as a Victoria Secret Angel (model).

“America’s Got Talent” is executive produced by Jason Raff (“Dateline,” “Siegfried & Roy: The Miracle”) and has received a 2014 People’s Choice Award win. Other judges this new season, which premiers this summer, include Howie Mandel, Howard Stern and Melanie Brown.

“Some singers give me the chills…some I fall in love with their stories and hope they can sing,” she points out when asked what is the “it” quality she spoke about. “You see ‘it’ and say ‘that’s it!’ I been in the industry for 20 years…I’ve watched so many concerts…traveled the world… was a dancer for 15 years…it’s not something you can predict.”

For more information on Heidi Klum or the “America’s Got Talent” auditions log onto www.AGTAuditions.com and www.HeidiKlum.de.

Actor Eric I. Keyes says NAACP Image Award nom is a beautiful beginning

erickeyes_headshot.jpg“Live Life & Win!” is a half-hour syndicated young adult news and information show, hosted by actor Eric I Keyes (Disney), and it has received a 2014 NAACP Image Awards nomination for “Outstanding Performance in a Youth/Children’s Program (Series or Special).” The educational program highlights some very interesting and positive things happening in the communities of Los Angeles by young adults. In one episode you will find Eric learning how to ride a horse by a young adult Compton Cowboy. In another episode you will find him talking with Hill Harper,  a New York Best Selling author of several books that target young adult males, about his Manifest Your Destiny Foundation and its programs.

“It’s a beautiful beginning,” said Eric Keys about the NAACP Image Awards nomination, in the same category with nominations for Disney projects and Golden Globe winning Keke Palmer. “I hope I can advance myself as an actor and show host. I never want to stop learning… I want people to say I watched his performance and love it.”

“Live Life & Win!” is produced and distributed by Connection III Entertainment Corp.  Its owner, Cleveland O’Neal, is the creator and executive producer of the show, which airs in syndication on the Fox Network - reaching 91 million homes.

“The original concept was to bring to light young adults doing positive…things we are not seeing,” Keyes pointed out. “It has grown from there. Hill is very active with young adults. His foundation has kids go out and participate in activities…he introduces them to team work and how to trust in partners.”

Eric’s acting skills can be seen as the main character in the music video for Hip-Hop artists Flo-Rida’s “Wild Ones” and L.M.F.A.O.’s music video, as the lead dancer, in “Party Rock Anthem”. He is also prominent in McDonalds and Disney commercials.

Learn more about Eric and the NAACP Image Award nominated show, “Live Life & Win!,” by logging onto www.LiveLifeWin.com.                                                                                                                         

 (Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment – she is also a Public Relations/Business consultant and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Event: Baltimore "Uplifting Minds II" one day national entertainment conference (seminar panel & talent competition) at Security Square Mall Sat. April 19, 2014. www.FreelanceAssociatesInc.com, www.ThePulseofEntertainment.com, www.UpliftingMinds2.com). 

February 14, 2014

Charlie Wilson to receive the Spirit Award, performs Valentine’s weekend February 15, 2014 at Nokia Theatre at LA Live

By Eunice Moseley 

charliewilson_tie.jpg

“I am just amazed by the people coming forward to give me honors,” said Charlie Wilson, seven-time Grammy Award and three-time NAACP Image Award nominee, about being presented by Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti with the Spirit Award. “When I look back at who I was at 25…everything in God’s own way and time. I am so grateful…it came from God, the Most High.”

The Spirit of Los Angeles Award is given to Charlie because of his phenomenal music career, his spirit, and his ability to overcome his addictions and years of homelessness.

“I am not afraid to give God praise,” Wilson said frankly.

Charlie Wilson, who is still riding high on the success of his latest album release “Love Charlie,” is on tour and it arrives at the Nokia Theater at LA Live Valentine’s weekend on Saturday, February 15th

“We’re just going to have a good time,” he said when asked about his Valentine’s weekend show. “I’m blessed to go back to the stage with songs and a voice. So we’re going to have a lot of fun. We’re going to have a great party…that’s just what I do. I go hard every moment. That’s the only way to perform.”

Known by fellow entertainers as Uncle Charlie, the former lead vocalist of The Gap Band also garnered a 2013 BET Lifetime Achievement Award, a 2013 Trumpet Foundation Award, a 2009 Soul Train Icon Award and a 2005 BMI Icon Award. His “Love Charlie” tour also arrives the next day, Sunday, February 16th at the Paramount Theater in Oakland.

Learn more about Charlie Wilson and his current tour at www.CharlieWilsonMusic.com.

MGM/Columbia Pictures’ RoboCop is boss, in theaters now

robocop_michaelkwilliams2.jpgNarrated some-what by Samuel L. Jackson, a newsman following the saga of OmniCorps’ solution to crime in the Detroit area in the year 2028, the Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer and Columbia Pictures presentation of RoboCop is boss. No other action film has successfully used modern day technology to create realistic robotics. With this RoboCops’ slight twist to the original storyline and using technology of today, it makes it even more realistic.

To control the violence OmniCorp, the world’s leader in robot technology, uses an opportunity to make billions by combining their robotics technology with humans when Officer Alex Murphy - played by Joel Kinnaman - is injured by a car-bomb. With the permission of his wife, played by Abbie Cornish, RoboCop becomes the first OmniCorp robotic-human employed by the Detroit police force.

“It was my expertise in robotics,” said Dr. Ayanna Howard (Georgia Institute of Technology) about her involvement with the film. “They had me in as a scientific consultant. I was a consultant after the fact…they had scientific writers. My role was to watch it to see if it was possible, retroactive.”

Dr. Howard, who is currently working on building autonomous land rovers for Mars exploration, is a professor at the School of Electrical and Computer Engineers at Georgia Institute of Technology. She also worked for over 10 years at NASA in the Jet Propulsion Laboratory

“I worked for NASA…was designing intelligent robotics for them to work a long period of time,” Howard pointed out about her experiences.  “I work in healthcare robotics for children now. My dream is still to create the bionic woman…that’s why they asked me on the movie.”

Speaking on the reality of RoboCop after seeing the film - successfully merging technology with the human tissue - she said, “There are elements of reality. We could see in our life time where there are affordable components…the blending of robot components to the human.”

In Robocop it’s that blending that brings the drama to the Rated PG – 13 film which arrived in theaters February 12, 2014. OmniCorp wants more robot and Alex Murphy’s wife wants more human.

Jose’ Padilha is director on the Strike Entertainment production. Joshua Zeturmee and Edward Neumeier are the screenwriters, and Marc Abraham and Eric Newman are producers. Also starring in RoboCop is Gary Goldman, Omni Foundation head who scientifically created Robocop; Michael Keaton is the OmniCorp CEO; Michael K. Williams is Alex Murphy’s partner on the police force; Jackie Earle Haley is OmniCorp’s appointed trainer to RoboCop, and Marianne Jean-Baptiste is the Detroit Police Chief.

See the movie trailer at www.RoboCop.com.

Maryland native Tiffany Boone lands role on FOX’s hit series ‘The Following,’ airs on Mondays 9/8c

Tiffany_Boone2.jpgMaryland native Tiffany Boone lands a new role on the hit television series on the FOX Network, ‘The Following,’ which airs on Mondays at 9/8c. The dramatic thriller premiered January 26, 2014 and stars Golden Globe/Emmy nominee Kevin Bacon, Natalie Zea, James Purefoy, and Kyle Catlett.

“I play Mandy, a young girl that falls in with a cult,” said Tiffany Boone about her role on the psycho thriller that follows FBI Agent Ryan Hardy (Bacon) as he attempts to recapture serial killer Joe Carroll (Purefoy) who has surrounded himself with a group he has turned into a cult of fanatical killers. “She’s in a dark world and has to grow up fast.”

Boone’s character is catch up in the cult because of her need for a father figure, something she has never had. Tiffany resides in Los Angeles but is current living in New York where the series is being filmed.

“I started at eight,” Boone said about her acting career. “I went to the school of the arts. Headed out to California and attended the Institute of Art. Got a manager, got an agent. I went on lots of auditions…took small parts. I think we all have to pay our dues in the business. With me I just wanted to be on set, get the experience. Be it one word, I was learning. I appreciate the opportunity. With small roles it’s not as much pressure.”

Tiffany’s credits include the 2013 film Beautiful Creatures starring Viola Davis and Emma Thompson, and the comedy/horror film Detention in 2011.

“The Following” is created and executive produced by Kevin Williamson and a Outerbanks Entertainment production. Now in season two the hour long show airs every Monday at 9/8c.

 (Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment – she is also a Public Relations/Business consultant and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Event: Baltimore "Uplifting Minds II" one day national entertainment conference (seminar panel & talent competition) at Security Square Mall Sat. April 19, 2014. www.FreelanceAssociatesInc.com, www.ThePulseofEntertainment.com, www.UpliftingMinds2.com). 

February 21, 2014

Know the ‘Mind of a Man’ and win $10,000 on GSN’s game show hosted by DeRay Davis

By Eunice Moseley 

DeRayDavis_hootie.jpg

“We surveyed a100 men,” said comedian/actor DeRay Davis about the new game show he is hosting on the Game Show Network (GSN), “Mind of a Man.” “Seven correct answers you get $10,000.”

The new game show, “Mind of a Man,” has two women competing to see who knows best how a man thinks. It airs on GSN on Wednesdays at 8/7c. It premiered January 8, 2014 and has an unbelievable 40 episodes this season.

“More women are watching. We’re starting out with 40 episodes. In January we were the most successful game show of the month,” said Davis about the premiere month of the show. “I’m hosting as long as women and men are trying to figure each other out.”

The two women competing will have the help of a panel of special guest celebrities.

“I went in…I thought they wanted me to be a panelist because I say so much crazy stuff,” DeRay pointed out. “We have game show police. I can’t make eye contact. There’s a game show rule that I have nothing to do with picking contestants. A girl was disqualified for knowing me.”

The half-hour game show focuses on what men think about dating, marriage, working and all manners of manly pursuits. The panel is a mix of funny male and female celebrities giving their opinions about what men are thinking.

DeRay Davis, a Chicago native, is a stand-up comedian that, after a move to Los Angeles, won Comedy Central’s Laugh Riot competition. He then went on to tour with Cedric the Entertainer. Other appearances include BET’s “Comic View,” Nick Cannon’s “Wild ‘N Out,” Short Circuitz, and MTV’s “Hip-Hop Square.’

As an actor Davis credits include Johnson Family Vacation, Barber Shop and Barber Shop 2, Semi-Pro, 21 Jump Street, HBO’s “Entourage,” “Reno 911,” GI Joe: Retaliation, Jumping the Broom and Scary Movie 4.

Learn more about DeRay Davis at www.DeRayDavis.com and GSN’s “Mind of a Man” at www.GSN.com. 

The CinemaScore A- rated Baggage Claim comedy is now on DVD, Blu-ray and digital HD

BaggageClaim_PaulaPatton2.jpgThe Fox Searchlight distributed comedic film Baggage Claim starring Paula Patton, Adam Brody, Djimon Hounsou, Taye Diggs, Christina Milian, Jill Scott, Trey Songz, Lauren London, Boris Kodjoe, LaLa Anthony and Derek Luke, and directed and written by David E. Talbert, is now on DVD, Blu-ray and digital HD via 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment. Rated by CinemaScore with an A- Baggage Claim, released to theaters September 27, 2013, tripled its $8.5 million budget with box office revenue of over $22,500,000.

 The film follows flight attendant Montana Moore (Patton), who is smart and sexy, as she searches for someone to get engaged to before her younger sister Sheree’s (London) wedding. With the help of her fellow attendants Gail (Scott) and Sam (Brody) she ‘accidently’ meets her past loves again with a plan to pick one in 30 days.

“The character Gail was voluptuous, beautiful, uninhibited and funny,” said David E. Talbert, the films screenwriter and director, about Montana’s best friend. “When casting her (Jill Scott) agent called. I said I love your music but this character shows cleavage. She said, ‘I have cleavage’.”

Jill Scott’s cleavage is what you get a lot of in the film along with her great comedic timing and excellent acting ability.

“My box I put her in wasn’t the box she was in,” David added. “I had to hold her back!”

He also talked about when he casted Trey Songz and Tia Mowry-Hardrict.

“Trey Songz, I saw how so much fun he was,” Talbert said. “And Tia, she is so sweet…she came and wanted to play the crazed and deranged girlfriend.”

Baggage Claim is produced by David and Steven J. Wolfe. Known for his stage plays also Talbert’s credits include a television special documentary “Jamie Foxx: Unpredictable,” First Sunday starring Katt Williams, Ice Cube and Tracy Morgan; He Said…She Said…But What Does God Say (2004), Love in the Nick of Tyme, and The Fabric of a Man.

Also starring in the film are Rickey Smiley, Terrence Jenkins, Affion Crockett, and Jenifer Lewis. Learn more about Baggage Claim at www.FoxSearchLight.com/BaggageClaim and David E. Talbert at www.DavidETalbert.com. 

The 45th NAACP Image Awards’ two-hour special airs live on TV One Saturday, February 22, 2014 at 9/8c

McClainSisters.JPGThe 45th Annual NAACP Image Awards will air live on Saturday, February 22, 2014 on a new network, TV One, with a new producer Reggie Hudlin (Former BET President of Entertainment) for a two-hour special where nominees will gather to hear who the winners are. The NAACP Image Award, a major fundraiser, has held major red carpeted events where nominees have received the royal treatment at functions, and at a celebrity filled luncheon hosted by Roland Martin and Judge Lauren Lake.

The NAACP Image Awards will air on TV One at 9/8c this weekend; it’s a five year deal with the ten year old Radio One network that is subscribed by over 57 million homes. It’s the home of “The Rickey Smiley Show,” Roland Martin’s “News One Now,” “R&B Divas ATL” and its spin-off “R&B Divas LA,” and “Love That Girl.”

Some of my favorite artists, entertainment industry executives and shows that are nominated include Bill Duke’s “Dark Girls” (OWN); Debbie Allen and Chandra Wilson for their roles in “Grey’s Anatomy” (ABC); Ethan Dizon and Skylan Brooks representing for The Inevitable Defeat of Mister and Pete (Codeblack); Neicy Nash and Cedric the Entertainer for their roles in “The Soulman” (TV Land); Kevin Hart and Nick Cannon for their roles in “Real Husbands of Hollywood” (BET); Brandy Norwood in “The Game” (BET); LL Cool J in “NCIS: Los Angeles” (CBS); Regina King in “SouthLAnd” (TNT); Angela Bassett in ”Betty & Coretta” (Lifetime);  Tatyanna Ali in “The Young and the Restless” (CBS); “The Arsenio Hall Show” (syndicated/CBS); “The Queen Latifah Show” (syndicated/CBS); China Anne McClain (pictured with sisters - right) for her role in “A.N.T. Farm” (Disney); Eric I. Keys for his hosting role on “Live Life & Win!” (syndicated/Fox); Bruno Mars (Atlantic Records), Charlie Wilson (RCA Records), Justin Timberlake (RCA Records), Beyonce’ (Columbia Records), Mary J Blige (Verve/Interscope), 12 Years a Slave (Fox Searchlight); Fruitvale Station and Mandela Long Walk to Freedom (Weinstein); Michael B. Jordan (Fruitvale Station), and Chiwetel Ejiofor (12 Years a Slave).

“The challenging part was finding a place…transforming,” said young actor Skylan Brooks who played Mister in the Codeblack dramatic film The Inevitable Defeat of Mister & Pete. “George Tillman (director) told me I had to bring everything out…and I pulled it out.”

Another young actor, Eric I. Keyes, who hosts a young adult news show “Live Life & Win!” that’s syndicated and airs across the country on the Fox Network said about his nomination that being nominated, “…feels amazing. There are so many talented people. It’s really exciting.”

The NAACP Image Awards not only raises funds for its programs to run all year round, but it honors the talents of the up-and-coming artists providing them with the excitement they need to carry them through to being one of the accomplished that are also nominated.

The NAACP Image Awards is sponsored by UAW-Chrysler, FedEx, AT & T, Hyundai Motor America, Gilead Sciences, Wells Fargo, Ford Motor Company, PepsiCo, Southwest Airlines, Bank of America, Walgreens, Wal-Mart and General Motors. Tune into TV One Saturday, February 22nd at 9/8c to hear the winners and feel the excitement for yourself. Log onto www.NAACPImageAwards.net and www.TVOne.tv for more information.

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment – she is also a Public Relations/Business consultant and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Event: Baltimore "Uplifting Minds II" one day national entertainment conference (seminar panel & talent competition) at Security Square Mall Sat. April 19, 2014. www.FreelanceAssociatesInc.com, www.ThePulseofEntertainment.com, www.UpliftingMinds2.com). 

February 28, 2014

Universal’s Non-Stop starring Liam Neeson is action packed, in theaters February 28, 2014

By Eunice Moseley 

non_stop_liamneeson.jpg

 The newest Universal Pictures release, Non-Stop, starring Academy/Golden Globe Award nominee Liam Neeson (Darkman) is action packed as the entire film takes place on an international flight from New York to London. Neeson is Bill Marks a US Federal Air Marshall trying to stop a hijacking from an unknown source on the plane using text messages - the ransom is $150 million. Non-Stop is in theaters February 28, 2014 and is Rated PG – 13.

The mystery/thriller doesn’t disappoint for it is full of action and keeps the audience guessing as to whom on the plane is demanding ransom. The money is to be transferred into an account in Marks’ name and as a result TSA – and the media - has labeled him the hijacker. It is a race against time for if the ransom demand is not met someone is killed every 20 minutes. That is not the worst; later on he finds a bomb on the plane so the tasks become minimizing the blast and/or land the plane.

Assisting him in the investigation is his seating partner Jen Summers, played by Academy Award nominee/Golden Globe winner Julianne Moore (Game Change) and a stewardess Nancy, played by Golden Globe/Emmy Award nominated Michelle Dockery.

Directed by Jaume Collet-Serra and produced by Joel Silver, Alex Heineman, Steve Richards and Andrew Rona, Non-Stop also stars Academy/Golden Globe nominee Lupita Nyong’o (12 Years A Slave), Nate Parker, Corey Stoll, Omar Metwally, Scoot McNairy, Linus Roache, Shea Whigham, Anson Mount, Jason Butler Harner, Frank Deal, Bar Paly, Quinn McColgan and Corey Hawkins. The screenplay is written by John W. Richardson, Ryan Engle and Christopher Roach. 

Rock of Ages returns to the Warner Theatre March 2, 2014 for one night only, co-starring DC native Ashley McManus

ashleymcmanus.jpg“I auditioned twice,” said Ashley McManus (Dreamgirls, Hairspray) part of the cast of the Broadway musical Rock of Ages arriving at the Warner Theatre March 2, 2014 for one night (two shows) in her hometown of Washington, DC. “The first time I was contracted and on tour with Dreamgirls.”

The musical is produced by Phoenix Entertainment an international theatrical production and Management Company (The Color Purple, Gypsy). Ashley plays one of the main waitresses in the musical set in 1987 on the Los Angeles Sunset Strip. The play is about a small-town girl Sherry Christian, with big dreams that falls in love with a legendary Rock star, Drew Boley, while working at a Rock club. Rock of Ages is funny and has tons of feel-good music of hit songs by rockers Journey, Styx, REO Speedwagon, Foreigner, Pat Benatar, Twisted Sister and Whitesnake.

“She is a waitress in the bar and best friends with Sherry,” said Ashley about her role. “I enjoyed this role a lot more. In Dreamgirls I was not on stage a lot… I was back up.”

Rock of Ages is directed by Tony Award nominee Kristin Hanggi and choreographed by Kelly Devine. It is based on the book by Chris D’Arienzo with original arrangements by David Gibbs and orchestrations by Ethan Popp. Rock of Ages is the 31st longest running Broadway musical that features 28 classic Rock tunes that include some of my favorites “Don’t Stop Believing,” “We Built This City,” “Harden My Heart,” and “I Want To Know What Love Is.”

You can log onto www.WarnerTheatreDC.com for more information about the one-night only Rock of Ages musical show. 

Grammy winning Deniece Williams joins Dr. Beverly Crawford’s women empowerment team March 6 – 8, 2014 at the Hyatt Regency in Long Beach

deniecewilliams_chair.jpgGospel’s Dr. Beverly Crawford’s three-day Annual Women’s Empowerment Conference arrives at the Hyatt Regency in Long Beach, California March 6 – 8, 2014 with Grammy Award winning Deniece Williams as part of the empowerment team there to uplift and empower woman. The founder of Potter House, Crawford Ministries, the Enrichment Fellowship International Church in Inglewood and The Company International Dr. Crawford’s conference is in its third year.

“Deniece and I go back as friends and share a platform all the time,” said Dr. Crawford about how she arranged for the legendary singer to be on her empowerment panel. “We saw each other at a Tea event and I mentioned the conference. Deniece has such a powerful voice as a woman and her experiences through life.”

“It’s my first time at the women’s conference,” said Williams. “I’m going to sing, you can’t expect me to come and not sing. I hope the Lord gives me words of encouragement for the women. We need to be respectful and honor women.”

Beverly’s Company International is an organization that connects and supports women of all ages, cultures and backgrounds. This year’s theme at the conference is “Tree of Life.”

Deniece, known for her hits such as “I Surrender All,” “Silly,” and “Let’s Hear It For The Boys,” said she would like to encourage young women that lack the knowledge to be ladies, to show then how to be a lady.

Aside from Deniece Williams others on the 3rd Annual Women’s Empowerment Conference include Minister Jackie Gouche, best-selling author Victoria Christopher-Murray; Olympic Gold Medalist Pamela McGee; actress Alley Mills, Darlyn Turner, Zumba instructor Scheli Jones, Pastor Marguerite Reeves, herbalist Nina Collins, nutritionist Jayme Hirashiki and mental health advocate Dr. Lynn Goodloe.  

Bergman’s exclusive 6th Annual Valentine Romance Oscar Style Lounge & Party was overwhelmingly successful

LouisGossettJr.jpgThe Bergman Public Relations group held its 6th Annual Valentine Romance Oscar Style Lounge & Party at the world-renowned restaurant Fig & Oliver in West Hollywood with overwhelming success as Academy Award winner Gossett, Jr. surprised her with a visit. The exclusive event is to honor present/former Oscar nominees and winners, Oscar presenters and iconic Hollywood personalities with VIP treatment, meals, drinks and tons of gifts from the event’s sponsors.

The red carpet arrivals were practically all day long. While there I had a chance to see floating around Courtney B. Vance (TNT’s “The Closer”) and wife Golden Globe winner Angela Bassett (The Rosa Parks Story”); Eva La Rue (“CSI: Miami”); Bianca Santos (ABC’s “The Fosters”); Chase Masterson (Star Trek: Deep Space Nine”); Eric Roberts (“Runaway Train”); Joe Mantegna (“Criminal Minds”); Kate Flannery (“The Office”); Lou Ferrigno, Melanie Specht (“Transformers: Age of Extinction”); Richard Greico (“21 & 22 Jump Street”), Kevin Farley, Tommy Lee Davidson, and Williams Shatner (“Boston Legal”).

The annual event leads up to the 86th Academy Awards that airs Sunday, March 2, 2014 on ABC hosted by Ellen De Generes at 7 p.m. Some of the 6th Annual Valentine Romance Oscar Style Lounge & Party sponsors included Whitening Lightning, Nature’s Flavors, Natural Sodas, Ooh La Bra, Handmake Hearts by Hillel, Dr, Ava Cadell, the “Love Doctor,” Baron Hats, Waraire Boswell Executive Men’s Clothiers, Platinum Image, Services, MiA Bath & Body, “Serenade” by Virtusoso Violinist, Daniel D., Art by Dano, Slash Salon, La Curcio Skin Care Collection, GUESS, Twisted Silver, Perch, Honest Tea, Single Dress, Tequila Azula Imperial and Veved Ice Vodka.

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment – she is also a Public Relations/Business consultant and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Event: Baltimore "Uplifting Minds II" one day national entertainment conference (seminar panel & talent competition) at Security Square Mall Sat. April 19, 2014. www.FreelanceAssociatesInc.comwww.ThePulseofEntertainment.comwww.UpliftingMinds2.com).

March 7, 2014

Bob Sumner, ‘Def Comedy Jam’ co-creator launches ‘LAFF MOBB’s We Got Next’ on ASPIRE, airs Tuesday at 10 p.m. EST

By Eunice Moseley 

bobSumner.jpg

“It was time to rearrange the furniture, go back to old conventional style comedy,” said Bob Sumner co-creator of the highly successful HBO “Def Comedy Jam,” which helped to launch the careers of such comedians as Chris Tucker, Martin Lawrence and Joe Torry). “I was instrumental in the success of HBO’s “Def Comedy Jam”. We received a lot of criticism for the language. Comedy is not about four letter words it’s a point of view.”

On February 18, 2014 Bob Sumner launch a new comedy series for up-coming comics on ASPIRE network which airs on Tuesdays at 10 p.m. EST titled “LAFF MOBB’s We Got Next.”  Sumner on this show is highlighting clean comedy.

"I always speak on the difference in comics and comedians,” Bob pointed out. “Comics are in a box and comedians can go anyway.”

In picking clean comedians for the “LAFF MOBB’s We Got Next” Sumner said he chooses them as if it was a sports draft.

“I am always out on the road scouting…taking notes on what can work,” he said. “It’s easy to look at comedians live, tapes can be edited.”

Bob believes a good clean comedian is really a great story teller. He wants to take comedy back to the times of Ed Sullivan where the whole family can watch.

On the show Sumner is the host and is joined by Brely Evans (“Being Mary Jane”), Carlos Koustas (Bob’s “right hand man”), DJ Mike Smoove, and Red Grant (“First Sunday”) who debates on who’s next before a live audience.

Thirty-two comedians were chosen for the comedy showcase series and in episode two aired February 25th of “LAFF MOBB’s We Got Next” the four comedians hand picked by Sumner to be showcased were Reyna Amaya (California), Tony Baker (Michigan), Austin Hall (Washington, DC), and Kevin “Damn Fool” Simpson (Illinois).

Learn more about the show my logging into www.Aspire.tv. 

Brazilian actress Rebecca Da Costa stars in The Bag Man with Robert DeNiro, in theaters now

rebeccadacosta2.jpgBrazilian actress Rebecca Da Costa stars in the Cinedigm presentation of The Bag Man, a modern day crime thriller with Robert DeNiro, John Cusack and Crispin Glover. Rebecca plays Rivka an intriguing mysterious woman who seeks the help of a hit-man Jack is hired by mob boss Dragna (DeNiro) to retrieve a bag, but to not look inside. Just as he is about to deliver the bag to a backwater motel in the Delta Bayous he meets Rivka and the two partners up to escape the crime boss and survive a night of murderous havoc.

The Bag Man hit theaters February 28 and was written by David Grovic and Paul Conway and produced by A TinRes Entertainment. Rated R The Bag man will be on DVD via Universal Studios Home Entertainment.

“Rivka is Rebecca in Hebrew,” said Da Costa about her character. “She is very mischievous, sharp and always on. She has a since of humor…kicking ass, a driven character…she’s amazing.”

Rebecca said that the director David Grovic, also one of the writers, allowed her to influence how Rivka looks in the film.

“I was 5’11” at 13 so my mother signed me up in a modeling contest and I won,” Rebecca says about how she got into entertainment. While in high school she found a love for entertainment by participating in theater by starring, writing and directing. Her modeling career gave her the opportunity to travel the world modeling for L‘Oreal, Nokia and Yves Saint Laurent.

Currently a resident of Los Angeles Rebecca’s credits include HBO’s “Entourage,” “Free Runner,” “Mind Games,” and “7 Below” along side Val Kilmer and Ving Rhames. She recently ended filming on Breaking at the Edge starring with Milo Ventimiglia and Andie MacDowell.

For more information about Rebecca Da Costa follow her on Twitter at @BeccadaCOSTA and for more information about The Bag Man log onto www.TheBagManTheMovie.com. 

Africa meets America in the debut self-titled album of Offiong Bassey

offiongBassey2.jpg“This is my debut,” said Offiong Bassey (pronounced as it is spelled) a Nigerian-American R&B/Jazz/Gospel singer, songwriter and poet. “I have been a guest on other projects…this is mine. I have always been singing and writing music, always creating art. I felt it was something kind of unique I wanted to say. I have influences from across the world as who I am.”

The world-music influence is clearly heard in this album of 12 selections and refreshingly most of the songs perfectly combine the traditional African sound with the contemporary American sound. Executively produced by Bassey and produced by Blethy Emmanuel Tiegnon, “Offiong Bassey” is distributed on the Moonlit Media Group imprint.

“It’s been an interesting process,” she said about recording her debut. “To do it yourself…your standard of quality. I learned to be patient. It’s been a long road. My music…Jazz, Gospel, African…it’s a unified piece of work.”

"Offiong Bassey” debuted at #2 on the CMJ New World Music Chart and #4 on the SoulTracks Album Chart. Bassey has a nine-piece band and is a graduate of Yale.

My favorite cuts on the debut album includes “Edidem” for its pure African flavored sound; “Owo Iba Me Ita” another one with a great African flavor with a great message of love and outstanding horn support by Derek Friesen; “Conclusions” for its horn support again by Derek and her Spoken Word performance, and “Efik Praise Medley” again for the African flavored sound and again the horn support makes it a very powerful selection.

Learn more about Offiong Bassey by logging onto www.OffiongBassey.com or www.MoonLightMedia.com.

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment – she is also a Public Relations/Business consultant and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Event: Baltimore "Uplifting Minds II" free one day national entertainment conference (seminar panel & talent competition showcase) at Security Square Mall Sat. April 19, 2014. www.FreelanceAssociatesInc.comwww.ThePulseofEntertainment.comwww.UpliftingMinds2.com).

March 14, 2014

James Fortune and FIYA releases two-disk live album ‘Live Through It’

By Eunice Moseley 

jamesFortune_LiveThrougIt.jpg

Grammy Award nominated James Fortune & FIYA recently released their first Live album “Live Through It,” which debuted at #1 on Billboard’s Gospel Chart and #13 on Billboard’s Top 200 Chart. The project was recorded at a sold-out concert last year at Word of Faith Church in Atlanta. The album features Israel Houghton, Tasha Cobbs, Zacardi Cortez, Isaac Carree, Alexis Spight (“Sunday Best” finalist), Da T.R.U.T.H., Kirk Franklin, and Bishop Hezekiah Walker.

“For me as a writer I always have a song before I have an artist,” Fortune said about how he determines who to feature on his albums. “Alexis was on tour…she did four dates. I felt her…it was her worshipping. She inspired us to worship. She didn’t drive us to worship. I loved meeting her.”

James talked about recording live and how it helps you capture some of the moments. That for his songs a lot of the time it starts with a melody, but that he isn’t an instrumentalist. He admits also that sometimes God gives him the lyrics. “Live Through It” is his biggest seller.

“Everyone (featured) I know them. They are people who love God genuinely,” Fortune pointed out about his featured artists. “God sets it up. He gives me peace about it.”

James said he has a new artist feature on his “Forever” selection on the live “Live Through It” project that he wants us to watch out for.

“On the first single (title track) God gave to me,” he said. “To get through it you have to live through it…to understand. We all have storms we can make it through. Go through it, grow through it. He is allowing it to make you better.”

Fortune was blessed to produce and write the 2013 Shirley Caesar album, and he is inspiration on a nationally syndicated radio show, “The James Fortune Show.”

For more information on the new James Fortune & FIYA live project log onto www.JamesFortuneMusic.com. 

Grammy nominated Will Downing releases new album, ‘Euphoria,’ and cover single ‘Turn Off the Lights’

willdowning_hallway.jpg“I did one of Teddy’s.” Downing pointed out about covering the Pendergrass classic “Turn Out the Lights” for his newest album release “Euphoria.” “I can hear myself doing an interpretation. His is rough…I heard it a little smooth and jazzy.”

The new album was released March 11, 2014 independently on the Sophisticated Soul imprint. The Jazz/R&B vocalist with the deep sexy voice is a Grammy Award nominee for his “All The Man You Need” release. The “Euphoria” project follows his 2012 “Tomorrow” CD on the same label.

“It happens with certain songs,” he continued about including a cover of someone else’s song on his project. “If I can hear it in my head…and it hits me that way.”

Saxophonist Gerald Albright’s skills are featured on the Teddy remake “Turn Off the Lights.”

For more information on the Brooklyn native’s recent release log onto his website at www.WillDowning.com. 

Demetrius Grosse lands role on CINEMAX crime series ‘Banshee’, airs on Fridays 10 p.m.

demetriusGrosse.jpgHoward University graduate Demetrius Grosse, with the deep baritone voice, lands a prominent role on the CINEMAX crime series “Banshee.” From the creator of “True Blood,” “Banshee” also stars Anthony Starr as Lucas Hood an ex-con and master thief who assumed the identity of the sheriff of Banshee. Grosse’s character is Emmett Yawners a devout Christian deputy struggling to uncover the past of the new sheriff and his escapades with Anastasia (Carrie Hopewell).

“I was called into HBO and sat down,” said Demetrius about how he obtained the role. “She (casting director) invited me back to read for the role of the original script. It was more controversial subject matter. Then I was called back for the pilot. To be able to be part of the moral compass of the show is special since I’ve played so many villain characters.”

Grosse can also be seen in the Golden Globe nominated film Saving Mr. Banks, starring Emma Thompson, as a bartender. He is also widely recognized in the Emmy Award nominated FX drama “Justified” in a recurring role as Errol the loyal, right-hand man to criminal leader Ellstin Limehouse.

Also the owner of a men’s accessories line, Demetrius just wrapped up the USA pilot “Complications” a gritty medical drama starring Jason O’Mara and Jessica Szohr.

“The characteristic about Emmett is he is an inherently good guy,” said Grosse. “I’ve play a lot of villains and this presents me with a chance to change my persona as an actor. I feel proud to be this kind of image in a show this risqué.”      

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment – she is also a Public Relations/Business consultant and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Event: Baltimore "Uplifting Minds II" free one day national entertainment conference (seminar panel & talent competition showcase) at Security Square Mall Sat. April 19, 2014. www.FreelanceAssociatesInc.comwww.ThePulseofEntertainment.comwww.UpliftingMinds2.com).

March 21, 2014

Grammy nominated Ledisi stuns again with latest album release ‘The Truth’

By Eunice Moseley 

ledisi_reddress.jpg

“Everyone knows me singing ballads, I wanted to show another side of me,” said Grammy Award nominated Ledisi (Young) about her latest album release “The Truth” released March 11, 2014. “Everything is centered around me. I confess I love to dance and let go. This is a little bit more of me.”

Let go is exactly what she does on this album of 13 outstanding selections that will have you rocking the entire time. Executive produced by herself and the legendary Rex Rideout “The Truth” is released on the Verve/Universal Music imprint. Featured on the album, aside from the help of Rex, is songwriting wonder-boys Ivan Barias and Carvin Haggins, and the golden-touch songwriter Claude Kelly.

“I was transforming,” she pointed out about the obvious changes in her album tempo. “I was getting all these ballads. I said I want to be up-beat…I was going to dance class.”

 If you watch her perform live the first single off of “The Truth,” “I Blame You,” you can safely say she passed the dance class. Her last project “Pieces of Me” coincided with a book release, “Better Than Alright,” and when asked about another book release for this album the New Orleans native said, “I’m writing a book but kept having to put in on pause for this album…which started my career, but I’m still an author.”

The Ledisi “The Truth” Tour kicks of April 16, 2014 in Florida with the Robert Glasper Experience, and will reach my hometown of Baltimore May 4th This is the talented singer’s seventh album. Her skills even had her performing for the First Lady Michelle Obama’s 50th birthday; in fact she has performed at the White House so many times they need to give her, her own room.

Advice she gives my young readers that are aspiring artists is, “Enjoy who you are and embrace yourself.”

My favorite songs on “The Truth,” though the entire album could be released as singles, include the first single “I Blame You” because she shows how powerful her vocals can be; “Rock With You” because it has a sort of Moroccan feel; “Lose Control” because it slows the album down a little; “Anything” has support of the lead guitar which I love; “Mine” has a military style drum beat that I love; “Miss Doubt” has a nice beat as well and it took be back to old-school; “I Swear,” and “88 Boxes” a very cleverly written, deep and meaningful selection.

To learn more about Ledisi and “The Truth” album release log onto her website at www.Ledisi.com

Brian Culbertson re-releases his debut album and makes it a classic with ‘Another Long Night Out’

brianculbertson_anotherlongnightout2.jpg

Contemporary Jazz pianist Brian Culbertson re-released his 1994 debut album “Long Night Out” with a slight name change, “Another Long Night Out,” and production improvements that most surely will make it a classic. Amazing how some music is ageless, like the soulful spirits of some people. Culbertson’s new album release on BCM Entertainment certainly shows this to be true.

“I had been thinking about doing this for years, the remaking of the original for 20 years,” said the NAACP Image Award nominated instrumentalist, known as a pianist, but he also plays keyboards, trombone, drums, bass, trumpet, percussions and euphonium. “I thought the original was lacking in production. It was made by a 20 year old in the studio….with a drum machine.”

Well Brian went all out in the production department compared to what he was working with as a 20 years-old while at DePaul University recording demos in his bedroom. On “Another Long Night Out” he was working with real drums, a real piano and some of the best Jazz instrumentalist in the business, which includes Paul Jackson, Jr., Fourplay’s Chuck Loeb and Nathan East; Yellowjacket’s Jimmy Haslip and Will Kennedy; Ricky Lawson, Michael Thompson, Lenny Castro, Russ Freeman, Eric Marienthal, Candy Dulfer, and Toto’s Steve Lukather.

The Jazz/R&B/Funk Illinois native enlisted a 38-piece orchestra for the project most of which he said were inspirations throughout his career.

“Five years ago I got serious and started putting a list together,” he pointed out. “I had many people that inspired me. I’m bringing all that…I was limited. Didn’t have multi-tracks, I had six. On this, some songs have 200 tracks! I didn’t have a piano. I have the greatest on this. This is strictly Jazz…I had been doing Funk & R&B.”

Brian is also founder and artistic director of Brian Culbertson’s Napa Valley Jazz Getaway, a five-day festival of wine and Jazz in Napa, California that is slated for June 11 – 15, 2015.

Some of my favorites cuts on the “Another Long Night Out” album release include “Horizon” for it shows the essence of Jazz; “City Lights” has a nice and smooth feel; “Heroes of the Dawn” has a Jazz/Funk feel and I love the horn support; on “Beautiful” his piano skills are outstanding and the lead guitar is so sweet, and “Double Exposure” has a nice feel that had me wanting to do the Cha-Cha, and that lead guitar was actually screaming - I love when a guitar player does that.

“Another Long Night Out” is surely going to be a classic Brian Culbertson project. For more on him and his latest album release log onto the six-time Oasis Smooth Jazz Award winner’s website at www.BrianCulbertson.me.

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations/Business consultant at Freelance Associates, and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Event: "Uplifting Minds II" free one day entertainment conference (seminar panel & talent competition showcase) arrives in Baltimore at Security Square Mall Sat. April 19, 2014. www.FreelanceAssociatesInc.comwww.ThePulseofEntertainment.com
 
March 28, 2014
noah_RussellCrowe.jpg

Darron Aronofsky’s Noah, starring Russell Crowe, is an epic interpretation of the Biblical tale, in theaters March 28, 2014

By Eunice Moseley 

Darron Aronofsky’s Paramount Pictures presentation of Noah, starring Academy Award winner Russell Crowe (Gladiator) as Noah, inspired by the Biblical character is an epic interpretation, and it arrives in theaters March 28, 2014. Aronofsky is the director and co-screenwriter, along with Ari Handel. Their creative version of the story of Noah’s Ark will force you to pick up the Bible to see what variations were made.

Crowe did an outstanding award worthy performance as Noah the man hand picked by God to save his precious living creations. It is said that one thing Darron stayed true to, to the letter, was how the ark was made. A massive “ship” made from wood that was big enough to carry a male and female of every living species known to man at the time. Noah’s immediate family were the only ones to be saved from the rain waters, rains they had never experienced before, that consumed and destroy every living thing not on the ark.

Academy and Golden Globe winner Jennifer Connelly (A Beautiful Mind) played Noah’s wife Naameh and gave an outstanding performance, as well as Logan Lerman who played Noah’s son Ham. In the film Ham was a rebellious head-strong son. Douglas Booth who played Noah’s son Sham was the obedient one who took on a wife Lla played by Teen Choice Award winner Emma Watson (Harry Potter) - whom in the film was saved as a little girl by Noah as she laid dying along the side of the road.  

Academy Award winner Anthony Hopkins (The Silence of the Lamb), as always gave a performance worthy of honors, he played Noah’s Holy Father Methuselah who in the film possessed powers that only God could have given. International Emmy Award winner Ray Winstone played a descendent of Cain, Tubal-cain, the child of Adam and Eve cursed for killing his brother Abel. He gave an excellent performance as well of a ruthless king determined to save himself from the world’s destruction.

Also in the cast is Academy Award nominee Nick Nolte (48 Hours) the voice of Samyaza the leader of the Watchers (Fallen Angels) who eventually helped Noah build and protect the ark. Kevin Durand was Watcher Og who saved and protected Noah from his fellow Watchers who initially wanted nothing to do with the “humans.” Rated PG-13 Noah is shown in 2D and IMAX theaters.

Erica Campbell of Mary Mary debuts solo album, ‘Help,’ on eOne Music, garners Grammy nomination

EricaCampbell2.jpg

“I wanted to keep going and Tina wanted to slow down,” said Erica Campbell of the Contemporary Gospel sister duo Mary Mary about why she released a solo album, “Help,” which first single “A Little Bit More Jesus” received a Grammy Award nomination. “Me and Tina had talked about it. She said, ‘Go on…’ I let it flow. We did initially have a concept in mind, but it turned into something different. It’s music from my heart.”

Together with her sister Tina Campbell as Mary Mary Erica had already garnered multi-Grammy, NAACP Image, BET and Stellar Awards, but “Help” is all her. The album is full of Contemporary Inspiration and Gospel songs. When asked which song on the album was her favorite, as with her sister Thomasina “Goo Goo” Atkins a celebrity stylist I interviewed at the BET Celebration of Gospel tapping, she picked “Eddie” a song she penned for her father who passed away last year.

“’Eddie’ is about my dad. Warryn asked me to do a song about him and I wasn’t sure I could do it without crying,” she confessed. “I started to write it and burst into tears but I kept writing.”

Warryn Campbell, Erica’s husband is executive producer of the “Help” project released on their own label My Bock Inc/eOne Music. It includes song writing help from Gerald and Tammi Haddon on the “I’m A Fan,” Percy Bady penned “Changes,” and label mate Music Soulchild, Tina Campbell, and Marvin Winans, Jr. provided background vocals.

“I want them to be encouraged, let it take you through all the emotions,” Campbell said about what she would hope the listeners get from the “Help” project. “God is our help…he is the reason we exist and its only through his strength we survive.”

Of the 13 selections on the “Help” album my favorites include “You Are” for it has a nice Pop sound; “A Little More Jesus” for its finger snapping Holy-Ghost flavor; “I’m A Fan” a sweet love song to a wonderful God; “All I Need Is You” a great Contemporary Gospel selection surely to be a hit; “Changes” a nice smooth Contemporary number, and “P.O.G.” an anthem of the power of God. You can follow Erica Campbell on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram at @ImEricaCampbell. 

 (Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations/Business consultant at Freelance Associates, and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore TimesHer Event: "Uplifting Minds II" free one day entertainment conference (seminar panel & talent competition showcase) arrives in Baltimore at Security Square Mall Sat. April 19, 2014. www.FreelanceAssociatesInc.comwww.ThePulseofEntertainment.com,www.UpliftingMinds2.com).

April 4. 2014

TarajiPHenson_BETCelebrationofGospel.jpgBET’s ‘Celebration of Gospel’ airs with Taraji P. Henson as new host, awesome line-up airs Sunday, April 6, 2014 at 8 p.m. ET

By Eunice Moseley 

For thirteen years BET has presented the “Celebration of Gospel,” a two-hour Gospel extravaganza with an awesome line-up of secular and Gospel artists, and this year Academy Award nominated Taraji P. Henson is host for the first time. The “Celebration of Gospel” airs on BET Sunday, April 6, 2014 at 8 p.m. ET/ 7 p.m. CT.

The line up of artists that will take you to church in song include Chante Moore, Erica Campbell (Mary Mary), Charlie Wilson, India Arie and Jonathan McReynolds, Donnie McClurkin (Richard Smallwood Tribute), KEM, Yolanda Adams, Deitrick Haddon, Tye Tribbett, SWV, Tamela Mann, Lalah Hathaway, Rance Allen, Vashawn Mitchell (Smallwood Tribute), JJ Hairston (Smallwood Tribute), Hezekiah Walker, and more.

“I think everybody here loves the Lord,” said Washington, DC native Taraji P. Henson about the mixed genre line-up. “I am going to have an incredible time.” When I asked about upcoming projects Henson said, “I have a movie called From the Rough about a coach at Tennessee State University…she took her golf team to NCAA, and won. First time an American did that with a team.”

Taraji P. Henson is known for her role in The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008); Person of Interest as Detective Joss Carter (2011)’ The Karate Kid (2010), and Think Like A Man (2012).

The theme for this years BET “Celebration of Gospel” is “Forward in Faith,” and you will surely get your faith renewed watching the two-hour Gospel special presentation.

"I hear they’re doing a tribute to Richard Smallwood,” said Grammy Award nominated singer PJ Morton (Young Money/Cash Money/Republic), the keyboardist for Maroon 5. “I’m a big fan of his songwriting.”

“I want to see all of them,” said Billboard Music winner KEM about the line-up of talent at the BET “Celebration of Gospel” tapping to air Sun. April 6th. “Donnie McClurkin is here, Tamara Mann is here, Tye Tribbett is here, and I’m performing! We’re going to bring the house down.”

KEM recently released an album titled “This Single’s For You” in 2013 with the lead single “My Favorite Thing” featuring Ronald Isley.

For more information about the BET “Celebration of Gospel” two-hour special to air Sunday, April 6th at 8 p.m. ET log onto www.BET.com/shows/celebration-of-gospel. 

Contemporary Saxophonist Jackiem Joyner ‘Evolve’ with newest album release April 29, 2014

jackiemJoyner_table.jpg

“I was anxious to get back to writing my own material,” said Contemporary sax-man Jackiem Joyner about the motivation to release another solo project titled “Evolve” (Artistry Music/Mack Records). “’Church Boy’ was covers…I wanted something unique.”

Jackiem uniquely offers 11 Contemporary Jazz/R&B selections that truly gives a clear picture of his “evolving.” Keyboardist Keiko Matsui and saxophonist Gerald Albright are featured artists on the project.

“There had been songs playing in my mind for months,” he said about the recording process. “Some songs speak of the moment in the studio. This was one of my longest writing processes. It took over a year to be what I wanted it to be.”

The Virginia native Jackiem Joyner was discovered by Rick Braun and Richard Elliot. He released his debut in 2007 titled “Babysoul.” He went on to performance alongside Albright, George Duke, Marcus Miller, Kirk Whalum and Najee.

My favorite songs on the “Evolve” project in “Breathe” a sweet Jazz selection; “Generation Next” Smooth Jazz at its best; “Europa,” featuring Keiko Marsui, because she adds just the right touch to make it crystal clear; “Late Night,” and “A Gentle Walk on Water.”

A Smooth Jazz winner for his debut, Joyner also plays the flute and is known in the Gospel music industry. Log onto www.JackiemJoyner.com or  www.MackAvenue.comfor more information. 

 

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations/Business consultant at Freelance Associates, and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore TimesHer Event: "Uplifting Minds II" free one day entertainment conference (seminar panel & talent competition showcase) arrives in Baltimore at Security Square Mall Sat. April 19, 2014. www.FreelanceAssociatesInc.com,www.ThePulseofEntertainment.comwww.UpliftingMinds2.com).

April 11, 2014

thefloacist2.jpgThe Floacist, Spoken-Word powerhouse, releases ‘Rise of the Phoenix Mermaid’ March 18, 2014

By Eunice Moseley 

“This is the most prepared I’ve ever been for a project,’ said The Floacist, seven-time Grammy Award nominated (Floetry) Spoken Word artist, singer and songwriter, about her newest solo album release on Shanachie titled “Rise of the Phoenix Mermaid.” “I was extremely prepared.”

The Floacist, who co-created the hits “Say yes” and “Getting Late,” excellently blends her vocal abilities and Spoken-Word skills with the back drop of great production by Chris “Big Dog” Davis.

“I love to collaborate, which is why I never wanted to be a solo artist,” said the Germany born Jamaican heritage R&B artist about the project. “The art work (on the cover) is Phylicia Ghee the creative director on this project. We’re very blended in spirit. When I told her the title…she knew a location and had ideas. She designed the dress herself. “

The Floacist talked about the photo shoot for the album cover that Ghee also did along with designing the cover, and the fabulous red dress she wears.

“I don’t create with expectations,” The Floacist said. “I create with intentions. Being 35 and not having the 20 year old energy in me any more – I have a peacefulness…with the record…I submitted to the path it created.”

The Floacist said she hopes the listeners become more “self aware,” “feel positive vibrations,” and “touch their past to effect the future.”

“Rise of the Phoenix Mermaid” is set to be released March 18, 2014 on Shanachie Entertainment. My favorite cuts on the album include “Feel Good” which has a lovely Spoken-Word/singing combo sound she delivers with a nice flow; “Try Something New (I Do)” had her Spoken-Word skills throughout offering a fresh way to “listen” to a song, and the lead guitar support is sweet too; “Good Love,” “Wisest Thing” because of its sweet word-flow, and “Omi Oi” for its great harmonies, and the vocals/Spoken-Word combinations are outstanding also on this one.

For more information on the “Rise of the Phoenix Mermaid” by The Floacist log onto www.TheFloacist.com. 

Stellar nominated JJ Hairston and Youthful Praise to release “I See Victory” August 5, 2014

jjHairston3.jpg

What Contemporary Gospel Choir and its director have performed on “Late Night with Conan O’Brien?” The answer is Youthful Praise and its director JJ Hairston. On August 5, 2014 JJ Hairston and Youthful Praise will release a new album titled “I See Victory.” Its first single “It Pushes Me” is out now.

“The message is the story of Joseph, what he went through to be a blessing to his family,” said Stellar Award nominee JJ Hairston about the theme of the first single “It Pushes Me” off of his new “I See Victory” project. “They tried to kill him…it pushes us to our destiny.”

Hairston’s destiny has taken him to the pentacle of success in the Gospel industry. Aside from appearing on Conan O’Brien’s show, he has also performed at the Stellar Awards, and on the “Bobby Jones Gospel” show. Recently he performed in a tribute for Richard Smallwood at the BET Celebration of Gospel two-hour television special.

“The last year has been something else for me,” JJ pointed out. “My mother was in and out of a coma, and three weeks ago she passed away. The songs came to me to help me through…miracles happen everyday.”

“I see Victory” has a long list of featured artists that include Donnie McClurkin and Karen Clark-Sheard.

“Lots of people came together. We did it live,” JJ informed me. When I asked about the decision to do a live project he said, “Actually every record we’ve done is live. We like it to be interactive. People have received us and encouraged us for so long.”

“I See Victory” is released on the Evidence Gospel/Light Records imprint. Evidence Gospel is a division of www.GospelFlavor.com. For more information about JJ Hairston, and Youthful Praise, log onto www.YouthfulPraise.org. 

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations/Business consultant at Freelance Associates, and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Event: "Uplifting Minds II" free one day entertainment conference (seminar panel & talent competition showcase) arrives in Baltimore at Security Square Mall Sat. April 19, 2014. www.FreelanceAssociatesInc.comwww.ThePulseofEntertainment.com,www.UpliftingMinds2.com).

April 18, 2014

kellygreyson.jpgActress Kelly Greyson’s film projects, To Have and To Hold, Alone Yet Not Alone and Returning to the Hiding Place, two based on true stories

By Eunice Moseley 

“I am so excited to be a part of the film,” said actress and film producer Kelly Greyson about Returning to the Hiding Places, one of three films - two based on true stories – released that she stars in. “I want to be a part of the 1% that lay down their lives, to die for it.”

Greyson is talking about the story Returning to the Hiding Place about a group of teens that risk their lives to free Dutch Jews from Hitler’s’ realm in Holland. The film was screened at the Sundance Film Festival, and won three Triple Crowns at Bel-Air Film Festival. Kelly plays the character Lana, and it also stars David Thomas Jenkins (Hans Poley), Mimi Sagadin (Corrie ten Boom), John Rhys Davies (Eusi), and Craig Robert Young (Piet Hartog).

“So many young people lost their lives in front of the firing squad. The film is so powerful. The director was mentored by him (Hans Poley), knew him personally,” said the former model about the person the film is based on.”

The director of Return to the Hiding Place is Peter Spencer.

In the film To Have and To Hold Kelly plays Lady Jocelyn Stewart. Directed by Ray Bengston, To Have and To Hold will be released later this year.

Greyson also appears in Alone Yet Not Alone about two sisters abducted and force to live with Delaware Native Indians in the 18th Century during the French and Indian war of 1755. It is released to theaters June 13, 2013. Kelly plays the role of Barbra in the film that also stars Jenn Gotzon, Clay Walker, Christopher Judge and Aiden Turner.

“The more truthful the more effective,” Kelly pointed out about why most of her films are based on true stories. She went on to say about Alone Yet Not Alone’s early 2013 limited theater release, “I heard they turned down 650 people who wanted to see it. At the Florida Festival it won three awards.”

For more information about Kelly Greyson and her upcoming projects log onto www.KellyGreyson.com. 

Noel Gourdin releases new project, ‘City Heart, Southern Soul,’ on Shanachie

noelgourdin.jpg

R&B’s Noel Gourdin released his first project on Shanachie Entertainment titled “City Heart, Southern Soul.” This is his third album release. The soulful singer/songwriter’s music has been heard on the soundtrack of the film The Cookout starring Queen Latifah, and was a featured singer on pianist Brian Culbertson’s ballad “You’re My Music.”

“It has taken about two years to put the album together,” said Noel, the R&B singer with the very skillful soulful vocals. “I had 25 records…the label’s request was to get it down to 10.”

The first single off of the album, “City Heart, Southern Soul,” was “Heaven Knows”. The album’s selection “Foxxxy” reached Top 10 on UK Urban Radio Soul Charts, and the song “Don’t You Wanna” was featured on VH1’s “Love and Hip-Hop – Atlanta” reality show.

“It’s been a long journey, but I don’t regret anything,” Gourdin said about the early days of struggles. “I miss the grind, late travels to New York from Boston. It was so pure.”

oel explained in the early days the label he was on, Sony, controlled everything.

“I can express myself freely without people looking over our shoulders,” he said about his new deal with Shanachie. “This album is just me, nothing forced at all. The first and second albums, particularly with Sony, a lot I had to cut that I felt I wanted to do. This album was so much easier and fun. I was able to work with producers and writers that I hand picked…a small group of under rated writers and producers that don’t get the light, but they work with integrity. (Shanachie) They get it…great to work with people who get it. They take it back to the root. It’s great to be ourselves.”

Noel Gourdin’s sound is influence by Marvin Gaye, Otis Redding and Johnny Taylor, but yet its fresh and new. My favorite selections on the album include “Spotlight” a very loving song; “Foxxxy” for its fabulous horn support, and I love what Noel does with his voice; “Patience” has that old-school feel, and I love the horn support on this one too; “Don’t You Wanna,” and “I Want You (Regardless)” for its funky beat, and almost Latin feel.

For more information on Noel Gourdin and his newest album release “City Heart, Southern Soul” log onto www.NoelGourdin.com.  

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations/Business consultant at Freelance Associates, and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Event: "Uplifting Minds II" free one day entertainment conference (seminar panel & talent competition showcase) arrives in Hollywood at the Celebrity Center Sat. October 25, 2014. www.FreelanceAssociatesInc.comwww.ThePulseofEntertainment.comwww.UpliftingMinds2.com).  

April 25, 2014

fromtherough_letoyaLuckett.jpgPlatinum selling Letoya Luckett to star in From the Rough with Taraji P. Henson, arrives in theaters May 25, 2014

By Eunice Moseley 

“I’m the love interest of Tom (Felton),” said platinum selling singer/actress Letoya Luckett (Preacher’s Kid) about her character Stacey in the sports drama From the Rough, which arrives in theaters April 25, 2014. From the Rough also stars Taraji P. Henson and Michael Clarke Duncan. “I’m a student on the swim team of coach Starks.”

~

From the Rough is based on the true story of Tennessee State Tigers swim team coach, Catana Starks, who became the first black women to ever coach a men’s golf team to a PGA win.

~

“Falling in love is new to me. I have never been in a relationship,” Letoya explains about the drama that surrounds her character. “I have to swim, keep my grades up and the coach doesn’t want me to (be in a relationship). She feels it will be a distraction.”

~

The former Destiny Child member who garnered two Grammy Awards during that time hopes the audience will be inspired knowing that it is based on a true story. The coach was given the task to form a minority golf team, but found only one black golfer, named Craig, who was a caddy. So Coach Starks, with resistance, opened the team up to under privilege minority kids and coached them to a PGA National Collegiate Minority Championship. Today no other black female has been able to accomplish such a task.

~

“ Its an incredible story of Catana Starks who took her golf team to a PGA win,” said BET and NAACP Image Award winner, and Academy Award nominee Taraji P. Henson about her starring role in From The Rough. “It proves that with faith and hard work you can win. I think it is a very important story that needs to be told. Something our young girls need…to show there are other options in life than glamour.”

~

“I love projects like this,” said Luckett (HBO’s “Treme”, Note to Self, VH1’s “Single Ladies”). “An African-American doing her thing…coaching. You can do whatever you put your mind to if you believe it, you can do it. I walked away learning a lot about myself.”

~

Expect something new, music wise, from Letoya soon. Distributed by Free Style From the Rough directed by Pierre Bagley, and produced by Bagley, Michael J. Critelli and Kevin E. Hooks The sports drama arrives in theaters April 15th. For more information log onto the film’s website at www.FromTheRough.com.

~

 Contemporary Gospel artist Ami Rushes gets versatile on new album release ‘Stand Up for Jesus’, produced by Kurt Carr

amirushes2.jpgFour-time Stellar Award winning Kurt Carr produces the latest album release from Contemporary Gospel singer Ami Rushes’ titled “Stand Up For Jesus.”

~

“All my past albums we did were covers that Kurt Carr updated,” said Ami Rushes, a very versatile Gospel singer, about her fifth album release. “I thought it was time for original music. So I got with Kurt and enlisted songwriters from all over the world.”

 

The result is ten Contemporary Gospel songs that not only show Rushes can sing any type Gospel style, but it shows Carr’s training in Classical music. Kurt is the director of West Los Angeles Church of God in Christ’s choir, where Ami is a long time member. The “Stand Up For Jesus” album release gives 10% of its proceeds to the church’s Save Africa’s Children Charity Foundation that feeds over 200,000 children in 400 orphanages throughout 21 nations in Africa.

 

 “I’m excited about the title, ‘Stand Up for Jesus’,” said Ami. “I want to start a conversation – ‘are you standing up for Jesus?’ and if so what are you doing?”

Ami Rushes debut album was in 2006 titled “Covering” and she is onto her 5th project distributed on the Central South Distribution imprint. My favorite cuts on the album

include ”By His Stripes” a heartfelt song of love and gratitude; “It’s Alright, It’s Okay” which offers a bit of Jazz flavor with Rushes vocally; “Got a Feeling” for its horn

support which gives it that Big Band era feel, and in end it changes and takes you to church; the title track “Stand Up For Jesus” is a great Praise & Worship selection with horn support that adds that Big Band sound, and “God Did It” because of its foot-stomping Praise & Worship sound.

~

Ami Rushes is about to go on a church and radio “Stand Up For Jesus” tour, and she will be performing at the “I Love the Music” conference in Cincinnati.

Learn more about Ami Rushes at www.AmiRushes.com.

 

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

May 2, 2014

spiderman2_poster.jpgColumbia Pictures' The Amazing Spider-Man 2, a roller-coaster of suspense, in theaters May 2, 2014

By Eunice Moseley 

The Marvel super-hero Spider-Man created by Stan Lee has a new face with the Columbia Picture release of The Amazing Spiderman 2, starring Golden Globe nominated Andrew Garfield (The Social Network, The Amazing Spider-Man) back again as Spider-Man aka Peter Parker; Golden Globe nominated Emma Stone (The Help, The Croods) as Gwen Stacy his love interest, and Academy and Golden Globe winner Jamie Foxx (DJango Unchained, Ray) as Electro. The Amazing Spiderman 2 arrives in theaters May 2, 2014 in 2D, 3D and IMAX 3D.

The continuation of the classic tale offers the audience a roller-coaster of suspense as Spider-Man tried to balance his call to be a super-hero, his issues of abandoned by his parent, and to protect his love interest from those out to kill Spider-Man, like fan Max Dillon turned enemy Electro (Foxx), and his high school friend Harry Osborn turned enemy Green Goblin played by Dane DeHaan ("True Blood").

The film makes you feel as though you are riding on the back of Spider-Man as he leaps and flies from building to building via his spider-webs. Garfield makes a very fly Spider-Man, and I am sure he is appealing to the new audience of the classic tale. Jamie took both characters, the clumsy electrical engineer at Oscorp Incorp. and the out-for-revenge electrically charged fame seeking villain. DeHaan also took some spotlight with his portrayal of the Green Goblin.

Legendary Sally Fields gave an excellent performance as Peter Parkers' Aunt May who raised him since a boy. The action film also stars Colm Feore, Felicity Jones, Paul Giamatti, Campbell Scott, Embeth Davidtz, Marton Csorkas, Louis Cacelmi, and Max Charles.

The Amazing Spider-Man 2 is directed by Marc Webb, produced by AVI Arad and Matt Tolmach, and is a Marvel Entertainment/Columbia Pictures production. The outstanding soundtrack is scored by Hans Zimmer and The Magnificent Six.

See the trailer of learn more about The Amazing Spider-Man 2 by logging onto www.TheAmazingSpiderman.com.

Jessi Jone, Calvin Tucker, Jr. and Ricochet win big at the Baltimore "Uplifting Minds II" national talent competition
ULMII_Bmore_April19_2014_Kayla_breakperformer.jpgFifteen year-old female rapper Jessi Jone, Contemporary Gospel singer Calvin Tucker, Jr., and a four member dance troop Ricochet won big at the recent Baltimore "Uplifting Minds II" national talent competition hosted by Heaven 600's Mid-Day Diva Doresa Harvey. The talent showcase ended with a wonderful modern dance performance by 11 year-old Kayla Eldridge, granddaughter of the events' coordinator and founder Eunice Moseley (www.ThePulseofEntertainment.com). The Baltimore "Uplifting Minds II" (ULMII) Entertainment Conference was held at Security Square Mall.

Winners received the ULMII Best Artist Award, a crystal blue ball set on top of an engraved platform. In addition, each receives a list of prizes donated by event sponsors. Rapper Jessi Jone won best Songwriting Award, Calvin Tucker Jr. won best Vocal Award, and Ricochet won best Dance Award. The event was presented by Security Square Mall and The Baltimore Times (media partner).

Judges included entertainment business mogul Paul Gardner, II (www.TheGardnerLawGroup.com); talent manager Cordell Capone (Natalie Nunn/"Bad Girls Club") www.CordellCapone.com; vocal coach and professional singer Nadiyah Kareem (Superstar Entertainment); local legend former singer/musician Rosa "Rambling Rose" Pryor-Trusty, a booking agent and entertainment columnist (Afro); stylist/make-up artist and skincare specialist Jenneane Collins (Rebellious Beauty), and talent manager Bert Wheeler (B. Wheeler Enterprises).

The entertainment business panel speakers included Gardner (www.TheGardnerLawGroup.com); public relations strategist and business consultant Eunice Moseley (Freelance Associates), stylist/make-up artist Jenneane Collins, and entertainment columnist Rambling Rose (www.RosaPryorMusic.com).

The list of prizes the winners receive include free "product shelf-space" from Dimensions In Music; "free PR strategy and consult" from Eunice Moseley, MS, MBA president of Freelance Associates (www.FreelanceAssociatesInc.com); "free entertainment business consult" from entertainment mogul Paul Gardner, II (www.TheGardnerLawGroup.com); "free music track, studio time and promotions" from five-time ULMII winner and Virgin Island producer Marvin Davis aka V.I.P. (www.DustDemAFF.com); "free vocal coaching" from professional singer and artist manager Nadiyah Kareem (Superstar Enter.); "free make-up/skin care consult" from skin care specialist Jeneanne Collins (Rebellious Beauty); "free commercial photo session" from commercial photographer Ty Moore (www.IAmSharpEye.com), and "free photo shoot and management consult" from tour manager (Anita Baker/Natalie Cole) and photographer Gar Roberts (www.Garman.zenfolio.com).

The next "Uplifting Minds II" free entertainment conference arrives in Hollywood, California at the Celebrity Centre in October, 2014. For more information log onto www.UpliftingMinds2.com or email FreeAssocInc3@aol.com or call 562-424-3836.

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

May 9, 2014

neighors_zacefron.jpgUniversal Pictures' Neighbors is a hilarious look at community living, in theaters May 9, 2014

By Eunice Moseley 

   Universal Pictures presents a comedic feature film Neighbors, a hilarious look at community living starring MTV Award winner Zac Efron (Lucky One), Seth Rogen (Freaks and Geeks), and Emmy/Golden Globe nominated Rose Byrne ("Damages"). The Rated R film is directed by Nick Stoller.
   The comedy follows the "relationship" of two neighbors - a couple with baby and a college sorority frat house. There is no surprise that the battle is on after the first frat party. Written by Andrew J. Cohen and Brendan O'Brian, Neighbors also stars Christopher Mintz-Plasse, Dave Franco, Halston Sage, Hannibal Buress, Carla Gallo, Lisa Kudrow, and Ike Barinholtz.
   The couple tries first being polite by attending one of the parties before asking them to tune the music down because of the baby. When that doesn't work they call the police, which to frat house leader (Efron) that means war.
   Neighbors is a Point Grey Pictures and Good Universe production. The soundtrack is produced by Michael Andrews, and features material from Missy Elliot, Flo Rida, Nappy Roots, and Fergie.
   Log onto www.Neighbors_Movie.com for the trailer or to learn more about the film.

TriStar Pictures' Mom's Night Out kids steal the scenes, arrives in theaters May 9, 2014
 momsnightout_scene.jpg  "It's...a look, a celebration of middle class America," said Sean Astin (Lord of the Rings) about his newest project TriStar Pictures' Mom's Night Out. "I've been married for 21 years. This is written, directed and produced by people in relationships that have kids. It springs from our own experiences."
   Rated PG Mom's Night Out also stars Sarah Drew (Grey's Anatomy), Patricia Heaton ("Everybody Loves Raymond") - also co-executive producer; her husband David Hunt the cabbie is also co- executive producer; Andrea Logan White, Abbie Cobb, Kevin Downes the bachelor friend is also producer; Robert Amaya, Alex Kendrick, Harry Shum, Jr., Trace Adkins, Manwell Reyes, Michael Leone, Shiloh Nelson, and Sammi Hanratty.
   "My husband and I wanted to be more involved than actors," said Patricia Heaton when questioned about their active role as executive producers. "Especially for my character Sondra (a pastor's wife), I didn't know about their struggle. I did research on pastor's wives...one thing was the same...they were lonely. Everyone (in the church) comes to them, but they can't come to them... so they feel isolated."
   The comedy follows three couples and how they deal with parenting, but the kids steal the scenes from the adults totally in this film. The kids even adlib some lines I was told, some very funny lines too that were kept in the film.
   Jon Erwin is co-director with brother Andrew Erwin, and is also co-writer with Andrea Nasfell. Mom's Night Out is a AFFIRM and Provident Film production.
   For more information on the film or to see the trailer you can log onto www.MomsNighOutMovie.com.  

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

May 16, 2014

milliondollararm_scene2.jpgDisney's Million Dollar Arm is an inspiring tale of the power of will, arrives in theaters May 16, 2014

By Eunice Moseley 

"A guy is going to give you a million dollars just to throw a baseball...I thought it was kind of crazy," said Rinku Singh, one of two recruited by sports agent JB Bernstein who went to India to find players to sign to the Major League of baseball. The Disney feature film Million Dollar Arm is about them, and it arrives in theaters May 16, 2014. "I never heard about baseball. I just went there for fun, and it turned out to be...a huge dream now."

Suraj Sharma (Life of Pi) plays Rinku and Madhur Mittal (Slumdog Millionaire) plays the second signed player from India, Dinesh D'Souza. They were signed to, and still play for the New England Patriots. Million Dollar Arm is an inspiring tale of the power of will. The will of JB Bernstein, played by Jon Hamm ("Mad Men"), to get players who never played baseball signed to Major League - to save his company, and the will of Rinku and Dinesh to make their families, and country proud by mastering the game of baseball.

"Rinku, who never pick up a ball, had no idea he could throw fast," JB Bernstein said about his reality show India try-outs. "We're standing there watching this guy standing on one leg. I'm like no way this could be good. He throws these 86 miles an hour balls, the first time picking up a baseball. Out of 38,000 we found 30 that threw over 80."
"I wanted to be an Olympic athlete," Rinku said when asked about his natural sports abilities. "I didn't make it...I came to America."

The film, though a drama, was also very funny. That one leg stand JB talked about of Rinku's is a form he learned as a pole thrower while in India as a teen. He used the same stance when throwing the baseball, and it became his signature style.

Directed by Craig Gillespie, Million Dollar Arm, is produced by Joe Roth (Roth Films), and Gordon Gray and Mark Ciardi through their Mayhem Pictures company.
"I knew JB personally before the film business," Ciardi said about how he got involved in the production of this inspiring film. "I saw him at a super bowl party...he told me he was going to India to scout. He got these kids signed! It's exciting to go through the journey with a friend."

Million Dollar Arm also stars Alan Arkin (Little Miss Sunshine) as baseball scout Ray Poitevint; Lake Bell (Six Degrees of Separation) as Brenda JB's love interest; Emmy nominated Bill Paxton (HBO's "Big Love"), and Aasif Mandvi ("The Dailey Show with Jon Stewart").

Executive producers are Palak Patel, Kevin Halloran, Bill Simmons and Connor Schell. You can log onto www.TheMillionDollarArm.com for the movie trailer, or more information.

Where's the Love, an original UP tv romantic comedy airing Sunday at 9 p.m. ET, stars Lamman Rucker and Denise Boutte
deniseboutte2.jpgOn May 3, 2014 the Uplifting Entertainment television network premiered Where's The Love, an original Up tv movie starring Lamman Rucker ("Meet the Browns"), and Denise Boutte ("Meet the Browns") - it will be airing again this Sunday, May 18th at 9 p.m. ET. The movie is a romantic comedy about a popular married television talk show couple that is relationship experts that have relationship problems of their own.

"Sebastian has a beautiful wife he loves dearly. They have a little bit of a rocky time," said Lamman about the movie's storyline. "They are marriage counselors. It's a wonderful script."

"It's an awesome movie," said Denise. "It has an all-star cast and a nice beautiful message."

Also starring in the UP tv movie are Terri J. Vaughn ("Meet the Browns"), Karon Joseph Riley ("Necessary Roughness"), David Banner (Ride Along), Darian "Big Tigger" Morgan (V103 host), Ahmed Lucan ("Homeland"), Shirley Strawberry (co-host of "The Steven Harvey Show"), Nicole Eggert ("Baywatch"), LeToya Luckett ("Single Ladies"), Kandi Burruss ("Let's Stay Together"), Tommy Ford ("martin"), and Angie Stone ("Ride Along").

Trey Haley ("Note to Self") directs the film and Cas Sigers-Beedle wrote the script. Watch for re-runs on the UP network starting with this Sunday at 9 p.m. ET. Uplifting Entertainment is a 24 hour network that provides high-quality family-friendly programming on such cable systems as Comcast, Time Warner Cable, DIRECT TV and others. You can log onto www.UPtv.com for more information or a trailer of the movie.

John Gammon lands first major role in ABC's Emmy winning sitcom "The Middle," airs on Wednesdays at 8 p.m./7c
johngammon.jpg"I was prepared for the long haul," said John Gammon who plays the loveable mischievous Darrin in the ABC Emmy Award winning sitcom "The Middle." "I auditioned for student films that I knew no one would see....this one I knew people would see."

"The Middle" airs on Wednesday nights at 8 p.m./7c and his character is a ruggedly handsome and comedic Midwesterner who is dating his best friends sister under-cover.
"The Middle" also stars Patricia Heaton (Mom's Night Out), Neil Flynn ("Scrubs"), Eden Sher as Sue - Darrin's love interest, Atticus Shaffer, and Charlie McDermott as Axl Darrin's best friend.

"Axl is my best friend and along comes his sister," John explains about his character. "I take her to a dance, but we keep it secret. Axl is always a jerk to Sue so now he is a jerk towards me. This character is interesting because he is so likeable...that dumb factor. I don't like it but that's the main thing that makes him likeable."

Gammon was raised in Ohio, and holds a Bachelors degree in Spanish and Latin American Studies. He followed his acting siblings to Hollywood, picked up an agent, and immediately landed this major role.

You can log onto www.ABC.go.com/shows/TheMiddle for more information on the primetime sitcom.

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

May 23, 2014

blended.jpgWarner Bros.' Blended, full of laughs and sentimental moments, arrives in theaters May 23, 2014

By Eunice Moseley 

Full of laughs and sentimental moments is the reward given to movie attendees of Warner Bros' presentation of Blended. Blended stars Adam Sandler (The Water Boy) and Drew Barrymore, and arrives in theaters May 23, 2014. The message is that a family is more than blood, first loves and first spouses - family is who loves you.

Most of the film's backdrop is in Africa with hilarious moments and heart warming conclusions. Blended co-stars include Terry Crews (The Expendables 2), Shaquille O'Neal (Grown Ups 2), Joel McHale (NBC's "Community"), Wendi McLendon-Covey (Bridesmaids), Kevin Nealon ("Weeds"), Jessica Lowe ("RobotDown"), Bella Thorne (Disney's "Shake It Up"), Dan Patrick (ESPN's "SportsCenter"), Emma Fuhrmann (Fox's "Link The Good Guys"), Alyvia Alyn Lynd ("Dark Skies"), Kyle Red Silverstein ("Grey's Anatomy"), and Braxton Beckham ("iCarly"). Directed by Frank Coraci, and screenplay by Ivan Menchell and Clare Sera Blended is the third time Sandler and Barrymore has starred in a comedy together, which included 50 First Dates and The Wedding Singer.

Both, in Blended, find themselves single parents. Adam plays Jim and Drew is Lauren who after a blind date gone bad finds themselves sharing a suite with their kids in an Africa safari for "blended" families.

Sandler produces the family friendly film along with Mike Karz and Jack Giarraputo, and executive producers are Barry Bernardi, Josie Rosen, Tim Herlihy, Allen Covert and Steven Koren. View the trailer at www.BlendedMovie.com.  

Maurice Hines gives an outstanding performance in ‘Tappin' Thru Life' at The Wallis Center for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills, runs until May 24, 2014
mauricehines2.jpgTap dancing legend and brother of the late Gregory Hines, Maurice Hines stars in "Tappin' Thru Life" currently held at The Wallis Center for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills, California. Backed by an all female orchestra, The DIVA Jazz Orchestra, Hines takes the audience from his birth to current day using visuals, songs and a very entertaining and funny narrative.

He had two amazing young tap dancing guest acts, Washington, DC brothers John and Leo Manzari, and 10 year-old Luke Spring, that had the audience on their feet. Music Director Dr. Sherrie Maricle also gives an impression solo drum performance.

With several suit changes Maurice not only gave us his life story, but the history of the great American performers such as Sinatra, Judy Garland, Nat King Cole and Leno Horn. Those were major stars that gave him and his brother Gregory the breaks in entertainment that lead to them becoming legendary tap dancing performers. Hines is also a choreographer whose credits include Hairspray, Uptown...It's Hot! and Harlem Suite. He starred in Broadway musicals that included Eubie!, Bring Back Birdie and Sophisticated Ladies. He starred in the national tour Jelly's Last Stand. His film credits include Francis Ford Coppola's The Cotton Club. Maurice Hines is the first African-American director of Radio City Music Hall.

"Tappin' Thru Life" is directed by Tony Award nominated Jeff Calhoun (Broadway's Newsies) and is a co-production of the Arena Stage, Alliance Theater and Cleveland Play House. "Tappin' Thru Life" includes 19 performances that run is from May 9 - 24th. The show covers 40 years of his career.

Hines expertly sings such classic hits as "Luck Be a Lady Tonight," "Over The Rainbow," "I Can't Give You Anything But Love," "I've Grown Accustomed to Her Face," "Smile," "Stormy Weather," and "A Tisket, A Tasket" - to name a few.

Rising R&B/Pop prince Trueful racks in the fans at Boardners in Hollywood recently, returns June 22, 2014
Trueful_Boardners_April27_2014.JPGI maybe a little prejudice because this rising R&B/Pop prince, Trueful, has been a client of mine (as a Public Relations Strategist) since he was 14, he is now 27 years-old, but a recent performance by him and his French Royalty Dancers at Boardners night-club in Hollywood only proved to me again that he is a performer the entertainment industry should watch out for. Currently working on his fourth album (French Royalty Entertainment) - his second project qualified him for a Grammy Award nomination - Trueful will be returning to Boardners on June 22, 2014 to perform yet again.

I must have looked like I belonged to his large entourage because after he performed four of his singles, a young lady came to me and said he just won her as a fan for life. I received the same response during his performance at his album release concert for his last project, when he brought my hometown platinum selling legends Dru Hill to Los Angeles, along with H-Town.

During his performance at Boardners night-club Trueful performed his hit singles "Beast," "My Baby," and "Letter." Another recent performance was at Urban Network on the same stage with Tony, Toni, Tone. He will be a special guest performer on July 5th at the Rising Star Award ceremony in Hollywood.

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

May 30, 2014

exhale_aspire_hosts_promo.jpgMagic Johnson's ASPiRE launches talk show ‘Exhale' with five notable hosts

By Eunice Moseley 

Magic Johnson's ASPiRE Network launched "Exhale" talk show May 7, 2014 with five notable African-American female hosts that include Angela Burt-Murray, comedian Erin Jackson, Issa Rae, Rene Syler (CBS' "The Early Show"), and actress Malinda Williams. Guests on the talk show includes actress Niecy Nash ("The Soul Man"); reality television's Judge Greg Mathis; legendary boxer Laila Ali, and actress Jenifer Lewis (Baggage Claim, Think Like A Man).

"I received an email from Lynn (Whitfield)," said Issa when asked how she was chosen as one of the five hosts of the talk show. "They heard about me through my web-series. It has been the most for-filling experiences of my life."

Issa's web-series "The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl" help garner her over 20 million views, and over 160,000 subscribers on Youtube. She has developed web content for Pharrell Williams and Tracey Edmonds.

"I actually be friend a young woman on Twitter," said two-time NAACP Image Award nominee Malinda Williams (Daddy's Little Girl, First Sunday) about how she was placed on the show as a host. "One day she sent a text that the producers were casting for a new host. It was a down time for me...so she gave me the information."

"I got an email from my manager," said stand-up comedian Erin Jackson (NBC's "Last Comic Standing") about how she landed the job as host of "Exhale." "He said the network called. I didn't have to audition. I said, ‘Damn that don't happen in Hollywood!'"

‘I heard about the launch...I was trying to find speaking points to make sure we're represented," said Angela Burt-Murray, former editor-in-chief of Essence magazine and co-founder and editorial director of Cocoa Media Group. "What surprised me was how easily we all became friends. The moment we met. I'm not sure if it was planned by Lynn."

The ASPiRE Network was launched June 27, 2012, and 65% of it is owned by Magic and 33% is owned by InterMedia Partners in New York. The headquarters for the network is in Atlanta. It was the pressure of Maxine Waters in congress during a hearing on minority owned networks that moved Comcast, which wanted to acquire a minority interest in NBCUniversal, to distribute for four minority owned networks of which ASPiRE was one. ASPiRE is also aired on Time Warner Cable, Dish Network, and Direct TV.

The slogan for ASPiRE is "Our Past. Our Now. Our Next. That's ASPiRE," and its focus in on positive uplifting images of African-Americans. You can log onto www.Aspire.tv for more information on "Exhale" and other programming's.

Il Divo launches new album, ‘Il Divo - A Musical Affair: The Greatest Songs of Broadway Live,' and U.S. tour
IlDivo2.jpg"It's a mix. To choose musical theater pieces it was difficult," said Carlos Maui one of four members of the multi-platinum selling international group about their latest album release "Il Divo - A Musical Affair: The Greatest Songs of Broadway Live." "This is our seventh album and the most difficult. The music pieces were written for one voice."

Carlos is Spanish with a baritone voice, and the other members include Sebastian Izambard from France with Pop sounding vocals, David Miller an American with a tenor voice, and Urs Buhler from Sweden with a tenor voice. They were put together and signed to a record deal by Simon Cowell for his Syco Music label distributed by Columbia Records. Il Divo has sold over 8 million records, and garnered over 29 awards.

‘They never told me it was a group," Carlos admitted when telling me his discovery story. "I was solo. I was always doing musical theaters. My ego of a solo artist wouldn't let me do it. My ex-wife told me maybe I was bored, and needed to do something new. In a few weeks (of signing) he was flying us to the studio...he said be friends. I haven't regretted a day."

Il Divo has performed around the world, and has performed for crowds as large as 40,000. The tour started in March 28, 2014 and ends June 7th in Providence, RI. It arrives in my hometown of Baltimore June 4th at the Modell Performing Arts Center at The Lyric. You can log onto www.IlDivo.com for more information.

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations/Business consult at Freelance Associates, and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Events: "Uplifting Minds II" free entertainment conference arrives in Hollywood, CA Saturday, October 25, 2014 at the Celebrity Center, and comes back to Baltimore Sat. April 18th at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.com,  www.ThePulseofEntertainment.com.)

June 6, 2014

naturinaughton_STARZ_Power.jpg50 Cent gets hands on with STARZ new dramatic series ‘Power,' as executive producer, premiers Saturday, June 7, 2014

By Eunice Moseley 

"I was wowed by the writing," said singer/actress Naturi Naughton (Notorious, Lottery Ticket) about her starring role in the STARZ network dramatic series "Power" also starring Omari Hardwick as James St. Patrick aka Ghost, and Joseph Sikora. About her character, Tasha St. Patrick the wife of James, Naughton says, "She is strong and fierce. They did a great job writing the character."

"Power" was created by Courtney Kemp Agbah and executive produced by Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson whom the series mirrors. "Power" centers on James the owner of a popular nightclub who is also a major player in the city's illegal drug network. He is struggling to maintain both worlds then he realizes he wants to become strictly legit.

"He was on set with us," said New Jersey native Naturi (former member of the R&B group 3LW) about 50 Cent as executive producer. "He gave me insight with his journey. He wanted to make sure I don't victimize her, but to empower her. His story and journey is inspiring - powerful. He was available for questions...very influential...very hands on."

"Power" is a CBS Television Studio production and premiers on STARZ Saturday, June 8, 2014 and it also stars Lela Loren, Sinqua Walls., Katherine Marducci, Leslie Lopez, and Jovanni Gomez.

50 Cent (Curtis Jackson) was born in Jamaica and raised in Brooklyn, NY. He left drug dealing to be a rapper, which could have been the cause of him beginning shot nine times. He eventually released his first self produced project titled "Guess Who's Back" (Aftermath) in 2002. He was discovered by Eminem and signed to a major record deal on his Shady/Interscope Records imprint. 50 Cent garnered a total of 30 million album sales - 8 million on his debut "Get Rich or Die Tryin'" in 2003. He founded the infamous Hip-Hop group G Unit with longtime friends Tony Yayo and Lloyd Banks, and released their debut in 2003 titled "Beg For Mercy" - it went platinum. He won a Grammy Award, and six World Music, three American Music, four BET and 13 Billboard Awards.

"I just came from Atlanta for a screener of the first episode," said Naughton. "People were just having a fit. Even myself...I'm excited about it."

STARZ dramatic series "Power," also executive produced by Courtney, David Knoller, Mark Canton, and Randall Emmett, airs Saturdays at 9 p.m. E/P - premiers June 7, 2014.

Kim Kimble's ‘LA Hair,' on WEtv, returns with season three
kimkimble3.jpgCelebrity hairstylist Kim Kimble's reality television show "LA Hair" returns for its third season on WEtv. This season deals with the replacement of a hair stylist, and the expansion of her salon business. Kimble celebrity clients include Beyonce', Shakira, Mary J. Blige, Tika Sumpter, Solange', Lady Gaga, Kerry Washington, Kelly Roland, and Sanaa Lathan.

"She is a female barber. She is use to a barber shop, this is a salon," Kim Kimble explains about the new celebrity barber turned hair stylist that she hired who - in season two - wasn't getting along well with the other stylists. "We go through all kinds of experiences on the show. Expanding the salon...I am determined to grow my brand."

"LA Hair" is located in West Hollywood and is thriving. It premiered on May 22, 2014 and was signed on to do 12 one-hour episodes. This third season the viewers will get to see some of her A-List clientele that includes actress Gabrielle Union, songstress Macy Gray, R&B trio SWV, reality star Gretchen Rossi, supermodel Janice Dickinson, TV personality Rocsi Diaz, actress Keshia Knight Pulliam, Ray J, rapper Too Short, and rapper/producer Akon.

"The salon is part of my brand," Kim points out. "I'm the go-to person for hair...treatment, extensions, and hair education. We're expanding with not only more stylists, but more space to hold classes."

Kimble says the viewers will see "the trails and tribulations of branding. I am the modern CJ Walker of our time," she concluded.

"LA Hair" airs on Thursdays at 9 p.m. E/P on WEtv. You can log onto www.WEtv.com for more information about Kim Kimble's "LA Hair" realty series.

Nine year-old Anthony Michael Hobbs, the go-to for serious kid actors, stars in "In Roundabout Way' Sunday, June 8, 2014 in New York
anthony_headshot2014.jpg"In the beginning the character was acting tough...but he wasn't," said nine year-old actor Anthony Michael Hobbs (Emmy nominated "The Abolitionist") about his upcoming starring role in "In a Roundabout Way" to be held Sunday, June 8, 2014 at 2 p.m. ET at the historic Hudson Lodge (601 Union Street) in New York. It is written by Kim Sykes who plays the best friend of Mary Todd (widow of President Abraham Lincoln), played by Cynthia Darlow, "In a Roundabout Way" which follows Mary during the Reconstruction era through her journey of struggles and friendships.

Hobbs plays Breed a homeless boy she befriends along the way. "In a Roundabout Way" also stars Michael Arkin as a spiritualist Henderick Swendon.
"I guess I will do the same as last time," Anthony pointed out when asked how he will handle a "reading" role on stage. He was referring to his starring role in the Emmy nominated PBS docu-series "The Abolitionist" where he played a young Frederick Douglas that did not have a speaking part. His scene, none-the-less, was used by PBS to promote the film because he carried the small role so expertly. As a result he represented PBS in 2013 when he attended the red carpeted awards ceremony in Hollywood.

"The Frederick Douglas role when I played that in 2012 because of the 2013 nomination, I got to go to the Emmy Awards," he said about which role, of his long list of credits, he likes best. "I kind of helped my face to stay in that look by acting in my head. I said lines in my head to make my body think I was saying them."

Already a multi-award winning actor Anthony Michael Hobbs also models, and appeared in the national marketing campaign for Finish Line athletic chain, the second largest chain in the U.S.

He has also starred in the DreamWorks documentary "How to Train Your Dragon:" Dragons and Dinosaurs"; Samuel Wise's musical "Christmas Gift"; in a United Way PSA; a Norwegian Cruise-Line commercial that also airs on its voyages; several Sprout Network mini-segments; a Comcast/Infinity X infomercials; in a segment of "Sk Wids,'" a kids online show (www.SkWids.com); the voice of an instructional video for advertising firm TBWA World Wide, the largest advertising holding company in the world; in the film Waiting for Godot, and PSAs for such projects for US National Parks Service, Baltimore County Recycling, the Greater Philadelphia Coalition Against Hunger, and USDA's Healthy Kids 2011 print campaign.

"I have fun on set. I meet new friends," Hobbs said about why he acts. "The joy of performing."

You can log onto www.Anthony-Michael.com for more information.

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations/Business consult at Freelance Associates, and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Events: "Uplifting Minds II" free entertainment conference arrives in Hollywood, CA Saturday, October 25, 2014 at the Celebrity Center, and comes back to Baltimore Sat. April 18th at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.com, www.ThePulseofEntertainment.com.) 

June 13, 2014

annnesby_2.jpgGrammy winner Ann Nesby releases new album, ‘Living My Life' on Arrow Soul Records

By Eunice Moseley 

"It has been five years since my last album," said two-time Grammy winner Ann Nesby about her last solo album release. "I'm a member of World Changers (Creflo Dollar Ministries) and they added another division - Arrow Soul. I was asked to come on to the label. Since I was there at the church for 15 years I thought I can be home, in the studio and church. It worked out for the good."

Her first album release on Arrow Soul is "Living My Life" with the first single, the title track, climbing the radio charts. Nesby best known for being the lead vocalist in Sounds of Blackness is known as the Queen of Inspirational Soul Music.

"He hooked me up with top-of-the-line producers," she said about the project. "Kendrick Dean comes from a spiritual foundation. He is witty; youthful...his music is fresh. It gave me the opportunity to learn...pick that young mind."

Dean has produced for such artists as Mariah Carey, Mary J Blige, and Tyrese. Ann is also a songwriter and has written songs for Gladys Knight and Patti LaBelle. As an actress Nesby has appeared in Tyler Perry's I Been Changed and the film The Fighting Temptations.

"Living My Life" was released June 3, 2014.

"I write and talk about things I've experience," Ann concluded about what we can find on the project. "Being able to share experiences through music is always a plus."

You can log onto www.Arrow-Records.com or www.AnnNesby.com for more information on Ann or the current album release "Living My Life."

Multi-platinum selling South African Soul singer Lira releases debut American album, ‘Rise Again,' tours the U.S.
lira3.jpgMulti-platinum selling South African Soul singer Lira releases her debut American album titled "Rise Again," on the Shanachie imprint, and plans U.S. tour to support. The album's first single "Feel Good" is a remix of her South African hit.

"Its material I've released in South African over the last several years," said Lira, a very beautiful artist who also models. "It's what I thought America would like...this is who I am."

"Rise Again" is a collection of many genres of music laced with her South African flavor making a very fresh sound for America. My favorite selections on the project include the title song "Rise Again," which has a Latin feel and the acoustic guitar (played by Lira) solo I love very much, "Something Inside So Strong" has an African feel to it, and "Valley of Darkness" has a nice Pop/R&B sound.

"I am so excited," she said about her U.S. tour to support the "Rise Again" release. "This is my second American tour. The first time I was feeling the market for my style of music. I am visiting 13 cities all across America. I am really excited... I am going places I've never been. "

Lira said she never grew up with South African music, it was banded on radio.

"Our own music was banded from radio. We heard (as children) American music. The soundtrack to our struggle," she concluded.

You can log onto www.MissLira.com to find out more about her or her first America album release "Rise Again."

KJLH Radio personality Tammi Mac gives outstanding performance in one-woman play ‘Bag Lady'

tammimac_baglady_credit_MacAlexander.jpg"Make peace with the past," said Tammi Mac, KJLH 102.3 radio personality and theatrical actress about what she wanted the audience to get from her one-woman play "Bag Lady" held recently at Stage 52 Playhouse in Los Angeles for two weeks. "We incorporated multi-media because that's what is in society...technology...done in a different way...incorporated with my performance."

Tammi Mac did an outstanding job entertaining the audience with no break. The many characters she performed as was so on point I was sitting there wondering why this play or Tammi Mac are not on Broadway. The production was so 21 Century, Broadway has got to be to this point in production, if not then they need to take lessons from Mac.

"I have been in plays for nine years in Los Angeles," she pointed out when talking about her acting skills. "This particular one me and my girlfriend were coming from Houston on a flight. The conversation was about the men in our lives. We stop laughing. For the rest of the flight we were analyzing ourselves. I was like I am going to write this. She said, ‘you should do a one-woman play.' I got the funding from Kickstarter so I had no reason not to."

Mac raised $20,000 from the Kickstarter campaign to fund the play and a web bases series. Directed by award winning Iona Morris "Bag Lady" follows Tammi Mac's life long relationships with men starting with childhood molestation. You follow her through, not only her relationships, but through the time period thanks to her excellent acting and narratives throughout the play.

"I had a tough time writing the ending," Tammi Mac confessed. "It came two months before the opening. When I did the reading I had writers help me with the beginning, middle and ending. How do you merge them together? It all comes back to where you start, that's how it ends."

It ended so well it brought me to tears. I laughed, gasped in horror, cried, and laughed some more. Her opening night attracted such celebrities as director John Singleton, actress Vanessa Bell Calloway, actor DeVon Franklin, actor Phil Morris, and Dawn Lewis - to name a few.

"Bag Lady" was executive produced by Deborah McCall, Brandi Burks, Manuel and Nina Curette, Oscar & Parnell Farinas, and Brother Steve & Respect for Life Foundation. Learn more about this outstanding theatrical actress and KJLH 102.3 Radio personality ("Mac & Amice") from 4 - 8 p.m. at www.TammiMac.com or www.KJLHRadio.com.  

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations/Business consult at Freelance Associates, and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Events: "Uplifting Minds II" free entertainment conference arrives in Hollywood, CA Saturday, October 25, 2014 at the Celebrity Center, and comes back to Baltimore Sat. April 18, 2015 at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.comwww.ThePulseofEntertainment.com.)

June 20, 2014

22JumpStreet_Hill_Tatum_Cube.jpg22 Jump Street is two times the laughs, in theaters now

I came prepared to laugh going by what the promotions show on the Columbia Pictures and Metro-Goldwyn Mayer presentations of 22 Jump Street starring Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum, but it was the chemistry between them that made it memorable. Their comedic timing together surprised me and reminded me - not trying to tell me age - of the comedy duo Abbott and Costello. 22 Jump Street is two times laughs so be prepared. The Rated-R comedy was released to theatres June 13, 2014.

Also an action film this sequel to 21 Jump Street follows two brothers who are undercover cops as they try to bring down a drug-ring on a college campus. During the process they have to deal with their somewhat strained "brother relationship."

Produced by Jonah Hill, Neal H. Moritz and Channing Tatum 22 Jump Street even provides laughs during the credit-roll with these skits of "future" sequels: 23 Jump Street, 24 Jump Street, 25 Jump Street, etc...all funnier than the next.
The script was written by Michael Bacall, Rodney Rothman, and Oren Uziel. Taken from stories by Hill and Bacall 22 Jump Street is directed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller. The family friendly film is a Media Rights Capital Original Film and Lord Millen Production.

22 Jump Street also stars Ice Cube, Queen Latifah, Peter Stormare, Wyatt Russell, Amber Stevens, Jullian Bell, the Lucas Brothers, Nick Offerman, Jimmy Tatro, Craig Roberts, and Carolina Aaron. Learn more about the film and cast at www.22JumpStreetMovie.com.  

Legendary entertainment executive Ernie Singleton host ‘Salute to Entertainment Executives' honors June 25, 2014 at Grammy Museum
erniesingleton.jpg"We are honoring Urban entertainment executives," said Ernie Singleton, former President of Urban Music at MCA Records about his "Salute to Entertainment Executives 2014" (#SaluteEE2014) honors to be held Wednesday, June 25, 2014 at the Grammy Museum in Los Angeles. "We actually do events each year during BET Awards season." About the purpose of the honors Ernie said simply, "executives go unnoticed."

This year his Salute to Entertainment Executives will honor such individuals as celebrity stylist Angela Dean (Queen Latifah, Luenell); President of Urban Music at Interscope Records Joie Manda, and legendary DJ at KTWW Radio Gregg Mac. Special awards will be given to Curtis Mayfield ("Timeless Music Award"), Julie Rifkind ("Urban Executive Spirit Award") at Spring Records, and Ron Bloom ("Urban Executive Innovator Award") CEO of BiteSize TV.

"We do entertainment events and marketing for various people," said Singleton when ask what his company The Singleton Entertainment Corporation, which guided Ruthless Records from $50,000 in value to $16 million, current do. "We consult industry executives. We also have workshops."

His company will also be hosting a Blogger's Brunch on June 26th, a Producer's Ball on June 27th, and the Cream of the Crop event June 29th. Learn more about Ernie Singleton or his company The Singleton Entertainment Corp by logging onto www.SingletonEntertainment.com.  

Screen Actors Guild host annual ‘Actors Fore Actors' Celebrity Golf Classic fundraiser at an exclusive location in Burbank
SAGCelebrityGolf_June9_2014_AnthonyAnderson_GuysandKids_LawandOrder.jpgI went to cover the arrival of over 50 notable actors/actresses at the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) annual "Actors Fore Actors" celebrity golf classic fundraiser for the SAG Foundation. The event was hosted by Tim Allen ("Home Improvement") and Richard Karn ("Home Improvement"). The "green" carpet arrivals gave me the opportunity to see and interview briefly some of my favorite actors in television and film.

"My wife and I like to do this," said Tim Allen ("Last Man Standing") about golfing. "It's something we can do together." When I asked him what project he was on he said, "Currently I'm in middle of a comedy tour. I had 12 concerts and I'm at the last three."

The "Actors Fore Actors" golf celebrity fundraiser was held on June 9, 2014 at an exclusive location where over 50 celebrity gofers played 18 competitive rounds of golf to help raise critical funds for the SAG-AFTRA Foundation's Catastrophic Health Fund and Emergency Assistance Programs for performers and their families.

"Looking good and playing good is two different things," laughed Anthony Anderson, who will appear in ABC's "Black-ish" series, and Food Network's "Food Fest" series. "I'm a regular golfer...18 years," he admitted.

"I've been too busy to take the game up any more," said Kim Coates ("Sons of Anarchy") about the 18 rounds he was about to do. "I miss the game." When asked about upcoming projects Kim added, "I have a film, Fighting Man, opening up in Canada. I play a priest - that's a change for me. My mother said, ‘Is it a horror movie!'"

With over 50 high-profile celebrities, no wonder it was an exclusive location imagine the security needed. I was able to interview golf host Tim Allen, Anthony Anderson (Transformer, "Guys and Kids"), Kevin Zegers (The Mortals), Kim Coastes, Donald Faison ("The Exes"), Gregory Harris ("Reckless"), Joe Mantegna ("Criminal Minds"), Michael Pena (End of Watch), and Pamela Reed (Kindergarten Cop) who serves as the Vice President of the SAG Foundation's board.

Those that I saw and couldn't get to for an interview included Alfonso Ribeiro ("The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air"), Carmine Giovinazzo ("CSI:NY"), Kate Linder ("The Young & the Restless"), Kevin Rahm ("Mad Men"), Michael Weatherly ("NCIS"), Paula Trickey ("Pacific Blue"), Peter Gallagher ("Covert Affairs"), and Sam Page ("House of Cards").

The SAG Foundation hosts two charity golf tournaments in Los Angeles and New York to benefit the Catastrophic Health Fund and Assistance Programs. It has raised nearly 1.2 million. Learn more at www.SAGFoundation.org or www.Golf.SAGFoundation.org.  

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations/Business consult at Freelance Associates, and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Events: "Uplifting Minds II" free entertainment conference arrives in Hollywood, CA Saturday, October 25, 2014 at the Celebrity Center, and comes back to Baltimore Sat. April 18, 2015 at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.comwww.ThePulseofEntertainment.com.) 

June 27, 2014

maxiepriest.jpgMulti-platinum Reggae Billboard chart topper Maxi Priest releases new album, ‘Easy to Love', performs at Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival July 20, 2014 in Queens

"We gonna' ball," said Grammy nominated Maxi Priest when asked what the crowd in Queens, New York will expect at his Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival headlining performance. Priest will release a new album, "Easy to Love" (VP Records), July 16, 2014 digitally. "Some festivals people stand up and watch...here you get involved and have a good time! I'm performing songs people have heard and enjoy."

Maxi's catalog consists of such hits as "Wild World," "Close to You," and "Housecall." He will be performing on the main stage at the Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival July 20, 2014 at Roy Wilkins Park in Queens - its expecting to attract over 16, 000 visitors.

"'I Could Be the One,'" he said when asked if he had a favorite selection on his new project "East to Love." "Because a friend of mine past...very close friend....I'd had not been able to sleep. I didn't know why and I came up with ‘I Could Be the One.' It diverted to this love song....cause the thought was that ‘could have been me."

Maxi Priest is a British Reggae artist raised in London, and is among few British Reggae artists to reach Billboard's #1 position in the charts. His "Close to you" hit reached #1 in 1990, and his "Set the Night to Music" duet with Roberta Flack reached the Top 10 Billboard Charts in 1991. My favorite Maxi Priest hit "That Girl," featuring Shaggy, reached Billboard Top 20 Charts in 1996.

"Billboard hardly has any Urban songs," Priest pointed out about the music industry. "Haven't had an Urban song hit sense ‘Happy'."

Maxi Priest will start touring to promote the "Easy to Love" release July 13th in Chicago at Taste of Chicago, and end on October 13th in Los Angeles at the Hollywood Park Casino.

For more information on the "Easy to Love" album release log onto www.VPRecords.com.  

Mariah Huq receives producer credit second season of Bravo TV's ‘Married to Medicine,' creator credits next season
marahhuq.jpgThe second season of Mariah Huq's reality show "Married to Medicine" recently ended, but I am sure they will re-air the episodes during its regularly scheduled time Sundays at 10 p.m. This second season Mariah received producer credit for the reality show she created, and shopped to Bravo TV.

"I get creative credit next season," Mariah Huq said about "Married to Medicine" a reality show she co-created with her husband Dr. Aydin, a Bangladeshi emergency physician. "My attorney is my own Jerry McGuire," she laughed when asked why she didn't get creator/producer credit initially. "My husband and I put a lot of money into it (the project)."

"They threw a lot on me this season," she said about the executive producers who changed the focus of the show from her relationship with her husband to her relationship with the other women. "I'm not a drama queen. You won't see me that much this season. Any time you have a group of women together you going to have drama. My life doesn't evolve around my girlfriends, that's too high school."

The other cast members on Bravo TV's "Married to Medicine" include Jacqueline Waters an OBGYN physician; Quad Webb-Lanceford married to psychiatrist who is 14 years her senior; Toya Bush Harris married to an emergency medicine physician; Simone Whitmore an OBGYN physician; Lisa Nicole Cloud a fashion designer, and Heavenly Kimes a dentist. Executive producers are Matt Anderson and Nate Green.

"I was irritated this season," Mariah said passionately. "It's not my story. Not a true picture of real life. Creative conflict..." 

I noted that a show that's pushed in certain situations that's not usually normal is not a reality show but a scripted show, she said, "I question the same thing and I'm a producer. The show is real but smart producers are persuasive...they put you in situations to get emotions...put me in harms way...I didn't want to go....if I didn't I'd breach the contract."

Mariah, born LaKeisha, started in "entertainment" at WRCB TV, an NBC affiliate, as assistant producer. She worked her way up to host and producer of a lifestyle segment titled "Trend in 3." She is COO of Jewel & Jem a multi-cultural children's home décor and Sleepwear Company she founded with her sister LaKeeda 10 years ago. She has two children with her husband. She is also owner of Mariah Media Group that birth "Married to Medicine," and Cinnamon Girl Diet.

"Absolutely not," Mariah said without hesitation when asked if her reality show is what she thought it would be when she sold it. "Not at all...I wanted to show sisterhood. Yes, there is drama like what we went through as an interracial couple. They make doctors wives look superficial, we're not."

The premiere of "Marry to Medicine" gave Bravo TV the highest rated series in its network history. Learn more about "Marry to Medicine" by logging onto www.BravoTV.com/Married-to-Medicine.

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations/Business consult at Freelance Associates, and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Events: "Uplifting Minds II" free entertainment conference arrives in Hollywood, CA Saturday, October 25, 2014 at the Celebrity Center, and comes back to Baltimore Sat. April 18, 2015 at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.com,  www.ThePulseofEntertainment.com.) 

July 4, 2014

LUENELL_photocredit_stevenlittles.jpgLuenell is in high demand in Hollywood's circuit: Matthew 18, School Dance and Think Like a Man Too

"Hard work and prayer," said comedienne/actress Luenell (Hotel Transylvania, The Rock, Borat) about her career to stardom. "It's also because of who you turn down and who you pick up. I was doing a lot of little things. I'll do the things that got two lines."
There you go striving artists do as many small roles as you can so people will say you're everywhere, and Luenell is just that - she is everywhere. She is in the #1 hit Think Like a Man Too, the Nick Cannon directed School Dance just released July 2, 2014, and Matthew 19 a psycho-thriller release date as yet determined.

"There's a part in School Dance, I think they cut that out, I'm having a baby ...and my feet are in the stirrups...it was funny," she laughed while telling the story. "There's this rapper in between my legs."

I knew it was going to be funny because I started laughing as soon as she said I was having a baby, my mind went to how we look at that time - legs open "screaming" in pain. Everything Luenell does bring a smile to your face, and laughter to your day, even off script, off stage.

Her credits as an actress started in high school, and continued into college, but it was her personality that allowed her to take advantage of an opportunity when she took a dare, and did a stand-up performance at a Long Beach comedy club. As they say and the rest is history. That "performance" led to her opening for Robin Harris and D.L. Hughley.

A natural actress she went after roles, and added credits such as The Rock, Never Die Alone, "Nash Bridges," "The Tracy Morgan Show," and the 20th Century Blockbuster Borat: ...Nation of Kazakhstan.

Her comedy credits include "BET's Comicview," "Jamie Foxx's Laffapalooza," "Comedy After Dark," and "Martin Lawrence's 1st Amendment Stand Up." She performed with comedian/actor Katt Williams for two years for his "Katt Williams American Hustle" tour. She had stand up appearances in "Snoop Dogg's Bad Girls of Comedy" on Showtime.

The Arkansas native acting credits went on to include roles in "Californication," "The Boondocks," "The Middle," and films such as Spring Breakdown, All About Steve, Think Like a Man, Taken 2 with Liam Neeson, and Adam Sandler's That's My Boy.

Sounding very tired when I talked to her, but hearing no signs of her slowing down Luenell also hosts "Between The Streets with Luenell" on Cannon's Countdown Radio Show. So in high demand in Hollywood Nick Cannon wore "her" T-shirt (with her face) at the recent BET Awards.

"That was...I have no words," Luenell said about what Nick did for her wearing her image on a T-shirt before such a large audience. "I was speechless. I wasn't there I was filming. I checked my phone, and had 27 text messages...sending the picture. I came home and watched it. I texted him...he texted back, ‘Love you girl.'"

You can't help but love Luenell if you've met her, seen her stand up performances or her acting in the various roles. You can learn more about what she is doing next by visiting her website at www.HeyLuenell.com.  

Kindred the Family Soul releases new project on Shanachie, ‘A Couple Friends'
kindredfamilysoul2.jpgSighted as contributing to the Neo-Soul movement the husband and wife team, Kindred the Family Soul, released a new album on the Shanachie imprint titled "A Couple of Friends."

"We did have a concept. We first went to record to see what came out," said Kindred. "We put it aside for a year. Decided to do a couple's retreat, and thought it would be a great theme."

Fatin and Aja Dantzler are natives from Philadelphia, and debuted with a 2003 album release "Surrender to Love" on Hidden Beach Records. They were "discovered" by Hidden Beach at the Black Lily Film Music Festival.

In 2005 they released "In This Life Together," "The Arrival" in 2008, and "Love Has No Recession" in 2011. The "A Couple of Friends" album is joined by the release of a 22 minute short film featuring material from the album.

"It's just four songs," they said about the film. "We worked them into the storyline. It takes a look at two different couples."

"Everybody's Hustling" is the first single off of the "A Couple of Friends" release. Learn more about the album and where the duo will be performing by logging onto www.KindredFamilySoul.com.  

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations/Business consult at Freelance Associates, and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Events: "Uplifting Minds II" free entertainment conference arrives in Hollywood, CA Saturday, October 25, 2014 at the Celebrity Center, and comes back to Baltimore Sat. April 18, 2015 at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.com,  www.ThePulseofEntertainment.com.)

July 11, 2014

planetoftheapes.jpg20th Century Fox's presentation of Dawn of the Planet of the Apes is riveting, in theaters July 11, 2014

The continuation of the 2011 release of Rise of the Planet of the Apes arrives in theaters July 11, 2014 as Dawn of the Planet of the Apes 3D. The 20th Century Fox presentation of the saga of Caesar, played by Golden Globe winner Andy Serkis is riveting.
It has been 10 years and no sign of humans since the ALZ-113 virus breakout, and Caesar is the leader of a nation of Apes, chimpanzee and orangutans. The inevitable day comes when humans venture out of their city hide-away, from the human-like intelligent Apes, to seek needed resources located in an area under Caesar's control. What happens will surprise you, and the ending will make you cry - well it made me cry.

Dawn of the Planet of the Apes is the eighth theatrical franchise film of the original Planet of the Apes science-fiction film based on the novel of the same name written by French author Pierre Poulle in 1963. It also stars SAG nominated Gary Oldman as Dreyfus the leader of the humans; Jason Clarke as Malcolm the mediator of peace between the apes and humans; Golden Globe winner Keri Russell wife of Malcolm; Kodi Smit-McPhee as Alexander son of Malcolm; Nick Thurston as River the son of Caesar, and Toby Kebbell as Koba Caesar's ruthless advisor, and Judy Greer as Cornelia the wife of Caesar. The characters were created by Rick Jaffa and Amanda Silver.

Written by Mark Bomback, Jaffa and Silver Dawn of the Planet of the Apes is Rated-PG13. Produced by Peter Chernin, Rick Jaffa, and Amanda Silver Dawn of the Planet of the Apes is a Chernin Entertainment/Dune Entertainment production directed by Matt Reeves.

To watch the trailer or learn more log onto www.DawnofApes.com.  

UPtv original movie ‘Comeback Dad' starring Charles S. Dutton, Loretta Devine and Tatyana Ali airs Saturday July 12, 2014
charlesdutton.jpg"I don't want you to think it's depressing," said Emmy Award winner Charles S. Dutton ("Longmire," Alien 3) about the UP Network original movie presentation "Comeback Dad" about an absentee father trying to mend his estranged relationship with his daughter suffering from abandonment. "It's uplifting, hilarious, up beat, but with serious issues, and timely."

"Comeback Dad" also stars Tatyana Ali ("Love That Girl") as his daughter, Loretta Devine ("Grey's Anatomy") as his wife, and Brad James ("Single Ladies") as the love interest of Ali's character. It airs Saturday July 12, 2014 at 8:30 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT.

It's a made for TV movie everyone can gather together and watch," said Brad James about the made-for-television movie directed by Russ Parr. "That has kind of been lost."

"Someone I trust said read the script," said Dutton about why he accepted the role. "Soon as I read it I said I'd do it. The script was so good, and I found out Loretta Devine...and Tatyana was in it. It was only a 10 day shoot for an almost two hour movie."

"Comeback Dad" is written Kimberly Walker.

"It's the opportunity...to work with great people," said James about his involvement in the UP TV original movie. "Charles Dutton is better than advertised; Loretta Devine is inspiring to me on every level...fun people."

Junei Lee, lead guitarist and music director, ready's for sophomore album, tour with Temptations
juneilee.jpgThe lead guitarist and music director for such legends as David Ruffin, Eddie Kendricks, The Impression, Mary Wells, and Ramsey Lewis is preparing for his sophomore release, a follow up to his debut solo album "Junei."

"There was a guitar under the Christmas tree," Junei Lee said about how he got started playing the lead guitar. "From that day I never put it down. My mom thought something was wrong. I was writing (music) since I was 12."

Junei was asked to tour with Dizzy Gillespie at the age of 15, but his father wouldn't allow him go on tour at that age. Gillespie was persistent and at the age of 16 Junei toured with the Jazz legend, and has been touring for legends every since.

"I will be touring with the Temptations in September," Lee informed me. "I'm working on my next album, forming a band, and relocating."

Junei's guitar talents have him playing Smooth Jazz, Neo-Soul, R&B, Funk, Pop, Blues, Gospel, Fusion and Rock & Roll. Others he has performed with include Goodman & Brown, The Stylistics, Ray Charles, Curtis Mayfield, Howard Hewett, The Emotions, B.B. King, Muddy Waters, Pop Staples, and Nancy Wilson.

Learn more about Junei Lee, his upcoming album release, and his upcoming performances at www.JuneiLee.com.  

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations/Business consult at Freelance Associates, and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Events: "Uplifting Minds II" free entertainment conference arrives in Hollywood, CA Saturday, October 25, 2014 at the Celebrity Center, and comes back to Baltimore Sat. April 18, 2015 at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.com,  www.ThePulseofEntertainment.com.)

July 18, 2014

jonathanbutler_guitar.jpgTwo-time Grammy nominee Jonathan Butler is ‘Living My Dream' in newest album release

"I'm in my season," said two-time Grammy nominee Jonathan Butler when I asked why he named his album "Living My Dream" (Artistry Music/Mack Avenue Records). "I grew up in South African...played live on stage with Stevie Wonder (at a young age)...it really is a dream. It's good to be able to make music."

Butler is known as a Contemporary Jazz guitarist, and on "Living My Dream" features George Duke on piano and Marcus Miller on bass. The album also features his remarkable vocal talents.

He began singing at the age of seven and by the age of 12 won "Best New Artist" South Africa's Grammy Award - named the Sarie Award. He made history by being the first black artist to be played on white South African radio garnering three gold records. He moved to London signing with Jive Records, and went on to earn two American Grammy Award nominations, one for an R&B/Pop hit.

The versatile guitarist launched the Jonathan Butler Foundation in his native country to fund music education programs for children ages 4 - 17.
"Living My Dream" is a collection of genres of music showcasing his skills as a guitarist and vocalist.

"It's a good album. A mixture of the two," Jonathan pointed out. "It's a good balance of the two (guitar playing and singing)."

Butler is currently touring until January, 2015 and you can see where he is performing by visiting his website www.JonathanButler.com.
My favorite cuts on album include "Be Still," a Smooth Jazz selection, "Let There Be Light," and "Song for You," a nice R&B/Pop number.

ASCAP's Rhythm & Soul Awards honors Jermaine Dupri, Ne-Yo and 100 years of service
ASCAPRandS2014_RoShon.JPGThe red carpet arrivals for the 27th Annual ASCAP Rhythm & Soul Awards, held recently at the Beverly Hilton Hotel, was impressive this year as many ASCAP members came out to support Jermaine Dupri and Ne-Yo who received special honors, as ASCAP celebrates 100 years of service.

Dupri received the ASCAP Founders Award joining past recipients such as Sean "Diddy" Combs, Dr. Dre, Billy Joel, Quincy Jones, Paul McCartney, and Stevie Wonder. Ne-Yo received the ASCAP Golden Note Award joining past recipients Jay Z, Alicia Keys, LL Cool J, Usher, Lionel Richie, and Pharrell.

While there I had a chance to interview briefly Hip-Hop Christian rapper Lecrae, Mario, Grammy nominated songwriter Kay Cola (Ne-Yo, Dr. Dre); Grammy Award winner James Fauntleroy (Rihanna, Justin Timberlake); seven-time Grammy Award nominated Kelly Price, and singer/actor/dancer RoShon (Disney).

"I'm different," said Lacrea about what the title of his upcoming album, "Anomaly" means. "I don't quit fit in."

"My dad is a jazz musician (Herbert Laws) so I been in the studio since I was nine," said Grammy nominated Kay Cola about how she started as a songwriter. "Started writing with The Underdogs that was my huge break...wrote for The Game. Fauntleroy (former member of The Underdogs) was a high school friend since 14."

"My parents are my rock. They keep me rolling," said Disney actor RoShon (Camp Rock, "Shake It Up," "Dancing With The Stars") about his major success in the industry.

The invitation only event also honored a list of other songwriters and publishers of the most performed ASCAP songs on the 2013 R&B, Hip-Hop/Rap, and Gospel charts.

BET and AEG's BET Experience was an extravaganza of events unlike no other
BETExperience_ericbenet.jpgI covered BET Network and AEG's three-day BET Experience held at L.A. Live, Club Nokia Theater, Staple Center and the Los Angeles Convention Center that included "106 & Park" taping in the Nokia Plaza L.A. Live, BET Fan Fest at the Los Angeles Convention Center, Grammy Museum exhibits, and concerts at Club Nokia.

I spent my time at the Convention Center to view the celebrity basketball game and the Music Matters concerts. Some of the celebrities showing their basketball skills included Chris Brown, Snoop Dog, Justin Bieber, JB Smoove, Brandon T. Jackson, Terrell Owens, Sugar Shane Mosely, and Omarion - to name a few. On the Music Matter's stage I had a chance to see the performances of Eric Bellinger, Rico Love, Mack Wilds, Jagged Edge, Eric Benet, Calvin Richardson, and Nigerian rapper Ice Prince.

There was so much going on, such as the Nickelodeon Kids Zone, free drinks from Sprint and Coca-Cola, the Health and Wellness Pavilion, and celebrity meet and greets at the "World of Ahh" section. All held to take advantage of the historical 2014 BET Awards week long events that lead up to the live award show.

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations/Business consult at Freelance Associates, and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Events: "Uplifting Minds II" free entertainment conference arrives in Hollywood, CA Saturday, October 25, 2014 at the Celebrity Center, and comes back to Baltimore Sat. April 18, 2015 at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.com, www.ThePulseofEntertainment.com.) 

July 25, 2014

kierrasheard4.jpgGrammy nominated Kierra Sheard releases newest Urban Gospel album, ‘Graceland'

"I was struggling and praying fix this, fix that, beating myself up...found myself with suicidal thoughts," said Grammy Award nominated Urban Gospel artist Kierra Sheard about the title of her newest album release on Karew/Motown titled "Graceland" - released July 22, 2014. "My friend encouraged me...he said, ‘condemnation and self-conviction is not of the Holy Spirit. There is still a thing called grace.' That's why we call it ‘Graceland.'"

Sheard, daughter of Gospel matron Karen Clark Sheard and Bishop J. Drew Sheard, has already released the first single off of the highly anticipated album titled "2nd Win" produced by J. Drew. The single samples the Clark Sisters' song "They Were Overcome."

"The single is out now," Kierra pointed out. "It encourages listeners that you can get there again. It means a lot to me...a good summer banger."

Sheard also stars in BET's reality show "The Sheards," and is a judge on BET's "Sunday Best" Gospel competition.
"It's a great opportunity," she said about judging the "Sunday Best" competition. "It has been a lot of fun. It's been a blessing because I'm young...on the platform with living legends years older...its been so much fun."

Kierra features collaborations on "Graceland" with legendary songwriter Diane Warren (Beyonce', Celine Dion, Whitney Houston) and songwriter/producer Harmony Samuels (Fantasia, Michelle Williams).

"I'm learning...in the industry it's about getting connected," said the Detroit native frankly. "There is a reason you meet people. We got Diane Warren...it was so much fun to work with her. The lesson I learned is to stay humble. She was so really cool."

"Graceland" is Kierra "KiKi" Sheard's fifth album release, and also an actress she has appeared in the movie Preacher's Kid. You can log onto www.IAmKierraSheard.com for more information about the Urban Gospel artists new release.

Trumpeter Rick Braun's new album ‘Can You Feel It,' is a melting pot of Jazz styles
rickbraun_horn3.jpgThe chart topping Jazz trumpeter Rick Braun releases his newest project "Can You Feel It" on the Artistry Music imprint. "Can You Feel It" delivers a melting pot of Jazz styles to invoke many difference feelings to the listeners.

"I wanted to go back to my roots," said the instrumentalist and Smooth Jazz vocalist about the new project. "My experience touring with War in 1992 - 1993 and that (debut) album was a Beat Street release (in 1994), it put me on the map. It was garage tape-recorded. It's the same thing I did with this one. I wanted to make a very organic (album)."

The 1994 release took Rick to the #1 spot on Billboard's Contemporary Jazz Chart, and was titled "Club Harlem." It was a horn and nylon string guitar duet with Peter White. This album, "Can You Feel It," features the help of pianist Brian Culbertson, sax man Dave Koz, and vocal help from Elliot Yamin (American Idol finalist). Speaking of vocals you get to hear Rick's impressive singing on this project.

"I also sing sometimes," Braun said. "I sing and play differently. I sang with strings on the Sinatra Channel with a 52 piece band. I'm a very lyrical (horn) player. Some have a technical style, I'm not that kind."

My favorite selections on the "Can You Feel It" album release include the title track because of the lead guitar support and the funky horn style of Braun as he takes off - you can't help but "feel it;" "Delta" another funky number; "Mallorca" is a nice Smooth Jazz cut; "Another Kind of Blue" for its slow and power driven sound, and "Silk" another Smooth Jazz selection.

You can learn more about Rick Braun by logging onto his website www.RickBraun.com.  

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations/Business consult at Freelance Associates, and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Events: "Uplifting Minds II" free entertainment conference arrives in Hollywood, CA Saturday, October 25, 2014 at the Celebrity Center, and comes back to Baltimore Sat. April 18, 2015 at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.comwww.ThePulseofEntertainment.com.) 

August 1, 2014

montelljordan.jpgMontell Jordan, the first ‘Unsung' artist highlighted on TV One's docu-series, airs Wednesdays at 8/7c

TV One premieres a new season of its docu-series "Unsung" starting with the life of singer/songwriter/producer/actor and minister Montell Jordan. His segment aired July 30, 2014, but TV One will air an encore Sunday, August 3, 2014 at 5 p.m. CT. "Unsung" airs on Wednesdays at 8/7c.

"I was a little nervous but in the same breath...they considered me for the show where most are older more seasoned," said singer/songwriter/producer/actor and minister Montell Jordan about his TV One "Unsung" episode. "It shows I'm still relevant in today's society. I was killed on Twitter, I was a young minister at the time, and I was reading what people said. They said, ‘Montell Jordan of ‘This is How We Do It' (fame) died...' I'm more than that. I want ‘...' after Montell Jordan."

His episode will show there is so much more to Montell Jordan, and the others that this season of TV One's "Unsung" will focus on. Other episodes will highlight the lives of Hi Five (August 6th), The Emotions (August 13th), Martha Wash (August 20th), Troop (August 27th), Bone Thugs-N-Harmony (September 3rd), Wilson Pickett (September 10th), The Chi-Lites (September 17th), Peaches & Herb (September 24th), and Rick James (October 1st). Jordan is not only a singer, but a songwriter/producer (SisQo's "Incomplete," Deborah Cox's "Nobody Suppose to Be Here"), an actor (The Nutty Professor, Fighting Temptations), and a minister (Victor World Church). Montell also hold a Bachelor's degree in Communications.

"(Giving his songs away) It was a huge issue," Jordan said when asked about others singing his songs, such as Christina Milian, 98 Degrees, Shae Jones and Lil' Mo. "In the same breath...when nobody gets to see your child...I had notoriety at the time and was able to give them away, give them life. It was a great opportunity. We (Montell and his partner Shep Crawford) had songs I wanted to birth that wouldn't see the time of day. I was an up-temple artist, and we had songs like ‘Incomplete' so we gave it to SisQo to give them life."

Jordan said that the producer of TV One's "Unsung" had access to his family and children, and he feels the episode will do him justice.

"It was shot with integrity," Jordan pointed out. "It shows I am two very difference characters. I'm in ministry (now) and live very different. I went through...the journey of the music business to ministry. I traded success for significance. If I never sing another song...I'm relevant in people's lives, instead of in music."

Montell Jordan started in the music business at Def Jam Soul in 1995, and he married his wife in 1994 (they have four children). He topped the charts at Def Jam with "This is How We Do It," "Let's Ride" featuring Master P and Sillk Shocker, and "When You Get Home." Montell also signed a deal with Koch Records in 2003 and Fontana Records in 2008. Jordan left secular music in 2010 to minister at his church Victory World Church, and released a Gospel album in 2011.

The TV One "Unsung" docu-series is produced by A. Smith & Company, an award winning television production company founded by Arthur Smith and Kent Weed. Their company has produced programs with budgets totaling one billion dollars. In 2011 they teamed up with Tinopolis Group becoming the leading North American television production force.

Learn more about TV One and its docu-series "Unsung" by logging onto www.TVOne.tv/shows/Unsung.

Famed Gospel choir master Ricky Dillard releases his much anticipated live album with New G, ‘Amazing,' celebrating 25 years

rickydillard_redchair.jpg"I started with 25 in 1988," Stellar Award winning choir master Ricky Dillard said about his choir called New G - with currently 35 members. "I knew what kind of singers I wanted to get that sound. I taught them how to project...so you can hear them (audience) say, ‘Wow.'"

Well on his latest live album release titled "Amazing" you will say "wow" yourself. The :Light Records/Entertainment One release offers 13 selections where Ricky Dillard and New G proves why he is a Gospel superstar and New G is a choir to be reckoned with. The album also celebrates 25 years of Ricky Dillard and New G's contributions to the Gospel music industry. "Amazing" reached #2 on Gospel Radio charts.

"My passion has been always the choir," Grammy Award nominated Dillard pointed out when I mention his own impressive vocal ability. "My mother sang in a choir and I was there. At the age of five I started to direct a choir. I was director of the children's choir. I'd wave my hand!"
Ricky said as years past he became more animated in his direction of the choir.

"I kept growing, watching...great directors," he said. When I asked how he chooses his choir members he said, "When I audition I am not asking (singers) for specific sections, I'm looking for lead singer capabilities. When I hear I know. I can tell from the vocalist's texture."

Dillard's choir directing skills had him directing for Rev. Shirley Caesar, and in major motion pictures like Fighting Temptations in 2003, Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit in 1993, and Leap of Faith in 1992. The Chicago native features the vocals of "Sunday Best" winner Le'Andria Johnson on the "Amazing" live project.
My favorite cuts on the album include "Grateful," featuring the perfect vocals of Bryon Cage; the title track "Amazing," a marching Praise & Worship song with lead vocals by Dillard and Tiffany Joy McGhee; "Always There," a passionate Praise & Worship selection with lead vocals of Le'Andria, and "Be Weak" an inspirational "Al Green" flavored song with Ricky carrying lead.

"I recorded it in two nights, Friday and Saturday," Dillard said about the project. "All my albums are record live. When I teach New G a song I'm ready for them to sing live."

To learn more about the live, "Amazing," album release log onto www.RickyDillard.net.  

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations/Business consult at Freelance Associates, and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Events: "Uplifting Minds II" free entertainment conference arrives in Hollywood, CA Saturday, October 25, 2014 at the Celebrity Center, and comes back to Baltimore Sat. April 18, 2015 at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.comwww.ThePulseofEntertainment.com.)

August 8, 2014

JAnthonyBrown.jpgJ. Anthony Brown has etched his place in the history of entertainment

"Most comedians and rappers transition naturally into acting," said J. Anthony Brown, comedian and co-host of "The Tom Joyner Morning Show," about his acting roles in Think Like a Man, Madea Goes to Jail, Drumline, Mr. 3000, Triple XXX, State of the Union, How to Be a Player, and "The Rickey Smiley Show" on TV One. "In comedy you write your own material, direct yourself, produce (your comedy shows)...arrange... and you're acting by the time you get in front of the camera. Like Kevin Hart he already had a following, and in movies that's what we bring, an audience."

J. Anthony Brown also writes comedy for others. The Columbia, SC native started in the entertainment business in 1972 as a comedian warming up the audiences for such sitcoms as "Martin," "SisterSister" and "ROC". He became a staff writer for "The Arsenio Hall Show" in the late ‘80s for five years. Then he went on to write for "The Parent ‘Hood," and "Me and the Boys."
As a stand-up comedian he performed on "Def Comedy Jam," "Showtime at the Apollo," "Evening at the Improv" and "Comic View." His acting skills, even back then, awarded him roles on "Moesha," "Living Single," "The Parkers," and "Like Family." So it's an honor for Radio One, I am sure, to have him on "The Tom Joyner Morning Show" as co-host. The radio show is heard daily from 6 - 10 a.m. on Magic 102.3FM from Washington, DC. Brown has officially etched his place in the history of entertainment without a doubt.

"They put us in the movies based on our fan base," J. Anthony points out. "I got on Tom Joyner 10-12 years ago as a guest. The producer was a fan of mine and suggested I call Tom. I called and said I'd come on for free! Free get you in the door close to people who make the decisions. If you do it for free it's a career you love."

Brown said before Tom Joyner he co-hosted for free for five years on another radio station so by the time he got on Tom's show he knew what he had to do. J. Anthony also serves as the Ambassador for the American Diabetes Association, and was honored as Entertainer of the Year by Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity in DC.

He also has his stand-up comedy tour "The J Spot" that is hosted at clubs across the country. He recently took the tour to Los Angeles, Houston, Raleigh, NC, and Gary, Indiana. It is a continuous tour where the demand for him will bring him there. Fans can visit his website at www.JAnthonyBrown.com and make their request.
If this all wasn't enough Brown has launched a clothing line, merchandise, products and a new hot sauce called Hotter than a MoFo (www.HotterThanaMofo.com). In addition he is a creative artist with artwork that appears at a special exhibit in Washington, DC next to famed African-American artist Annie Lee.
"I have the ‘Four Wall Deal'," J. Anthony said about his J. Spot Club Tour. "I produce my own shows in club rooms."

About his involvement with the Diabetes Associates he said, "It's an educational television program and website dedicated to people with diabetes. They help with dealing with it, and monitoring it. They've build a data base. I talk about my struggle with diabetes (on the shows)."

You can learn more about the legendary entertainer by visiting his websites, and following him on Twitter at @JSpotComedyClub and "like" his Facebook page at @J.Anthony.Brown.7.

Jeff Lorber, Chuck Loeb and Everette Harp collaborate to release new project ‘Jazz Funk Soul' on Shanachie Entertainment
JeffLorber_ChuckLoab_EveretteHarp.jpgCollectively Grammy Award nominated pianist Jeff Lorber, Grammy Award nominated guitarist Chuck Loeb, and saxophonist Everette Harp are multi-platinum selling musicians in Contemporary Jazz. They are friends that have been featured on each other's projects, who have come together to collaborate on a new album release on Shanachie Entertainment titled "Jazz Funk Soul."

"All of us had a good time playing together," said Chuck Loeb about the collaboration.

‘I think we diffidently had in mind what we wanted to do," said Jeff Lorber about the album's direction. "To some extent...its inspired by each other...we just let it happen. The album is a nice variety."

Jeff is a Berklee College of Music alumni whose latest release "Hacienda" received a Grammy Award nomination. Also a composer and producer Lorber has been a major instrumentalist in Contemporary Jazz for 30 years. He has produced for Dave Koz and Kenny G - to name a few. Chuck, also a member of the world-renowned group Four-Play (along with Bob James, Nathan East and Harvey Mason), is also a composer and producer. He too is a Berklee College of Music alumnus and received a Grammy Award nomination for his solo release "Silhouette." As a producer he has worked for Keiko Matsui, Jon Lucien, and Kim Waters - to name a few. Everette is known for his trademark blend of Jazz, R&B, Funk and Pop. He has worked on the projects of Aretha Franklin, Chaka Khan, Anita Baker, Luther Vandross, Pattie Labelle, and George Duke - to name a few. He plays on the theme songs for such television shows as "Entertainment Tonight," "Soul Train," and "The Arsenio Hall Show." He hosts his own radio show "Smooth Jazz Odyssey with Everette Harp" on WLOQ in Orlando, Fl. His latest solo album is titled "First Love."

"You never have to be in the same places any more," Jeff said about the recording process of the three.

Chuck said that it was the first time an entire album was record this way (every one recording separately, at separate times, in separate cities), yet so connected creatively.
Learn more about the "Jazz Funk Soul" collaboration, released June 24, 2014, by logging onto www.Shanachie.com.  

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations/Business consult at Freelance Associates, and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Events: "Uplifting Minds II" free entertainment conference arrives in Hollywood, CA Saturday, October 25, 2014 at the Celebrity Center, and comes back to Baltimore Sat. April 18, 2015 at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.com,  www.ThePulseofEntertainment.com.)

August 15, 2014

kimwaters2.jpgUrban Jazz saxophonist Kim Waters to release ‘Silver Soul' marking 25 years on September 2, 2014

"I wanted to do...something for everyone," Urban Jazz saxophonist Kim Waters said about the theme of his newest album release "Silver Soul" (Red River Entertainment) on September 2, 2014. "...see the growth."

Kim Waters, as always, will provide his own twist to Jazz that will conclude a more Contemporary Urban style. Featured vocalists of the "Silver Soul" project include his wife Dana Pope, his daughter Kayla Waters, Eric Roberson and Zendaya (Disney's "Shake It Up").

"I pretty much did everything at home," Waters said about the project when I learned he played all the instruments. "I wrote a brunch of songs. Kept playing them over and over (to pick what would make the album). I wanted each one to be a single."

The "Silver Soul" album will also mark his 25th year in the entertainment business. The first single off of the project is "Dreaming of You," which was the 2nd most added song on radio that week. The single is also one of my favorite cuts on the album, a Smooth Jazz selection with a bit of a funky flavor. I also loved the piano support.

"I usually do a lot of the instruments," the Maryland native admitted. "I started with the violin...went on to the sax while all along I was playing the keys. Through the years my next door neighbor played keyboards...he taught me. By 16 I was proficient with the keyboards and sax. My brother played drums and bass. I would sit down and watch him, and when he was gone I'd pick it up. I think it's an amazing gift."

Other favorites of mine on the "Silver Soul" project include "On a Mission" because I love the way his horn skips and scats at the end; "Anything You Need" featuring the impressive heartfelt vocals of Dana Pope, I also love the piano support on this one because it sounds like his fingers are dancing; his cover of John Legends' "All of Me" because he keeps it the same but yet makes it a Kim Waters' creation; "Fire Flies" featuring the vocals of Zendaya which gives it a nice Pop flavor, and "A Song for Dana" for its simplicity that makes it a beautiful love song, and I love the sax's long winded ending.

Kim Waters will be performing at the Birchmere in Alexander, VA on August 22, 2014. You can log onto www.KimWaters.net for more engagement dates, and information on the upcoming "Silver Soul" album release September 2, 2014.

Darrin Dewitt Henson stars in psycho-drama After premiering in Los Angeles August 15, 2014
darrindewitthenson.jpgThe Pieter Gaspersz directed psycho-drama After stars Academy Award nominee Kathleen Quinlan (Apollo 13), with supporting casts that include Darrin Dewitt Henson (Stomp the Yard), John Doman (The Wire), Tony Award nominee Pablo Schreiber ("Orange is the New Black"). Adam Scarimbolo, Sabrina Gennarino, Diane Neal ("Law & Order" SVU"), Bruno Gunn (The Hunger Games: Catching Fire), and Mandy Gonalez (Man on a Ledge).

"It was the story itself that was so profound," said Darrin about why he got involved in the film written by Sabrina Gennarino. "I had a friend that died so the story is close to my heart, and my experience is something that happened in the movie."

.After is set in the winter of 2002 in New York and follows a middle-class family struggling financially, a family lead by family matriarch played by Kathleen. There is a buried secret that threatens to shatter the family if found out.

"It was something that resonated with me and some of the people on the project were very close to what happen. The director and writer was first handedly involved...the tragedy has touched the heart of a lot of us," Henson pointed out.

After is produced by its director and writer Gaspersz and Gennarino, and edited by Oscar Award nominee Williams Steinkamp, and music by three-time Emmy Award winner Jeff Beal. The psycho-drama was released in New York August 8, 2014, and will be released to theaters in Los Angeles August 15th.

"I love this film," Darrin concluded. "It's a human experience, an American story of love, perseverance and the continuation of life."

Aside from being an actor with credits that also include "Single Ladies," "Lincoln Heights and a recurring role in BET's "Being Mary Jane," Henson is also a dance choreographer who has worked for Michael Jackson, the Spice Girls, Jennifer Lopez and Britney Spears. He also added author to his credits by publishing a book titled "Ain't That the Truth."

Some of his upcoming acting projects include The Choir Director, One Heart, and Four of Hearts. You can log onto www.DarrinHenson.com to learn more about him, and to learn more about the After film log onto www.AfterTheFilm.com.

Entertainment columnist Rosa Pryor-Trusty releases second book ‘African-American Community, History and Entertainment in Maryland'
rosapryor_trusty.jpg"I always believed in local entertainment," said entertainment columnist Rosa Pryor-Trusty, a former singer and musician who traveled the world over, who are currently promoter/artist manager, as well as entertainment writer (Afro newspaper and The Baltimore Times). "They have not had great media (support) behind them. No one talks about our local artists. I noticed local writers wrote about national artists and I had a passion for local artists."

That passion motivated Rosa to publish her first book "African-American Entertainment in Baltimore," a picture book published by Arcadia in 2003, which is working on its third print. That book is sold all over the world and found in most book stores. The response was so great that she was "pushed" by the public to publish her current book release "African-American Community, History and Entertainment in Maryland." This picture book includes research, along with the historical pictures of not only local talent, but national legends that frequently performed in her hometown of Baltimore.

"The first book made such an impact on the community," Pryor-Trusty stated. "My book is in every book store in the country, and around the world. People said you need to do a second book. The first book's publisher wouldn't let me go over a certain number of pages so I decided to self-publish the second."

Her second book "African-American Community, History and Entertainment in Maryland" has 532 pages, and is self published through Xlibris. Its first print has sold out and she is working on releasing the second print now.

"I'm a picture person," she pointed out as to why picture books. "One picture speaks 1,000 words. I went to find a publisher to give me more pages and it took me three years...so this one is self-published."

Rosa said the purpose of her books is to record the entertainment history of Baltimore, Maryland. Its Pennsylvania Avenue was once considered the birth place of the music renaissance.

"The purpose is to reserve our legacy," she pointed out. "As we get older people pass on, their children are not going to hold on to the black and white photographs. Not one picture was taken in a studio. These pictures actually came from people in the community."

Her first book she said had the support of Congressman Elijah Cummings and is also found in the U.S. Library of Congress. She still gets correspondence from people around the world thanking her for preserving black history - from as far as Africa (Nigeria).

Some of the most impressive pictures I see in "African-American Community, History and Entertainment in Maryland" include Rosa in her youth as a singer looking like an African queen; the 1970's R&B group First Class (formerly the Mandells); the Softones, the Melodettes, the Bleu Lights, Baltimore's own Billy Holiday in the clubs and at age two looking like my twin as a baby; Maryland's own Kim Waters who I recently interviewed for a new album release; legendary Ethel Waters; Baltimore's own Eubie Blake; Otis Redding, Herbie Hancock, Nina Simone (birth name Eunice, like mine); actress Ester Rolle ("Good Times"), legendary Dinah Washington; billionaire Oprah Winfrey during her Baltimore television anchor days; world-wide renowned male model, now entrepreneur, Travis Winkey; Henry Baines owner of the largest minority owned chain of supermarkets in the country; local legend John Murphy III, and local legend Bea Gaddy, a homeless single mom who took a winning lottery ticket and started feeding the homeless for 27 years.

For more information about Rosa Pryor-Trusty's books log onto www.RosaPryorMusic.com.

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations/Business consult at Freelance Associates, and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Events: "Uplifting Minds II" free entertainment conference arrives in Hollywood, CA Saturday, October 25, 2014 at the Celebrity Center, and comes back to Baltimore Sat. April 18, 2015 at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.comwww.ThePulseofEntertainment.com.)

August 22, 2014

KateBurton_BergmansEmmyStyleParty2.jpgEmmy nominees visit Bergman's 5th Annual Emmy Style Lounge & Party, 66th Emmy's air August 25 2014 on NBC

"I am a crazy lady," said Kate Burton, Emmy nominee for Outstanding Guest Actress ("Scandal"), about her role in the ABC drama. "I play Sally Lancaster. I'm the Vice President of the United States and I am a tea party Republican. I do enjoy playing a crazy lady."

I met Kate at Doris Bergman's 5th Annual Emmy Style Lounge & Party held at the world-renowned Fig & Olive restaurant in West Hollywood. Kate was amongst a long list of Emmy nominees and winners that came to partake of the many free items on display, and eat and drink as much as they wanted from the bar and kitchen.

While there I had the chance to talk briefly with also Paige Hurd ("Everybody Hates Chris") about her role in the Emmy nominated series "Hawaii Five O," Damien Puckler ("The Colony") of NBC's Emmy nominated drama "Grimm," and Ntare Mwine ("Hero") of the Emmy nominated series "Treme'." Jon Voight (Transformer), nominated for Outstanding Supporting Actor in the series "Ray Donovan", stopped by the red carpet area for photo opportunities. Past nominees made a visit as well, such as Eva LaRue ("CSI: Miami," "Criminal Minds").

"I'm in a pilot we're shopping around now. We're looking for a home base," Eva said during a quick interview. "It's about a cooking show and I am the cooking diva/dragon lady. It's been really, really fun. Ideally I think everybody wants to be on a major network, but at the same time I don't think they get a run-up that they need...we push the envelope. It can be a little dark... I think it can be snappier and funnier on cable."

The event was not only classy and celebrity filled, but the outside court was packed with shops of all kinds. I had to stop my red carpet interviews to taste my favorite dessert - red velvet cupcakes. Everything was in abundance (jewelry, gowns, skin and hair care products, tuxedos, suits, timepieces). As always Bergman Public Relations did an outstanding job worthy of their own Emmy nomination.

MDSUN was the major sponsor and it was presented by Gerard Cosmetics. Other sponsors include GUESS, Honest Tea, Unity, Whitening Lightning, Twisted Silver, Jones and Rose, Perch, Modelcall Magazine, Traveler's Choice, Radar Watches, Bon Bon, Fox 11, and many more. The 66th Emmy's will be aired on NBC Monday August 25, 2014 at 8 ET/5 PT.

Celebrity Chef G Garvin teams with Allstate for the ‘Give It Up for Good' campaign
chefgarvin2.jpg"It was started by Allstate," said Celebrity Chef Gerry "G" Garvin about the "Give It Up for Good" campaign he is helping to promote. "We find... people doing good that are over shadowed by bad... I think that children are taught anger and violence. Enough is enough. It's about bad choices. Lack of education... It's hard to be an African-American man and watch what's happening."

The "Give It Up for Good" Allstate campaign helps to shine light on remarkable stories of good, giving back, good deeds, community involvement and unsung heroes that often go unnoticed. Chef Garvin, who has had several cooking shows (TV One, The Cooking Channel), recently launched "Underground BBQ Challenge" on the Travel Channel which has neighborhood's competing with other neighborhoods to find America's most extreme grill masters.

"It takes a secure man to get into the kitchen and do what he does," said Garvin. "I think that men have always been great cooks, it's just not widely accepted in the African-American community. Fathers don't want to see his sons in the kitchen with pots and pans."

Chef G Garvin has his own way of giving back with his One Bite Foundation used to inspire children in the culinary arts, and address issues such as child obesity, domestic violence, homelessness and hunger. His foundation helps families in need through donations and food drives. He has even developed the Chef G Garvin's Culinary Boot Camp, a mentoring program for youth and at-rick inner city young adults.

"Personally (his motto) it's ‘Reach One, Teach One, Save a Life,'" He concluded. "Continue to do good, and influence good."

To learn more about Allstate's "Give It Up for Good" campaign log onto www.GiveItUpforGood.AllstateOnline.com, and to learn more about Chef G Garvin log onto www.ChefGarvin.com.  

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations/Business consult at Freelance Associates, and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Events: "Uplifting Minds II" free entertainment conference arrives in Hollywood, CA Saturday, October 25, 2014 at the Celebrity Center, and comes back to Baltimore Sat. April 18, 2015 at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.com,  www.ThePulseofEntertainment.com.)

August 29, 2014

TheWalls.jpgInspirational Gospel's The Walls Group releases debut ‘Fast Forward', executive produced by Kirk Franklin

"Wisdom and things he learned through the years," said Ahjah, one of four siblings that make up the Inspirational Gospel act The Walls Group (RCA Inspirations), about what their learned from seven-time Grammy Award winner Kirk Franklin - executive producer on their debut album "Fast Forward". The "Fast Forward" project is to be released September 2, 2014. "He said success is not always guaranteed...do your best."

The Walls Group members include Rhea (18), Darrell (23), Paco (17), and Ahjah (16). The Houston based group brings an Urban Gospel young flavor to the industry. The first single off of the debut "Fast Forward" is titled "Perfect People," the music video to the single - which will have you praise dancing - is out now.

"We hooked up...through his background singers. They're friends of ours and he heard one of our songs (they were listening to)," said group member Darrell about how they came to be working with the 13-time Dove Award winner Kirk Franklin. "He called us and said I want to get to know you guys and meet you. He was really cool."
The Walls Group was already touring the country with their brand of Inspirational Urban flavored Gospel when they were united with the 15-time Stellar Award winning Franklin.

"We never really said we'd do it professionally," said Rhea when asked at what point did they decided to take their talent seriously. "We were always singing in the car and harmonizing...it helps that we're siblings. We just go with the flow."

Their debut "Fast Forward" is also written by Kirk which carries lyrics that spread the Gospel of God delivered in an Urban way that has become his signature style.

"We were on tour with Tye Tribbett and label mate Tasha (in July)," said Ahjah. "When we get further along in our career we want to try acting."

"Comedy. We are all funny and retarded people," laughs Darrell. "We were talking about musical Gospel (plays) with music that's not cheesy, real music like in DreamGirls...with the same precession and level of professionalism, only Gospel."

The Walls Group seems to be excited and ready, talent wise and mentally, for the challenges of the music business. With Kirk Franklin backing them only the sky is the limit to where they can go.

The group released an EP of four songs previously that debuted at #1 on iTunes. Those songs will be included on the "Fast Forward" debut album release.
To learn more about this Inspirational Gospel group log onto their website at www.TheWallsGroup.com.  

Legendary Freda Payne is back with a new album, ‘Come Back to Me Love'
fredapayne2.jpgLegendary platinum singer Freda Payne, known most for her hit single "Band of Gold," releases a new album titled "Come Back to Me Love" (Artistry Music) that has the big band sound she is known for.

"Things fell into place," Freda Payne said about the new project. "It was God's plan, you can't knock that. The things I go looking for sometimes I don't get. If it's meant for you it's going to happen...don't force it."

Payne's "Come Back to Me Love" music is arranged by Grammy Award winning Bill Cunliffe who helped her select the 14 songs on the album.
"Between me and Bill, the producer, we sat and listened to all the songs and picked what we thought we could do the best on," Freda pointed out.

Also an actress Payne has appeared in The Nutty Professor II: The Klumps and "In Living Single" Freda's career started in 1968 when she was asked to relocate back to her hometown in Detroit from New York, where she was living, to work with songwriting/producing team Holland-Dozier-Holland who just left Motown to start their own company Invictus. A year later she had a Top 5 record "Band of Gold."

"I was just looking to boost my career from a Cabaret band singer," Freda Payne said about the decision to go with Holland-Dozier-Holland, who were well known at the time for such hits as the Supreme's "Where Did Our Love Go," the Four Tops "Baby I Need Your Loving," the Supreme's "Baby Love," "Stop In the Name of Love," and "Come See About Me," and Marvin Gaye's "How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You)." "Holland, I knew from high school, was in New York visiting a girl in the same building. She called me up and said an old friend wants to talk to you. I had a deal with Impulse Records that just ran out...and just left my manager. He said come with us. So I went back home and the rest is history."

Payne said her hit "Band of Gold" has carried her all these years.

"It has given me people recognition," she said about the hit. "My name is known from this song, especially in Europe, the UK and England. Over there I am more popular."
Freda Payne will be performing from the "Come Back to Me Love" album at the Catalina Jazz Club in Los Angeles September 19 & 20, 2014. Learn more about Freda and her new project by logging onto www.FredaPayne.com.  

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations/Business consult at Freelance Associates, and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Events: "Uplifting Minds II" free entertainment conference arrives in Hollywood, CA Saturday, October 25, 2014 at the Celebrity Center, and comes back to Baltimore Sat. April 18, 2015 at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.comwww.ThePulseofEntertainment.com.)

September 5, 2014

falconRising_MichaelJaiWhite.jpgAction thriller Falcon Rising, starring Michael Jai White, arrives in theaters September 5, 2014

"My knowledge of martial arts helped," said Michael Jai White, a martial arts expert, actor, producer and director. White has the lead role in the action-thriller Falcon Rising which arrives in theaters September 5, 2014. "I've been doing fight stuff for a while now. The transition to stage is common place to me now."

Michael (Spawn, Universal Soldier) plays John "Falcon" Chapman, an ex-marine on a self-destructive path to seek revenge on those that brutally beat his sister Cindy, played by Super Middleweight Champion Laila Ali.

"I couldn't really relate to my character personally but I was able to put my mind where I needed it to be," said Laila about her role. "It was an easy transition...really fun to do."

Neal McDonough (Minority Report) also stars in the Ernie Barbarash directed film that arrives on Video On Demand (VOD) September 4th. The film is set in Brazil where Falcon travels to hunt down his sister's attackers. He finds that his hunt has taken him into an underground world ruled by the Japanese mafia.

Produced by Etchie Stroh and Shahar Stroh, and written by Y. T. Parazi Falcon Rising is filled with incredible fight scenes that will solidify Michael Jai White as the newest American action hero on screen.

"It's about control," White said about the fight scenes. "When you are doing martial arts you are practicing not hitting people. That's the different between martial arts and fighting."

Falcon Rising is a Rated-R Strohberry Film distributed by Freestyle Releasing and Freestyle Digital Media. Millie Ruperto (Presumed Dead in Paradise), Lateef Crowder (The Hunger Games), Hazuki Kato (Muppets Most Wanted), Masashi Odate (The Last Samurai), Daniel Cardona, and Jazmin Caratini (Wizards of Waverly Place: The Movie) also appeared in the film.

To watch the action-thriller's movie trailer you can log onto www.MoonStoneFilms.com.

Grammy nominated Anita Wilson's ‘Vintage Worship' is vocal perfection
anitawilson3.jpgA pastor's daughter Anita Wilson was use to singing Gospel, but it was when she moved to Chicago and started singing in her brother's church - who is also a pastor - that her talents reached the ears of multi-Stellar Award winner Donald Lawrence. That experience, and a word from God, motivated her to independently release an album, and it was her sophomore release "Vintage Worship" (Motown Gospel) that resulted in a debut album release at #2 on Billboard's Top Gospel Albums Chart. Wilson's gift of vocal perfection is also the reason for her Gammy Award nomination.

"My family is very proud," she said when asked about how her family feels about her outstanding successes in the Gospel industry. "My entire family is musically inclined. We do family concerts, my brother, mother, sister...we have the latest on vinyl for the old school."

Featured vocalists on "Vintage Worship" are Avery Sunshine, Bishop Yvette Flunder, Tommy Sims, and Anayshia Figerora-Cooper.

"It takes 10 years to become an overnight success," Anita pointed out when asked to give advice to up-and-coming artists. "Put your best foot forward...in between time stay ready...be professional and mature."

My favorite selections on the "Vintage Worship" album includes "The Real Me," a sweet love song; "Happy Being Me," an up-tempo song arranged by Donald Lawrence and co-written by Angie Stone, which has an awesome horn support; "Oh How I Love Jesus," featuring Avery Sunshine and Bishop Yvette Flunder, is a great Praise & Worship song with lovely violin support and a bridge that takes it down from thunder, and "Reasons (Don't Take Your Love Away)," featuring Tommy Sims, is a another sweet love song with a nice blend between the two voices, and great lead guitar support.

Visit Anita Wilson on her website at www.MsAnitaWilson.com.  

 

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations/Business consult at Freelance Associates, and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Event: "Uplifting Minds II" free entertainment conference arrives in Hollywood, CA Saturday, October 25, 2014 at the Celebrity Center, and comes back to Baltimore Sat. April 18, 2015 at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.com, www.ThePulseofEntertainment.com).

September 12, 2014

michellewilliams_sitting.jpgStellar, Image and Dove Award nominee Michelle Williams delivers an outstanding project with ‘Journey to Freedom' album release
By Eunice Moseley 

"Collaborating...with a producer from London with Nigerian parents," said Michelle Williams (Grammy winning Destiny's Child), a Stellar, Image and Dove Award nominated solo artist, about her fourth studio album "Journey to Freedom" (Entertainment One) producer's wide range of musical styles and influences. The album is so outstanding I think the collaboration has started a new genre of Gospel music that I am not sure what to call, but Hot Gospel. "What's in his head is very, very broad."

The producer she is talking about is Harmony Samuels (Fantasia, Ne-Yo, Kelly Rowland). "Journey to Freedom" offers 12 selections each "hot" enough to be singles. The first single release from the new album is titled "Say Yes" and it features vocal support from Beyonce' and Kelly Rowland. It peaked at the top of Billboard's Gospel Digital Songs Chart.

"I met him (Harmony) through Kelly Rowland," said Williams about her collaboration with the London based producer. "Everyone else I collaborated with are friends of mine."

Those others she mentioned, that are featured artists on the album, include Tye Tribbett, Lacrae, and Fantasia. "Journey to Freedom" is executive produced by Michelle, John Dee Hammond, and Phil Thornton.

My favorites selections could include the entire album but the ones that really stood out for me included "Need Your Help," which has some excellent vocal support from Lonny Bereal, and offers an Urban Gospel flavor; "Yes" has an awesome marching-band drum beat, and I love drums, it's also a great victory anthem and the hook from Lonny makes it extra special; "Fire" has an Urban beat I love making it a very unique style Gospel selection; "Beautiful" highlights Michelle's angel voice that is her trademark style; the first single "Say Yes," featuring her Destiny Child mates Beyonce' and Kelly, gives a Island/Rasta feel with a twist of Africana flavor; "Believe in Me" is almost Pop Gospel with a twist of Country flavor, and I love how Williams ends this one with such powerful vocals, and "In the Morning" because it has a little Rock flavor and I love Rock, and the lead guitar support makes it even more special.

"The response has been amazing compared to the last one," Michelle Williams said when asked how the public's response to the new "hot Gospel" project has been. "The last one was great... (on this one) they get to see another side of me out there by myself musically. People are going, ‘Wow!'"

Aside from being an outstanding vocalist, Michelle is also an actress. Her credits include a television appearance on UPN's "Half & Half," and Broadway appearances on "The Color Purple," "Chicago," and "Fela." Her previous releases include her solo debut "Heart to Yours" which was noted as the bestselling Gospel release in 2002, her sophomore release was "Do You Know," and her third was a Pop debut titled "Unexpected" in 2008.

Williams will be starring in the Oxygen television series "Fix My Choir." You can learn more about Michelle Williams and her new release "Journey to Freedom by logging onto her website at www.IAmMichelle.com.

Larenz Tate stars in the USA Network drama series ‘Rush,' airs Thursdays at 9/8c
larenzTate.jpgLarenz Tate stars in the new USA Network original drama series "Rush" starring Tom Ellis ("Miranda") as Dr. Williams P. Rush, a renegade party-hard physician who privately caters to the elite in Los Angeles, while trying desperately to keep their secrets. Tate plays Dr. Alex Burke. The dramatic series premiered July 17, 2014.

"'Rush' is a medical drama that comes on USA Network on Thursday nights at 9:00 p.m.," said famed actor Larenz Tate (Love Jones, Crash) about his new acting gig. "I play a doctor. We are private doctors to the elite here in Hollywood to those who don't want their business in the streets."

"Rush" also stars Sarah Habel as Eve Parker, and Rick Gonzalez as Manny Maquis. The weekly series is written by Jonathan Levine, who is also director, along with Gina Matthews and Grant Scharbo. Adam Fierro is executive producer. It is filmed in Vancouver British Columbia, Canada.

"They came to us and we're having fun on the show," Tate added. "So tell people to tune in!"

Larenz Tate credits also include Waist Deep, Menace to Society, A Man Apart, Ray, "House of Lies," The Postman, Dead Presidents, South Central, "Rescue Me," and Biker Boyz. His acting career started with roles on "21 Jump Street," "The Wonder Years," "Family Matters," and "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air."

BMI honored Christopher ‘Ludacris' Bridges with the President's Award, provoking a heart-warming proud moment for all attending
ludacris_brickwall.jpg"Chris and I are one in the same. We both are Virgos; my birthday is a few days before his. We worked on Crash together, and since then we've been like the closest homies - that's my boy," said actor Larenz Tate about Christopher "Ludacris" Bridges who recently received the BMI President's Award at their 2014 BMI R&B Hip-Hop Awards held at The Pantages Theater in Hollywood.

BMI (Broadcast Music Inc.) is a global leader in music rights management, serving as an advocate for its over 600,000 members. On that day over 30 BMI songwriters, producers and publishers were award the BMI R&B Hip-Hop Award which included Hit Boy, DJ Mustard Chris Brown, Future, Eric Bellinger, Hollis Wear, Mike Will, Sean Garrett, and Zendaya. Others that came in support include Manny Fresh (DJ), Tyrese, Tiara Thomas, Tahj Mowry, Mystikal, Larenz Tate, Kenny Burns (co-host), Diamond, Doug E. Fresh, BMI VP Catherine Brewton (co-host), and Faith Evans.

BMI President and CEO Michael O'Neill presented Ludacris towards the end of the event with the President's Award.

"I want to thank...the entire BMI staff for still believing in a negro even though I been shooting movies and haven't put out an album in the last four years," said the three-time Grammy, five-time Billboard Award winner Christopher "Ludacris" Bridges after accepting the President's Award. "You see that's a lot of faith right there. But I'm about to get right back to the music, this is my first love and this is what got me here in the first place."

The movies Ludacris was referring to included Fast & Furious 6 and Fast Five. He has also been writing for television and film which credits include "Saturday Night Live," "Getaway," "Late Show with David Letterman," "The 53rd Annual Grammy Awards," "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno," "Glee," "Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days," "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon," "Mike & Mike," and Jumping the Broom. He has also made guest appearances in the last four years on "So You Think You Can Dance," "Dancing with the Stars," Justin Bieber: Never Say Never documentary (as a writer), and in video games "Dance Paradise" and "Dance Central 2."

His hits through the years include "Break Your Heart," "Glamorous," "Tonight (I'm Loving You)," "Yeah," "Chopped N Screwed," "How Low," "Money Maker," "My Chick Bad," "Runaway Love," and "Southern Hospitality." He is a multi-platinum selling rapper selling over 7 million internationally. He is preparing for his eighth studio album titled "Ludaversal."

Other film credits in his career include 2 Fast 2 Furious, Crash which earned him a SAG and Critics' Choice Awards, and he starred on "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit." Currently he serves as a judge on "Rising Star" on ABC. He will be returning to the Fast & Furious franchise with Fast & Furious 7 in 2015.

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations/Business consult at Freelance Associates, and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Events: "Uplifting Minds II" free entertainment conference arrives in Hollywood, CA Saturday, October 25, 2014 at the Celebrity Center with appearances by EURweb.com publisher Lee Bailey, actress Ellia English (Disney's "Good Luck Charlie"), singer/songwriter Gramma Funk ("I See You Baby"), and celebrity photographer Koi Sojer. ULMII comes back to Baltimore Sat. April 18, 2015 at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.comwww.ThePulseofEntertainment.com). 

September 19, 2014


blackish2.jpgABC's ‘Black-ish starring Anthony Anderson and Tracee Ellis Ross premiers September 24, 2014 

"In this day and age it's normal...to define myself as mixed. Before, I was identified with Black," said Tracee Ellis Ross ("Girlfriends") when I asked about any "black-ish" issues in their own lives. Ross plays Rainbow Johnson a racially mixed woman in ABC's "Black-ish," also starring Anthony Anderson ("Law & Order") as Andre "Dre" Johnson who is from the hood married to a woman half white and black - as Tracee is - raising their kids in a predominately white neighborhood. "Black-ish" is executive produced by Larry Wilmore ("The Bernie Mac Show"), Kenya Barris ("The Game"), and Laurence Fishburne (The Matrix) - who also stars in the sitcom as Pops Johnson. "It's fun to play a mixed girl. It's the first time for me. I'm always playing a black woman."
"Black-ish" premiers Wednesday, September 24, 2014 at 9:30/8:30c. It also stars Yara Shahidi, Marcus Scribner, Miles Brown, and Marsai Martin. Aside from Fishburne "Black-ish" is also executive produced by Brian Dobbins, Helen Sugland, Tom Russo Paul Young, and Peter Principato.

"Ultimately it is about a family," pointed out Kenya Barris when I asked about the meaning of the series title.

"...And I tell people it's a universal story," Laurence Fishburne added.

Tracee continued with her explanation of ABC's "Black-ish" sitcom by saying, "Its three generations in a household. There are four perspectives. You get to see all these issues...it's about how you raise a family."

ABC's "Black-ish" is a Cinema Gypsy (Fishburne) and Principato-Young Entertainment production. You can log onto www.ABC.Go.com/shows/blackish for more information.

Liam Neeson is the ultimate hero in Universal Picture's A Walk Among The Tombstones, in theaters September 19, 2014
AWalkAmongTheTombstone.jpgAcademy Award and three-time Golden Globe nominee Liam Neeson is the ultimate hero of the people, be it in the Taken franchise, Batman Begins, or Clash of the Titans, but in Universal Pictures' A Walk Among The Tombstones he gives you the impression that you too can be a hero. The backdrop is New York City and he plays ex-NYPD cop Matt Scudder working as an unlicensed private investigator. The action-packed suspense drama is based on the best-selling series of mystery novels by Lawrence Block, A Walk Among The Tombstones, and it arrives in theaters September 19, 2014.

Matt, dealing with the battle of staying alcohol free, is asked to help a heroin trafficker Kenny Kristo, played by Dan Stevens ("Downton Abbey), track down two men who kidnapped and brutally killed his wife. Initially he refuses because of the business the man is involved in, but with the computer skills help of a young homeless boy TJ, played by rapper/actor Brian "Astro" Bradley (Earth to Echo, Person of Interest), he learns this is not the first time these men have kidnapped and murder loved ones of persons of interest to the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA). So the hunt is on.

TJ's persistence in following the investigator, when he was told not to, wins him the job of the PI's "associate." TJ does an outstanding performance worthy of an award. Matt advises is client to warn all other drug dealers and traffickers they may be on the list. As a result he gets pulled into the kidnapping case of one such dealer when his daughter is kidnapped. Now the two sinister murders have to deal with the hard-nose ex-NYPD cop and what happens next will have you cheering and clapping throughout the rest of the film.

Written and directed by Scott Frank, A Walk Among The Tombstones is produced by Danny DeVito, Michael Shamberg, Stacey Sher, Tobin Armburst, and Brian Oliver. Executive producers are Kerry Orent, Adi Shankar, Tracy Krohn, John Hyde, Nigel Sinclair, and Guy East. A Crosscreek Picture, Exclusive Media, Endgame Entertainment, Double Feature Films, and Jersey Films production, A Walk Among The Tombstones also stars Boyd Holbrook, David Harbour, Sebastian Roche, Maurice Compte', Adam David Thompson, and Eric Nelson.

You can log onto www.AWalkAmongTheTombstones.net for more information or to watch the trailer.

Essence Atkins stars in UP Network's original movie ‘My Other Mother,' airing Sunday, September 21, 2014
essenceatkins2.jpg"I was in Trinidad filming ‘Girlfriends Getaway' when I got a phone call offering me this project. Lynn Whitfield was already attached. Then I read the script," said Image Award winning actress Essence Atkins (UPN's "Half & Half") when I asked why she took the role of Candace "Candy" Meyers in the Uplifting Entertainment Network (UP) original movie "My Other Mother," which airs Sunday, September 21, 2014 at 7 p.m. EST/6 p.m. PST. "I had to talk with my husband (Jaime Mendez) to be gone some more. He was supportive...he said yes...we have a two year old."

"My Other Mother" is written by Keronda McKnight and is the fifth film produced by UP as part of its "UP Faith & Family Screenplay Competition." It is about Candy who is an anchor woman on a top-rated national magazine show. She travels to a devoted fan's funeral that she learns is her estranged biological father. While there she meets her uncle (GregAlan Williams), his wife (Angie Stone), two step-brothers, and her birth mother Mary Jo, played by Emmy Award winning Lynn Whitfield (The Josephine Baker Story). Candy and Mary Jo are a lot alike and relating is a challenge. They struggle to know each other and it chances them both in UP's "My Other Mother."

"This is my third time working with Lynn," Essence said when asked about working with the veteran actress. "She is the reason I said yes. I worked with her in ‘Act Like You Love Me' and ‘Are We There Yet.' I love working with her. She thinks about all those details (of the character). Lynn has incredible work ethics."

Also starring in the film is Image Award winning Jasmine Guy ("A Different World") as Candy's adoptive mother Evelyn, and Kendrick Cross (Iron Man 3) as her long-time manager.

"I don't want to dictate what viewers take from the film," Atkins said when asked what she hopes the viewers will learn from the film. "I hope they enjoy the movie and harvest what they need from it. We made art...for entertainment."

"My Other Mother" is produced by Swirl Films (35 & Ticking, The Under Shepherd).

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations/Business consult at Freelance Associates, and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Event: "Uplifting Minds II" free entertainment conference arrives in Hollywood, CA Saturday, October 25, 2014 at the Celebrity Center with appearances by EURweb.com publisher Lee Bailey, actress Ellia English (Disney's "Good Luck Charlie"), singer/songwriter Gramma Funk ("I See You Baby"), and celebrity photographer Koi Sojer. ULMII comes back to Baltimore Sat. April 18, 2015 at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.comwww.ThePulseofEntertainment.com.)

September 26, 2014

NasTimeIsIllmatic2B.jpgNas Time is Illmatic, a triumphant rise from the hood to stardom, hits theaters and VOD in October, 2014 

Writer/producer Erik Parker and director One9 presents the trumphant rise of rapper NAS from the hood (Queensbridge, NY) to stardom in their documentary film Nas Time is Illmatic. The MC takes us down memory lane as he remembers his roots, influences, tragedies and successes that have made him a legend in the Hip-Hop culture, and branded him a rhyme master. Anthony Saleh also shares producer credits. The film is so deep, and connected with my own experiences so much that I cried throughout. Nas Time is Illmatic is a must see.

"'Illmatic' was an album," said Erik about the concept for the documentary. "It didn't get a lot of radio attention but it was largely for mainstream America....it was from a view that people could understand...it validated (the Urban experience) through art. When it connected to us we felt it spoke to what we experienced. It was the 20th anniversary and I was editor of Vibe Magazine. We started shooting...to make sure it was documented and realized it was bigger than just the music."

Nas' first album, "Illmatic," was on Columbia Records and debuted in 1994 at #12 on Billboard Charts. He was signed by MC Serch at the age of 20. Production on the debut included Nas, Large Professor Pete Rock, Q-Tip, L.E.S. and DJ Premier. It was a hard-core album about Nas' experiences. It achieved platinum status in 2001, and has been recognized as what is now considered East Coast Hip-Hop. It went on to influence many artists since its debut.

"We wanted to connect to people's lives that feel like their story hasn't been told," said One9, the film's director. "We connected to all those people we interviewed."

The documentary film, "Nas Time is Illmatic," has interviews with all those that influenced him, that are living, and those that were influenced by him such as Q-Tip, Busta Rhymes, Swizz Beats, Freddy, Fab 5, DJ Premiere, MC Serch, Pete Rock, Alicia Keys, J. Cole, AZ, and even Dr. Cornel West. It also included interviews with his father Olu Dara (a professor horn player) and brother Jungle.

Nas narrates the film taking us through his mental journey that would lead him to a way out of the hood and into stardom - from a young street poet to an influential MC.
"We connected with this brother Jungle in many ways," One9 pointed out when asked about the many interviews for the "Nas Time is Illmatic" film. "He has strong ideas...as the film developed our relationship grew...we became friends." When ask about his experiences with Nas One9 stated, "Nas is very protective of his image. Twenty years later he is open to discussing his life. It's not easy to discuss your life. He said, ‘You guys are creating art...connected to the music."

"Nas Time is Illmatic" opens in New York and Los Angeles on October 1, 2014. Then it premiers in 40 theaters across the country for one night only on October 2nd, and arrives on Video On Demand (VOD) October 3rd. Nas Time is Illmatic then premieres nationwide on October 10th. Nas will tour with the film throughout October.
Tribeca Film Institute produced the film, and it is distributed in the U.S. by Tribeca Film. Candescent Films provided funding and Sony Music Entertainment provided stills and archival footage. To learn more visit www.NasTimeIsIllmatic.com.  

Comedian/actor Tommy Davidson prepares for feature film on Sammy Davis Jr.
tommydavidson_3quarter.jpgBest known for his character roles on the ground-breaking comedy series "In Living Color" comedian/actor Tommy Davidson prepares to film the feature film based on the book, "Deconstructing Sammy" by Matt Birkbeck. "Deconstructing Sammy" is based on the life and death of Sammy Davis Jr. The book focus is on attorney Albert "Sonny" Murray Jr. who was hired by Sammy's widow Altovise in 1994 to resolve the debts Sammy's estate left behind. At his death he owed over $15 million ($7 million to the IRS). Murray spent seven years resolving the debts and restoring Sammy Davis, Jr.'s legacy to the point that in 2001 Sammy Davis, Jr. earned a Grammy Award.

"He was the greatest entertainer that ever lived," said Tommy Davidson about the legend. "I have similar traits, not saying I am the greatest entertainer that ever lived, but I think we have similar traits."

Sammy was a Golden Globe, Emmy and Grammy Award nominated singer/dancer/musician, and actor who had developed a legacy as one of the greatest impersonators. His acting credits included Ocean's 11, Broadway's "Mr. Wonderful" and "Golden Boy." He even had his own show "The Sammy Davis Jr. Show." His most famous song was "The Candy Man" and he became a familiar entertainment on the Vegas strip as "Mister Show Business." He started touring with Sinatra, Dean Martin and Liza Minnelli internationally in 1987 until he developed throat cancer in 1990, and died May 16, 1990 of complications. His trademark look was always holding a cigar.

Last year Tommy Davidson brought the rights to the book and is now working to bring it to the big screen. Tommy's career and talents, as he said, are very similar to Sammy Davis Jr. The Washington, DC native just wrapped up his own tour "Standing Ovation" with comedians Sommore, Bill Bellamy and Tony Rock. He was host of Showtime's "The Chocolate Sundaes Comedy Show." His characters on the variety show "In Living Color" made famous for his impersonations of Sammy Davis, Jr., Sugar Ray Leonard, and my favorite Homey D. Clown. His style comedy was a regular on Comedy Central.

As an actor Tommy appeared in Ace Ventura, When Nature Calls, Strictly Business, Booty Call, "Martin," and Juwanna Mann. He is the voice of Oscar Proud on the Disney animation series "The Proud Family." He will also voice his character Cream Corn on the animated series "Black Dynamite," based on the Adult Swim television series of the same name, which is scheduled to air on the Cartoon Network in October.

"It's a friend of mine's project," Davidson said about the "Black Dynamite" animated series. "It's a fun project. I play the character of a hit man."

Tommy took his talents to my hometown Baltimore recently at the Baltimore Comedy Factory performing a total of six shows in three days.

"I got a little Obama and Rambo, the whole complete package," he said when I asked what impersonations he was going to do in my hometown. "It's (characters) always in there. I don't ask about it....they just come out."

Five-time Emmy nominated comedians Key and Peele premier the 4th season of their Comedy Central series "Key & Peele," airs on Wednesdays at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT
KeyandPeele.jpg"It's fun and you never know," said Keegan-Michael Key about the sketch-comedy show, "Key & Peele" which premiered this week on Comedy Central and airs every Wednesday at 10:30 p.n. ET/PT. "We have a group of people (writers) ready to go for it. We have three minutes to discuss things. We gravitate to things happening now....things you are afraid to laugh at."

Their comedy series has garnered five Emmy Award nominations. They have even released their third season of "Key & Peele" on DVD and Blu-ray. This new season will feature an array of guests such as Ernie Hudson, Rashida Jones, Jason Ritter and Malcolm-Jamal Warner.

"If I'm in a bad mood I get to talk to Keegan," said Jordan Peele when asked what if they wake up and don't feel like being funny. "At the end of the day my primary job is to have fun. Ideas come in so many ways. You can be driving to work. Sometimes you want to just play a character."

Some of the favorite characters of the two million viewers of the show are Wendell, the East-West Bowl, Meegan, and Andrew. Their story-telling has even received a Peabody Award for excellence.

"We are still performer of color," said Key when we talked about the difference characters and subject matter. "We have a gay episode. No one's talking about gays in the African-American community. Most of our job is to make people laugh at the issues. Laughter is one of the most therapeutic things. Laughter is the best medicine. The best part is it's free!"

Executive producers of "Key & Peele" are Key, Peele, Ian Roberts, Jay Martel Peter Principato and Joel Zadak. The series is directed by Peter Atencio, who also serves as co-executive producer, Gary Mann and Tara Schuster are the executives in charge of production for Comedy Central. The comedy show is also available online at www.CC.com.

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations/Business consult at Freelance Associates, and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Event: "Uplifting Minds II" free entertainment conference arrives in Hollywood, CA Saturday, October 25, 2014 at the Celebrity Center with appearances by EURweb.com publisher Lee Bailey, actress Ellia English (Disney's "Good Luck Charlie"), singer/songwriter Gramma Funk ("I See You Baby"), and celebrity photographer Koi Sojer. ULMII comes back to Baltimore Sat. April 18, 2015 at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.comwww.ThePulseofEntertainment.com.) 

October 3, 2014

melbamoore_headshot.jpg
After 20 years Tony winning, four-time Grammy and Emmy nominated Melba Moore to release ‘Forever Moore'

"It's just been so long," said Melba Moore, a Tony winning, four-time Grammy and Emmy Award nominated singer best known for her hit songs "Lean On Me" and "Life Every Voice and Sing." "We had been looking for a song writer and found one in Dominic McFadden. I've worked with McFadden and Whitehead ("You Stepped Into My Life" hit #3 on the charts) but did not know they had someone else (in the family) with talent. I give credit to my manager (Ron Richardson) who was out there looking and found Dominic. I have quit a few songwriters but he is really good."

Melba Moore's upcoming, much anticipated, new album is titled "Forever Moore," same name as a cabaret act she starred in (2011). Through the years she has starred in a one-woman show called "Sweet Songs of the Soul," now called "Still Standing: The Melba Moore Story." The first single off the album was "Love Is," and the current single she is promoting is "Just Dance."

The single "Just Dance" has a catchy beat and Melba's vocals keep up with the tempo expertly.

"It's a fresh start," the Broadway legend said about her new music when I mentioned her voice seems ageless. "Some people...time goes by and the voice doesn't hold up...the body makes changes."

Moore said music has to be universal because it's all about tourist now days.

"People come from different countries," she said when I asked her what she thinks of the music today as compared to 20 years ago. "African-Americans still are the foundation of all music."

Melba said it's all about the beat, "The beat is contagious...with the beat you become hooked. The beat will catch you. The industry makes you listen when you are young...then as a teen you are use to ‘graveyard' music (dark lyrics). Music is so powerful and influential to people."

During Melba Moore's career her music was influential she broke many stereotypes and barriers. She was the first black Broadway singer in "Hair." She won a Tony Award for her role in Broadway's "Purlie" in 1970. She sang "Purlie" and "I Got Love" which shot her to stardom, and landed her a record deal with Mercury Records. At Mercury she earned a Grammy Award nomination. She went on to star in her own television show with Clifton Davis.

Moore went into acting starring as Harriet Tubman, which garnered her an Emmy Award nomination. She went on as a singer to earn three more Grammy Award nominations, one for her hit "Lean on Me."

"I try to present a positive attitude," she said when asked about her longevity in the entertainment industry. "I'm open to criticism. People have a right to express themselves. You see people jump on the bandwagon to be like someone else. We can feel each other....but be who you are."

You can log onto www.MelbaMoore.com for more information about her upcoming new album "Forever Moore."

ABC's ‘Forever' stars Ioan Gruffudd and Alana De La Garza, airs on Tuesdays at 10 p.m. ET/PT
forever.jpg"He's been around for 250 years," said Ioan Gruffudd (Fantastic Four/Horrible Bosses) who stars in the ABC crime/drama/fantasy series "Forever" as Dr. Henry Morgan. It also stars Alana De La Garza ("Law & Order", "CSI: Miami') as Detective Jo Martinez, and Oscar nominated Judd Hirsch (Ordinary People/"Taxi") as Abe. "Forever" premiered on September 22, 2014 and airs on Tuesdays at 10 p.m. ET/PT.


The fantasy/crime/drama focuses on New York medical examiner, Dr. Morgan, who cannot die. He studies criminal cases to try and solve the mystery as to his immortality. When he dies he disappears immediately and reappears in the nearby body of water without clothes. He also does not age. Detective Jo Martinez (De La Garza) is impressed and mystified by his remarkable observations and broad knowledge. Only Abe (Hirsch), who Morgan and his former wife found as a newborn in a German concentration camp, knows that he is immortal. He is stalked by a murderer named Adam who knows his secret and claims to have been alive for 2,000 years.


"I was putting my 5 year old to bed and he asked, ‘Dad are you ever gonna die?' I said of course not. Then I said ok I will die, but not for a long time," Matt Miller, executive producer of the ABC series, said when I asked where the concept came from. "He started crying and my wife put me out the room. I was writing and I said (to myself) what if a character couldn't die, but what if my son could. That's where the idea came from."


Jennifer Gwartz and Dan Lin are also executive producers, and "Forever" also stars Lorraine Toussaint, Donnie Keshawarz, and Joel David Moore.

Jay Jackson host a Lou Rawls Tribute October 4, 2014 in Beverly Hills at House of Music & Entertainment
jayjackson2.jpgKnown for his character on NBC's long running sitcom "Parks & Recreation" as Perf Hapley, Jay Jackson goes back to his musical skills as a Jazz vocalist to perform with his band for a Lou Rawls Tribute to be held Saturday October 4, 2014 at House of Music & Entertainment (H.O.M.E.) in Beverly Hills.
"I am a singer and musician first," points out actor Jay Jackson ("Scandal," "The Mentalist") about his career in entertainment which started as a news reporter for 13 years at KCAL in Los Angeles. Now he plays a news anchor on television. "I am a piano player and drummer. It wasn't a profession. Because you have to pay the bills...I went into those other fields. Now I can get close to what I am."


"I was a reporter at CBS News in Los Angeles," Jackson said about how his career as an actor started. "I was auditioning and my first role was on "Dexter". I got the acting bug and landed the role on ‘Parks & Recreation,' its 23 episodes later."


Jay's heart has always been in his music as a Jazz singer. When asked why a tribute to Lou Rawls who is known as an R&B singer, Jackson said, "Generations don't remember Lou Rawls. Lou Rawls is one of the greatest and I'm a Jazz singer not an R&B and Pop singer. I heard Lou Rawls and it opened my eyes. I also do his Jazz songs. He sang Jazz, than from 1970 on he went R&B."


Jay Jackson said him and his band also sing other legendary artists music such as Barry White. His acting credits also include roles in Fast Five (2011), Battleship (2012), "Revenge" and "The Closer."


You can log onto www.JayJacksonJazz.com for more information about the actor's upcoming Jazz concert.

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations/Business consult at Freelance Associates, and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Event: "Uplifting Minds II" free entertainment conference arrives in Hollywood, CA Saturday, October 25, 2014 at the Celebrity Center with appearances by www.EURweb.com publisher Lee Bailey, actress Ellia English (Disney's "Good Luck Charlie"), singer/songwriter Gramma Funk ("I See You Baby"), and celebrity photographer Koi Sojer. ULMII comes back to Baltimore Sat. April 18, 2015 at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.com, www.ThePulseofEntertainment.com.) 

October 10, 2014

Disneys_alexander.jpg 
Disney's Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day makes bad days fun, stars Jennifer Garner-Afflect and Steve Carell

"Alex is quit relatable," said Ed Oxenbould who plays Alexander in Disney's presentation of Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day that stars SAG Award nominated Jennifer Garner-Affleck (The Odd Life of Timothy Green) and Golden Globe winner Steve Carell (Get Smart). "Other kids can relate to him."

Alex is a high school aged typical boy who seems to always have a bad day, so much so it goes unnoticed by this family. Jennifer is Kelly Cooper the very busy career mother who works for a book publishing company, and Steve ("The Office") is Ben Cooper an out of work/but looking father. It is Alexander's birthday and he makes a wish that his family - which also includes the very handsome brother Anthony Cooper played by Dylan Minnette ("Scandal"), and aspiring actress/singer sister Emily Cooper played by Kerris Dorsey (Money Ball) - would experience a bad day too.

So everyone, except Alexander, is having a bad day on his birthday, but as Ed said the characters are all so relatable they make bad days fun. At the end of the day everything works out as things do.

The comedic film is based on the 1972 classic children's book by Judith Viorst of the same name. The Cooper family also includes adorable baby Trevor played by twins Elise and Zoey Vagas. Out of work Ben Cooper has the duty of babysitting baby Trevor. Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day is full of laughs for the whole family.

Miguel Arteta directed the Rated PG film. The screenplay was written by Rob Lieber, and it was produced by Dan Levine, Lisa Henson and Shawn Levy.

Universal Pictures' Dracula Untold puts the human twist on an epic tale, in theaters December 10, 2014
DraculaUntold2.jpgMatt Sazama and Burk Sharpless, screenwriters, put the human twist on an epic tale of the vampire in Universal Pictures' action/horror film Dracula Untold. The Rated PG-13 fantasy film is based on Bram Stoker's Dracula. Dracula Untold stars Luke Evans (Fast & Furious 6) as Vlad III the Impaler aka Count Dracula, and Sarah Gadon as his wife.
The film draws you in as it focuses on the struggles of a caring, but ruthless, king as he rules his kingdom. This storyline brings in the human side where you see his love and devotion for his family, and what lengths he would go to protect them.

Vlad III was faced with giving away 1,000 young boys from his kingdom for the emperor's army, or dying to protect them. He decided to use an ancient power from a cursed vampire so he could destroy the emperor's arm, but there was a catch.

Also starring in Dracula Untold are Dominic Cooper, Charles Dance, Art Parkinson, and Samantha Barks. It is directed by Gary Shore and produced by Michael De Luca. The Legendary Pictures, Relativity Media, Michael De Luca Production arrives in theaters October 10, 2014.

You can log onto www.DraculaUntold.com for more information.

Jazz keyboardist Patrick Bradley releases ‘Can You Hear Me" featuring Dave Koz and Rick Braun
PatrickBradley.jpg"This one was inspired by a need to write music," said Contemporary Jazz Fusion keyboardist Patrick Bradley about his new album release, "Can You Hear Me," that features saxophonist Dave Koz, trumpeter Rick Braun and saxophonist Eric Marienthal. "It all unfolded. I wanted to have a song for my mother...she passed away in 2008. It was some heavy stuff going on. ‘Can You Hear Me' ended up the single."

The "Can You Hear Me" album is produced by Jeff Lorber. My favorite cuts on the album include the title track because that horn support is a perfect blend to Bradley's keys; "All In" because I love the excellent Smooth Jazz feel to it; "For Her" for its funky Jazz style, and I love the lead guitar support; "Shoreline" for Patrick's skills on the keys; "Voyage" has that Latin feel I love, and the horn support was amazing; "Catalan" also had a funky Jazz feel because of the way he played, and "Sierra" is a nice number with a futuristic sound to it.

You can learn more about Patrick Bradley and his new album "Can You Hear It" by logging onto www.PatrickBradleyMusic.com.  

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations/Business consult at Freelance Associates, and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Event: "Uplifting Minds II" free entertainment conference arrives in Hollywood, CA Saturday, October 25, 2014 at the Celebrity Center with appearances by EURweb.com publisher Lee Bailey, actress Ellia English (Disney's "Good Luck Charlie"), singer/songwriter Gramma Funk ("I See You Baby"), and celebrity photographer Koi Sojer. ULMII comes back to Baltimore Sat. April 18, 2015 at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.com, www.ThePulseofEntertainment.com.) 

October 17, 2014

Billboard Music winner KEM releases new album, ‘Promise to Love,' on Motown Records

KEM_smile.jpg"It was diffidently time for a new album in this day and age to wait four years is unheard of," said Billboard Music Award winner KEM about the release of his fourth studio album "Promise to Love" on Motown Records. "(The album is about) love, faith and relationships...the most dearly, most important things in our lives."

The two-time Grammy Award nominated singer/songwriter released the "It's You" single that reached #3 on UAC radio. The highly anticipated album features Snoop Dogg on "Downtown" and Ronald Isley on "My Favorite Thing."

"There is, on top of love, a mixture of R&B, more traditional...and a little bit of grease in it, " KEM pointed out. "There are a lot more up-tempo (songs) than previous albums. I have Snoop on this album...that's a real treat."

His first major record label deal was with Universal Motown, which re-released his debut album, "Kemistry" (he previously released on his own label Kemistry Records). KEM's third album at Motown, "Intimacy" was released in 2010 and debuted at #2 on Billboard's Top 20 Albums. Including the previous albums, "Kemistry" and "KEM Album II", KEM has garnered two Grammy Award nominations, a Soul Train and BET Centric Award nomination, and a Billboard Music Award win.

"My goal is always...to create music that my fans want to hear," KEM concluded, "...and gain more fans."

You can visit www.MusicByKEM.com for more information about KEM's upcoming appearances, and his "Promise to Love" album.

Columbia Pictures' Fury is the definition of bravery, in theatres October 17, 2014
fury2.jpgThe David Ayer directed Columbia Pictures' presentation of Fury is the definition of bravery. The Brad Pitt (12 Years a Slave) produced action/drama follows five men put together by chance at a time when the world was at war. Fury hits theaters October 17, 2014.

Fury, their tank's name, one of the last tanks left in the war against Hitler, and its crossing Germany checking village after village, house after house for the final stages of the war. It's the final stages of the war and we seem to be winning it even though we have out-dated equipment and low on supplies.

Five tank members, lead by Wardaddy (Academy Award winner Brad Pit), find themselves at an important position charged with stopping the final attacked by the Nazi trying to gain back control of Germany. Though the Nazi equipment was more modern than the tank the American team had, and the ratio - 200 German soldiers against 5 in one tank - meant they all would probably die - they decided to stand.

Emmy Award winner Shia LaBeouf (Transformer: Dark of the Moon), Logan Lerman, Michael Pena (End of Watch, Turbo) and Jon Bernthal (Snitch) completed the tank team. Fury also stars Scott Eastwood and Jason Isaac. Producing with Pitt are Bill Block, Ayers, Ethan Smith, and John Lesher. The Rated R film is executively produced by Brad, Sasha Shapiro, Anton Lessine, Alex Ott, and Ben Waisbren. Fury is presented in association with QED International and LStar Capital. It is a QED International/Le Grisbi Productions/ Crave Films production by David Ayer.

VickiMack_FirstLadiesHighTea2014.jpgThe 17th annual First Ladies High Tea highlights extraordinary ladies of the church
BET's Dr. Bobby Jones of the "Bobby Jones Gospel" show co-hosted the 17th annual First Ladies High Tea at the Beverly Hills Hotel. Dr. Jones a Grammy Award winner brought his larger than life personality to shine the light on extraordinary first ladies of the church - women whose husbands lead the church.

The First Ladies High Tea event honors a long list of first ladies of the church, along with a fashion show and performances. I covered the red carpet arrivals and had a chance to talk briefly with Dr. Bobby Jones, and Vicki Mack Lataillade who received a special honor, the "Focus Award." Vicki co-founded GospelCentric, a record label, which is currently owned by Sony Music, and is now one of the largest Gospel labels in the world. GospelCentric is where Kirk Franklin, J. Moss, and Dorinda Clark Cole are signed. She is now owner of Central South Distribution, the largest black owned Gospel record distributer in the world, grossing over 300 million a year.

"I started the label that Kirk Franklin is on...I partnered with Jimmy Levine," said music executive Vicki Mack about her jaw-dropping career. "They call me the Berry Gordy of Gospel. I own a distribution company now." When I asked her what challenges of being a woman in the music business she said, "Everything is a challenge, especially being a woman in business."

I also had a chance to talk to April Weeden-White who is married to Bishop John White (Dominion Hilltop Ministry) who resides over eight churches across the country. April is also a stuntwoman who has doubled for Halle' Berry, Jennifer Lopez, and Regina King.

"I enjoy being a first lady," said April Weeden-White about her position in her husbands' churches. "Being a first lady you have to be handy at all times and you have to be a people person...and I am a people person...because people will be pulling on you."

Dr. Beverly Crawford, pastor of Bible Enrichment Fellowship International Church, co-hosted the event with Dr. Jones. Tony and Emmy Award winning Cicely Tyson received the "Legacy Award." Grammy Award winner Smokie Norful and Grammy nominated Tata Vega performed.

(Syndicated Columnist: Eunice Moseley, has an estimated weekly readership of over ¼ million with The Pulse of Entertainment. She is also a Public Relations/Business consult at Freelance Associates, and Promotions Director (at-large) for The Baltimore Times. Her Event: "Uplifting Minds II" free entertainment conference arrives in Hollywood, CA Saturday, October 25, 2014 at the Celebrity Center with appearances by EURweb.com publisher Lee Bailey, actress Ellia English (Disney's "Good Luck Charlie"), singer/songwriter Gramma Funk ("I See You Baby"), and celebrity photographer Koi Sojer. ULMII comes back to Baltimore Sat. April 18, 2015 at Security Square Mall. www.UpliftingMinds2.com, www.ThePulseofEntertainment.com.) 

October 24, 2014

familytime_bouncetv.jpgBounce TV premiers original sitcom ‘Family Time' with Omar Gooding and Angell Conwell, airs Tuesdays 10/9c

"Not that much, a couple more vacations and more flossing," laughs Omar Gooding ("Single Ladies") when asked what he'd do if he won $500,000 million in a lottery, which is the storyline of the Bounce TV original sitcom "Family Time." "Family Time" also stars Angell Conwell (The Wash). Los Angeles native Gooding and Conwell (Soul Plan) are the Stallworth couple who wins $500,000 in a lottery. It airs on Tuesdays at 10/9c.

"I'd flip it in some way shape or form - give some to grandma," said Angell about what she would do with the money. "Family Time" is created, produced and written by Bentley Kyle Evans ("Martin," "The Jamie Foxx Show"). "There's nothing like stability and peace of mind, and a home."

This is the second season of the sitcom that also stars Bentley Kyle Evans Jr. as Devin Stallworth; Janjareen Thomas (Johnson Family Vacation) as Rachel, and Jayla Calhoun as Ebony Stallworth. Omar ("Smart Guy") is Anthony Stallworth and Angell ("Young and the Restless") is Lisa, a working class family that hits the lottery.
Bounce TV was founded by former mayor of Atlanta/UN Ambassador Andrew Young and Martin Luther King III in 2011, and it is now in 87 markets.

"We go through pitfalls, you never know what will pop up," said Gooding about what one would experience as a $500,000 lottery winner.

"You have to deal with IRS," Angell added.

Gospel band Sensere puts a fresh sound into Inspirational music
sensere.jpgSensere is a Gospel band that has a fresh sound of Jazz flavored Inspirational music and they are carving their place in the Gospel music industry one step at a time with performances on TBN's "700 Club," Grammy Award winner Dr. Bobby Jones' BET "Bobby Jones Gospel," as well as touring with Patti LaBelle and Mary Mary.
Sony and Warner Bros veteran executive Eddie Pugh discovered the group in South Florida. The band was formed by musician/singer James "J Dubb" Wright III - lead guitar player, drummer, bass player and keyboardist.

"I'm the background singer, I write the songs and produce," said J Dubb about his role in the band that has three singers in tow. "I put the whole thing together. I grew up on music like Earth, Wind and Fire and The Temptations, and it inspired me to start a band. I didn't see anything like that in Gospel."

Sensere (Sensere Music/Wright Sound Enter/Gods Turn Records) are well dressed singers and band members with matching moves giving you that EWF and Temptation era feel. The other members include Brian (vocal), Terrell (vocals), Dewayne (vocal), Marcelin (guitar and sax), and Darryl (trumpet).

"My wife is also a choreographer, dancer teacher," Wright III said about the moves. "She choreographs on the side, but in no way shape or form are we dancers. The horn set really moves. Darryl was in a marching band, the guitar player they choreograph their moves."

"I have a strong quartet background," James pointed out in explaining the style of the band. "It's not something I thought of doing it just came out...the sound. I wanted a record to appeal to everybody. The youth love is."

You can listen to Sensere's music or learn more about this very gifted band by logging onto www.SensereMusic.com.  

The NAACP 2014 7th Annual Beverly Hills - Hollywood Theatre Festival honors plays and playwrights
PhilMorris_NAACPTheatreFestival.JPGI was invited to the red carpet arrivals of the NAACP 2014 7th Annual Beverly Hills-Hollywood Theatre Festival honoring plays and playwrights by playwright and friend LaRita Shelby (known on stage as Jazzy Rita). Shelby's play is titled "Expresso Café"

"The NAACP is the most loved and renowned civil rights organization and in their effort to bring quality in the work world...it's absolutely marvelous that they are also bringing diversity in the performing and creative arts," said LaRita Shelby, MS (Jazz singer, actress, journalist, and author) about the event.

These playwrights had the honor of having veteran actors perform in their 10 minute plays. Lou Beatty Jr. was in "Lady Patriot," Roger Guenveur Smith in "Frederick Douglass," Ted Lange in "Lady Patriot," and Phil Morris in "Soldiers Play."

"Exposure, exposure, exposure," said Phil Morris ("Love That Girl") about what the event does for the independent plays that were showcased. "We need the same opportunities as everybody else."

The NAACP Beverly-Hill - Hollywood Theatre Festival was founded by Tia Boyd and it's her way of saluting black theater.

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

October 31, 2014

Maysa, the Queen of Jazz, releases an exceptionally fresh Christmas album, ‘A Very Maysa Christmas'

maysa2.jpg"People asked me," simply said Maysa, a Grammy Award nominated Contemporary Jazz singer, when asked why she recorded a Christmas album. The album is titled "A Very Maysa Christmas" and it features Gerald Albright and Will Downing. "My record company said, ‘we'll put it out.'...and after 20,000 sales ownership comes back to me!"

The album is on the Shanachie imprint where she received a Grammy Award nomination for her 2013 project release "Blue Velvet Soul." The Maryland native has released 11 albums, seven on Shanachie Entertainment.

"It has great arrangements," Maysa said about the Christmas project. "My producer (Chris "Big Boy" Davis)...is really good at arranging. I'm proud of him. I think we did good Jazz R&B and Gospel."

"A Very Maysa Christmas" is an exceptionally fresh Christmas album. My favorites on the project include "The Little Drummer Boy" because of that Jazzy spin on an old choral, I like that African flavor too, and the horn support gave it that "cherry on the cake" feeling; "Santa Claus is Coming to Town" featuring rap support from Jigz; "Jingle Bells" because she kept it traditional, but gave is some scat at the end to give it that Jazz feel; "Christmas Time is Here" is simply lovely - and I love the keys on this one; "The First Noel" sounds like if there was a sound for snow it would be this song, and "Silver Bells" featuring Gerald Albright for his voice, and Maysa taking off at the end scatting as a true Queen of Jazz should.

"Since I was a little girl I wanted to sing... since 6 years old," Maysa pointed out when I talked about her tremendous career and contribution to Contemporary Jazz. "Each step I know God had me in his hands. He gave me things I never thought of...I relax and pray and things come to me....God diffidently heard."

After college Maysa moved to California to work as Stevie Wonder's backup singer in his Wonder Love Group. Later she had a phone audition for the British group founded by Bluey called Incognito, and became the face and voice of the already well known London based band. Three years later she would release her solo debut and top the Billboard Charts, as well as garner a Soul Train Award.

Maysa is touring with "Dave Koz & Friends Christmas Tour". You can log onto www.Maysa.com for more information on "A Very Maysa Christmas," or dates on the "Dave Koz & Friends Christmas Tour."

Quincy Jones executive produces debut of girl group Blush, single ‘Every Woman' benefiting breast cancer research
blush3.jpg"He came on after we were together. He came on as executive producer," said Victoria one of four members of the Pop group Blush. Victoria was referring to 27-time Grammy Award winner Quincy Jones when I asked them if he discovered the group. "Blush was formed in late 2010... in the ‘Project Lotus' competition."

"Project Lotus: The Search for Blush" was a reality show about the forming of the group by FarWest Entertainment. They wanted an Asian group to sell big in the U.S. The members of Blush are Victoria (China), Natsuko aka Nacho (Japan), Angeli (Philippines), and Alisha (India).

"It was six weeks of singing and dancing," Alisha added about the experience on the "Project Lotus" reality show.

"We come together through music," Victoria stated. "Some of us have never been away from home."

The girls have been together for four years now and fitting in together very well it seems. Their debut single off the upcoming debut album is titled "Undivided" featuring Snoop Dogg. They released a debut EP of the same name in 2012. The second single off of the upcoming debut album is titled "Dance On" which reached #1 on Billboard Charts. Blush is currently promoting the October, 2014 single release of their third titled "Every Woman." Proceeds from then "Every Woman" single will go to benefit the Dr. Susan Love Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

To learn more about Blush, its members, the new single "Every Woman" or upcoming debut executive produced by 79-time Grammy Award nominated Quincy Jones log onto www.BlushBand.com.  

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

Novemeber 7 , 2014 

Warner Bros' Interstellar, where reality meets creativity, in theaters November 7, 2014

interstella_michaelmcconaugh.jpgWarner Bros. Pictures and Paramount Pictures present Interstellar starring Oscar winners Matthew McConaughey (Dallas Buyers Club) and Anne Hathaway (Les Miserables) - it arrives in theaters November 7, 2014. Interstellar is a science fiction film where reality meets creativity. The realistic visuals of space, the galaxies, the black hole, and space worm-holes were breath-takingly real.

The Rated PG-13 movie focuses on a dying earth at a time when the only chance of survival is to find a new planet. A former pilot and engineer, Cooper (McConaughey), has been enlisted to lead a team to follow up on 12 explorers from earth. The explorers were sent to 12 different galaxies through worm-holes looking for an inhabitable planet.

The problem, the time difference, they have to travel through a space worm-hole where two weeks to them is two years on earth. Of course things go wrong and each mistake means more time for them, and more years for earth. It's a rush against the clock - will anyone be alive? Cooper agrees to help save the world even though he has to leave his teenage son, Tom (Timothee Chalamet) and young daughter Murph (Mackenzie Foy).

Murph takes the news hard and doesn't say goodbye to her father. This becomes the passion that fuels her to - through time and space - help her father. It also fuels Cooper in his passion to return home to her - through time and space - communicate with her. Coopers' team consists of Dr. Amelia Brand (Hathaway), scientist Romilly (David Gyasi), Doyle (Wes Bentley), and two military machines CASE and TARS.

Interstellar is directed by Academy Award winning Christopher Nolan (The Dark Knight, Inception). It also stars Academy Award winner Matt Damon (Bourne franchise), Oscar nominated Jessica Chastain (Zero Dark Thirty), Oscar winner Ellen Burstyn (Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore), Oscar nominated John Lithgow (Terms of Endearment), Oscar winner Michael Caine (Inception), Casey Affleck (Tower Heist), Topher Grace (Spiderman 3), and Tony Award winner Bill Irwin (Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf). The script was written by Jonathan Nolan and Christopher Nolan.

Producers include Emma Thomas, Christopher Nolan and Lynda Obst, with Jordan Goldberg, Jake Myers, Kip Thorne and Thomas Tull as executive producers. The score was composed by Oscar winner Hans Zimmer (The Lion King). Interstellar is presented in association with Legendary Pictures, a Syncopy/Lynda Obst Productions production - a Christopher Nolan film.

You can log onto www.Interstellar.com for the movie trailer or more information on the November 7, 2014 movie release.

London actor David Gyasi stars in Warner Bros' Interstellar with Oscar winners Matthew McConaughey and Anne Hathaway
interstella_MichaelMcCaughtey_AnneHathawayDavidGyasi.jpg"These guys are the superstars," said English actor David Gyasi (The Dark Knight) about his co-stars in the Warner Bros. and Paramount Pictures presentation of Interstellar with Oscar Award winners Matthew McConaughey (The Wolf of Wall Street) and Anne Hathaway (The Dark Knight Rises). "It was invigorating to be around them."

Gyasi plays Romilly one of a four-man crew enlisted to see which of 12 space explorers found a suitable planet for a dying earth. The problem is space-time and earth-time is different, earth time moves much faster.

"He is very different from me and how I look," said David about his scientist role (Romilly) in Interstellar, the Christopher Nolan directed science fiction film. "He invested so much into one thing (science)...the having all his eggs in one basket."

The concept of the Rated PG-13 IMAX film is about space and what it offers - black holes, time travel, worm-holes, and the ability of reaching through time and space into the past.

"There are people out there that pray and worship....if you do the science of it...this could be the science of that," said David when ask if he believes in the movie's concept of reaching through time and space. "This movie puts it under the umbrella of science."

Gyasi credits also include a role in Red Tails. Interstellar, starring David Gyasi, Matthew McConaughey and Anne Hathaway, arrives in theaters November 7, 2014.

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

November 14, 2014

BMI Award winner CeCe Peniston's new single ‘Nothing Can Stop Me' gaining radio play

cecepeniston2.jpg"I'm getting ready to do a video," multi-platinum selling singer/songwriter CeCe Peniston said about her recently released single "Nothing Can Stop Me (Now)," a dance tune gaining radio play. "My EP project is coming out... February of 2015."

Peniston is best known for her multi-platinum selling club hit "Finally," which garnered a BMI Award, and a VH1 nomination. CeCe is currently promoting her Fitness Campaign and new swim suit line.

"I lost 25 pounds...at 45 years-old," Peniston informed me. "Proceeds from my bathing suit line go to my foundation for kids, L.O.T.S."

The former beauty queen debut single "Finally" has sold over three million copies, and solidified CeCe Peniston in the music history books.
"It will sound and feel like old CeCe... but a little more grown up. I've gone through things in my life," she said about what to expect on her new project "Nothing Can Stop Me (Now).".

CeCe's career was highlighted on TV One's "Unsung" last year.

"They asked before, I said I'm not sure then," Peniston said about the TV One coverage on her career. I asked her what she thought about the TV One episode and she said, "You realize how much you've come through in your life...it hit me hard... the stuff with my children...I had a lot to deal with. I realized why."
The Ohio native's first hit single "Finally" has carried her for 24 years.

"I had no idea," CeCe said about the historical successful debut single. "I was writing poetry in college...it was an outlet I felt misunderstood. It was my way of letting it out. I was doing what I do naturally."\

"Finally" was released during the New Jack Swing era, and the single release met with major success as a club hit making CeCe Peniston Billboard's U.S. Dance Club Artist of the Year. She had five Billboards #1 hits in a three year span. That success had her performing for Pope John Paul II as part of the Sisters of Glory choir. She also performed for Bill Clinton at his 42nd inauguration.

"The first one we came out with," she said remembering the debut of her first single. Still sounding amazed by its success she continued, "...And the fact that it became a classic. Twenty-four years ago I wrote it."

You can log onto www.CeCePeniston.com for more information on upcoming EP or her single's video release.

Jazz trumpeter Joey Sommerville releases new solo project ‘Overnight Sensation,' features Earl Klugh, Jeff Lorber, and Jeff Bradshaw
joeysummerville.jpgJazz trumpeter Joey Sommerville released his fifth album titled "Overnight Sensation." "Overnight Sensation" (Jayvox) features help from Earl Klugh (legendary Jazz guitarist), Jeff Lorber (Grammy Award nominated keyboardist), Jeff Bradshaw (trombone), Elan Trotman (saxophonist) and Eric Essix (guitarist).

"I wanted to do a tongue and check project," said Sommerville about his new project "Overnight Sensation." "I wrote and recorded (some songs) years ago...20 years old. In 20 years there's been growth. I've learn more musically and experienced more...I drew on that for inspiration. Good music doesn't spoil."

Joey debuted in 2007 with "Like You Meant It" which reached #7 on the Smooth Jazz Top 50 Chart. He later garnered the American Society of Young Musician's All That Jazz Award in 2009.

"Over the course of my career I can say I am closest to where I want to be," said the musician that is also known for his Soul flavor style Jazz.
On the long list of legendary Jazz musicians featured on the new project Joey said, "These are guys I talk to...see...call on the cell. I get to listen to them and they've consulted me over the years. I am humbled and honored these guys thought so much of what I do."

You can find out more on the "Overnight Sensation" album release by logging onto www.JoeySommerville.com.  

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

November 21, 2014

Lionsgate's The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1 declares war on the games, in theaters November 21, 2014

thehungergames_mockingjay_1d.jpgAcademy Award winner Jennifer Lawrence (X-Men: Days of Future Past) is back again as Katniss Everdeen in Lionsgate's presentation of The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1 directed by Francis Lawrence. It arrives in theaters November 21, 2014.

In this installment of the Hunger Games franchise Katniss declares war on the games by becoming the face of the revolt, as Peeta Mellark (Josh Hutcherson) is brainwashed into becoming the face of The Capitol, the creators of "the hunger games."
Finally, it seems, there may be an end to the hunger games, or will it? As always The Hunger Games franchise keeps you guessing, and The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1 does the same.

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1 is base on the novel "Mockingjay" by Suzanne Collins which has sold over 65 million copies in the U.S. Peter Craig and Danny Strong are the screenwriters.

In The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1 all of the characters has evolved. Liam Hemsworth is back as Gale Hawthorne who has changed since his (and Katniss') home District 12 has been destroyed - he is now an elite soldier through and through; Academy Award nominated Woody Harrelson is back as Haymitch Abernathy but he is now sober; Emmy nominated Elizabeth Banks (Magic Mike XXL) is back as Effie Trinket but she is without the make-up and frills as a prisoner of war in District 13 - turned sympathizer; Academy Award nominated Julianne Moore is District 13 President Coin; Jeffrey Wright is Beetee the Master hacker who is vital to taking down The Capitol, and Donald Sutherland is back as President Snow.

The "games" has set the world on fire, literally, and Katniss is in District 13 after destroying the dome that protected the games in the last film which resulted, in this film, in a revolution from all districts. President Coin wants Katniss to be the face of the revolution to take down The Capitol and President Snow, and she takes on the task after seeing the devastation that has occurred to her home, and to find and rescue Peeta who is in the hands of the heartless President Snow. With Katniss heading the confrontation unbeknownst to them President Snow has a secret weapon.

Rated PG-13 The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1 is produced by Nina Jacobson's Color Force and Jon Kilik. Phillip Seymour Hoffman, Sam Claflin, Jena Malone, and Stanley Tucci also star in the film.

For more information about Lionsgate's The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1 log onto www.TheHungerGamesExplorer.com/us.  

The 24th NAACP Theatre Awards honors Toni Braxton, Glynn Turman at the Saban Theater in Beverly Hills
NAACPTheaterAwards_chantemoore.jpgI was invited to cover the red carpet arrivals of the 24th NAACP Theatre Awards held recently at the Saban Theater in Beverly Hills, California. I stopped by briefly to see who on their long list of celebrities noted as coming to support the annual awards would come through while I was there. The NAACP Theatre Awards was giving special honors to six-time Grammy Award winner Toni Braxton, Emmy Award winning Glynn Turman ("House of Lies") and Roger Guenveur Smith (American Gangsta).

The first to arrive was song bird and reality show star Chante Moore ("R&B Divas") looking ageless, as others started to file in after her. Other notables that attended the event included Kym Whitley ("Raising Whitley"), Chester Gregory (The Eve of Jackie), Ted Lange (Lady Patriot), Tichina Arnold ("Everybody Hates Chris"), Sharon Leal (Addicted), Omar Gooding ("Family Time"), Tommy Davidson ("Black Dynamite), and Macy Gray.

The NAACP Theatre Awards is presented by the Beverly Hills/Hollywood NAACP Branch and is executive produced by Tia Boyd. The gala's goal is to honor the best thespians in the field of entertainment.

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

November 28, 2014

Grammy Award winning Fred Hammond releases new album and single, ‘I Will Trust'

fredhammond3.jpgGrammy Award winning Gospel legend Fred Hammond releases highly anticipated new album, "I Will Trust, and single of the same name. The album was motivated by his medical struggles of having to get two knee replacements, and how he worked through.

"I had double knee replacement," said Fred Hammond about the motivation for the new album. "They took out the whole knee and put in new ones...it was a rough year. I had to get my bottom half to move. It was frustrating and I was nervous. I was in a lot of pain, guys were praying for me and I needed to write from that place."

"I Will Trust" was released on the RCA Inspiration imprint. Hammond was on a 30 city tour, "Festival of Praise Tour," with label mate Donnie McClurkin.

"We had a list of people," Hammond said about how he chose what Gospel artist to go on tour with him. "Donnie was at the top of the list. We are friends. He called me back and said let's do it."

Hammond is a Detroit native who started in the music business as a bass player for The Winans, later he joined the Gospel sextet Commissioned, and he later created the Radical for Christ ensemble. Eventually he went solo as an artist and producer birthing such Gospel hits as "Blessed," "No Weapon," "King of Glory," and "Let the Praise Begin." His 1998 release "Pages of Life Chapters 1 & 2" became a multi-platinum seller. He garnered multiple Stellar and Dove Awards, as well as garnered a Grammy Award.

"It was planned before getting the knees," Fred said when I asked about whether he was ready for a 30 city tour. "We figured in nine months I should be able to...just do it. I'm not all the way, but I am much better than I was."

For more information about Fred Hammonds' new album release, "I Will Trust," log onto www.RealFredHammond.com.  

Paige Hurd co-stars in CBS' ‘Hawaii Five-O,' finale to air December 12, 2014
paigehurd.jpg"I play the daughter of Captain Grover (played by Chi McBride)," said Paige Hurd ("Everybody Hates Chris") who plays Samantha Grover on CBS' "Hawaii Five-O," which is in its fifth season with the finale to air December 12, 2014. "I'm trouble for my dad. The last season I got kidnapped. It was awesome! She is ...a trouble maker but I think I'm going to come down to earth."

Samantha (Paige) is kidnapped and held hostage by a cyber criminal, and her father Lou Grover has to enlist the Hawaii task force to rescue her. The remake of the 1968 police investigative drama stars Alex O' Loughlin as Lt. Commander Steve McGarrett, a former Navy Seal who returns home to Hawaii to find his father's killer, when the government gives him a chance to run his own task force, Hawaii Five 0.

The drama also stars Scott Caan as Detective Sgt Daniel "Danny aka Danno" Williams, Daniel Dae Kim as Detective Lt Chin Ho Kelly, Grace Park as Officer Kono Kalakaua, and McBride as former HPD Swat Captain Lou Grover.

"I do love it," Hurd said when I pointed out how excited she was that her character was kidnapped. "I got to fly down to Hawaii for 10 days! I had a vacation and worked at the same time."

Paige Hurd is a Dallas native that starred on "Everybody Hates Chris" as Chris Rock's neighbor, in the film Beauty Shop starring Queen Latifah, and in Cradle to the Grave starring DMX and Jet Li.

CBS' "Hawaii Five 0" police drama, created by Leonard Freeman, also stars Terry O'Quinn, Mark Dacascus, and Larisa Oleynik.
For more information on Paige Hurd's character Samantha or "Hawaii Five 0" you can log onto www.CBS.com/shows/hawaii_five_0.  

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

December 5, 2014

 UP Network airs ‘Marry Us For Christmas, starring Malinda Williams and Victoria Rowell, Sunday December 7, 2014


malindawilliams3.jpg"Intuitively I knew they were going to do a sequel (to "Marry Me for Christmas")," said Malinda Williams (Soul Food) about the continuation of her role as Marci Jewel in UP Networks' original movie "Marry Me For Christmas." The former Gospel Music Channel (GMC), now Uplifting Entertainment (UP), is airing the sequel "Marry Us For Christmas" on Sunday December 7, 2014 at 7 p.m. EST. "The chemistry was so great. I would have been surprised if they didn't."

In the premiere movie last year "Marry Me For Christmas" Malinda's character Marci launched her own advertising agency. While pretending to be engaged for the holiday visit back home she discovers love. The UP original movie ended with her about to marry her new-found love, Blair, played by Karon Riley (35 and Ticking).

The sequel, "Marry Us For Christmas," has Marci and Blair rethinking the wedding as they both discover they have secrets. This sequel also has Marci's mother Stephanie, played by Victoria Rowell ("The Young and the Restless"), making bold moves with her salsa dance teacher Antonio - 20 years her junior - played by Kristoff St. John ("The Young and the Restless").

"Will we get married? That remains to be seen. There might be two weddings. You have to tune in to find out," Williams said bout the Christmas drama. "...There is a race to the alter!"

Malinda is a New Jersey native whose credits include Daddy's Little Girl, First Sunday, "Girlfriends' Getaway," The Undershepherd, and "Law and Order: SVU."

"Marry Us For Christmas" airs Sunday December 7th at 7 p.m. EST on the UP network.

Damien Puckley co-stars in NBC's ‘Grimm' as a German assassin, airs Fridays at 9/8c
DamienPuckler_Grimm_scene2.jpgThe 4th season of NBC's fantasy/thriller "Grimm" began in October 24, 2014 and will end in May, 2015. On December 5th "Grimm" will have Damien Puckley's character, Meisner the German assassin, as part of its cast.

"I like being a German assassin," said Damien when talking about his character in the Emmy and People's Choice Award nominated series. "It's a great role. Nobody knows where I'm going - good or bad - not even I."

Puckley has co-starred in 13 episodes of "Grimm" as the German assassin. "Grimm" stars David Giuntole as Homicide Detective Nick Burkhartt, and Russell Hornsby as his partner Homicide Detective Hank Griffin.

Damien's credits include 30,000 Leagues Under the Sea, Death Factory (2014), and in 2015 Starfall.

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

December 12, 2014

Chris Rock rocks you with laughter in Paramount Picture's Top Five, in theaters December 12, 2014

TopFive_ChrisRock2.jpgOn December 12, 2014 Paramount Pictures will release Top Five starring Chris Rock and Rosario Dawson. Rock wrote and directed Top Five. I was expecting to laugh because Chris Rock is legendary for bringing the funny to what he does, but I did more "laughing out loud" than I expected. So be prepared because Top Five will rock you with laughter from the beginning to the end.

Top Five follows comedian Andre Allen (Rock) who is trying to get his comedic magic back after becoming sober. A sober mind has him rethinking on a lot of things in his life, like a runaway wedding with a reality star (Gabrielle Union) that he has - for lack of money - been hired to "make an appearance" at, which has become a very public high-profile event.

In comes journalist Chelsea Brown (Dawson) from The New York Times, who is also a former alcoholic, who witnesses first-hand his struggle with his relationship and career. During the interview she helps him with her straight-forward personality, and he helps her through her relationship woes. As a result they - well - you just have to watch the film to find out.

Top Five has cameo appearances by what seems to be all Chris' close friends who include Whoopie Goldberg, Jerry Seinfield, Adam Sandler, and DMX. Top Five co-stars include Ben Vereen, JB Smoove, Kevin Hart, Leslie Jones, Amelia Fowler, Tracey Morgan, Sherri Shepherd, and Cedric the Entertainer.

The comedy is executive produced by Hip-Hop mogul Shawn "Jay Z" Carter, and produced by Eli Bush, Barry Diller and Scott Rudin. The IAC Film and Scott Rudin production is Rated-R.

Chris Rock's career was nationally launched as a case member of "Saturday Night Live." As a stand-up comedian Rock was noted by Comedy Central as the 5th greatest stand-up comedian in the country. The South Carolina native does the voice of Marty (the Zebra) in the Madagascar franchise films, and the hit comedy-series "Everybody Hates Chris" is based on his childhood. He created and produced the comedy-series which aired on UPN/The CW from 2005 - 2009. He has garnered three Grammy Awards (comedy albums), and four Emmy Awards (comedy specials). Chris Rock also served as host of the 77th Academy Awards.

For the movie trailer or more information on Chris Rock's Top Five Paramount Pictures feature film log onto www.TopFiveMovie.com.  

20th Century Fox releases Exodus: Gods and Kings a magnificent remake of the 10 Commandments, in theaters December 12, 2014
exodus_godsandkings_christianBale2.jpgI went to a very early viewing of footage from the 20th Century Fox presentation of Exodus: Gods and Kings, to be released to theaters December 12, 2014, back in September and the Ridley Scott directed remake of the famed 10 Commandments film was magnificent. Scott stayed close to the Biblical storyline, used the technologies of today and presents it in 3D to bring it more to-life so we can practically feel the plagues, experience the parting of the sea, and fight out way through the wars of that era. Makes it worthy of becoming ‘the' film to watch for the story of Moses.

Golden Globe nominated Christian Bale (Batman Forever) is Moses born a slave, raised as an Eygptian prince, rejected as an adult by the Pharaoh for being a Hebrew, and then used by God as a Prophet to free 600,000 slaves. With just his faith Moses accomplishes this by showing the Pharaoh that God is real.
Joel Edgerton (The Great Gatsby) is Egyptian Pharaoh Ramesses II, Oscar winner Ben Kingsley (Iron Man 3, Gandhi) is Nun, and Oscar nominated Sigourney Weaver is Queen Tuya mother of Ramesses II.

Adam Cooper, Bill Collage, Jeffrey Caine, and Steven Zaillian wrote the screenplay, and Peter Chernin, Jenno Topping, Michael Schaefer, Mark Huffam, and Ridley Scott are producers. Exodus: Gods and Kings is a Chernin Entertainment, Scott Free Productions Babieka, Volcano Films production.
You can log onto www.ExodusGodsandKings.com for the movie trailer or more information.

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

December 19, 2014

Paramount Pictures' The Gambler, a realistic look into one man's road to freedom, in theaters December 25, 2014

thegambler_markWahlberg.jpg"It was about the script not the original," said Director Rupert Wyatt (Rise of the Planet of the Apes) about what attracted him to the Paramount Pictures' presentation of The Gambler starring Academy Award nominated Mark Wahlberg (Lone Survivor). The Gambler is based on a movie released in 1974, of the same name, of the life of its screenwriter James Toback - a teacher with a gambling addiction. "Monahan (screenwriter) shows us what a gambler is...what we do as gamblers."

Golden Globe Award nominated Wahlberg plays Jim Bennett a professor caught in the underground life of a high-stakes gambler. In the drama the troubled gambler takes you on a thrill ride as he literally fights, day after day, for his life dealing with his loan-sharks wanting their money back. The gambling circuit that Wyatt expertly directs the cast through gives the audience just enough thrills that non-gamblers may even enjoy the joy the ride. The ride that consists of gambling at the speed of light to a big win, the steep hills of defeat - where you find massive lost and debt, to the curves that loans bring which is needed to get the big win thrill again.

Mark gives a realistic look into one man's road from desperation to freedom. He even looked the part physically.

"Mark is a very physical actor," said Director Rupert Wyatt on working with the actor, also known for his roles in Transformer: Age of Extension, Ted and Pain & Gain. "This is more a mental character. It was Mark that got the green light."

Jim has one ray of sunshine and it's in a student he trying to help blossom into the writer she believes she is not, that he knows she is. He sees a "second chance" life with Amy Phillips, played by Brie Larson (21 Jump Street). The gambler is betting everything, literally, trying to beat the clock.

"In the original the girl wasn't a student," said Wahlberg about Jim's love interest in The Gambler. "He fell in love with her writing."

"He used it (gambling) as a special tool to get back to nothing - to start over," Mark pointed out about his character's use of his addiction to gambling at the end. "I only gamble when I know I can win," Mark laughed when asked about his own gambling experiences.

Golden Globe Award winner John Goodman (The Flintstones), Michael Kenneth Williams (12 Years A Slave), and Steve Park ("Law & Order", "The Mindy Project") are the believably heartless loan-sharks, and Jim's mother Roberta, played by two-time Oscar Award winner Jessica Lange ("American Horror Story"), is his unlimited source of funds when in desperate need.

This time he knows it's the last time he will get a loan from his mother, the clock says his time is up with the loan-sharks. He has to pay back his mother and three loan-sharks, and he has enough money to pay back only one of them, so what does a gambler do? Watch The Gambler to find out.

The Gambler is written by Williams Monahan, and produced by Mark Wahlberg, David Winkler, Irwin Winkler (original producer), Stephen Levinson, and Robert Chartoff (original producer). David Crockett is executive producer. The Chartoff Winkley, Closest to the Hole Entertainment, Leverage Entertainment production is Rated-R. The Gambler arrives in theaters Christmas day December 25, 2014.

HBO, Homeland, House of Cards, Fox Searchlight receives the most SAG Award nominations, airs live on TNT and TBS Sunday, January 25, 2015
SAGAFTRAAwards_announcements_AnselElgort_EvaLongoria2.jpgI got up very early to arrive at the SilverScreen Theatre in West Hollywood to hear the nominations for the 21st Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards (SAG) to be aired live on TNT and TBS on Sunday, January 25, 2015 at 8 p.m. ET/ 5 p.m. PT. HBO (14), Fox Searchlight (6), "Homeland" (4), "House of Cards" (3) received the most nominations.

SAG-AFTRA President Ken Howard introduced the hosts of the SAG Awards nominations announcements Ansel Elgort ("Divergent") and SAG Award winner Eva Longoria. The SAG Awards will be held at the Los Angeles Shrine Exposition Center.

Legendary actress/singer Debbie Reynolds will be honored with the 2014 SAG Life Achievement Award making her the 51st recipient. Reynolds is an Oscar, Emmy and Tony Award nominee. Neil Patrick Harris is hosting the star-studded red carpeted event.

Other nominees announced included Steve Carell for "Foxcatcher," Adrien Brody for "Houdini", Julia Roberts for "The Normal Heart," Kevin Spacey for "House of Cards," Woody Harrelson for "True Detective," Cicely Tyson for "The Trip to Bountiful," Mayim Bialik and the cast of "The Big Bang Theory," and Fury (Columbia Pictures).

For more information on the 21st Annual SAG Awards nominees you can log onto www.SAGAwards.org.  

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

December 26, 2014

Paramount Picture's Selma reminds us of the cost of freedom, stars David Oyelowo as Martin Luther King, Jr.
By Eunice Moseley 

selma_themovie.jpgBritish actor David Oyelowo (Rise of the Planet of the Apes) does a stellar job as Martin Luther King Jr. in Paramount Pictures' presentation of Selma, a drama based on the 1965 Selma to Montgomery voting rights march led by James Bevel played by Muli-Grammy Award winner Common (LUV). Selma arrived at theaters on Christmas and is directed by Image Award nominated Ava Duverney (I Will Follow).

Selma reminds us of the cost of freedom. We were reminded again that even though there was a law working on our behalf, such as the voting rights law, states and individuals in seats of political power still denied you. Martin Luther King Jr., with death threats and the deaths of Kennedy and Malcolm X just three week prior, led the protest walk for Bevel- which he was told not to by not only the governor but the President of the United States as well. Carmen Ejogo (Sparkle) plays an elegant Coretta Scott King trying to handle the duties of being the wife of a national spokesperson for peace in a world that is not so peaceful.

The cast in the Pathe' film that is produced in association with Cloud Eight Film, Harpo Film, Plan B Entertainment makes the movie a classic already. Some of the long list of cast members include Wendell Pierce (Horrible Bosses) as Hosea Williams; Emmy Award winner Martin Sheen ("West Wing") as Frank Minis Johnson; Academy Award nominated Tim Roth ("The Incredible Hulk") as George Wallace; Academy Award nominated Tom Wilkinson (Fury) as Lyndon B. Johnson; Academy Award winner Cuba Gooding Jr. (Red Tails) as Fred Gray; Nigel Thatch as Malcolm X, Dylan Baker as J. Edgar Hoover, Andre Holland as Andrew Young, multi-Grammy Award nominated Ledisi as Mahalia Jackson; Oprah (The Butler) as Annie Lee Cooper; Emmy Award winner Niecy Nash ("The Soul Man") as Richie Jean, and Colman Domingo as Ralph Abernathy.

Selma is Rated PG-13 and was written by Paul Webb, and produced by Dede Gardner, Jeremy Kleiner, Christian Colson, and Oprah Winfrey. Log onto www.SelmaMovie.com to watch the trailer or for more information.

D.C. Chef Huda wins highest win on Food Network's ‘CutThroat Kitchen' reality show competition
chefhuda2.jpg"I went in with the mind-set sabotaging is life...life happens, you figure it out," said Chef Huda about being on Food Network's "CutThroat Kitchen" reality show competition, which is known for its ‘cut throat" process for its contestants. Her episode will re-air Friday December 26, 2014 at 5 pm ET. "I was anticipating the challenges there would be."
"CutThroat Kitchen," in its sixth season, is hosted by Alton Brown. Chef Huda is a Washington, DC culinary expert who owns Pretty & Delicious. She is also an Ambassador for the American Heart Associates and spokesperson for The CW Network's "Healthy DC" Campaign.

"I want to touch as many people I can with food," Chef Huda pointed out when asked about her high-profile status as a reality show Chef. "I want to educate them, give cooking demonstrations. Help with healthier life styles...self satisfaction in the kitchen. I want to feed...and to teach you to feed yourself."

Food Network's "CutThroat Kitchen" airs weekly on Sundays at 1 p.m. (ET). Log onto www.foodnetwork.com/cutthroat-kitchen/index.html for more scheduling and episode information.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
 

 

 



  

 

 

 

 




 

 

 



 

 

 

"If You Can See It, and Believe It, You Can Achieve It"

The Pulse of Entertainment * 562-424-3836 * info@ThePulseofEntertainment.com
www.Facebook.com/ThePulseofEntertainmentOnline * www.Twitter.com/ThePulseofEnter
(c) 2024