Words

The Ru Report #132

The Low Down On Down Low
There appears to be a new "good book" available for mass consumption, that should be required reading. And ironically, it's the "King, James" version

The Low Down On Down Low
There appears to be a new "good book" available for mass consumption, that should be required reading.

And ironically, it's the "King, James" version.

If you're not one of the millions of people who recently watched a much buzzed about episode of The Almighty O ("Oprah") or read this week's edition of JET magazine, or even saw that major spread in The Chicago Sun-Times, last week, let me introduce you to J. L. King; author of the controversial new book, ON THE DOWN LOW: A Journey Into The Lives of "Straight" Black Men Who Sleep With Men (Broadway Books).

Culled from numerous interviews, statistics, and the author's firsthand knowledge of DL (Down Low) behavior, this explosive tome blows the lid off of Black Men and bisexuality.

And the hard-covered book has caused hysteria amongst Black women, who the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) claims is the fastest growing group for new HIV/AIDS cases. According to the latest studies, seventy-five percent of black women who have contracted the disease have gotten it from heterosexual sex.

The book will make you gag.

Written "with" one of my all-time favorite authors, media powerhouse-on-the-rise Karen Hunter (New York Daily News, WWRL-AM and best-selling books by Queen Latifah, LL Cool J and Wendy Williams), ON THE DOWN LOW is the fiercest wake-up call for a demographic that has consistently condemned and avoided the bitter truth about duplicitous sexual behaviors and alternative sexual orientations.

And although we have had certain "mainstream" elite and left wing New York media outlets tackle the subject over the past few years with trend-spotting splashy spreads, Mr. King's literary offering doesn't treat this devastating dilemma as a passing fancy. In a topical, digestive fashion, he exposes and reveals the warning signs and protective measures every African American woman (and men) needs to know.

But let's not digress with our beliefs, opinions and objections. Let's get down to business.

J.L. King will take his show on the road with a national tour including Chicago (May 14, May 20), Indianapolis (May 18), and Washington, DC (May 29). According to a publicist at Broadway Books, other cities being routed include Los Angeles, New York, Detroit, Wilmington, Orlando, Atlanta, Memphis, Baltimore, Kansas City.

The self-proclaimed HIV/STD prevention activist, educator, and author, is on a whirlwind these days with his hot button topic of a closeted culture of sex between black men who lead "straight" lives.

ON THE DOWN LOW was originally due to arrive in bookstores on May 11, but is already selling out at major book chains across the country. The book is in its third printing already, and according to a Random House spokesperson, will appear on the New York Times best-seller list on May 2.

Before the feeding frenzy goes into overdrive, The RU Report caught up to Mr. King, a Chicago-based, father of three who has quite an interesting story to tell.

Truthfully and wholeheartedly, what was the impetus of writing this book?

The impetus for writing this book has a couple of sources. On one level, it was my response to the rising HIV infection rates plaguing our community and my frustration with the lack of impact "traditional" awareness and prevention messages were having. I wanted to share from my research and experiences so that others would be more compelled to look at their sexual behaviors differently, ask harder questions and approach sexual relationships differently.

On another level, this project is representative of my ongoing personal transformation. As I have become a stronger man, and by that I mean I'm a man who engages in self-reflection and embraces truth, I have become more willing to step outside of myself and use my life in a way that contributes to others. This book is one of many offerings, many contributions, I hope to make.

You and Oprah held court on her show recently. It has had a ripple effect. Everyone is still buzzing about your appearance. How has your life changed since then?

Being on 'Oprah' has raised the platform for my work, considerably. When Oprah speaks, the world listens. Since my appearance on her show, requests for interviews and speaking engagements have sky rocketed. People want to hear what I have to say, ask more questions, seek to understand "DL" behavior. Anticipation about the book has gone through the roof as well.

On a more personal note, the appearance on Oprah signified the end of my anonymity. I'm recognizable now and am learning to manage all of the blessings and curses associated with having a public persona.

Who have been your harshest critics?

My harshest critics have been those who are afraid and those who rush to judgment about the message I'm delivering before they understand it. There are those who miss the mark completely and attempt to focus on the personal transgressions of J.L. King, thereby converting my message into something that its not. On a similar note, there are those who don't believe we should talk about this behavior at all, because it's painful or because they still doubt the veracity of my research and experiences.

Best-selling author E. Lynn Harris was on board to write the Foreword to this controversial work. I noticed he didn't make the final cut. What happened?

Mr. Harris has been very busy working on a new book and working on other projects that he is involved with. That is what I was told by my editor, which is also his editor at Doubleday. I personally have not talked to him about why he didn't write the Foreword.

Since news of the book started seeping out last summer, everyone seems to be jumping on the Down Low bandwagon. What are your thoughts?

My thought is that we need as many committed soldiers as we can get to fight this pandemic. So, if my work has inspired others to do similar work and they're impacting lives in a positive way, then I say 'Bless Them.'

Tell me, what was the hardest part writing this book?

Being honest with yourself, in the privacy of your thoughts and reconciling who you've been with and who you know you are called to be, is difficult in and of itself. That was challenging for me but I made it through that phase. Deciding to share my experiences publicly was even more challenging but I was able to work through my personal challenges with that as well. Most difficult for me was contemplating the impact that this book would have on those close to me, especially my children and other family members. But God even worked that out for me. My children and family have demonstrated extraordinary courage and support for the book and the work that I do. I'm extremely grateful for that.

The publishing of this book has sent shock-waves throughout the Black community, particularly amongst Black women. Was that your intention?

I have a deep and abiding love for Black women. My intention has never been "shock and awe". My intention was simply to deliver truth. The shock waves have come, and they were anticipated, because the Black community, as a whole, has been reluctant to discuss some of the harder issues related to sexual behaviors. Anytime the foundation of what we know to be true is shaken, there's fall-out. That's what we're experiencing with the publication of my book. But the bigger blessings will come later when we collectively transform the angry and confused energy we feel around this topic into meaningful and transforming work. Black women and Black men will ultimately benefit from this work.

You were pretty harsh with your assessment of the Black church in the book. I, and many others, can agree with you on some points. What has the outcome been, especially from your family members who are acting churchgoers and clergy?

I disagree that my assessment of the Black church was harsh, I wrote about my experiences and observations.. I have tremendous reverence and respect for the black church and what that institution has meant for our community. Like any other relationship, my relationship with the Black church as been marked by both the joys and pains associated with being part of a faith community.

In the book I speak about the powerful examples being set in Black churches around the country that are addressing the needs of their congregations and communities in very real ways. I also speak to the ways in which the Black church, in many instances, has turned its back on those most in need of its support. Both experiences are true from my perspective and I deal with both in the book.

Talk about being Down Low. Sum it up for the folks out there who can not grasp the idea of a man looking, acting and even being like an infamous hip-hop thug icon sleeping with other men, and never ever fathoming the thought that he is really a homosexual.

In order to understand the psyche of a "DL" man, you have to first step outside of the world of rational thought. These brothers are so deep in denial that they explain away the truth with every sexual encounter they have with another man. From their perspective, having sex with a man is nothing more than physical release. Their identity is not associated with that act. Instead, they derive their sense of self from the heterosexual world that they engage in otherwise. They don't participate in "gay culture" or associate in any other way with the homosexual world. So, they separate their physical worlds from their mental worlds. It's a very deep and very dangerous form of denial.

Where are you now in your life? Have you come to terms with what you've done? How did you overcome it? If you're no longer Down Low, what are you? Low Down?

I am at peace with myself and my decision to bring light to this subject. My motto is: To create a movement of awareness and prevention. And I feel I have done that with my life story, my book and stepping out with un wavering courage and faith. I pray that other brothers who are still living on the DL will use me as an example and start changing their behavior.

You're going on tour and I know that's going to be a whole lot. What happens after the tour? What's next for you? What's the grand plan for JL King?

The "grand plan" for J.L. King has many facets. I'm committed to using my voice as an advocate for those who remain hurting and unheard. I'm very excited about the work that I'll be able to accomplish through my foundation, which is named in the memory of my beloved mother, Lillie Mae King. Through that particular vehicle, I'll be able to offer support to those who care for and work with children impacted by HIV/AIDS. This is work that's very close to my heart. I'm also working on the "Conversations Tour" which will be an international tour that addresses issues of race, relationships and restoration. This will be a powerful opportunity to connect with communities of color around the world and create dialogue and build the skills necessary to facilitate healing and restoration. And of course there will be more books.

Putting The Duke's Up
For the love of money.

Duke Ellington's famed piano is up for grabs.

New York's Michael Rosenfeld Gallery will set out to sell the Kramer white baby grand piano that the famed composer created dozens of jazz classics on as a highlight of its forthcoming exhibition titled, "MOOD INDIGO: The Legacy of Duke Ellington (A Look at Jazz & Improvisation in American Art)." The exhibit will run May 21 through July 30.

After four decades as the focal point of Mr. Ellington's compositions, two decades with Ellington's only sibling, Ruth Ellington, and two decades with nephew Stephen D. James, the instrument will be on view to the public for the first time. The piano has a $1,000,000 value and will be available for the general public to view and purchase throughout the exhibition.

"I grew up in this illustrious family around this wonderful piano," Mr. James offered in a statement. "The piano's graceful lines are a constant reminder of my cherished times with my esteemed Uncle Edward and his glorious musical legacy. While I absolutely love the piano, I would be pleased to have it purchased by an art institution to share it with the world or by a collector or fan who cherishes Duke Ellington's contributions as much as I do."

"When Stephen came to us with the thought of selling this beautiful family heirloom, we were thrilled and intrigued at participating in the transition of this part of American musical history," offered gallery director Halley K. Harrisburg.

Is nothing sacred anymore?

Well, I guess not if Michael Jackson can buy The Elephant Man's bones.

There was no announcement of the proceeds going to a charity or arts foundation.

In addition to the piano, artwork inspired by jazz and improvisation by some of America's leading artists--such as Romare Bearden, Hans Hofmann, Lee Krasner, Norman Lewis and Archibald J. Motley-- will be on display and for purchase. Photographs by the legendary Gordon Parks will also be included.

A fully illustrated color catalogue will accompany the exhibition.

Michael Rosenfeld Gallery (212) 247-0082.

Etc:
Try this one out for size: the first 24-hour, all Caribbean television network in the US. It's called Caribbean Super Station (CSS) and starting on July 1, the proposed media outlet will bean news, sport, and entertainment as well as educational programs across the states, according to the Irie Jam Media Group of New York, which recently announced a partnership with the Urban Television Network Corporation (UATV). Seeking to capitalize on the growing Caribbean immigrant population in US that by some accounts has exceeded 6 million, CSS has already started daily broadcast of 6-hour blocks of programming on satellite and is in ongoing discussions with Time Warner and affiliate cable stations across the U.S. to get on their programming grid. UATV is a publicly traded Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas based television network composed of affiliate broadcast television stations across the country that air programming supplied by the network via satellite transmission.

According to a statement, the network competes with BET, which is owned by Viacom Inc., for the urban market niche. The network has approximately 70 affiliates with a household coverage of approximately 22 million households. Bobby Clarke, CEO of Irie Jam Media, says of the venture: "We saw the need to operate our own Caribbean network. Other ethnic groups have done it so it was an obvious next step to proceed with this initiative." Onward and upward, mon.

And we knew it wouldn't be too long before Miss Deborah Cox blessed us with some new dance music. This time she's mixed things up with "Easy As Life" the theme song from her star-turn in the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical, "AIDA." Featuring additional lyrics by Tim Rice, the track was produced by Tony Moran and Warren Rigg and is not quite available for retail sale, but can be downloaded for free online at disneyonbroadway.com.

"Easy As Life" is the powerhouse ballad of lost love that Miss Cox brings the house down with in the second act of every performance. Executive produced by her beloved hubby/manager Lascelles Stephens, the song works perfectly in her growing repertoire. "When Deborah began performances in 'AIDA,' this song instantly became a signature moment for her in the show," Mr. Stephens comments. "We quickly realized that having her go into the studio to record this remix was a wonderful way for Deborah to introduce her fans to her new endeavor on Broadway."

Tony Award winning Mr. Rice was excited by the idea of Cox recording a dance remix of the song he wrote, and contributed additional lyrics to the dance mix. "I have always felt that it is a shame that Broadway and the popular music charts have often drifted away from each other. I am therefore delighted to hear a Top 40 take on one of the songs from 'AIDA,' especially in the peerless command of Deborah Cox (and because I wrote the words)."

Janet Jackson who? FCC what? The show will go on for the Lingerie Bowl 2005, after all. Horizon Productions recently announced that former NFL stars William "The Fridge" Perry and Lawrence Taylor have signed on to coach against each other in the Lingerie Football League's (LFL) second annual"Super Bowl XXXIX" halftime alternative "Lingerie Bowl 2005".

The Lingerie Football League--that's realty the name--will feature four teams of model/actress' which include defending champion Los Angeles Temptation, Dallas Desire, Chicago Bliss and New York Euphoria. The four teams will face-off in the inaugural "Garter & Lace Championship Sunday" which is a single elimination playoff on January 30, 2005 to determine who advances to play in the second annual "Lingerie Bowl." Even in the midst of corporate shake-ups and Un-American Censorship, Horizon will begin discussions with potential corporate sponsors of the Lingerie Football League and Lingerie Bowl 2005 in June, according to a statement.

Notable/Quotable
"I think you achieve your greatest level of humanity when you challenge yourself to do something difficult for somebody else."
--Forthright Civil Rights Activist Al Sharpton.

It's my life. Don't you forget. It's my life. It never ends!

Next Week
The Ru Report kicks off a its Give My Regards…month-long series celebrating the theatrical arts. Stay tuned.

Message Karu F Daniels or email him directly at therureport@aol.com

©2003 The Ru Report™. All Rights Reserved~~P.O. Box #25 Bushkill PA 18324

Eye Spy Series: Pomona Swap Meet

Pomona Swap Meet & Car Show
I didn't really know what to expect when Shaun Juan and Charlie trekked out to get parts for their '61 and '64 Impala lowriders. The last time I made a decision about tricking out my car was passing on 17' rims to

Pomona Swap Meet & Car Show
I didn't really know what to expect when Shaun Juan and Charlie trekked out to get parts for their '61 and '64 Impala lowriders. The last time I made a decision about tricking out my car was passing on 17' rims to backpack Europe.

So I wasn't terribly excited about the trip but the swap meet was so visually overwhelming and the vibe so peaceful that I had to document it.

Overlooked by not knowing car cats on TV, the Pomona Swap Meet has been attracting enthusiasts for the last 29 years to buy parts, talk shop, or trade cars!

Even more fascinating is the diverse crowd. Brown, black, white, yellow, everything. I wouldn't have been surprised if a purple alien beamed in for an aluminum oil pan!

Check out the fly cars, the custom red wagons, the interesting accesssories, and the multicultural crowd!

Message Ray Tamarra and tell him what you think

The Herbert Holla

Herbert's Hot NYC Picks
thu(29): afterwork/tonic - dj herbert - hiphop/rock/soul/house/80s - 6PM to 12AM
thu(29): afterwork/south city grill/nj - dj marc smooth - soul/funk/rare

Herbert's Hot NYC Picks
wed(28): cielo - louie vega/kevin hedge - classics/house
wed(28): apt - rich medina/guest djs - soul/afrobeat/old school/funk/classics
wed(28): blvd - caron wheeler live/reborn - listening party for qool marv's album
wed(28): starfoods - greg poole/live punk rock show - rock and freaking roll
wed(28): angel bar - scratch famous/teflon - reggae
wed(28): marquee - stretch armstrong - rock/old school/hiphop
wed(28): lotus - cassidy/guests - hiphop/rock/80s/r&b/reggae
wed(28): afterwork/rumor - snatch 1/m.o.s./self/kaos - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
wed(28): pangaea - guest djs - hiphop/r&b/reggae/80s/rock
wed(28): bb king's - common live/omar live - www.bbkingblues.com
wed(28): open air - daddy dog/neil armstrong/5th platoon - hiphop/80s/soul/funk
wed(28): show - dj reach - hiphop/r&b/reggae/rock

thu(29): afterwork/tonic - dj herbert - hiphop/rock/soul/house/80s - 6PM to 12AM
thu(29): afterwork/south city grill/nj - dj marc smooth - soul/funk/rare groove
thu(29): afterwork/kanvas - dj sweets - hiphop/70s/80s - 6PM
thu(29): afterwork/flat - dj elle - hiphip/soul/reggae/old school/classics - 6PM
thu(29): afterwork/tangerine - do it - hiphop/reggae/classics - 6PM till 2AM
thu(29): afterwork/deep - lucho/guests/live performances - latin/reggae
thu(29): afterwork/la gazelle/time hotel - goldfinger/june - hiphop/r&b/soul
thu(29): guernica - blessed/selly/reborn/monica pineda - soul/funk/house/hiphop
thu(29): 6's & 8's (old 205 club) - greg poole/dj st. james - rock/electro/80s
thu(29): bar 169 - scribe/misbehavior/op/brainchild - soul/disco/funk/80s/hiphop
thu(29): blvd - showbiz/self - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics - kanye west plat. party
thu(29): roxy - camillo/nina sky live - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
thu(29): show - stretch armstrong - hiphop/rock/old school
thu(29): joe's pub - mary mack - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
thu(29): manhatta - max glazer/eddie stats - reggae/reggae/reggae/reggae/reggae
thu(29): madame x - jeannie hopper/jenifa mayanja - soul/house/electro/funk
thu(29): pm - crooked - hiphop/funk/soul/classics/80s/house
thu(29): marquee - reach - hiphop/r&b/reggae/80s
thu(29): discotheque - sublminal house djs - house music all night long
thu(29): apt - theo parrish/honey dijon - house

fri(30): starfoods - thank god it's freedom - the illest - see gigs below!
fri(30): plaid - jcny/peter parker - hiphop/r&b/rock/80s/reggae/classics/house
fri(30): sob's - rekha/eddie stats/dub cub - retro filmi eclectic disco grooves
fri(30): blvd - reach/guests - hiphop/r&b/reggae/house
fri(30): quo/across from crobar - crooked - hiphop/r&b/reggae/rock/classics/80s
fri(30): joe's pub - stimulus/colt seavers - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/old school
fri(30): planet 28 - guest djs - 70s + 80s soul classics/deep, jazzy, gospel house
fri(30): the flat - scientific/cato - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/80s/afrobeat/soul
fri(30): 2i's - wimpy bee - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/80s/house
fri(30): lq - roy/andre/spin-one - latin pop/brazilian/salsa/merengue/reggae/80s
fri(30): lunchbox/west side hwy - omar - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/soul
fri(30): aria - will/snatch/self/ty boogie - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
fri(30): mars 2112 - kulcha - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics - denim + button-ups
fri(30): union square lounge - marlon d/master kev - house
fri(30): black - dj camillo - hiphop/r&b/reggae - live big performances!
fri(30): nocturne - riz/sizzahands - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/house
fri(30): 9 1/2 - dj big ben - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/80s

sat(01): lot 61 - herbert - hiphop/r&b/80s/reggae/rock/house
sat(01): cafe deville - cosi/guests - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/house/80s
sat(01): ida mae - funkmaster flex/bobby trendz - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
sat(01): canal room - rocktacon - hiphop/r&b/rock/classics/80s
sat(01): nv - ski hi/will/guests - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/soca/latin
sat(01): 40/40 - rahlo/k.o. - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/80s
sat(01): coral room - reach friedman - hiphop/r&b/80s/rock
sat(01): discotheque - hud - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
sat(01): shelter - timmy regisford - house!
sat(01): eugene - jcny - hiphop/r&b/reggae/house/80s
sat(01): guernica - mano/ola - hiphop/r&b/reggae/80s/old school
sat(01): pm - crooked - hiphop/funk/soul/classics/80s/house
sat(01): plaid - stretch armstrong/riz - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/rock
sat(01): filter 14 - john b - hiphop/r&b/reggae/80s

sun(02): fez uptown - marc smooth/guests - rare groove/soul/hiphop/reggae/classics
sun(02): joe's pub - evil d/lord sear/butta l - classic hiphop/reggae/old school
sun(02): pravda - obah - soul/funk/old school/afrobeat
sun(02): lotus - dj soul - hiphop/80s/r&b/rock/old school
sun(02): nocturne - showbiz - hiphop/r&b/classics/reggae
sun(02): madame x - liftkid - house/brazilian/afrobeat - drink specials - 9 to 2am
sun(02): social club - dj will/dj self - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/soca
sun(02): blvd - dj camillo - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics

mon(03): apt - cucumber slice - soul/funk/rare grooves/latin/uprock/old school
mon(03): cielo - francois k - future dub/space vibes/abstract grooves (aka house)
mon(03): lot 61 - reach/cat - hiphop/reggae/rock/house/r&b
mon(03): sway - guests - rock/soul/reggae/old school/hiphop - skateboard dudes
mon(03): bungalow 8 - dj soul - hiphop/r&b/80s/classics/rock

tue(04): joe's pub - guest djs/live performances - soul/funk/classics/hiphop
tue(04): belmont lounge - reborn - soul/funk/r&b/old school/house/afro/world
tue(04): afterwork/bar below/bk - ayana soyini - reggae - 7PM
tue(04): afterwork/aubette - snatch 1 - hiphop/r&b/reggae/soul/classics
tue(04): nocturne - reach/cassidy - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
tue(04): open air - jlayne/elijah/jd - rare grooves/70s/80s/old school/house
tue(04): sapphire lounge - eman/lola - house/deep grooves
tue(04): plaid - goldfinger/cassidy/june - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/80s

Herbert's Heard
I heard that bronchitis is a biotch!

Word As Bond
I'll make this quick, because I'm busy coughing up nastiness due to the fact that I never get sleep anymore, and then I run around like a pre-schooler all day. Pass the finger paint!

Freedom on Friday was beautiful again. So it was raining! So there were like four other dope Friday-night one-offs all over town! It didn't make a difference. Our dance floor was packed all night long for real for real. Big shout out to Cosi for coming back to us after his third vacation this month and holding me down. Big shout to Marc Smooth on the b-day hook-ups, and of course, Stone Jackson for keeping it tight up front. This Friday, we celebrate the birthday of the illest Jew to walk the NYC streets (besides Rick Rubin--did you see the "99 Problems" video???): Ruvane. Ruvane is a tireless Jew whose put more hours of backbreaking labor into this industry than his ancestors who were enslaved in Egypt. Happy Birthday, Boichik! (rsvp: djherbert@earthlink.net)

Big shout to Wicked Wayne for holding me down at Lot 61, which was a good night. I mean ... Bruce Wayne. Yeah. No more Wicked Wayne. Holler at 'im: 917.286.0418. And now, I have a real estate class to make, and I will not miss it this time. I won't. Peace, love ... wait a minute. I need to change that up for good.

Good health, happiness, peace and love.
Herbert's Gigs
fridays - freedom - starfoods (64 e. 1st b/w 1st + 2nd aves)
#1 illest underground friday night party in nyc, doooooods!
classic hiphop/soul/dancehall/80s/house/classic r&b/funk
no dress code - dancing - food till 2 - $6 peach/cran punch
$5 on my list ... rsvp djherbert@earthlink.net

thursdays - club tonic (727 7th ave b/w 48th + 49th)

rock/hiphop/soul/funk/old school/house/80s
afterwork - 6PM to 12AM - good food - 15 televisions
a brand new sexy mega sports lounge in times square!

saturdays - lot 61 - 21st st + west side hwy
hiphop/r&b/80s/rock/reggae/house
sexy + upscale + hot + dancing

$10 all night ... rsvp djherbert@earthlink.net

In Rotation: Tomika Anderson

Tomika Anderson
Freelance Journalist

My background: I've held editorial jobs at MTV News, Time Inc. and

Tomika Anderson
Freelance Journalist
Brooklyn NY



My background: I've held editorial jobs at MTV News, Time Inc. and Essence, and now I'm working for myself. I'm still writing about entertainment, but I'm also adding a more socio-political spin to my work, writing about things I really care about (the state of Black America, AIDS in our community and African countries in crisis).

Musicians that move me: Nina Simone, Stevie Wonder, Bob Marley, Tupac, dead prez, Me'Shell Ndegeocello, Marvin Gaye, Celia Cruz, Lauryn Hill, Prince, Chaka Khan, Anita Baker, and Erykah Badu.

Magazines I dig: Time and O Magazine. Oprah) Magazine is the sh*t! No kidding...there's no other magazine out there more devoted to whole, healthy, centered and complete living than this one.

Most humbling moments: Getting laid off from my very first job; meeting Muhammed Ali and Stevie Wonder.

Scariest moments: The day my baby brother went off to fight the war in Afghanistan; Being trapped near the border of Iraq during the Persian Gulf War (I'm an army brat).

Happiest moment: When I beat all those other hungry college grads for an internship at Vibe magazine, where I got my start (shout-out to Kenya Byrd, my original mentor; also Shaheem Reid and Mark Allwood, my fellow interns)

Books that have changed me: Manchild in a Promised Land, Invisible Man, Conversations with God: An Uncommon Dialogue, The Miseducation of the Negro, We Were The Mulvaneys, and Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret.

Must-see TV: "Six Feet Under," "The Sopranos," "Making of The Band," anything on New York-1 (as in the channel)

And my Academy Award goes to: Best Actor-Denzel Washington in The Hurricane (I'm still salty about that loss), Best Movie-The Color Purple (ditto for this one), Best Actress-Ellyn Burstyn in Requiem For a Dream (that crazy old-lady act really had me!)

My kind of folk: People who don't apologize for who and what they are. People who make it a point to tell the truth, regardless of the consequences. People who don't give up on their dreams. People who vote, mentor kids, laugh long and hard and live life fully.

I'm a sucker for: First Fridays at the Brooklyn Museum, a trip to Coney Island (as filthy as it is), sunflowers, yogurt parfaits (with lots of strawberries or blueberries), my terror-baby/cat Winnie and "Ne Me Quitte Pas" sung by Nina Simone.

Guilty pleasures: Putting the soundtrack to The Color Purple on repeat, sleep marathons on Sunday morning/afternoon/evening, Bob's (that hole-in-the-wall bar down on Staunton Street), Apple pie a la mode, and chat rooms on AOL.

Movies I'll never get tired of: Juice, Finding Nemo, Lord of the Rings (1-3), The Usual Suspects, The Joy Luck Club, Menace to Society, Six Degrees of Separation, and Fight Club.

Favorite travel spots: Casablanca, Morocco; Acapulco, Mexico; Ocho Rios, Jamaica; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Berlin, Germany; Istanbul, Turkey; Paris, France; Amsterdam; Brussels, Belgium--too many to name.

Websites of choice: Those of your typical freelance writer like Mediabistro.com, journalismjobs.com and craigslist.com

Food I can't live without: My mother's homemade German chocolate cake and caramel brownies. Day-yum!

Stress Free Spots: Prospect Park, my girl Tamara's house in Spanish Harlem, the lake near my parents' house in Virginia, my balcony in Brooklyn (okay, my fire escape!)

Favorite colors: Orange, red and turquoise.

What keeps me sane: Reading. Writing. Talking. Thinking---all the time. LOL

The wackest sh*t out there: Not to preach, but...industry folks who don't give a damn about anything except finding a way into their next party. With all that's going on in the world, are our lives really that empty?

Things I obsess about: The friendships I've cultivated, the quality of my work, and my own happiness.

My motto: What you do in the dark always comes to the light.

Future Plans: To write a book about sexual assault in the black community. To visit South Africa--maybe even move there for awhile. To get married, raise some righteous, nappy-headed children, keep writing and eventually retire in Barbados.

Message Tomika Anderson and tell her what you think

What's In Your Deck? #3

Your Weekly Top 5 Music Picks
What are ya'll listening to this week? Here's what I got.

1. Jean Grae--The Grae Mixtape

Your Weekly Top 5 Music Picks
What are ya'll listening to this week? Here's what I got.

1. Jean Grae--The Grae Mixtape
She's been called the "hardest lyricist in NYC," o.k. she was called that by me, but once again I mean it. I really mean it. The mixtape is just that. A few old cuts, a few new ones, some freestyles and just ill ramblings throughout. With all the goofy shit going on in rap, Jean is a breath of fresh air. She's not a player, she's not a thug, not a pseudo-intellectual, not a killer, not a nerd, not a bling bling obsessed beeyatch, she's just that woman on the street who can rhyme better than you. Snatch this one up if you can find it. Chris Rock could quote some of this shit if he wants to start defending rap again. (jean-grae.com)

2. Ojos de Brujo--Bari
I've had this record for over a year, and just a couple of months back it was reissued with a limited edition remix disc. Ojos de Brujo is a "flamenco con hip hop" collective out of Barcelona, Spain who make some of the most beautiful music I've ever heard in my life. I don't recall owning a record that has stayed in my deck as long as this one here. If you can't really picture flamenco meeting hip hop in a Barcelona back alley, that's your problem because somehow these folks make it work. I first heard them when a good friend named Julie de Rossi returned from Spain in mid-2002. She was telling me all about these cats and I just couldn't get my head around it--like you're probably thinking right now--until I heard it. Tragically my girl Julie was killed by a drunk driver one month ago, and that made me put the remix disc away and grab this one up again. It already hit me in the heart over a year ago, now it's just tugging at my heartstrings telling me everything will be o.k. It's that kind of record, that kind of band. Raw emotion like nothing else on the planet. My daughter Eva loves it too. Download it if you must, but word has it that someone has picked up Bari for a domestic release but I don't know who. (ojosdebrujo.com)

3. Swishahouse--The Day Hell Broke Loose 2 aka Major Without a Major Deal and Rap-A-Lot and Big Tyme Present The Day After Hell Broke Loose
It's kind of a complicated story, one I don't really like getting into, but I guess I should give you a little background. Some years ago, a crew was started in Houston called the Swishahouse. They basically came up doing the slowed down mixes ala DJ Screw, but they put some marketing and promotions behind theirs and really helped spread the slowed down sound beyond Texas. I think it was 1999 that they released their first above ground, regular speed CD, The Day Hell Broke Loose. This record was a classic due mostly in part to the firey beats composed by Big Tyme. The sounds coming out of the speakers were like nothing I had ever heard come from Houston. They were like Bomb Squad meets Screw. Just ill funky and hard to get out of your head. Well, recently, during the production of The Day Hell Broke Loose 2, Big Tyme and the Swishahouse split ways and Big Tyme went to Rap A Lot. Swishahouse remixed the record and added some tracks and Big Tyme took some of the original tracks and recorded some new ones and both came out within the last two months. The result is three CDs of fire (Swishahouse released their screwed and chopped disc with their regular speed disc). Mike Jones and Paul Wall hold down the majority of the Swishahouse release, with Slim Thug, Magno and Kyleon all popping up more than once. Scarface, Devin the Dude, Bun B., Chamillionaire, Mike Jones and Billy Cook all show up on the Rap-A-Lot release, but the real surprise on this one is Dolla aka Da'Costa. He's all over the record and should have a record under Big Tymes new Rap-A-Lot imprint sometime soon. Lookout for this. (swishahouse.com or rapalotrecords.com)

4. DJ Wally Sparks--Mississippi Vet: David Banner Unleashed
This here should be called David Banner: The Ultimate Collection. Wally Sparks did his damn thing digging up all these classics new and old, the production he did for other artists and all the hard to find collabos. Banner fans will be happy to get their hands on a gang of these tracks. There's joints on here that I didn't even know existed. All the latest singles like "Crank It Up," "Might Getcha" and "Like a Pimp" are represented alongside tracks like "Don't Get Fucked Up" with Banner, Busta Rhymes and Bonecrusher, "What the Feezy" with Supastishun and the classic Crooked Lettaz cut "Get Crunk" featuring Pimp C of UGK (who incidentally might be getting out of jail sooner than we thought). This shit is on point from start to finish and is a great way to get your Banner collection up to speed. This man is everywhere. I got mine in the new issue of Ozone Magazine (ozonemag.com) but you can get yours at djwallysparks.com.

5. The Streets--A Grand Don't Come For Free--Vice Recordings
It is indeed in my deck, just so you know. I just can't figure it out yet. It's definitely way different from Original Pirate Material, like not as jammin' to me yet, but the songs are just as interesting. I can't even finish this. I just don't know what the hell to say. I'll come back to this in a week or two.

So what's in your deck?


Damage Control Radio's Tight Tight Ones for 04/26/04

TW	Artist/Song	Label
1	Bavu Blakes f. Paul Wall, Myonne, and Money Waters
	"Play the Role" Rmx
2	Dolla aka DaCosta f. Lil Ron and Slim Thug
	"Life"
3	Money Waters
	"So I"
4	Balance
	"Hustler"
5	Warlords f. Paul Wall, Magno, and Mouf
	"Underground Railroad"

You can also listen to what's in Matt Sonzala's deck by checking out Damage Control Radio every Wednesday nite/Thursday morning 12am-3am on 90.1 FM in Houston. Listen to the live stream at kpft.org or kpftx.org.

Message Matt Sonzala and tell him what's in your deck

Survey Says #3

Please complete this week's survey:

1. My favorite book:
2. My favorite movie:

Please complete this week's survey:

1. My favorite book:
2. My favorite movie:
3. My favorite restaurant:
4. Ideal place to raise my family:
5. My mentors:

Column inspired by Lion-ess and yashaya. Thank you.

Send in your survey questions and photo and be a guest columnist for next week's edition.

Message The Crusade with your Survey Says responses

AAPRC Weekly: Wendy Campbell

Wendy Campbell
Campbell & Company

Last fall, Wendy Campbell tracked down a woman she hadn't spoken to in

Wendy Campbell
Founder & President
Campbell & Company
Alexandria VA


Last fall, Wendy Campbell tracked down a woman she hadn't spoken to in more than ten years just to say thank you. The woman, a former co-worker of Campbell's at the American Red Cross, had given Campbell the best advice she'd ever gotten, urging her to leave her comfortable position as head of public affairs for the American Red Cross' European Command and join the leading public relations firm Porter/Novelli. Campbell had been hesitant to make the switch because her Red Cross position had her stationed in Europe––in Germany––and she was enjoying the life and the travel. Campbell can recall the woman's words exactly: "She said to me: 'You can buy your own damn ticket. Take the job.'"

Campbell took the advice and the job. And not only did she buy her own ticket, she wrote her own ticket, going from Porter/Novelli to founder and president of Campbell & Company, a public relations firm headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia. Now in its tenth year, Campbell's agency counts the White House Office of Drug Control Policy, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the National Institutes of Health among its clients.

Campbell & Company is one of the few PR agencies in the country that specializes in healthcare issues. It's the only one owned by a black woman and the only one that focuses exclusively on public health issues that affect African-Americans. "I've watched family members die of chronic diseases like lung cancer and diabetes," Campbell explains. "I noticed they were very reliant on doctor's orders––if the doctor didn't tell them they didn't know what to do."

Passionate about wanting to improve the health and well-being of African-Americans, Campbell's five-person shop has been instrumental in projects such as the launch of the American Diabetes Association’s first national public education campaign targeting African Americans––the effort reached more than 75 million people. Campbell developed the media relations strategy that launched the Diabetes Prevention Program, the largest diabetes clinical trial ever. Campbell also has created or helped develop: "Every Hour of Every Day," the first public education campaign for the American Red Cross' African-American HIV/AIDS Program; "Some of the Best Things in Life are Free," a public awareness campaign highlighting the [Washington, DC] District’s Child Health Insurance Program; and "The Sooner. The Better.," a public education campaign for the state of Virginia designed to increase awareness of signs of development delay in infants and toddlers. Campbell & Company campaigns utilize tools such as focus groups, multi-city media satellite tours, direct mail, print, radio and transit advertising and the development of consumer materials such as handbooks, information kits and other publications.

The results of Campbell & Company's efforts? Tens of millions of "impressions," and a public armed with a little more knowledge about the issues that impact their well being. "Our biggest challenge right now is…now that we're getting to the point where more attention is being paid to black health care issues, we're trying to get bigger budgets to do work that we want," says Campbell. "We're trying to turn the tide a little bit to reverse some of these conditions."

In addition to the challenges of Campbell's mission––educating African-Americans about health––there is the challenge of competing on the national level as a small, African-American, woman-owned firm. "I am always more motivated because people expect us not to do well," she says. "Because we're a small black firm the expectation is that we might not deliver…We always put into our proposals…specific milestones that we will meet, numerical targets whenever possible. And we exceed those milestones, every time."

Does Campbell worry about the firm's niche becoming a vulnerability? "Unfortunately, as people live longer they're more susceptible to chronic diseases," Campbell points out. "And the federal government is putting a lot of money into healthcare disparities. I'm convinced that if we had been more of a general firm, after September 11th, we would have been out of business."

Campbell sees the firm's exclusivity as its biggest strength, especially when competing for government contracts. "When we go in and pitch, and we've done work for CDC and NIH and the American Liver Foundation and on and on and on––we get it. [Our focus is] what makes us competitive."

As she looks to the firm's future, Campbell wants it bigger. She hopes to expand into education, a logical counterpoint to their healthcare focus. "I have a vision for what it can be, and we're not there yet. I realize that it will get there and that it's just a matter of time," Campbell insists. "I hope we are the first firm that people call when they're talking about African-American health issues. I want to have that kind of credibility. I want to have that kind of impact."

Campbell––who graduated from Hampton University with a B.A, in Mass Media, has an M.A. in organizational communications from Howard University and has completed post-graduate courses in marketing and market research at George Washington University––is a long way from the first-time business owner she was a decade ago. Back then she thought owning her own business would be less stressful than being an employee. "I was still relatively fearless," she says of her early days. "I didn't realize it was going to be as difficult as it was––which is probably a good thing. If I had known I probably never would have done it!"

Now that she's past the days of working until 3 a.m., Campbell is careful about balance, about taking care of her own health. She works out five days a week and is an avid bike-rider, relishing the solitude after spending all day constantly connected via phone, fax and email. Until recently, she enjoyed tooling around town, to meetings and press conferences, on a little, red Vespa (it was stolen, but she plans to get a new one). "You have to figure out what's going to give you a certain amount of joy on a day-to-day basis," she explains. "I found out that riding around town on a Vespa, being able to scoot in and out, was one of those small ways."

She also loves travel––recent excursions have included Mexico, Italy and Savannah, Georgia––and spending time with family. Campbell, who was born and raised in Washington, DC, has one brother and frequently makes time to attend her nephews' sporting events.

Perhaps the most important thing Campbell does for her health and well being is her complete retreat from work every summer. "I take the entire month of August off every year. You have to recharge your batteries," she says adamantly. "Because I'm running a small shop and always dealing with budgets and clients, a week doesn't get it. Two weeks doesn't get it. You need a full four weeks to decompress, relax, come back and be in a different frame of mind. I totally burned out in the beginning, and I said no more… PR is not my life, it enables me to live my life."

Message Wendy Campbell and tell her what you think


AAPRC's Mission
The African-American Public Relations Collective (AAPRC) is an assemblage of professionals who provide communication conduits among clients, journalists, media and our communities. We come together as a collective because we recognize the importance of building those same conduits amongst ourselves.

A great deal of what we do is professional development––updating our skills, keeping pace with technology, refining and streamlining processes, providing a forum to tackle the issues that impact our work environment––but we believe our professional lives benefit most from the forging of effective alliances. Connected to one another, we possess the power of a nationwide body of committed, knowledgeable practitioners with an eye on the future.

As we move into the 21st century at lightning speed, mass media and its potent messages occupy an ever-larger part of our daily lives and our collective psyche. The AAPRC is focused on helping our members gain a deeper understanding of media's force and supporting their growth as powerful participants in the global communications network.

AAPRC's Contact
GQ Media & Public Relations
1650 Broadway Suite 1011
New York NY 10019
1212 765 7910
1212 765 7905
aapublicistcoll@aol.com

In Rotation: Echo Hattix

Echo Hattix
Echoing Soundz PR & Events

Aspirations: To merge the intricate urban mainstream with corporate

Echo Hattix
Owner
Echoing Soundz PR & Events
Hollywood CA


Aspirations: To merge the intricate urban mainstream with corporate respectables ultimately creating real-time fantasy island lifestyle events; Spotlighting soaring talents, products and dreams into successful global awareness.

History: I got into this business as a journalist, then a managing editor which produced my first public relations database. I merged into publicity in layers which continue to grow. Eric Dixon (Bay Town Records) planted the seed, Tresa Sanders gave me a pass into publicity, E-40 gave me my first shot, God has made my history.

Projects: BET Awards, Snoop Dogg Sports, ASCAP Awards, Hip Hop Immortals, GQ Magazine Lounge, Billboard Awards, Chocolate Sundaes Comedy Show, VH1 10 Million Dollar Weekend, Urban World Wireless, Alize & Shaquille O'Neal Playboy Mansion, Radio Music Awards, Magic Johnson's Mid-Summer's Night Magic, and American Honda.

Favorite Music: Jamariquoi, Teedra Moses, Linkin Park, Cavous, Jay-Z, Black Eyed Peas, Missy, Roy Ayers, Anthony Hamilton, N.E.R.D., I'm a music lover for sure. Acid Jazz Soul-Funk will always win with me.

Favorite MCs: Talib Kweli, E-40, 8Ball, Twista, K-Os, Jadakiss (mwah!), MC Lyte, Mos Def and forever Notorious B.I.G.

Favorite DJs: Goldfinger (East) & K-Sly (West)

Icons: Kevin Black, MC Serch, Tashion Macon, and Kenneth Whalum Jr.

Industry Cornerstones: Javier Laval, Tracii McGregor, Kawai Matthews, Patty Laurent, Adell Henderson, Datwon Thomas, The Blackspot, Mike Johns, Fred Johnson, Jon Moore, Asya Shein, Chris Atlas, Pookey Wiggington, Sherri Hughley, Tommy Marinelli, Jeanie Weems, Bonsu Thompson, Bonz Malone, Rene John-Sandy, Will Bronson, Monalisa Murray, Derek Axelrod, and Mark Surroff.

Magazines: Fortune, Flaunt, XXL, GQ, Frank 151, The Fader, and The Robb Report.

Likes: I have an abundance of likes which I always share with most everyone I cross paths with. Test me when you see me.

Stay Tuned: I will produce an answer to a nation of prayers in 2006...ahhhhhhh fresh-air indeed.

Food: Nicaraguan and Seafood.

Cocktails: Mah Tah and Water.

Favorite Movies: The Man In The Iron Mask, Brown Sugar, Usual Suspect, Belly, The Matrix, Monsters Ball and Heat.

Adjectives: Loyal, passionate and focused.

Motivation: God and my partner Adee Glazer-Drory. With God on my right side and my Israeli Jewish partner on my left, it's pretty much a wrap. Truly believing the sky is the limit, I believe and thrive in grinding. So many times the term grind is used in a negative context however it is birthed from a place called belief, fueled by an engine called passion, and developed what I refer to as my daily grind; working smart and hard. That's what I do and my immediates do the same. The end result is consistent progressive production and my company echos just that :)

For more info, visit echoingsoundz.com

Message Echo Hattix and tell her what you think

The Herbert Holla

Herbert's NYC Hot Picks!!!
thu(22): afterwork/tonic - dj herbert - hiphop/rock/soul/house/80s - 8PM to 2AM
thu(22): afterwork/south city grill/nj - dj marc smooth - soul/funk/rare

Herbert's NYC Hot Picks!!!
wed(21): cielo - louie vega/kevin hedge - classics/house/paradise garage stuff
wed(21): apt - rich medina/guest djs - soul/afrobeat/old school/funk/classics
wed(21): angel bar - scratch famous/teflon - reggae
wed(21): marquee - stretch armstrong - rock/old school/hiphop
wed(21): lotus - cassidy - hiphop/rock/80s/r&b/reggae
wed(21): afterwork/rumor - snatch 1/m.o.s./self/kaos - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
wed(21): mission - dj will - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/80s
wed(21): show - dj reach - hiphop/r&b/reggae/rock
wed(21): slate - big ben - hiphop/rock/80s/house/old school - pool tables!
wed(21): filter 14 - satamile/prozac/jon turi - electro
wed(21): sob's - sol village live soul show/eric roberson!!!!!!!!
wed(21): pangaea - showbiz - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics

thu(22): afterwork/tonic - dj herbert - hiphop/rock/soul/house/80s - 8PM to 2AM
thu(22): afterwork/south city grill/nj - dj marc smooth - soul/funk/rare groove
thu(22): afterwork/kanvas - dj sweets - hiphop/70s/80s - 6PM
thu(22): afterwork/flat - dj elle - hiphip/soul/reggae/old school/classics - 6PM
thu(22): afterwork/tangerine - do it - hiphop/reggae/classics - 6PM till 2AM
thu(22): afterwork/deep - lucho/guests/live performances - latin/reggae
thu(22): 6's & 8's (old 205 club) - greg poole/dj st. james - rock/electro/80s
thu(22): guernica - blessed/selly/reborn/monica pineda - soul/funk/house/hiphop
thu(22): crobar - mark ronson/john davis/eli - hiphop/r&b/reggae/house/classics
thu(22): vue - soulfinger sam/boodhakan - hiphop/r&b/reggae - mary j afterparty!!
thu(22): suede - ani - hiphop/r&b/old school
thu(22): marquee - reach - hiphop/r&b/reggae/80s
thu(22): show - stretch armstrong - hiphop/rock/old school
thu(22): pm - crooked - hiphop/funk/soul/classics/80s/house
thu(22): spyder room/avalon - rolando/edwin stats - hiphop/rock/r&b/reggae
thu(22): joe's pub - mary mack - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
thu(22): rhone - melvin moore/pete sung - deep, sexy house music
thu(22): centrofly - laurent garnier - house
thu(22): sullivan room - dj spinna/jay locke - "soulful dance music"
thu(22): b3 - kim jade live/elin/dj dathan/dj vlad - house/brazilian/soul
thu(22): lotus lounge - southpaw/rez/ron/dre - classic hiphop/jazz/reggae/soul
thu(22): discotheque - erick morillos/guest djs - house!!
thu(22): cvb space/13th + 9th - cucumber slice/live art by seen - soul/bboy

fri(23): starfoods - thank god it's freedom - the illest - see gigs below!
fri(23): plaid - jcny/peter parker - hiphop/r&b/rock/80s/reggae/classics/house
fri(23): blvd - reach/francis harris/guests - hiphop/r&b/reggae/house/techno
fri(23): joe's pub - jozen - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/old school
fri(23): mars 2112 - golfinger - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics - denim + button-ups
fri(23): planet 28 - guest djs - 70s + 80s soul classics/deep, jazzy, gospel house
fri(23): the flat - scientific/cato - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/80s/afrobeat/soul
fri(23): crobar - timo maas/guests - house/hiphop/r&b/reggae
fri(23): 2i's - wimpy bee - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/80s/house
fri(23): lq - roy/andre/spin-one - latin pop/brazilian/salsa/merengue/reggae/80s
fri(23): afterwork/madame x - liftkid - hiphop/r&b/reggae/house/80s/nujazz - 6PM
fri(23): suede - ettienne - hiphop/r&b/reggae/80s/house/classics
fri(23): pepper's - dj spinna - music from the golden era (90-97)
fri(23): show - dj cassidy - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/80s - ghostface live!
fri(23): vue - dj hud - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
fri(23): 9 1/2 - dj big ben - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/80s
fri(23): aria - will/snatch/self/ty boogie - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
fri(23): black - dj camillo - hiphop/r&b/reggae - ghostface live! - nina sky live!
fri(23): 21 e. 26th st/3rd fl - dj jus ed - deep soulful house
fri(23): romi/89 washington + rector - dj blessed - soul/ol skool - kevin powell!
fri(23): lunchbox/west side hwy - omar - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/soul
fri(23): sputnik/bk - qool marv/misbehaviour - soul/funk/world beat/classics/rap
fri(23): nocturne - riz/sizzahands - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/house
fri(23): arc - danny tenaglia - house/techno - ARC TO CLOSE!!!!!!!!

sat(24): lot 61 - herbert - hiphop/r&b/80s/reggae/rock/house
sat(24): cafe deville - cosi/guests - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/house/80s
sat(24): nv - ski hi/will/guests - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/soca/latin
sat(24): metronome - big ben/lucho - hiphop/r&b/reggae/latin/house - grand finale!
sat(24): 40/40 - rahlo/k.o. - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/80s
sat(24): coral room - reach friedman - hiphop/r&b/80s/rock
sat(24): discotheque - hud - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
sat(24): shelter - timmy regisford - house!
sat(24): pm - crooked - hiphop/funk/soul/classics/80s/house
sat(24): eugene - jcny - hiphop/r&b/reggae/house/80s
sat(24): guernica - mano/ola - hiphop/r&b/reggae/80s/old school
sat(24): angel - clay nizzle - hiphop/r&b/reggae/old school
sat(24): sullivan room - tedd patterson/kiwi - house/techno
sat(24): lansky lounge - joe eleven - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics - happy bday van!
sat(24): satalla - tapestry world music dance party - guest djs
sat(24): plaid - stretch armstrong/riz - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/rock
sat(24): arc - lee burridge/112 crew/bill patrick - house/techno - ARC TO CLOSE!
sun(25): fez uptown - marc smooth/guests - rare groove/soul/hiphop/reggae/classics
sun(25): joe's pub - evil d/lord sear/butta l - classic hiphop/reggae/old school
sun(25): pravda - obah - soul/funk/old school/afrobeat
sun(25): flow - soul/big ben/am - hiphop/r&b/reggae/80s - 2 year anniversary!
sun(25): lotus - dj soul - hiphop/80s/r&b/rock/old school
sun(25): nocturne - shobiz - hiphop/r&b/classics/reggae
sun(25): madame x - liftkid - house/brazilian/afrobeat - drink specials - 9 to 2am
sun(25): luahn - dj will - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/soca
sun(25): 6's + 8's - dj maseo/dj soul/pf cuttin - hiphop/r&b/old school/soul
sun(25): blvd - dj camillo - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
sun(25): anju - x factah squad - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics

mon(26): sapphire lounge - junior sanchez/onionz/joeski - house - joeski's b-day!!
mon(26): apt - cucumber slice - soul/funk/rare grooves/latin/uprock/old school
mon(26): cielo - francois k - future dub/space vibes/abstract grooves (aka house)
mon(26): afterwork/justin's - commish - hiphop/r&b/reggae/soul/classics
mon(26): marquee - dj will/dj girlina - freestyle/breakdancing/hiphop/go go
mon(26): lot 61 - reach/cat - hiphop/reggae/rock/house/r&b
mon(26): sway - guests - rock/soul/reggae/old school/hiphop - skateboard dudes
mon(26): sullivan room - john selway/alexi delano/paloma - techno

tue(27): joe's pub - guest djs/live performances - soul/funk/classics/hiphop
tue(27): belmont lounge - reborn - soul/funk/r&b/old school/house/afro/world
tue(27): marquee - reach - hiphop/r&b/reggae/80s
tue(27): afterwork/bar below/bk - ayana soyini - reggae - 7PM
tue(27): afterwork/2nd nature - stimulus - soul/funk/hiphop/r&b/reggae/80s
tue(27): afterwork/aubette - snatch 1 - hiphop/r&b/reggae/soul/classics
tue(27): pangea - crooked - hiphop/rock/classics/house/old school/r&b
tue(27): social club - camillo - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
tue(27): suite 16 - stretch armstrong - hiphop/rock/old school/80s
tue(27): nocturne - reach/cassidy - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
tue(27): open air - jlayne/elijah/jd - rare grooves/70s/80s/old school/house
tue(27): plaid - goldfinger/cassidy/june - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/80s

Herbert's Heard!!!
"Time (Clock of the Heart)"--Culture Club
"Gypsy Woman"--Crystal Waters
"Feel Alright"--Sean Paul
"Me, Myself and I"--De La Soul
"She Moves"--N.E.R.D. feat. everybody dope
"Twisted"--Mobb Deep
"Kissed by the Sun"--Jonh Beltram rmx

Word As Bond!!!
Quick! Quick! Time is money. Sheckels! I gotta run off to a real estate class so I can continue the family legacy (father and brother are land developers in PA). I wanna buy a 2 bedroom here in "Money-Makin'" and convert one of them joints into a studio! Holler! For now, I'm watching every penny. I went food shopping the other day because my financial analyst and I both think I'm spending WAY too much on food. But I can't help it; if you haven't noticed, Herbert's a little chunky. Herbert's got a little spare 12-speed tire around his waist, and it used to be worse.

Much worse. There once was a time I couldn't even tell I had a waist! I used to be on diets and all this crap, but really? Diets don't work. America is f-ing lazy. We do and take everything we can in order to avoid the simple, obvious truth: We Gotta Exercize. We gotta sweat. We gotta go to the damn gym, we must watch our calorie intake, and stop with these wack diets. Word! They don't really address the problem anyways. The problem is ... we are addicted to food. Eating food is like shooting heroin for junkies. In fact, they just did this study that shows your brain lights up when you are hungry and smell your favorite food, just like a coke-head's brain when he/she thinks of coke! So ... I'm going to the gym, and I just went food shopping the other day. I got a freezer full a Steak-Ums.

Holler back for the guest list to Herbert's first annual NYC Steak-um Jumpoff!!!

Freedom on Friday was dope again. Over 300 people piled in and danced till close. It just might be the best party in town. Seriously. You need to be there. We were blessed with DJ Scribe's guest skills, and he tore the roof off the sucka proper. Scooby scooby scooby scooby doo! He killed it. I killed it, too, of course. Drinks were flowing, tushes were wiggling, people were sweating ... Tunderclap! Saturday was pretty dope too, but that's a given. Saturdays at Lot 61 have been packed for a year now. We got the anniversary party coming soon, in conjunction with Mickey Dread's 41st birthday extravaganza!!! And speaking of birthdays, NYC Subway just celebrated its 100th!!

Now, back to hot parties. Last night, Herbert manned the 1s and 2s at Joe's Pub. I gotta be honest with ya (American Chopper!) ... I wasn't too thrilled about the whole thing. Forrest put together this celebrity karaoke party, where he invited all these notables to come perform songs off a new definitive history of hiphop CD. I wasn't crazy about it. I mean, who cares about karaoke? You want some really good karaoke? Come over to my house when it's shower time. I'll cover all your favorites, including Jodeci's "Forever My Lady" and even Pebble's "Mercedes, Boy." So anyway, I lugged my stuff over there, set up, and to my suprise, the place was packed! This joint was seriously jumpin'! So many faces in the spot, from Ketner, Kirby, Tariq, Jozen and Chris Washington to Maseo, Wordsworth, Pitch Black and Rosie Perez doing a special cover of Biz Markie's "Just A Friend!" For real!!! But the illest part of the night (besides my ridiculously hot set) was the man, the myth, the local legend Jean Claude the Funky Pirate. Y'all really don't know how funky the Funky Pirate is. You just don't know. That black man who promotes the hottest parties and never forgets his pirate hat played the mo'f-in bass! Bet you didn't know!!!!!

In other news, Herbert played dodgeball again this Saturday. The Headhunters once again advanced to the finals, but once again were cut short of the trophy at 3rd Place due to the extreme wackness of one of the other team's players. He was milking the clock, hoarding the balls, and basically taking advantage of every rule made and forgotten to weasel past 6 of us. It was really, really gay. And I don't mean gay in a homosexual way, but gay like ... gay like ... like Paris.

I have a bone to pick with this city's biggest radio station. (Damn I'm going to be late for class.) First of all, the DJ shouts out all the people in the tri-state area who listen to reggae. He even says "everybody," and goes into all the races he can think of, and never once does he say "white people." White people listen to reggae, too, C! Damn. I felt a little bit slighted, but come to think of it, there's a bigger problem with the station. Why must you waste your time talkin all this and that about cars amd car-related products? Do the kids care? Can they even drive? You know what you need to talk about? The Election. If you really wanna do something positive for all your peoples listening (other than downplaying your white audience), send 'em to the polls this November to vote against Bush so you can really do something for 'em. Am I right? Holler back, y'all. Lemme know what you think! I mean, most of the heads listening need to hear about their power to vote, instead of lyrics glamorizing drugs and female disrespect. Sex is great, but is a "shorty" really "sophisticated cuz she's showing a thong?" Are you freaking kidding me? Oh word? It's cool to be the "rubber band man?" The only rubber bands your listeners got are the ones in their braces, for crying out loud!

Finally, stop with the Dave Chappelle. Enough already. I know, I know. It's funny. We did the same thing with Eddie Murphy in '89 when his SNL Best of video was released, but alright already. "I'm Rick James, bitch." I know, I know. "What???" "What???" Great. Hahahhaah. Okay stop. Also big shout out to Freddy Foxxx. He went from Fred to Bumpy Knuckles, and I think he's back at it as Renegade Foxxx with a new track I heard that was off the hook. And in other news, what about that AIDS incident in the porn community? These morons say "We always get tested." Okay. Great. Now what about wearing rubbers so you can actually avoid testing positive? Ohhhhh. I'm supposed to do that? You mean, the test doesn't prevent AIDS itself?

Last but not least, the Coltrane house will be preserved. Mazel Tov!

Peace, love, good health and stacks of cheese,
PS--I liked a little about the food thing. I'm going to this mega buffet in Korea town. I'll let you know how it is.
PPS--Dammit! I just burned my White Rose Curly Seasoned Fries. Dang!!!!
PPS--Oh well for class. I'll go tomorrow.

Herbert's Gigs!!!
thursday - club tonic (727 7th ave b/w 48th + 49th)
rock/hiphop/soul/funk/old school/house/80s
afterwork - 6PM to 12AM - good food - 15 televisions
a brand new sexy mega sports lounge in times square!

friday - freedom - starfoods (64 e. 1st b/w 1st + 2nd aves)
#1 illest underground friday night party in nyc, doooooods!
classic hiphop/soul/dancehall/80s/house/classic r&b/afrobeat
this week: cosi returns for a long while (so he says!!!!)
no dress code - dancing - food till 2 - $6 peach/cran punch
$5 on my list ... rsvp djherbert@earthlink.net

saturday - lot 61 - 21st st + west side hwy
hiphop/r&b/80s/rock/reggae/house
sexy + upscale + hot + dancing
$10 all night ... rsvp djherbert@earthlink.net

Message DJ Herbert and tell him what you think

In Rotation: Glover

Glover
Audio Assassins

Other gigs: Music editor, electronicrocksoulhop artist (Blackmarket Star

Glover
Producer/Songwriter
Audio Assassins
Atlanta GA


Other gigs: Music editor, electronicrocksoulhop artist (Blackmarket Star), on-deck exec.

Feeling The New Records From: Cee lo's Cee Lo Green Is The Soul Machine, Pitch Black's Pitch Black Law, Kanye West's College Dropout, and Westside Connection's Terrorist Threats.

Still Pushing From The 03: Outkast's Speakerboxxx/The Love Below, Jay-Z's The Black Album, Ludacris's Chicken N Beer, Freeway's Philadelphia Freeway, Death In Vegas's Scorpio Rising.

Always Feeling: The Notorious B.I.G.'s Ready To Die, Dr. Dre's The Chronic, Outkast's Aquemini, Roni Size's Reprazent, Beanie Siegel's The Truth, Public Enemy's It Takes A Nation Of Millions To Hold Us Back, Primal Scream's Xtrmntr, Esthero's Esthero, The entire catalogs of Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix, Charlie Parker, Janes Addiction, Spiritualized, Meshell Ndegeocello, Big Daddy Kane, Maxwell, Sade, NWA and more than a few others.

My People Are Cool: Because they put-up with my hyper-emotional bullshit (it’s not my fault honest...people make me mad).

Kicks: It’s all about the Chuck Taylors...

Bad Habits: PS2 (still killing the new Madden), THC, Jose Cuvero, caffeine, and Corona.

Always Find Myself Watching: Dave Chappelle, Discovery Channel @ 4am and the throwbacks like "Good Times," "Sanford & Son," and "Mr. Ed" (laugh if you want to that horse was a gangsta).

Restaurants: Tantra (Miami), Waffle House (the South), Majestic Diner (ATL), Halo (ATL) and Roscoe’s (LA).

Find Me Drinking At: The Righteous Room (ATL), 1150 (ATL), Halo (ATL), Cheetah (NY), NV (NY), Centro-Fly (NY), and The Grafton Hotel Bar (LA).

Comedians: Nobody is fucking with Dave Chappelle. His movies are good. His stand-up was ridiculous and his show is the only reason most people even figured out where Comedy Central was on their dial. Show me one other comedian since Eddie Murphy’s gold rush that was actually funny onstage, on TV and on-screen?

Sports: Atlanta Falcons and football in general.

Really Dig: People that actually have something to say when they pick up the phone or a two-way. Taking in any form of expression that’s real.

Future Plans: To continue building hot records with on the come-up artists such as Gain Green who merge real emcee skills with real street images, Dezzie a female emcee who can go blow for blow with anybody male or female and Maxyne who is a emotional hybrid of the rap, club and reggae cultures to name a few. It goes without saying that there are established artists that we would love to get down with. But regardless of the weight of someone’s name’s the real future plan is to keep dropping hot shit that makes you want to dance, scream, cry, reflect or get all seductive. You know be human.

In addition to production I personally am working with our manager Daren Hall on TV/ film projects and getting into the business side of things through his new venture The Elements.

Crew: Audio Assassins/Blackmarket Star/ The Elements/The Commission Inc.

For more info, visit Audio Assassins

Message Glover and tell him what you think

Survey Says #2

Please complete this week's survey:
1. My favorite sports team:
2. My favorite music producer:

Please complete this week's survey:

1. My favorite sports team:
2. My favorite music producer:
3. My favorite song:
4. What public person/celebrity or executive I'd most like to talk to and pick their brian:
5. Best place for a relaxing weekend getaway:

Column inspired by Lion-ess and yashaya. Thank you.

Send in your survey questions and photo and be a guest columnist for next week's edition.

Message The Crusade with your Survey Says responses

The Ru Report #131

Fashionably Loud
Spring is in step! And just about everyone and everything has given into being remade, re-done or made-over

Fashionably Loud
Spring is in step! And just about everyone and everything has given into being remade, re-done or made-over.

Including New York’s Brooklyn Museum of Art, which recently unveiled its dramatically redesigned and renovated front entrance and new public plaza.

Home of the second largest art collection in the United States, The Brooklyn Museum of Art also unveils the very first exhibition of the works of the late fashion designer Patrick Kelly. Drawn from the estate of the acclaimed designer, the "Retrospective" --as it is being billed--will feature more than sixty complete ensembles, along with archival material and numerous objects from Mr. Kelly's personal collection of controversial Black memorabilia.

This exhibition is organized by guest curator Thelma Golden, the brassy Deputy Director for Exhibitions and Programs at The Studio Museum in Harlem.

"I had the opportunity, a couple of years ago … to see the material," the guarded Ms. Golden offered to The RU Report. "After seeing it, we immediately began talking about the estate itself [which] was so rich and not [with] just Patrick’s designs, but also in the things that he collected, with the things he made, his own artwork and his sketches, that it seemed that it was an exhibition right there. So that’s how it came to be."

For those not familiar with the fashionably loud stylings of Mr. Kelly, his flamboyant garments was all the rage in the mid to late-1980s and were adorned by celebrities such as Cicely Tyson, Bette Davis, Madonna, Bette Midler, Grace Jones and Isabella Rosellini, amongst many, many others.

A native of Vicksburg, Mississippi, Mr. Kelly was moved to Atlanta as a young adult where he sold recycled clothes and worked without pay as a window dresser at the Yves Saint Laurent Rive Gauche Boutique.

He later lived in New York, where he attended Parsons School of Design. But it was in Paris where Mr. Kelly found his greatest success, eventually becoming the first American member of the Chambre Syndicale du Prêt-à-Porter (the governing body of the prestigious French ready-to-wear industry). He began by selling dresses on the street and working as a costumer for the nightclub LePalais. Such well-known stores as Henri Bendel, Bloomingdale's, and Bergdorf Goodman carried his Paris designs.

Although he produced collections only from 1985 until his death in 1990 at the age of 35, his exuberant, witty garments proved to be potent and original contributions to the field of fashion. Some of Mr. Kelly's most memorable garments incorporated such humble materials as masses of multicolored buttons or grosgrain ribbons clustered together. Other motifs, like the use of flamboyant hats and splashy accessories, celebrated his rural southern roots. He also created works using controversial Black images drawn from popular culture, bringing issues of racial stereotyping to the forefront.

"I am hungry to see this exhibition because every time I look around, my eyes are just dancing with colors," commented legendary supermodel Pat Cleveland, who was on hand at last Wednesday’s exclusive media preview. "I see things that bring up so much history."


The quite congenial Ms. Cleveland flew in from her home in northern Italy, with her painter son and husband in tow, to support the festivities. A regal runway regular for such houses as Chanel, Bill Blass and Oscar de la Renta, she was good pals with Mr. Kelly and in the height of his success was the centerpiece of many of his fashion shows-–wearing his Jospehine Baker-inspired designs. Some say she was his muse. "He endowed Paris with his presence," she continues. "He brought back to them what they forgot and he brought it in a way they needed. They needed some color, and definitely Patrick was about that."

The owner of a European modeling agency and one of the very first models featured in pages of Essence magazine over thirty years again, her timeless beauty predates the imagery of today’s Black supermodels like Tyra Banks and Naomi Campbell. Hers is still a face worth seeing, as she still does runway work and appears in editorial pages.

"I think with sound-bites, it’s hard to say things in two seconds," the celebrity clotheshorse continued, "They have this thing about "The Passion" now and that’s what we have is passion and that’s why people love Patrick, because he had faith and his blessings were not only for himself but for everyone around him.

"He shared his chicken, he cooked for his friends and he embraced them when they were sad. And there were no boundaries between himself and any borders. What he saw was a global unity.

"And what he did that was so special for me was that he took everyone by the hand and he prayed to God and he made you realized that: No, this is not me doing this, I am just here. I am just Patrick. But there is something bigger in this room and that brought you home to your real self."

Feel the passion for yourself.

"Patrick Kelly: A Retrospective" will be on view from April 17 through September 5.

The Gospel Truth
Gospel diva Vickie Winans is keeping up with the Joneses of the gospel industry.

The six-time Grammy nominee and self-proclaimed Hardest Working Woman In Gospel launched her very own gospel musical production, titled "Torn Between Lovers," a few weeks ago at Dallas' Majestic Theater.

Described as a hilarious tale of one woman's inner struggle with the vow she's made to God as a nun and the Pentecostal pastor she has suddenly fallen in love with, Ms. Winans says the play will "make you laugh, it will make you cry and it will make you dance"

"I was going through some struggles of my own about 15 years ago with my marriage and losing a baby," Miss Winans tells The Ru Report. "I was depressed with all of that and that's when I started to write the play. The whole thing is that it's a story going from struggle to triumph, that's the message of the play.

The show boasts a fifteen-member cast of veteran actors with score by Rudolph Hawkins and direction by Weyman Thompson. It's booked in several major cities throughout late June.

Ms. Winans--who was married to the popular gospel dynasty's twin son Marvin Winans for 17 years, and is the mother of hip-hop producer/singer/songwriter Mario Winans--has been making people dance for quite some time with her Good News rhythm and blues music. Her latest album, Bringing It All Together has been a mainstay on the Billboard Gospel charts since being released last year and has spurred the toe-tapping, roof-raising, inspirational anthem "Shake Yourself Loose."

The gospel musical play business has become quite a lucrative for some; independent theater czar David Talbert recently used his marketing savvy to transform his talents into novel form with a Simon & Schuster hardcover book titled, Baggage Claim. A movie project of the book has been proposed. And New York Times best-selling author E. Lynn Harris' "Not A Day Goes By" is currently a stage show starring TV sitcom veteran Jackee Harry and "American Idol" contestant Trenyce, playing to sell-out crowds across the country. Another diva of gospel, Dottie Peebles, is currently appearing in the traveling stage play, "What Men Don't Tell," starring Kenny Latimore and Chante Moore.

"In a media driven world of manufactured reality, the soul theater movement continues to ring true as an authentic voice of Black America," Mr. Talbert tells The Ru Report. "It's one of the last bastions of artistic expressions where we complete the circle of creation, presentation, and distribution."

"You don't ever know what's next until it happens," Ms. Winans says of the limitless expansion possibilities in the gospel musical arena.

Taking it to the next level, the recently, re-married diva (her third marriage was to Detroit-based entrepreneur Joe McLemore, last November in Sin City and made a quite a splash in the media) is putting the finishing touches on a Vickie Winans doll that dances and sings. Musically, she will release a two-disc set Woman To Woman: Songs Of Survival and will collaborate with her sons Skeeter (Mario) and Coconut (Marvin) on a set called From My Sons' Point Of View.

And speaking of Winans, the multiple-award winning daughter/sister of the bunch CeCe Winans will be inducted into the International Gospel Music Hall of Fame and Museum, in Detroit on October 23. Gospel music superstar Donnie McClurkin and Savoy Records Executive Director Rev. Milton Biggham, will also be inducted along with the late Anna Crockett Ford, Dr. Albert J. Lewis, Jr., Bill Moss & The Celestials, the O'Neal Twins and Joseph Niles. The 2004 inductees were recently announced by Hall of Fame founder David Gough. Founded in 1995 as a non-profit organization, the Hall of Fame boasts nearly 100 previous inductees including Della Reese, The Dixie Hummingbirds, The Caravans, Dr. Bobby Jones and the Mississippi Mass Choir. Nominees to the International Gospel Music Hall of Fame and Museum must have been involved in gospel music activities for at least 25 years and can include individuals, groups, choirs, quartets, broadcast personalities and promoters.

Power talent agency The William Morris Agency is representing celebrated gospel music star Kirk Franklin as a lecturer and speaker for churches, conferences and other like-events. Apparently in a savvy dash-for-the-cash, the multi-platinum music performer will be accepting speaking-only dates between now and the end of the year William Morris agent Valerie Summers says of this newly-implemented strategy, "This is an opportunity for those churches and conferences to experience the ministry of Kirk Franklin that wouldn't otherwise be able to due to the expense and maintenance of accommodating the band and choir, etc...You get to hear straight from Kirk's heart."

Catch phenomenal background vocalist Yolanda Wyns step out in the spotlight on BET's "Bobby Jones' Gospel" on April 18. The New York City-based singer--who has backed up the likes of Patti Labelle, Stephanie Mills, Natalie Cole, Mariah Carey, Angie Stone, Freddie Jackson and BeBe Winans, was invited to appear on the program as part of Dr. Bobby Jones' 22^nd season celebration. She will perform the gospel classic, "God Is," which was also one of the most popular selections from her 2002 release, A Live Recording of Praise and Worship featuring Yolanda Wyns.

"I have always admired Dr. Jones, and his unique place in the gospel world," offers Ms. Wyns. "Appearing on this broadcast was an honor and a dream come true."

The program is also scheduled to re-broadcast on July 11.

Powerhouse vocal virtuouso Kim Burrell's long lost first recording, Try Me Again was recently re-released via Shanachie Entertainment, with a newly recorded bonus track, "Magnify Him." Her unrivaled bravado has drawn praise from secular folks such as P. Diddy, Beyonce and Chaka Khan, who referred to Ms. Burrell as her "biggest hero."

I can not wait to hear the eagerly-anticipated debut opus from Kierra "KiKi" Sheard--the daughter of the spiritual vocal acrobat also known the world over as Karen Clarke-Sheard. KiKi, as she is affectionately known, is the 16-year-old heiress to the Almighty Clark Sisters musical throne. Her project, titled I Owe You, is due out this summer on EMI Gospel, home to such new-school gospel greats Bishop T. D. Jakes, Smokie Norful and the Shirley Murdock.

The young Miss Sheard possess an extraordinary vocal talent that she has been honing since she was nine. She was a featured vocalist on all three of her mother's solo releases (1997's Finally Karen, 2002's Second Chance and the recently released The Heavens Are Telling). Her rousing rendition of the old-time standard, "The Will Of God" brought her a prestigious Stellar Award for Best Children's Performance.

"I really want to do my best to be an example of a young person doing what God wants them to do," Miss Sheard said in a statement. "I have a desire to minister to young people, relate to them through my experiences and let them know that God is the best thing that could ever happen to you."

With the support of her musical family, Sheard will tour extensively this spring and summer. She'll be in concert with her mother and aunt Dorinda Clark--and The Clark Sisters. Her mother will introduce Miss Sheard at all of her promotional performances for "I Owe You." The teen sensation also will make stops at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, Bishop T.D. Jakes' Potter's House in Dallas, and Atlanta's Georgia Dome-MegaFest among others.

Video View
It's Killing Time again with the release of the eagerly anticipated Quentin Tarantino sequel to last fall's critically-acclaimed blockbuster, Kill Bill, Vol. 1. The new movie opens this weekend but its gory predecessor actually turned out to be one of my favorites of last year with fierce performances by Uma Thurman, Lucy Liu, Vivica A. Fox and 1980s' golden girl Darryl Hannah. Ms. Fox, who is looking her very best on the May issue of Smooth magazine, was initially shocked about blood-splattering. "I had no idea that we were going to be so bloody," she said in an interview. "Quentin kept saying, 'More blood. Spritz her!' By the end of every day I looked like black Carrie, from Carrie the movie. I just was covered in spritz and Vaseline and blood." Now the movie is on DVD, and the home video version is blazing with extras like a Behind The Scenes program featuring the aforementioned writer/director and the movie's stars, along with commentary from music producer RZA. Bonuses also include musical performances by The 5,6,7,8's and "Tarantino Trailers" for his previous efforts Reservoir Dogs, Pulp Fiction, Jackie Brown and even the bootleg trailer for Kill Bill Vol. 1.

Also on DVD, catch sectarian Academy Award winners Jack Nicholson and Diane Keaton team up for the spirited romantic comedy, Something's Gotta Give, which was written/directed by Nancy Meyers (What Women Want). The home video package features the usual behind the scenes commentary, but an added bonus is having co-star Amanda Peete host the Hamptons House Set Tour. A deleted scene with Mr. Nicholson singing Karaoke will please the pallets of many a film buff, while the Spanish, English and French subtitles are the added pizzaz.

And lastly, fans of the groundbreaking early 90's urban sketch comedy show, "In Living Color" will be pleased that the powers that be have finally released the first season on DVD. The show, which served as the launching pad to the meteoric careers of Jim Carrey, Jennifer Lopez and Damon Wayans, also help kick off the then-relatively-unknown Fox TV network. Created by Keenan Ivory Wayans and featuring a colorful cast of characters portrayed by Jamie Foxx, David Alan Grier, Tommy Davidson, Kim Wayans, with choreography by Rosie Perez, "In Living Color" changed the face of live sketch comedy television. The multi-disc set includes bonuses like various audio commentaries, featurettes and the show's original pilot.

Notable/Quotable

"Some of it is getting really distasteful--it's like giving it a bad taste, it's really exploiting women," he says. "What they're doing now it's kind of like soft porn. I saw some (stuff) the other day...I didn't even know they could do that on TV.""
--Hip hop supergroup Outkast's less outspoken, outlandish member Big Boi, regarding some of the raunchy music videos played on BET.

Before you can read me, you got to learn how to see me!

Message Karu F Daniels or email him directly at therureport@aol.com

©2003 The Ru Report™. All Rights Reserved~~P.O. Box #25 Bushkill PA 18324

The Hotness

Black Exposure
Over exposure is never considered a good thing, regardless of what form it comes in. Overexposure to the sun will cause sunburn, cold weather will result in frostbite and to the media--as in the Benifer romp

Black Exposure
Over exposure is never considered a good thing, regardless of what form it comes in. Overexposure to the sun will cause sunburn, cold weather will result in frostbite and to the media--as in the Benifer romp, well I think that says it all. For me, the idea of overexposure really gets interesting when you throw culture and Black bodies in the mix. Insert Janet Damita Jo Jackson.

Let me first say that I believe her move with Justin "I'm gonna have you naked by the end of this song" Timberlake was a well choreographed, however tacky, publicity stunt to promote her album. Do I think it was inappropriate? Yes. Do I think she should have apologized a second time to appear on the Grammy's? No. Do I think that by bringing up this incident again that I may be playing myself out on some already, over hyped media-play? Maybe. But just hear me out on this one.

We live in a society well known for its erasure, marginalization and fetishistic exoticizing of the Black female (nude) body. So when I consider Ms. Jackson's major reveal at the hands of a Black culture adoring wannabe white male--who in the end took no responsibility for the wardrobe malfunction, I not only think about the corruption of standards, over which CBS and the FCC is justifiably going ballistic, I think about power and pleasure--who has it and who wants it.

I only wish that Janet could think as well as she can tease because if she did, she would have conceived of a way to promote herself and flip the tables over on feminism, pop music and sexuality. She would have rocked the entire half-time show (who needed Puffy and Nelly anyway), the way sisters rock the dance floor when we hear Beyonce's “Baby Boy.” Cause when Beyonce starts ooohing an aaahing, you know it's a wrap! All of a sudden everyone gets Caribbean and our dancing becomes sultry, sexy, and celebratory, Part Josephine Baker, part Lil' Kim (circa 1999) we know how to get our swerve on and still not totally give it up.

That's the thing with exposure, the art of it is to not only control what is shown, but to somehow manipulate the way in which it is also seen (consumed) so that the experience remains self-defined and transformative--for the guy in the club, for 100 million television viewers and definitely for oneself. So in acknowledging Janet’s quasi auspicious latest debut, I'd like to thank the sisters who knew way back when that sometimes less is more and still knew how to work their magic and use their beautiful Black bodies to empower, impassion and inspire.

Shout-outs to Salt-n-Pepa for Pushing It, Josephine for her banana skirt, photographer Mfon Essien for her mesmerizing self-portraits, Sade for her Love Deluxe album cover (of which Janet took a huge bite), singer Joi for her live performances, Aaliyah for damn near everything, Ma Rainey for her trademark gold coin necklace and knowing how to swing that Black bottom, and a special shout to Sara Baartman aka "The Hottentot Venus" who was taken from her home in South Africa in 1810 and exhibited throughout Britain as a "freak" for having a large booty and bosom. She is the original icon for Black female exposure and we embrace her! Big up.

Folks tend to look at Blackness from a social point of view, but if you really want to give your brain something to chew on, think about Blackness from a political, social and historical point of view. And if you’re really up for the challenge throw the power/pleasure dynamic into the mix. Maybe I’m just trippin’, but the following six things have got my wheels turning and my spirit burning. What do you think?

1. Janet debuts at #2 on the Billboard chart scanning a lil’ over 381,000 units, yet MTV will not play her video. But they will show a bodacious Britney flashing her pink panties in “Toxic” and of course R. Kelly will even get some love although he is accused of molesting a number of Black girls.

2. The media’s reportage of high profile scandal. Is it me or are Kobe Bryant, Jayson Williams, Michael Jackson, Diana Ross and Lil’ Kim the only alleged lawbreakers on the continent? What about Courtney Love, Kelly Osborne, and Robert Blake? Not to mention those Tyco and Enron guys or President Bush who broke at least 10 international laws in his search for weapons of mass destruction. Hello--overriding the UN in pursuit of oil is way more interesting than Diana Ross’ one-night prison stay!

3. Jayson Blair. Anyone notice how the disgraced NY Times writer decided to make his only New York appearance at Hue Man bookstore in Harlem? From what I heard he made a typical, yet passionate appeal for Black folks to forgive him because at the Times Black men are just so oppressed. Give me a friggin’ break!

4. The depiction of Black women on reality television--Omarosa from “The Apprentice” (who took over the Oprah Winfrey with her n-word allegations and her I’m just playing the Black diva excuses), Coral from “The Real World” (“I don’t wrestle women, I beat bitches up”), Camille from “Top Model” and my favorite, Babs of “Making of the Band.” Think about the disservice we do to ourselves by falling into the easy, stereotypical role of being The Black Bitch or The Angry Black Woman. Dominique Devereaux is the only sister I know that continually found success and happiness in being rude, arrogant and manipulative and in the end, even she got the ax.

5. The testimonial procedure of Condoleeza Rice.

6. HIV/AIDS

For more insightful commentary from Nicole Moore, visit thehotness.com

Message Nicole Moore and tell her what you think

In Rotation: Raquel Ultra Sanchez

Raquel Ultra Sanchez
Alphabet City Design + Marketing

Aspirations: To take over the world as a superdesigner and super producer

Raquel Ultra Sanchez
CEO/Designer extraordinare
Alphabet City Design + Marketing
NYC


Aspirations: To take over the world as a superdesigner and super producer (house and hip-hop).

History: One of the first (if not the first) hip-hop street promoters in Miami in the early 90's.

Projects: Partner in ThinkSoul and Sly Foxx, entrepreneur, and occasional DJ

MCs: Large Pro, Kool G Rap, Mos Def, OC, Pharaoh Monche, Brotha J, Heather B, Rakim, and Jay-Z.

DJs: Kerri Chandler, Tony Humphries, Dimitri from Paris, Osunlade, DooWop, Pete Rock, Premier, and Babu.

Music: See above, Wayne Wonder, Marcia Griffiths, Helen Merrill, Chet Baker, Faith, Dela, and too many more to mention in classics, house, hip-hop, reggae/dub, latin, and jazz.

Magazines: HOW, Communication Arts, Wallpaper, Flaunt, XXL, Dime, Time Out NY, and Mac Addict.

Likes: candles, incense, silk, velvet, interior decor, gourmet cooking, house music, progressive hip-hop, positivity, design, cleanliness, neatness, NYC, Chicago, DC, magazines, eclectic jewelry, tattoos, spontaneity, surprises, honesty, lounges, silver anything, romance, networking, record stores, independent film, exploring the city, poetry, faith, good vibes, spas, afro/Latino-centricity, making your voice heard, moving forward, and making moves!

Cocktails: Mojito and Baileys with Grand Marnier.

Food: Indian, Cuban, Mexican, Cajun, Tapas, and Seafood.

Adjectives: Strong, committed, outspoken, saucy Scorpio, compassionate, giving, thoughtful, neat freak, and clean freak.

Motivation: Whatever I do, I do it with all the passion I have. I give everything I do 110% or more. The thrill of the kill inspires me to great extremes, but the fact that I can give entities an image and look is the ultimate thrill. I live for the networking, the collaborations and partnerships, the fact that the branding of my clients was/is up to me, and the great things the future bring. My passion and drive keep me going. The power of knowledge, self-esteem and ambition can create great things. The only way is up!

For more info, visit Alphabet City Design + Marketing

Message Raquel Ultra Sanchez and tell her what you think

The Herbert Holla

Herbert's NYC Hot Picks
thu(15): afterwork/tonic - dj herbert - hiphop/rock/soul/house/80s - 8PM to 2AM
thu(15): afterwork/south city grill/nj - dj marc smooth - soul/funk/rare

Herbert's NYC Hot Picks
wed(14): cielo - louie vega/kevin hedge - classics/house/paradise garage stuff
wed(14): apt - rich medina/guest djs - soul/afrobeat/old school/funk/classics
wed(14): manhatta - dj diamond - hiphop/funk/soul/classics/reggae - benefit! 7-11
wed(14): angel bar - scratch famous/teflon - reggae
wed(14): marquee - stretch armstrong - rock/old school/hiphop
wed(14): lotus - dj reach/cassidy - hiphop/rock/80s/r&b/reggae
wed(14): afterwork/rumor - snatch 1/m.o.s./self/kaos - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
wed(14): abaya - dj xavier soto - classics
wed(14): pangaea - showbiz - ruben studdard double platinum party - hiphop/r&b
wed(14): mission - dj will - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/80s
wed(14): filter 14 - satamille/prozac/jon turi - electro
wed(14): slate - big ben - hiphop/rock/80s/house/old school - pool tables!
wed(14): nells - senoros de oriente live/dj elvira/dj medina - cuban sounds!

thu(15): afterwork/tonic - dj herbert - hiphop/rock/soul/house/80s - 8PM to 2AM
thu(15): afterwork/south city grill/nj - dj marc smooth - soul/funk/rare groove
thu(15): afterwork/kanvas - dj sweets - hiphop/70s/80s - 6PM
thu(15): afterwork/flat - dj elle - hiphip/soul/reggae/old school/classics - 6PM
thu(15): afterwork/tangerine - do it - hiphop/reggae/classics - 6PM till 2AM
thu(15): afterwork/deep - lucho/guests/k7 live - latin/reggae
thu(15): guernica - blessed/selly/reborn/monica pineda - soul/funk/house/hiphop
thu(15): crobar - granmaster caz/grandmaster flash - old school/80s/wild style!!!
thu(15): marquee - reach - hiphop/r&b/rock/80s
thu(15): suede - ani - hiphop/r&b/old school
thu(15): show - stretch armstrong - hiphop/rock/old school
thu(15): pm - crooked - hiphop/funk/soul/classics/80s/house
thu(15): manhatta - max glazer/edwin houghton - reggae/reggae/reggae/reggae/reggae
thu(15): joe's pub - mary mack - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
thu(15): dorsia - dj m.o.s. - hiphop/r&b/reggae/80s/rock/house
thu(15): blvd - guest djs - rock/electronic/hiphop - nerd afterparty - clipse live
thu(15): anju - carl blaze - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
thu(15): sullivan room - victor simonelli/keith blackstone - house/dance music
thu(15): deep - jozen/stimulus/frank delour - hiphop/r&b/reggae - happy b-day, j!
thu(15): nublu - david katz meets ras kush/black redemption sounds - dub/reggae
thu(15): apt - language/duane/lindsay/twilight tone - old school/black 80s/electro
thu(15): freight - anthony mills live/premier of art piece "shufly"
thu(15): rumor - j layne/sureshout - hiphop/rock/classics/reggae/80s
thu(15): discotheque - hex hector/danny krivit/jonathan peters/skribble - house!!

fri(16): starfoods - thank god it's freedom - the illest - see gigs below!
fri(16): plaid - jcny/peter parker - hiphop/r&b/rock/80s/reggae/classics/house
fri(16): blvd - reach/tony c/guests - hiphop/r&b/reggae/rock/80s/house
fri(16): play - jozen/stimulus - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/old school
fri(16): mars 2112 - kulcha - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
fri(16): planet 28 - guest djs - 70s + 80s soul classics/deep, jazzy, gospel house
fri(16): the flat - scientific/cato - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/80s/afrobeat/soul
fri(16): crobar - alain vinet - house/dance
fri(16): 2i's - wimpy bee - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/80s/house
fri(16): nocturne - riz/sizzahands - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/house
fri(16): halcyon/bk - guest djs - closing party - draw on the walls - bananas!
fri(16): afterwork/madame x - liftkid - hiphop/r&b/reggae/house/80s/nujazz - 6PM

sat(17): lot 61 - herbert - hiphop/r&b/80s/reggae/rock/house
sat(17): cafe deville - cosi/guests - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/house/80s
sat(17): canal room - rocktacon - hiphop/80s/rock/reggae
sat(17): aria - snatch 1/afrique/soundproof - reggae/rockers/soca/calypso/hiphop
sat(17): satalla - tapestry world music dance party - guest djs
sat(17): sullivan room - david hollands/guests - house/techno
sat(17): nv - ski hi/will/guests - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/soca/latin
sat(17): metronome - big ben/lucho - hiphop/r&b/reggae/latin/house
sat(17): 40/40 - rahlo/k.o. - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/80s
sat(17): coral room - reach friedman - hiphop/r&b/80s/rock
sat(17): discotheque - hud - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
sat(17): shelter - timmy regisford - house!
sat(17): pm - crooked - hiphop/funk/soul/classics/80s/house
sat(17): revival/harlem - dj boogie blind - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
sat(17): filter 14 - john b - hiphop/80s/classics
sat(17): eugene - jcny - hiphop/r&b/reggae/house/80s
sat(17): plaid - stretch armstrong/riz - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/rock
sat(17): joe's pub - somi live - east african soul/jazz queen - 9PM
sat(17): knitting factory - live jazz/live poetry - fighting for peace - 7:30PM
sat(17): 21 e. 16th/3rd fl - will milton/mateo/matos/ace - house music

sun(18): fez uptown - marc smooth/guests - rare groove/soul/hiphop/reggae/classics
sun(18): deep - danny krivit/diviniti live ("find a way") - house music - 6PM to 1
sun(18): joe's pub - evil d/lord sear/butta l - classic hiphop/reggae/old school
sun(18): flow - 2 year anniversary!!! - dj soul - hiphop/r&b/rock/80s/old school
sun(18): pravda - obah - soul/funk/old school/afrobeat
sun(18): lotus - guests - hiphop/80s/r&b/rock/old school
sun(18): nocturne - shobiz - hiphop/r&b/classics/reggae
sun(18): madame x - liftkid - house/brazilian/afrobeat - drink specials - 9 to 2am
sun(18): sob's - cannibal ox/breeze evahflowin/planet asia/e.o.w. - live mcs
sun(18): luahn - dj will - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/soca
sun(18): blvd - leon and the peoples/black hawk soundz - reggae/reggae/reggae

mon(19): joe's pub - dj scribe/jeannie hopper/tortured soul live - house/soul/funk
mon(19): apt - cucumber slice - soul/funk/rare grooves/latin/uprock/old school
mon(19): cielo - francois k - future dub/space vibes/abstract grooves (aka house)
mon(19): marquee - dj will/dj girlina - freestyle/breakdancing/hiphop/go go
mon(19): lot 61 - reach/cat - hiphop/reggae/rock/house/r&b
mon(19): sway - guests - rock/soul/reggae/old school/hiphop - skateboard dudes
mon(19): bungalow 8 - dj soul - hiphop/80s/rock/classics

tue(20): joe's pub - herbert/live performances - soul/funk/classics/hiphop
tue(20): etoile - marc smooth/cosi/qool marv - prince release party - memphis soul
tue(20): manhatta - mocha sunflower/ron paizley - soul/funk/classics - 7PM
tue(20): open air - jlayne/elijah/jd - rare grooves/70s/80s/old school/house
tue(20): afterwork/2nd nature - stimulus - soul/funk/rock/afrobeat/hiphop/r&b
tue(20): afterwork/bar below/bk - ayana soyini - reggae - 7PM
tue(20): pangea - crooked - hiphop/rock/classics/house/old school/r&b
tue(20): social club - camillo - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
tue(20): suite 16 - stretch armstrong - hiphop/rock/old school/80s
tue(20): nocturne - reach/cassidy - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
tue(20): 5 spot - complex/demize - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/old school
tue(20): belmont lounge - qool marv - soul/funk/r&b/old school/house/afro/world
tue(20): plaid - goldfinger/cassidy/june - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/80s

Herbert's Heard
"The Promise"--When In Rome
"The Pleasure Principle"--Janet Jackson
"In Your Eyes"--Peter Gabriel
"My My My"--Johnny Gill
"Everybody Everybody"--Black Box
"Twisted"--Mobb Deep

Word As Bond
Darn. I don't have much to say this week. I've been doing a lot more "doing" and less thinking--a good thing. I've signed up for real estate classes so I can get my sales license and add some more money to the Herbert Holler Fund. I wrapped up my Basic Commercial Course at Weis Barron, and need to get me some headshots soon, so you can see my big fat head on the television and I can add even more money to the Herbert Holler Fund.

Friday night at Freedom was packed. 400 plus people. Dope music all night. Big up to Qool Marv for a tight set. "Many styles! Many styles!" And thank you for playing the "Crazy In Love" original. That's about as close as they'll come to it, that's for damn sure. Big shout to Oluwaseye and Les Nubians for dropping through and givin' a little love. Also shouts to Dominique Romain, Francis Poku, DJ Dallas Green and DJ Excel. Now ... wassup with my white people? Why y'all leave at 2AM all the dang time? Is it the dancehall? C'mon ... hang out. Some of y'all do, but most of y'all run home before you turn to a pumpkin, perpetuating this racial phenomenon! I call it the "Let's leave, dude" phenomenon.

Saturday at Lot 61 was crazy, too. Herbert's been taking Prednisone due to some abnormal sinus activity, and Saturday night before the gig, he accidentally drank a big mug of coffee before the gig, and man! I was sweating and bouncing and singing and shouting and I think talking in a few different languages at one point in time. Someone came up to the booth, and I don't think I saw them, but they must've saw me, acting crazy, jumping all around and singing, and I think they got scared because they ran off before asking for the new Beyonce song or whatever they prolly wanted to hear.

Peace, love, good health, happiness, and the phrase of the week: Just Do It!

Herbert's Gigs
thursday - club tonic (727 7th ave b/w 48th + 49th)
rock/hiphop/soul/funk/old school/house/80s
afterwork - 6PM to 12AM - no cover - huge new sexy lounge w 15 tvs!

friday - freedom - starfoods (64 e. 1st b/w 1st + 2nd aves)
#1 illest underground friday night party in nyc, doooooods!
classic hiphop/soul/dancehall/80s/house/classic r&b/afrobeat
no dress code - dancing - food till 2 - $6 peach/cran punch
$5 on my list ... rsvp djherbert@earthlink.net

saturday - lot 61 - 21st st + west side hwy

hiphop/r&b/80s/rock/reggae/house
sexy + upscale + hot + dancing

$10 all night ... rsvp djherbert@earthlink.net

tuesday - joe's pub - 425 lafayette st
classics/old school hiphop/soul/house
live performances - legendary, hot venue
$5 all night ... rsvp djherbert@earthlink.net

Message DJ Herbert and tell him what you think

AAPRC Weekly: Ava DuVernay

Ava DuVernay
The DuVernay Agency

Until 1995, Ava DuVernay thought she was destined to be a journalist

Ava DuVernay
Founder & President
The DuVernay Agency
Los Angeles CA


Until 1995, Ava DuVernay thought she was destined to be a journalist. A slow white Bronco ride, however, would divert her from the newsroom to the head of one of the country's most successful film publicity firms.

DuVernay, then a student at UCLA, got her first taste of professional journalism as an intern at the "CBS Evening News with Dan Rather." At the time, the entire country, and especially broadcast news, was embroiled in the O.J. Simpson murder trial. For DuVernay, the view from inside wasn't appealing. "After that experience, I became disenchanted with news," DuVernay recalls.

While many public relations specialists come out of journalism, for DuVernay, publicity work was not an obvious choice. "I'd been preparing myself to be a hard-news person and had never interacted with publicists," says DuVernay. "It wasn't a natural progression for me."

As it turns out, though, the move to PR was an opportunity to involve herself in a medium she loved but never imagined she'd be a part of––the film industry. After her break with journalism and her graduation (with degrees in English Literature and African-American Studies), DuVernay landed a position as a junior publicist with Savoy Pictures, a small studio. "Once I was introduced to the studio system," says DuVernay, "I really became a student of marketing and publicity.

For five years, DuVernay worked with PR firms around LA, including stints at Bender/Helper Impact and mPRm Public Relations. She served as a senior executive at Rachel McCallister and Associates during the merge to form mPRm. "I always knew I wanted to work independently," DuVernay recalls. "And when I began working with Rachel McCallister, I saw how she built a mid-sized agency of about 60 or so employees. She was strategic and courageous and I just watched her."

DuVernay watched and learned and in 1999 opened her own shop––The DuVernay Agency––out of her dining room. "I had developed a reputation as a ‘go-to’ person for urban projects that needed mainstream crossover," says DuVernay of her professional status at the time. "So I worked on that niche. My agency is the place many of the studios come to market certain types of film--multicultural, urban. But, it goes beyond that. A lot of our clients also come to us with projects that feel young, feel hip."

While DuVernay has carefully established her agency's specialty in the film and television industry, she's been careful not to pigeonhole herself. "At first, I got offered a lot of opportunities to do only the black press aspect of campaigns. I turned them down initially.

We are feature film publicists with an urban connection, and I said hire us to do everything or nothing. I really believe that the business that you turn down says as much about your agency as the business you have. It took me a minute to learn that but I feel that strategy has paid off for us," says DuVernay. "I consider myself a film and television publicist, and there aren't many independent black publicists who handle high-profile studio and network projects from start to finish. Besides my group, Marcy Deveaux, Roz Stevenson, Anna Fuson, Cassandra Butcher and, of course, the amazing Jackie Bazan come to mind. It’s not a huge club and I’m blessed to have a piece of the pie on my own terms."

The 31-year-old's gutsy approach to the business has, in just five years, brought her five-person firm an A-list client roster that includes Paramount, Sony, MGM, Warner Bros, Disney, Dreamworks, Focus Features, Columbia TriStar, CBS, NBC, HBO, Showtime, FX, IFC, Urbanworld and many others. The agency recently contributed to the awards campaign for the critically acclaimed film Monster on behalf of client Blockbuster/DEJ Productions, for which Charlize Theron brought home the best actress Oscar.

Over the past four years, The DuVernay Agency has coordinated publicity for dozens of feature films, including: Out of Time (MGM), Biker Boyz (Dreamworks), Deliver Us From Eva (Focus Features), Two Can Play That Game (Sony/Screen Gems), Scary Movie (Dimension/Miramax Films), Spy Kids (Dimension/Miramax Films), The Brothers (Screen Gems/Sony Pictures) and others. On the small screen, DuVernay’s firm is the agency of record for the UPN hit show "Girlfriends" and the new Fall 2004 series "Dance 360" (Paramount Network Television). The agency has repped "Judge Hatchett" (Columbia Tristar Television), "The District" and "City of Angels" for CBS, "Street Time" on Showtime, and The Disney Channel's "The Proud Family." Other television projects include "Dancing In September" and "Half Past Autumn"––both for HBO––"Roots 25 -- An American Saga" on NBC, "The Rosa Parks Story" for CBS, and much more.

The DuVernay principles have ventured into the world of theatre as well, promoting the Los Angeles showings of productions such as "The Lion King," Twyla Tharp Dance, the American Ballet Theatre, Alvin Ailey American Dance Company and, most recently, the Pulitzer Prize-winning "Topdog/Underdog."

So what does it take for a small, black-owned firm to succeed in the notorious world of Hollywood deal making? "I'm terribly, terribly detail-oriented, every little thing matters," says DuVernay. "And I’m blessed in that my strategies are supported by a really excellent team each and every day. Ellene Miles is my right-hand woman and she, along with the whole team, truly gives 110% to every project we’re entrusted with."

On a day-to-day basis, running a theatrical publicity campaign starts with a screening of the film, after which DuVernay and her staff brainstorm about a wide variety of story angles for all categories––television, print, online and radio press, and often promotions. Because, she says, these days a campaign is sold primarily by the actors, she and her staff spend a lot of time coordinating with the actors' personal publicists, as well as pitching and arranging appearances and bookings, managing issues of exclusivity, making sure reviews break at the right time (if at all), and planning the all-important press junket (which involves flying in 100 or so journalists to interview the cast and filmmaker). Then there's the premiere––red carpet logistics, television and radio bookings. DuVernay also likes to ensure that the urban press is serviced regularly as well. "That is not a standard outreach for most studios and networks. So, we make sure that every project we are involved in-–whether urban or not-–is offered to the black press for coverage and participation," she says matter-of-factly. In addition, there's often a unit campaign while the film is in production. "Essentially, we're the strategists who take a film and create the buzz that will eventually sell tickets," DuVernay explains. For a television series, the agency puts together a mini-campaign every week.

DuVernay maintains her enthusiasm for the demanding work by taking on projects that have personal significance. Such was the case with "Lumumba," a biographical film about the assassinated African leader. Another favorite is her client Reggie Rock Bythewood’s "Dancing in September." DuVernay was especially satisfied with the three-year campaign for the Los Angeles production of "The Lion King." "That campaign got African-Americans in Los Angeles into a theatre for a big Broadway play," DuVernay points out. "It was really fulfilling to see the house filled with people of color in this market, many of whom had never experienced Broadway-caliber theater."

Though her schedule's already packed, DuVernay has been unafraid to expand. In June of 2003, the young entrepreneur founded the Urban Beauty Collective (UBC). A ground-breaking marketing concept, UBC (urbanbeautycollective.com) distributes customized entertainment content to a growing network of more than 10,000 select African-American barbershops and beauty salons in the top 15 urban markets. Already, UBC's client list is filled with heavy hitters like Fox, Universal, MGM, Paramount, Sony, ABC, Dreamworks, MGM, Interscope Records, Warner Bros. Records and many more. UBC is currently promoting the upcoming films Johnson Family Vacation with Cedric the Entertainer, Man on Fire with Denzel Washington and I, Robot with Will Smith. DuVernay is also co-producing a television show called "Epiphany" about celebrities and their spirituality. The project is currently in negotiations with a cable network.

In spite of all she's doing, DuVernay finds she has a lot more free time now than when she first started the agency. "I bought my first home last fall and I've spent a lot time fashioning myself as this new millennium homemaker," she laughs. The single Los Angeles native is very close to her family and spends a lot of time with her two sisters and her friends. She enjoys dining out, cooking, and entertaining, as well as plays, exhibits, cultural activities and of course, film. She is an active member of St. Agatha Catholic Church, where she sings in the choir––when she's able. "I can't be at rehearsals when it's award season or during movie premieres," she admits. "But they understand and let me come and go."

Though DuVernay has lived in L.A. all her life, her parents relocated to Montgomery, Alabama seven years ago, and the family spends holidays in the Deep South. "For a couple years I always had films opening around Christmas and couldn't go home for long for the holidays," she recalls. "Now I make it a point to go home in early December and stay for three weeks. It's great––but then when I get back, Sundance in the second week of January is staring in my face. Then awards season. And this year beyond various ceremonies and nominees, we had the women of "Girlfriends," one of our clients, hosting one awards show. So it's been going at a fast pace..."

While DuVernay loves the work and manages the pace like the pro she is, she doesn't plan to keep it up forever. "I don't see myself doing PR in this way five years from now," she says. "What's most important to me is my health and the health of my family. We've had a lot of illness in the past five years, so more than anything I'd like to be standing with my family, all of us happy and healthy. That's all that really matters."

For more info, visit The DuVernay Agency

Message Ava DuVernay and tell her what you think


AAPRC's Mission
The African-American Public Relations Collective (AAPRC) is an assemblage of professionals who provide communication conduits among clients, journalists, media and our communities. We come together as a collective because we recognize the importance of building those same conduits amongst ourselves.

A great deal of what we do is professional development––updating our skills, keeping pace with technology, refining and streamlining processes, providing a forum to tackle the issues that impact our work environment––but we believe our professional lives benefit most from the forging of effective alliances. Connected to one another, we possess the power of a nationwide body of committed, knowledgeable practitioners with an eye on the future.

As we move into the 21st century at lightning speed, mass media and its potent messages occupy an ever-larger part of our daily lives and our collective psyche. The AAPRC is focused on helping our members gain a deeper understanding of media's force and supporting their growth as powerful participants in the global communications network.

AAPRC's Contact
GQ Media & Public Relations
1650 Broadway Suite 1011
New York NY 10019
1212 765 7910
1212 765 7905
aapublicistcoll@aol.com

Survey Says

Please complete the sentences:
My number one pet peeve is:
My Favorite Junk food is:

Please complete the sentences:
My number one pet peeve is:
My Favorite Junk food is:
My Favorite Car is:
My Favorite TV show is:
If I could change one thing about the music industry I would:
The Rap lyric that bests describes me is:

Message yashaya with your Survey Says

In Rotation: Brian Deka Paupaw

Brian Deka Paupaw
Se7en Nations

Music: White stripes, The Stills, Bad Brains, Queens of the Stone Age

Brian Deka Paupaw
Designer
Se7en Nations
Brownsville NY


Music: White stripes, The Stills, Bad Brains, Queens of the Stone Age, Black Uhuru, Horace Andy, Linval Thompson, Sizzla, Capelton, Big Daddy Kane, Mad villain, Ghostface, Public Enemy, O.C., Raekwon, Gang starr, N.E.R.D, Nas, Kool G Rap, MC Shan, KRS, Tribe Called Quest, Alchemist, Smif and Wesson, Planet Asia, Redman, The Roots, Michael McDonald, Cameo, Chaka Khan, Earth, Wind & Fire, Seal, and Stevie Wonder.

Magazines: Complex, Metro Pop, Sports Wear International, Snow Boarder, The Ave, Flaunt, How, and Mac Addict.

Books: Art of War, Hagakure-Way Of The Samurai, Invisible Man, Stupid White Men, The Mafia Manager, The Alchemist, Rich Dad Poor Dad, Assata, Che Guevara: A Revolutionary Life, Business Of Fashion, The Tipping Point, Dondi White, Where'd You Get Those?, Castro's Final Hours, and Fidel Castro: Speeches.

Movies: Warriors, Wild Style, Star Wars, The Education Of Sonny Carson, Matrix, Seven Samurai, Lock Stock And Two Smoking Barrels, Confidence, Black Caesar, Truck Turner, Finding Forester, Gladiator, Dog-Town And Z-Boys, Goodfellas, City Of God, Kill Bill, Animatrix, and Bruce Lee anything!

TV Shows & Cartoons: "Different Strokes," "The Jefferson's," "Good Times," "Voltron," "Thundercats," "Silver Hawks," "Transformers," "MacGuyver," "The A-Team," "Threes Company," "3-2-1 Contact," "Sopranos," "Oz," "Punk'd," "Dave Chapplle Show," "Benny Hill," "Bernie Mac," and "In Living Color."

Hobbies: Snowboarding around the globe. The most gangsta trip I ever did was going to Argentina in August to snowboard the Andes MT! the scenery looked like a national geographic episode!

Style: Being the thugged out Lenny Kravitz! lol I can get down with the suits and shoes (peep my 30^th birthday in the photo gallery) or pimp out the jeans and tees with custom art on them. My personal style is called "Make It Happen" what ever you have to do to look fly without going broke. I like Diesel Jeans and any other brand with nice fits. No jeans hanging off my ass! Was a Nike head, now I'm exploring sneakers that aren't hot on the street so I can be original.

Projects: Work with a great Design house by the Name of Sistahs Harlem. Peep em out at sistahsny.com. Sample sale this saturday 04/17/04 so go to site for details. I hand paint the back of Deconstructed Blazers for men and Women. I sell the blazers at Atrium in downtown Manhattan. I'm graphic T-shirt Fanatic! Love t-shirts with dope graphics and messages. There are a great amount of non logo tees on the market now, thank god the consumer is getting tired of the billboard graphics. Look out for Ten Deep, Five Crown, Foundation, Ryan McGuiness, and my new Line Se7en Nations, which will be hand washed and hand painted tees of sickness in limited editions. Be my friend so you can collect them all!

Spots: Moe's, Brooklyn Moon, Star Foods on Friday, Vegetarian Paradise, Red Bamboo, Quantum Leap, Kate's Joint, Brooklyn Museum, Whitney Museum, Metropolitan museum of Art, Studio Museum in Harlem.

Future Plans: Snowboard on every Continent, a good retirement strategy, have children, save the children, take disadvantaged children snow boarding, do something good and get paid in full with this design Degree I'm still paying for!

Message Brian Deka Paupaw and tell him what you think

What's In Your Deck?

Your Weekly Top 5 Music Picks
What are ya'll listening to this week? Here's what I got.

1. Balance--The Mix Tape

Your Weekly Top 5 Music Picks
What are ya'll listening to this week?

Here's what I got.


1. Balance--The Mix Tape
I like hard rhymers. I'm talking about deep voices, lyrics that make you feel the pain, rage, excitement and emotion of the man or woman spitting them. Big Balance is one of those MC's. Very complete, nothing soft, but not on no pseudo gangsta shit. See, Balance represents the New Bay, a community (?) of fire starters who remind me of the early days of the Bay, when that sound just revolutionized everything in rap. Yeah I'm reppin' the south, but I can admit that. Ten years ago the best in the Bay and the best in the South would connect and make some of the hardest music known to man. That kind of died in the past few, but I have a feeling that that Texas--Bay connection is about to get solid again. There's so much new music coming from both regions, young cats who come so original, that they're just gonna have to link. Balance I think is gonna spearhead that shit, cuz everyone I play him for just freaks out. Straight up, this is some real, organic shit without being all hippified. Understand? Not gangsta, not nerd, not bling obsessed, in fact it's almost anti-ALL THAT, and in my eyes, it's a classic. Organic meaning oh so real. Get your hands on some sound samples on his website. And thank me later. Just don't bite it. (balanceskillz.com)

2. Lunar Heights--Crescent Moon--Nataural High Records
Now this one's organic in a more traditional sense. It's some real underground hip hop - conscious, forward thinking and beat tastic. All I know is these cats surprised me like a mug. The name threw me off for a second and I thought, oh man it's gonna be some hippy shit (how you like a hippy like me talking down on hippy shit? It makes no sense…). But it's not. It has its trippy moments, but for the most part it's some straight ahead hip hop that sounds like it comes from a whole new place. I guess a couple of the cats in the group do come from other places and they got together in the Bay. You can hear all sorts of influences running through this one, and all I can say is if you give it a chance you might find yourself running it non stop. (naturalhigh.com)

3. Sylk Smoov--Cat Action 25/8
Cut for cut, the combination of Sylk Smoov and his long time producer Hype Dawg (Mad Flava, JCD & the Dog Pound) is a straight winner. Sometimes the album gets mired in pimp shit, as that's what the bulk of this one revolves around, but there is no denying that it is the most genuinely jammin' record to come out of St. Louis in years, maybe ever. The introspective, inspiring cut “Catch a Vision” gets major play on my show for being an incredibly positive song with a message of empowerment. The single “Poke it Out” should be um, how they say, impacting at a station near you real soon. It's pimpish. Hype's beats harken back to hip hop's heyday, while still sounding ahead of the game. They're gritty and raw, uncut and funky. Pick this one up.

4. DJ Lt. Dan--The King of What's Poppin' Screwed and Chopped
This boy has got me hooked man. A lot of people over the years who have embraced the screwed and chopped sound in the south have stated that the slowing of the music adds a whole new dimension to the song and that the appeal lies not so much with the fact that it is merely slowed down and chopped up, but that it becomes a whole new song. I really never saw it that way as most of the DJ Screw tapes I used to listen to just sounded the way the down south music was supposed to sound. Slow, syrupy, laid back, etc. On this disc however, DJ Lt. Dan does what he does best, he blends original vocals, this time around from Michael Jackson with totally different beats. Beats you would never think would fit, but somehow he makes them fit like a glove and truly creates new compositions. Michael sounds like an old soul singer, 20 years or so his senior, when screwed and chopped, and at times you even forget that it's him you are listening to. Which is good for me, cuz that dude freaks me out. And it takes a lot to freak me out. Get your hands on this. You will trip. Biggie, Ludacris, Blah Bloomberg and a few other greats make appearances as well. This is truly a unique mixtape that SHOULD be picked up by Michaels people and distributed internationally.

5. Zro--The Life and Times of Joseph W. McVey--Rap-A–Lot
O.K. So he's not Pac to most of y'all, but to us here in Texas, he's kind of our Pac. He's the voice of the streets that never lets up on his gangsta, but also never leaves without relaying some sort of a message or emotion that will make you think. His delivery is dry and deadpan for the most part, and on this one, with the RAL folks behind him, his firebrand lyrics are kicked up a notch by some heatseeking beats. Strictly for fans of that down south reality rap.

Remember this is a weekly feature so just your Top 5 choices and save the rest for next week. Now what's in your deck?


This Week's Tight Tight Ones (courtesy of Damage Control Radio)

TW	Artist/Song	Label
1	Bavu Blakes f. Paul Wall, Myonne, and Money Waters
	"Play the Role" Rmx
2	Warlords f. Paul Wall, Magno, and Mouf
	"Underground Railroad"
3	ZRO
	"I Hate You Bitch"
4	Run Yo Mouth Click
	"Ballin' Smashin'"
5	Dap f. Kiotti and Mike Jones
	"What It Do" Rmx

You can also listen to what's in Matt Sonzala's deck by checking out Damage Control Radio every Wednesday nite/Thursday morning 12am-3am on 90.1 FM in Houston. Listen to the live stream at kpft.org or kpftx.org.

Message Matt Sonzala and tell him what's in your deck

In The Office Series

Documenting the entertainment industry
Check out photos from Phat Farm and Trace. Enjoy

Documenting the entertainment industry
Check out photos from Phat Farm and Trace. Enjoy

If you're interested in participating in a future In The Office, contact rtamarra@thecrusade.net.

Better yet, snap yourself and your team and send it to rtamarra@thecrusade.net for inclusion in next week's In The Office. Thank you!


Message Ray Tamarra and tell him what you think

The Herbert Holla

Herbert's NYC Hot Picks
thu(08): afterwork/tonic - dj herbert - hiphop/rock/soul/house/80s - 8PM to 2AM
thu(08): afterwork/kanvas - dj sweets - hiphop/70s/80s - 6PM

Herbert's NYC Hot Picks
wed(07): cielo - louie vega/kevin hedge - classics/house/paradise garage stuff
wed(07): apt - rich medina/guest djs - soul/afrobeat/old school/funk/classics
wed(07): gallery - stormin' normin' - old school/salsa/hiphop/house - 7PM till
wed(07): nuyorican - live mcs/poetry/jazz/art - a legendary night not to be missed
wed(07): opaline - elle/tyson - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics - live art/graf/fashion
wed(07): angel bar - scratch famous/teflon - reggae
wed(07): marquee - stretch armstrong - rock/old school/hiphop
wed(07): lotus - dj reach/cassidy - hiphop/rock/80s/r&b/reggae
wed(07): manhattan auto co - dj amelia vega??? - celebrities - house/rock/rap
wed(07): afterwork/rumor - snatch 1/m.o.s./self/kaos - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
wed(07): aubette - qool marv - soul/classics/world beat/hiphop/r&b - 8PM to 2AM
wed(07): slate - big ben - hiphop/rock/80s/house/old school - pool tables!
wed(07): cutting room - reach/tomek/taylormade - hiphop/reggae - dujeous release
wed(07): bar 169 - chicus/drm/apeanaut - reggae riddims/jamaican inspired grooves

thu(08): afterwork/tonic - dj herbert - hiphop/rock/soul/house/80s - 8PM to 2AM
thu(08): afterwork/kanvas - dj sweets - hiphop/70s/80s - 6PM
thu(08): afterwork/flat - dj elle - hiphip/soul/reggae/old school/classics - 6PM
thu(08): afterwork/deep - lucho/guests - hiphop/r&b/reggae/latin
thu(08): afterwork/tangerine - do it - hiphop/reggae/classics - 6PM till 2AM
thu(08): guernica - blessed/selly/reborn/monica pineda - soul/funk/house/hiphop
thu(08): madame x - blessed productive - marvin gaye tribute - soul/classics/funk
thu(08): crobar - kid capri/soul - hiphop/rock/r&b/house/reggae/80s
thu(08): marquee - reach - hiphop/r&b/rock/80s
thu(08): suede - ani - hiphop/r&b/old school
thu(08): show - stretch armstrong - hiphop/rock/old school
thu(08): pm - crooked - hiphop/funk/soul/classics/80s/house
thu(08): manhatta - max glazer/edwin houghton - reggae/reggae/reggae/reggae/reggae
thu(08): joe's pub - mary mack - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
thu(08): rumor - sure shot/jlayne - new soul/classics/house
thu(08): spirit - psychedelic furs/the alarm/guests - 212.268.9477
thu(08): dorsia - dj m.o.s. - hiphop/r&b/reggae/80s/rock/house
thu(08): blvd - guest djs - rock/electronic/hiphop
thu(08): la gazelle/time hotel - goldfiner/june - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics

fri(09): starfoods - thank god it's freedom - the illest - see gigs below!
fri(09): plaid - jcny/peter parker - hiphop/r&b/rock/80s/reggae/classics/house
fri(09): southpaw/bk - big daddy kane live/hollertronix - hiphop/old school/holler
fri(09): blvd - spinbad/reach/jus-ske/guests - hiphop/r&b/reggae/rock/80s/house
fri(09): play - jozen/stimulus - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/old school
fri(09): lot 61 - soul - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
fri(09): mars 2112 - hud - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
fri(09): joe's pub - guest djs - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/old school
fri(09): planet 28 - guest djs - 70s + 80s soul classics/deep, jazzy, gospel house
fri(09): the flat - scientific/cato - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/80s/afrobeat/soul
fri(09): afterwork/madame x - liftkid - hiphop/r&b/reggae/house/80s/nujazz - 6PM
fri(09): sob's - si*se live/dj sabo - latin rhythms + downtempo electronica
fri(09): vue - snatch one/dj kaos - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
fri(09): taj - carol c/e-love/naomi/female guests - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
fri(09): nocturne - riz/sizzahands - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/house
fri(09): halcyon/bk - onionz/chris love/billy belmont - house/techno/garage/etc
fri(09): luke + leroy - kervyn mark/guests - funk/soul/house

sat(10): lot 61 - herbert - hiphop/r&b/80s/reggae/rock/house
sat(10): cafe deville - cosi/guests - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/house/80s
sat(10): frying pan - dinesh/eddie stats/big guests - dancehall/garage/hiphop
sat(10): satalla - tapestry world music dance party - guest djs
sat(10): sullivan room - francis harris/guests - house/techno
sat(10): nv - ski hi/will/guests - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/soca/latin
sat(10): southpaw/bk - dj ayres/sure shot - hiphop/classics/old school

sat(10): metronome - big ben/lucho - hiphop/r&b/reggae/latin/house
sat(10): 40/40 - rahlo/k.o. - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/80s
sat(10): coral room - reach friedman - hiphop/r&b/80s/rock
sat(10): discotheque - hud - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
sat(10): shelter - timmy regisford - house!
sat(10): guernica - mano/ola - hiphop/reggae/house/old school/80s
sat(10): pm - crooked - hiphop/funk/soul/classics/80s/house
sat(10): chetty red - van vader - hiphop/r&b/reggae/80s/classics/old school
sat(10): mumbai - hot 97's jazzy joyce/snatch-one - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics

sat(10): plaid - stretch armstrong/riz - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/rock

sun(11): fez uptown - marc smooth/guests - rare groove/soul/hiphop/reggae/classics
sun(11): joe's pub - evil d/lord sear/butta l - classic hiphop/reggae/old school
sun(11): pravda - obah - soul/funk/old school/afrobeat
sun(11): lotus - guests - hiphop/80s/r&b/rock/old school
sun(11): nocturne - shobiz - hiphop/r&b/classics/reggae
sun(11): madame x - liftkid - house/brazilian/afrobeat - drink specials - 9 to 2am
sun(11): deep - dj self - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics - annual easter ball
sun(11): luahn - dj will - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/soca

mon(12): apt - cucumber slice - soul/funk/rare grooves/latin/uprock/old school
mon(12): cielo - francois k - future dub/space vibes/abstract grooves (aka house)
mon(12): sway - dj soul - rock/soul/reggae/old school/hiphop
mon(12): lot 61 - reach/ody rock - hiphop/reggae/rock/house/r&b
mon(12): anju - dj big kap - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
mon(12): sapphire lounge - guest djs - house/soul

tue(13): tribeca grand hotel - francois k - album release party - house
tue(13): joe's pub - guest djs/live soul performances - soul/funk/classics/hiphop
tue(13): open air - jlayne/elijah/jd - rare grooves/70s/80s/old school/house
tue(13): afterwork/2nd nature - stimulus - soul/funk/rock/afrobeat/hiphop/r&b
tue(13): afterwork/bar below/bk - ayana soyini - reggae - 7PM
tue(13): afterwork/climate 8 - derrick spaulding - salsa/merengue/house/olskool
tue(13): pangea - crooked - hiphop/rock/classics/house/old school/r&b
tue(13): sapphire lounge - eman/lola/guests - house
tue(13): belmont lounge - qool marv - soul/funk/r&b/old school/house/afro/world
tue(13): nocturne - reach/cassidy - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
tue(13): suite 16 - stretch armstrong - hiphop/rock/old school/80s
tue(13): social club - camillo - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
tue(13): plaid - goldfinger/cassidy/june - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/80s
tue(13): village underground - mark whitfield project/guests - live jazz, baby

Herbert's Heard
"Elements of Life" - Masters at Work
"Joy and Pain" - Maze
"Rhythm of the Night" - El Debarge

"Maps" - Yeah Yeah Yeah
"Don't Sweat the Technique" - Eric B. + Rakim (Thanks, Obah!)
"Check It Out" - Grand Puba feat. Mary J. Blige (")

Word As Bond
I think I have a stomach virus or something. I'm tired, I'm sore, and my stomach feels like I drank tar. Wait a minute ... I think I did drink tar, or something like it. I went to City Bakery on 18th between 5th and 6th and got a cup of their hot chocolate. It's not the normal cup of Swiss Miss, you see. It's basically bars of chocolate melted down in this big vat with lots of cream. It's the most amazing and delicious cup of hot chocolate you'll ever have, but make sure you sip it on the way to the gym (or the emergency room).

It's prolly all that food I ate on Passover. Herbert lead his seder (meal), and basically ate like I was on death row and it was the last meal. Potato kugel (an European little quiche-like cake), brisket of beef (try it at Second Avenue Deli), matzoh-meal muffins, asparagus, simmis (a sweet mix of steamed prunes, sweet potatoes and carrots), gefilte fish (mmmmmmmm) and more. I'm getting sick again just thinking about it. Perhaps it's just the weather. I can't wait for warmer weather, man. I'm telling you! I really am. I can't f-ing wait! I've been going to the gym, running, but I still feel like sludge. Sludgebob Squarepants. I wanna feel like the Million Dollar Man. I wanna go hump for hump with the pigeons I see screwing all day out on my air conditioner.

Big shout out to Sheldon Lutchman and the Dirty Trails Traveler crew for my latest love via the Caribbean Men Quarterly Magazine, a new bi-monthly magazine for Caribbean Men ... and white Jewish deejays, of course. You can get the issue on stands now, or you can check the website at www.cmqmagazine.com. Click on events, and you'll see the hottest, sexiest man in America today.

Freedom this past Friday was so fricking beautiful. The music was all soulful, all night, through hiphop, reggae, 80s, house and even a rock song or two. Over 300 folks came down and smushed in, and the dance floor was packed till 3:45 in the morning They didn't stop dancing till 4:30--security finally shut us down so they could go home! Big shout to all the heads that came through, including G Brown, Neil Nice, Big Jay, the old frat brothers, DJ Dread Preda, Ruben from Kromozomes, Forrest from Tuesdays at Joe's Pub and anyone else I forgot. It was a beautiful time. Thank God (every week) it's Freedom!!!

Don't forget: You can start recycling glass again.

Peace, love, good health and lots of exercise,

DJ Herbert

Herbert's Gigs
friday - freedom - starfoods (64 e. 1st b/w 1st + 2nd aves)
#1 illest underground friday night party in nyc, doooooods!
classic hiphop/soul/dancehall/80s/house/classic r&b/afrobeat
special guest this week -- the legendary QOOL MARV!!!!
no dress code - dancing - food till 2 - $6 peach/cran punch
$5 on my list ... rsvp djherbert@earthlink.net

thursday - club tonic (727 7th ave b/w 48th + 49th)
rock/hiphop/soul/funk/old school/house/80s
afterwork - 6PM to 12AM - no cover - huge new sexy lounge w 15 tvs!

saturday - lot 61 - 21st st + west side hwy
hiphop/r&b/80s/rock/reggae/house
sexy + upscale + hot + dancing
$10 all night ... rsvp djherbert@earthlink.net

AAPRC Weekly: Terrie Williams

Terrie Williams
The Terrie Williams Agency

Though Terrie Williams is trained as a social worker, with an MSW

Terrie Williams
Founder/President
The Terrie Williams Agency

Though Terrie Williams is trained as a social worker, with an MSW from Columbia, it is through her success as an entrepreneur that we know her. The Terrie Williams Agency, launched in New York in 1988 with Eddie Murphy and Miles Davis on the client roster, has been one of the most successful communications firms in the country. Williams has shaped the public image of the most prominent names in entertainment, sports, business and politics, including Janet Jackson, Russell Simmons, Johnnie Cochran, the Rev. Al Sharpton, Jackie Joyner-Kersee, Time Warner, HBO, AT&T, Essence Communications Partners and more. Today the agency is a division of Players Govern Players Communications (of which Williams is Vice-Chair), a multi-media firm that develops cause-related campaigns for personalities, products and entities.

Williams has also added author to her resume with the publication of three successful books: The Personal Touch: What You Really Need to Succeed in Today's Fast-Paced Business World (1994, Warner Books), Stay Strong: Simple Life Lessons for Teens (Scholastic, Inc., 2001), and A Plentiful Harvest: Creating Balance and Harmony Through The Seven Living Virtues (Warner Books, 2002). Williams is a sought after speaker as well, who is frequently called upon to share her personal and professional development strategies with Fortune 500 companies and numerous organizations.

The commitment to community that brought her to social work nearly two decades ago is still a central component of Williams' life. In addition to extensive volunteer work with various organizations serving the needs of young people, Williams founded The Stay Strong Foundation, a non-profit that develops educational resources for youth and youth organizations. Her awards and honors are numerous; most recently she was honored at the 5th Anniversary of the Ebony Outstanding Women in Marketing and Communications Luncheon.

Many of us know your extraordinary story-–from social worker to communications entrepreneur. Can you identify any one move or strategy that has been key to your success?

It's been more of a strategy that encompasses many things--much of which I talk about in very great detail in my first book The Personal Touch: What You Really Need To Succeed In Today's Fast-Paced Business World. Mostly, I believe it has to do with the right way to do business...doing what you say you are going to do when you say; paying attention to detail; treating everyone with respect and courtesy because you never know in what disguise God (or the help) will come to you; establishing and maintaining relationships; returning phone calls; giving back--success and achievement mean nothing if you get there and you don't bring anyone along with you. Not only is it good business, but when you do something for someone else, you get the gift.

Over your agency’s 16 years, you’ve assembled an impressive list of clients. What are the key elements in successful client building? What has been your most difficult period in regards to client building? How did you get through it?

The key elements in successful client building mostly have to do with reputation and relationships--understanding that your reputation reaches people before you do. So with that in mind, you must

Terrie's Best Advice

"Racism, sexism, ageism, all the isms are alive and well...They are all obstacles to overcome--adversity is the breakfast of champions."

"We need to broaden our interaction with other ethnic groups..."

"People are insanely busy, challenged… so what can you do, how can you have an impact or touch someone?...It's anticipating what someone might want or need before they have even expressed it."

"...Your reputation reaches people before you do."

"It is important to feed your spirit––and be fulfilled––or you will die."

move through life honorably, and understand that people are always watching. None of us is perfect--it's how you handle your mistakes, screw-ups, bad days and attitudes (i.e., if you admit to them, apologize, etc). Gotta keep a stellar reputation for integrity. Relationships –– everything in life and business is relationship-driven. Any rule can be bent, broken or cease to exist with the right relationship. People will go to the ends of the earth for you with the right relationship. Positive word of mouth is the best advertising there is. Difficulties I've had over the years occurred when my business was growing too fast––and I personally wasn't keeping as close a watch on all accounts as I should have been––so I had to slow it down and monitor the growth. I never had a difficult time getting clients. Now, with my partners Xavier Artis and Burgess Harrison of Players Govern Players Communications, I am very particular in choosing the projects and clients I work with. They must have a cause-related theme, and I always want to tie in projects with the Stay Strong Foundation I started three years ago, and/or find other ways to help our youth or give back to the community.

In your professional interactions with African-American public relations specialists, have you observed areas that, in your opinion, African-American specialists need to improve upon?

I think, generally, we need to broaden our interactions with other ethnic groups--I honestly don't see enough penetration of us in their worlds. I think we need to be much more well rounded and well versed.

In regards to the entertainment industry, some people believe that not enough African-American celebrities use African-American publicists. Do you think this is true? If so, what’s the most productive way to bring about a change?

I think it's true--and while I hate to do the white guys' marketing for them––it appears their ice is colder. At least we buy into that notion. But I believe it's changing slowly, but surely. I think over time people will have the courage to step outside their comfort zone, "take a chance" and see that they can win with a member of their own team and spread the news.

As an African-American and a woman, can you identify your own strategies for navigating any encounters you may have had with racism and sexism.

Racism, sexism, ageism, all the isms are alive and well. Nobody ever said life was going to be fair. Fair is for children. They are all obstacles to overcome--adversity is the breakfast of champions. Our ancestors, on whose shoulders we stand, had far greater challenges to endure. How dare we consider not moving forward.

Let’s talk about relationships. They are key to success in this field. Have you consistently employed any particular strategies for developing and maintaining relationships with journalists and media executives?

Creating "top of mind awareness." People are insanely busy, challenged, going through the fire, trying to figure out how to maintain--so what can you do, how can you have an impact or touch someone? That's how I think. It's the “Personal Touch” way of thinking, moving and doing business. It's anticipating what someone might want or need before they have even expressed it. It's sending someone an article about an area of interest, remembering a birthday, anniversary or other milestone. It's being concerned about the person and what's going on in their life and not necessarily what they can do for you. It's about going the extra mile; people need encouragement.

During your years as a leader in this field, what changes, if any, have you observed in the relationship between public relations professionals and the media?

I think, as with any relationship, people grow and mature, and have a better understanding of how they actually need each other, serve each other, uplift and support each other. I personally have witnessed that kind of transformation--so that's how I choose to answer the question. But I do think when you approach people FROM a certain frame of reference, you are likely to be responded to in kind (as far as talent goes, if you are not media friendly, you are likely to be crucified).

Technology and social and political factors are having a profound impact on communications and media, with changes coming faster than ever. How can smart African-American public relations specialists adapt to a fast-paced present and prepare for the future?

Information is power--it's simple. And if you don't keep abreast of what's going on, you will lose your edge.

You’ve been open about your battles with depression and stress. What’s your best advice for staying mentally healthy and maintaining a balanced life in a demanding, competitive industry?

When you are on a plane, just before takeoff, the flight attendant will say that if there is a need for oxygen, the oxygen mask will come down. You are to put it over your own mouth first. Then if you have a small child sitting next to you (or someone acting like a small child), you secure their mask. Most of us, however, get it wrong. We are so busy securing everybody else's masks when we ourselves are choking to death. EVERYDAY, I am challenged to remind myself to be healthy and balanced--and remind myself to put the mask over my own mouth first. It's not easy. The reality is you can't really be there for anyone else if you are not taking care of you.

Your career has evolved in interesting directions, with successful turns as an author and a sought-after speaker. At what point did you envision this for yourself? What advice would you give to African-American public relations specialists who want to grow and expand but remain focused and effective?

It is important to feed your spirit--and be fulfilled--or you will die. It is that simple. My speaking around the country, writing, teaching, guiding young people and changing their lives, helping people to reach their potential is like breathing to me. It all helps me to be more focused and effective in my public relations practice. Each one feeds the other. The reality is there is a common thread and mission, and that is helping people to reach their potential. You must listen to your inner voice--it always tells you what to do. The Creator has your back and will show you the way.

AAPRC's Mission
The African-American Public Relations Collective (AAPRC) is an assemblage of professionals who provide communication conduits among clients, journalists, media and our communities. We come together as a collective because we recognize the importance of building those same conduits amongst ourselves.

A great deal of what we do is professional development––updating our skills, keeping pace with technology, refining and streamlining processes, providing a forum to tackle the issues that impact our work environment––but we believe our professional lives benefit most from the forging of effective alliances. Connected to one another, we possess the power of a nationwide body of committed, knowledgeable practitioners with an eye on the future.

As we move into the 21st century at lightning speed, mass media and its potent messages occupy an ever-larger part of our daily lives and our collective psyche. The AAPRC is focused on helping our members gain a deeper understanding of media's force and supporting their growth as powerful participants in the global communications network.

AAPRC's Contact
GQ Media & Public Relations
1650 Broadway Suite 1011
New York NY 10019
1212 765 7910
1212 765 7905
aapublicistcoll@aol.com

Message Gwendolyn Quinn and Terrie Williams and tell them what you think

Perspective: Claude Johnson

Claude Johnson
Black Fives

Job History
My first job was as a paperboy, in fourth grade, delivering the Boston

Claude Johnson
Owner
Black Fives
Greenwich CT

Job History
My first job was as a paperboy, in fourth grade, delivering the Boston Globe, in Newton, a town outside Boston. That was a pre-dawn route, by foot or by bike, and when it was snowing I pulled that stack of papers with my sled. In the sixth grade I switched to delivering the Record-American Herald-Tribune, because it was an afternoon route and I stopped every day at this field to play baseball with whoever was there. That's the game I used to love and Reggie Smith of the Red Sox was my hero. I wore my afro like his, and his number "7", his batting stance, everything! Paperboys had to deliver as well as collect the subscription money. That's when you got tips. It was good money in elementary school; I remember buying my own baseball glove, a state-of-the-art Rawlings "Basket-Web" model for $25.

I held down paper routes until I reached high school in Concord, Massachusetts, when I got my first real punch-the-time-clock job, as a late shift and weekend dishwasher at the Colonial Inn, which had a fancy restaurant. I did that every day during summers, coming home after the late news, covered with grease and other people's food. That's when I got to love basketball, because the restaurant bar had a TV and me and the kitchen guys used to watch Celtics games during our breaks. I remember watching that Gar Heard triple overtime Celtics-Suns game that way, with the dishes piling up but I didn't care. During the school year, because of varsity sports and homework, I shifted jobs and worked as a check out clerk in the local Star Market. I also tutored inner city elementary school kids on Saturday mornings, did yard work around the neighborhood, and whatever else to make money for movies, records, gas, and related things.

In junior high I got straight D's in math and English, but in high school I suddenly became really good at math and science. I was able to get into college at Carnegie Mellon University, where I had various on-campus work-study jobs related to my major, civil engineering. Most engineering students there got summer internships; mine were at Polaroid Corporation in Boston, Cummins Engine Company in Jamestown, New York, and U.S. Steel in Pittsburgh. That summer in Pittsburgh, after junior year, I was also a counselor in Carnegie Mellon's excellent summer program for entering minority freshmen. I used to save a little of that summer money for the school year and have fun with the rest. I was always proud that I never asked for or got any college money from my parents, not even for books or phone bills.

After senior year, I worked two straight summer jobs in mechanical engineering at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, while getting a master's degree at Stanford University. That led to a sales job at IBM selling computers to engineers in the Silicon Valley. I got IBM to transfer me to New York City. That led to a technical marketing job at American Express. That led to a business operations job at the National Basketball Association, followed by an internal switch to a product licensing position (Director of International Licensing). That led to a product-merchandising job at Nike (Product Line Manager, Nike Basketball). That led to another licensing job at Phat Farm (VP, Licensing), then a stint in "consulting," and then a sports marketing job at Benetton Sportsystem (VP, Marketing).

I drove 100 miles each way to work every day in that Benetton job, for a whole year, and most people thought I was crazy. I didn't see my kids. But my grandfather was a Pullman Porter and my grandmother's brothers were sharecroppers, so I was raised to believe you had to go where the work is. When I got "downsized" at Benetton, it was really a blessing in disguise and made that long commute worth it, because their unbelievable severance package finally allowed me time to start Black Fives (always ask for an unbelievable severance package). I had been dreaming of this opportunity for years, spending late nights and weekends and sick days and vacation days to do the research, so that gave me a chance to pursue the passion full time.

I know it was like doing a "360" to go from engineering to this! But engineering is really "problem-solving" and you can and must apply that anywhere, with things as well as with people. If you are not satisfied, you have to move on, better sooner than later. All those moves had to do with seeking something better, more fun, more fulfilling, more appropriate for me, sometimes going two steps sideways to go one step forward, and so on. It was never for the money.

Now, with Black Fives, all of my prior work experience finally seems to be coming together! I draw on something from all of those jobs, but it's still not enough--there is a steep learning curve and it's not easy. In fact, this is the hardest thing I have ever done. But the rewards go deeply right to a brother's soul. What people feel when they first discover Black Fives … paradigms melt, expressions change, skins tingle. For some, tears well up. People connect, and really seem to appreciate the hard work. Consequently, this is the best job I've ever had! It's not quite paying off yet, but I think it will if I stick to it and stay in the game. I feel like I have a duty, because this opportunity is really a blessing, and although Black Fives is my company, the history it represents doesn't belong just exclusively to me. The history is all of ours to share!

What are you currently working on? Your day-to-day responsibilities?

For example, today I am going to take a second look at a potential office and showroom and warehouse space (we've outgrown my guest bedroom). Then I am going to put a job offer in writing, to try to lock down a permanent in-house sales VP so we can build our team. I am also putting together the factory order for our new collection of teams and products that will ship to stores in May and June. I also have to get current orders for existing inventory out the door. Then I have to process orders from our online store. We are updating the business plan in order raise some money; we need about $100,000 as a cushion because this is such a timing-related cash flow business. Every day I also have to stay on top of our third-party warehouse, so they don't make any shipping mistakes. I also want to update the "Famous Customers" section of our website, since we just got word that Mark Curry and Kenny Smith now have our jerseys and want more. Meanwhile, I am considering some licensing arrangements (in addition to our hat license with American Needle) that will expand the types of Black Fives and Physical Culture products and help branch into other kinds of stores. I am planning trips to Cleveland, St. Louis, Pittsburgh, and Chicago. I have to pay my internet programming and DHL bills. Oh, and today I also have to attend my two sons' parent-teacher conferences as well as my wife's ultrasound (we're expecting).

You're right, it's crazy! Sometimes I have to do all-nighters or 20-hour days like in college. But although I have to think of everything all at once all day long every day, I can really only do one thing at a time, properly. And to that, I try to remain calm.

What inspires/motivates you?

It is a very difficult and a very rare thing, to have the opportunity to create a new genre. No one outside of the established professional leagues has ever created a new historically based sports genre before--a new sports property based on a complete set of real, not contrived, teams and events, and which is fully enclosed with trademark protection. Not even the Negro Leagues of baseball has that, because famous marks like the Homestead Grays are not protected, so the noble efforts of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum rely on voluntary royalty payments from the good guys, but other unscrupulous companies make Grays products with complete disregard. I do not want that to happen with the teams of the Black Fives era, which represent the basketball equivalent of the Negro Leagues. The fact that this has never been done before inspires me, and keeps me going, because I think it is a necessary and worthwhile endeavor--actually, an obligation. And we've been successful. The new challenge now, with the jersey trend subsiding, is to keep Black Fives interesting through the creation of other products and projects that are appealing and accessible, yet which maintain the high quality standards that people have come to expect. We have to stay in business to make all of this possible, which is why we are looking for working capital and considering licensing options to get to the next level. But the engineer in me is highly motivated to figure out how to solve this complex entrepreneurial puzzle.

The inspiration for all of this comes easy because I have a passion for it. I feel like I am on a mission. Why so passionate about Black Fives? I've always been into sports, history, and the beauty of our culture. I also recognize the power of knowledge and self-esteem. I've always been inspired by opportunities to create, teach, and learn. Those verbs satisfy my desire to make statements, express myself, and share ideas that I hope might be helpful, enlightening, or thought provoking. But my mission isn't really about me. It's about making a worthy, honorable contribution to society, to my cultural community, to my family, and to my friends. I remind myself of that whenever I am stuck on something, or another thing isn't going well.

Meanwhile, with a wife and two kids and another one on the way, there is plenty of other motivation to keep my ass in high gear!

How do you balance your personal and professional life?

I take breaks from work to be with my family, and when I do, I focus completely on them and leave work behind. That's really easy because my wife is fine, and my kids are fascinating! I really live for those moments. I also love playing basketball, and when I play I lose myself in the game. I can get intense on the court but its just my way of letting off steam in a healthy way. I also like music, so if I'm in the truck by myself I always have some Coltrane, or some James Brown, or some P.E., or some OutKast, or some Beethoven. Those brothers are as intense as you wanna get and its easy to forget about work once you pump up the volume.

What career achievement are you most proud of?

Starting Black Fives, no question. If I started a new genre, it was with nothing but a computer and a stack of books. I taught myself Photoshop and Illustrator, signed up for Ancestry.com, and went to work. These were the available tools. This is an independent company with no outside backers, Seventh Avenue funding, or anything like that. So our future is unclear. But starting something from nothing feels great! Or rather, taking something that already existed and was taken for granted, and making it significant. That follows the ethos of hip-hop culture, where, for example, any good DJ could put even "The Sound of Music" on his turntables and rip it up into a danceable hip-hop beat. Or a wall and a can of spray paint. A new art form. Something from nothing, using available tools. Few are blessed with the opportunity, let alone the skills, to pull that off and to do so in a way that is meaningful for the people. Black Fives has the opportunity to become that. We are still small, in our infancy, but if we continue to succeed and grow then we will really have something to be proud of.

What was your biggest personal/career mistake and what did you learn from the experience?

I should never have gotten all those damn credit cards coming out of college! I learned that debt is bad, and that credit card companies prey on and victimize recent college graduates, and the recovery can take decades. As far as career mistakes, it took me too long to realize that I am "creative" and not "corporate." I believe I wasted time in boring companies doing boring things in boring meetings with boring bosses. I was bored because it was not creatively stimulating, and the managers in those companies couldn't have spotted or nurtured creative talent if their lives depended on it. It's not really the fault of those bosses, its just that corporations, with a few exceptions like Nike, aren't built to discover or nurture creativity. They mostly reward compliance. No wonder I never used to fit in! Yet, you learn from your mistakes and shouldn't be afraid to make them. Just, when the opportunity presents itself, you have to be ready to strike.

Guiding principles?

I try my best to always put things in balance and perspective. The study of history teaches you to do that. I try to see the other side of things. I move with honesty and integrity. I try to remain calm, speak thoughtfully, and be myself. I believe in the power of words and in the responsible use of them. Even if something is true doesn't mean you ought to say it any which way. I focus on positive outcomes. I strive for impeccable quality in my output. I avoid promises I can't keep. I talk to new people. I try to keep learning better ways of doing things. I do things myself, if necessary. I rely on the power of love and friendships and kindness and peace. I believe that things happen for a reason. I believe in God and in prayer. I believe that prayers are answered.

Birthday? Where you grew up? Where you went to school?

I was born July 7, 1960 in Vienna, Austria. My dad was an ex-military GI Bill college student from the South Side of Chicago, and my mom was a perky, blonde-haired, blue-eyed German girl when they met in a jazz pub in Frankfurt one night in the late 1950s. I spent my early years living in Austria and Germany (I speak fluent German), elementary school in Newton, Massachusetts (outside Boston), junior high in Cincinnati, Ohio, and high school in Concord, Massachusetts (back outside Boston). I attended college at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh (B.S. in Civil Engineering), then graduate school at Stanford University in Palo Alto, California (M.S. in Mechanical Engineering). I moved from California to New York City in 1986, where I lived in Harlem and Brooklyn until 1996, when my wife, Cassandra, and I moved to Greenwich, Connecticut. My wife, who is from Detroit, went to Howard University and Michigan. We have two sons, Cassius (age 5) and Cornelius (we call him "Cory", age 3), and a third boy expected in September (we haven't started thinking of names yet).

For more info, visit blackfives.com

Message Claude Johnson and tell him what you think

What's In Your Deck?

Your Weekly Top 5 Music Picks
I know that ya'll Crusaders are a pretty discerning bunch so I'm excited to see what you're listening too. I'll start by listing what's in my deck

Your Weekly Top 5 Music Picks
I know that ya'll Crusaders are a pretty discerning bunch so I'm excited to see what you're listening too.

I'll start by listing what's in my deck along with a short blurb and a link, if available. Please do the same.

Let's go!

1. Dizzee Rascal--Boy In Da Corner--XL Recordings/Matador
After seeing Dizzee in concert last week I had to dig this one back out and just jam it over and over and over again. I picked up on this one when it was first released in the UK about a year ago (in fact album #2 is about to come out over there) and was just mesmerized by the fact that someone from outside the US had finally taken hip hop, made it theirs and made it work. It's still works and is so far ahead of its time it'll still work next year too. His gritty tales of the street remind me of early 3-6 Mafia without the guns. Just a load of metal bars and knives. Give it a good listen in some headphones one night stoned if you're not quite understanding this one yet. And catch him at SOB's May 5th I believe. I'ma try to be there.

2. The Streets--Fit But You Know It Single--Vice Recordings
I have always listened to hip hop, but like many of you, I also grew up on MTV and one of my favorite videos in the world, back before I sprouted hair anywhere but on my head, was "Our House" by Madness. For some reason this new Streets cut reminds me of Madness and I can't stop rewinding it. Yeah, yeah o.k. maybe I WILL move to London.

3. Jay Z/Dangermouse--The Grey Album
O.K. You've all already downloaded this and by now are sick of hearing people talk about it. But me being a huge fan of all three artists--Jay, Beatles, Dangermouse--I'm still finding subtle little nuances here and there that just draw me in closer and closer to these otherworldly, however familiar, beats. How did he make it work so well?

4. The Beatles--The White Album--EMI
One of the things I liked most about hearing the Grey Album is that it forced me to go dig up my copy of the White Album and give it a new listen. As a young ‘un, my folks loved the Beatles and I only sort of paid attention to them. Then as a teenager I thought I was deep and got into this record a little bit. Now at the ripe old age of 32 I'm really feeling a lot of it right in my heart, especially "While My Guitar Gently Weeps."

5. Paul Wall--Chick Magnet--Paid N Full
Some say that Paul could have come better on his solo debut, but honestly my only complaint is that there just might be a few too many guest appearances on here. What can he say though, Paul's a popular guy. He takes the player shit and twists it all up to make it his own. The man has practically developed his own language, which is what I like to hear. Beats by Mo' Betta show the future of Houston.

Remember this is a weekly feature so just your Top 5 choices and save the rest for next week. Now what's in your deck?

You can also listen to what's in Matt Sonzala's deck by checking out Damage Control Radio every Wednesday nite/Thursday morning 12am-3am on 90.1 FM in Houston. Listen to the live stream at kpft.org or kpftx.org.

Message Matt Sonzala and tell him what's in your deck

AAPRC Weekly: Tavis Smiley

AAPRC's Big 10 with Tavis Smiley
From his commentaries on the wildly popular "Tom Joyner Morning Show," to National Public Radio (NPR), PBS and your local bookstore, Tavis

AAPRC's Big 10
From his commentaries on the wildly popular "Tom Joyner Morning Show," to National Public Radio (NPR), PBS and your local bookstore, Tavis Smiley has risen to the top of almost every media outlet in existence. You couldn't escape Tavis Smiley if you wanted to––but, then, why would you want to? If you've watched him in action sitting across from interviewees such as President Bill Clinton, Pope John Paul II and Fidel Castro, you know that amongst the sea of pretenders, Smiley is the real thing. He's a journalist for the new century, an erudite, purposeful interviewer with a no-nonsense-no-waffling stand to the left.

His late night television show--"Tavis Smiley"--is the first program in the history of PBS to broadcast from the West Coast, and as host of "The Tavis Smiley Show from NPR," he is the first African American to host a signature talk show on NPR. "The Smiley Report" is heard daily on urban contemporary radio stations across America, and appears twice weekly on the nationally syndicated "Tom Joyner Morning Show."

The former host of the award-winning "BET Tonight with Tavis Smiley" has authored six books. His most recent, Keeping the Faith: Stories of Love, Courage, Healing and Hope from Black America, is an inspiring collection of personal narratives about love, loss and faith by African Americans from all walks of life. His imprint––Smiley Books––with Hay House has created a series of empowerment cards, audiocassettes, mini-books and success seminars.

You are a journalist who clearly does not shy away from activism. You've forged a different path for yourself. Do you think concepts about the separation of journalism and activism are evolving?

I don't know if they're evolving. I have just been blessed with a unique opportunity. It is a difficult process, though. It requires a great deal of compartmentalization. When I'm on NPR and when I'm on PBS, I have to be very clear about being the moderator of those conversations. When I'm on "Tom Joyner" or in my books or in my speeches, I can be much more open about expressing myself…Crossing over that line between moderator and commentator could very well be the death of me or anybody like me…particularly on the news outlets like NPR and PBS. It's not the easiest tightrope to walk. So, I don't know that it's evolving, it's that this is the type of opportunity I've been blessed to have.

What do you see as the greatest challenge for African-American media professionals?

The greatest challenge is having the courage that it requires to represent on behalf of people who are too often denied these opportunities…Dr. [Maya] Angelo says to me all the time: 'Tavis…courage is the greatest of all the virtues because if you don't have courage you can't practice any of the other virtues.' What I find that's lacking when so many people get these opportunities is the courage to ask the questions that other folks won't ask. The courage to raise the issues that other folks won't raise. The courage to address the topics that other folks won't address, and the courage to profile people who would otherwise not be profiled. It would be very easy for me to walk into NPR and PBS everyday and talk to nothing but white folks. That's what PBS is and that's what NPR is, by and large. But my mission is to try to expose that audience––that PBS audience, that NPR audience––to ideas, to interests, to people and concepts that they would otherwise not be exposed to…Our job is to challenge folks to reexamine the assumptions that they have. You can't do that by giving people the same-old, same-old…But sometimes exposing them to new stuff means that you got to have an uncommon kind of courage. Talking to Louis Farrakhan on NPR and PBS doesn't get you much love. Talking to Cornel West and Michael Eric Dyson, because of the viewpoints that they hold, doesn't always get you loved on NPR or PBS. A lot of our interviews are not smart conversations to have if you're trying to protect and preserve your employment record. But the fact of the matter is that people, if they're going to get in this business, and are serious about representing, have got to have the courage to do that.

What's been the most rewarding part of doing the PBS show?

From California to the Carolinas, the response to what we are attempting to do has been one of embrace. Our mission is to introduce Americans to each other, and one of the most significant ways we attempt to do this is to have a show that has the most eclectic guest list of any show on television. So, routinely, we put together theoretical mismatches—divergent viewpoints that can be diametrically different, ideologically, culturally and otherwise. The general rule in television programming seems to be somebody tries something different, it works, and everybody tries the same thing. So television is much too homogenous in terms of programming, if you ask me. To some, what we attempt to do each night might not seem outwardly like a good mix. But it works. The response by the audience speaks to that, and they are telling us that it is refreshing that we're trying something a little different.

You've had the opportunity to meet the most interesting people. What guests have transcended your expectations the most?

What makes our show work and keeps me learning and growing is that, sometimes, the things that you don't expect to be entertained by, to not be enlightened or empowered by are the very conversations that make you reexamine, rethink and reassess. It happens to me on the show every week.

My most dramatic experience of this was on my old television show when I interviewed Fidel Castro. I was absolutely fascinated but also apprehensive...because of what he represents on the world stage. While one can take legitimate issue with him on a number of things, including human rights, he is without question one of the most charismatic persons I've ever met, quite disarming. I learned a number of things from this, not the least of which was that charisma is an interesting notion, and people can use it for various purposes, both good and bad. Before that moment, when I thought of charisma, I thought of John Kennedy, Dr. King, Robert Kennedy, Sidney Poitier, and Gregory Peck. Charisma and dictatorship were oxymoronic to me.

On the very first week of my show, Essie Mae Washington Williams, Strom Thurmond's daughter, made the strongest impression. Here's a woman––for all the media hype about who she was and her relationship with Strom Thurmond––I found in her to be quite normal, loving, and an everyday person that I was pleased to meet. She was very kind and charming, every bit like my grandmother. I had been prepared to dislike this woman because of her connection to such a staunch segregationist. But it was the opposite. It taught me a lot of lessons, reinforcing that old saying; you can choose your friends but not your family. Of all the things I've done thus far, that was one of the more shocking to me personally.

With the limited amount of time you have with each guest, what are your secret techniques for getting such interesting content?

I think what makes the conversations interesting, although they are brief, is that I don't have an agenda. I want to have a good conversation. Yes, I do my research and have in mind anecdotes, questions and issues I think are interesting. But, if the conversation doesn't move in that direction, I follow the conversation. As human beings, we communicate with each other every day. The most interesting conversations are not planned; they're spontaneous. And that's what makes the show work, and that's how we get such good stuff in a short period of time.

In the years since leaving BET, you've been extraordinarily busy. You're a one-man media conglomerate. What drives you? What is it that you hope to accomplish?

Cornel West, my dear friend and the great intellectual, says all the time to me: 'Tavis, you cannot lead the people if you don't love the people, and you can't save the people if you're not willing to serve the people.' At my very core, the essence of who I am, is caring about people. I care about trying to enlighten, encourage and empower people. Those are the three "Es" that I live by: to enlighten people, to encourage people, and to empower people...The reason why I am on television, the reason why I am on radio, is not because I went to school to study and to major in journalism. I started out years ago as an advocate, as one who was in the community trying to empower people socially, politically and economically...[I went] from inside the political arena, working for Tom Bradley who was Mayor of Los Angeles, to outside the political arena, working for the Southern Christian Leadership Conference in their L.A. office, to a number of other projects inside and outside the political arena. I tried to spend my life loving the people and trying to serve the people, because that's what matters to me. That is a part of who I am––having grown up in a family of nine brothers and sisters. I've always been very much a people person and very much interested in helping people who grew up in impoverished and disenfranchised situations, much like I did. Now, the point of all that is that I was first and foremost an advocate...The radio, the T.V. and the publishing opportunities came as a result of my advocacy work, not the other way around. So, I, quite frankly, never use the word journalist. I am not a journalist...I prefer to say [I'm] a person who cares about people, who works on a variety of different issues that he's passionate about, and has the opportunity to do radio and television and write books.

What has it been like for you, personally, to have the workload of doing the shows simultaneously on PBS and NPR plus early morning appearances on the Tom Joyner Morning Show—how are you keeping it going?

Admittedly, for the first few months, it was a challenge trying to navigate and balance what has become my life. I get up on East Coast time and go to bed on West Coast time. It is a challenge—there's no magic wand—it's a balancing act and I'm still in the process of making it work better. It is a personal growth journey for me—to be more disciplined, more focused, compartmentalizing even better. I have gotten better over the last few months at listening to my body—that's the most significant lesson I've learned. As human beings, God has given us this instrument called a body and if we would listen and pay attention to what it is telling us, we'd be a lot better off...Sometimes my body says, “Shut it down.” And when it does that, there have been certain days when I've had to readjust my schedule to go home when I finish my work and take a nap. In short, at nearly 40 years old, I am learning to listen to my body. It's the only reason why I've been able to maintain the schedule.

The race for President must be pretty high on your radar right now. It seems as though the current media coverage is all about hot button issues, headline grabbers. What do you see as the most important issues?

There are three issues that I've been raising all along. One is, how much longer do people of color have to wait for...someone serious to be considered as a running mate. I don't know that I'm interested in voting for anybody––just as a voter––who can't put somebody of color or a woman seriously considered on their short list. That's number one. Number two, if we're talking about John Kerry, the question is 'what have you done for me lately?' Now that Kerry is the presumptive nominee, everybody in the Democratic Party is going to support John Kerry––that's understood. But when the Congressional Black Caucus had a choice of who they wanted to endorse, they did not go with John Kerry. Almost the entire Caucus went with Howard Dean. So what was it about Howard Dean's record that attracted them, and what was it about John Kerry's record in the Senate for 20-something years that did not excite the Congressional Black Caucus? So, I'm not sure that John Kerry has earned the African-American vote, and I've raised that issue. The third issue that has to be raised is why it is that the Democratic Party continues to take African-American voters for granted, and the Republican Party all but ignores African-American voters? I think that every voter has to make the choice that's best for him or her, but those are some of the issues that I would be covering.

In the past year, has there been any moment––a project or story––that has really affirmed what you've chosen to do with your life?

That's a very good question. The answer is, every day. There isn't a particular story; it's the opportunity that I have to do these stories. Every single day that I wake up, I think God for the opportunity to do what I do as an African-American in this profession. I'm the first African-American to have his own signature talk show in the history of National Public Radio. I'm the first African-American to have his own nightly talk show on PBS––in the history of PBS. These networks have both been around for over 30 years...I'm the only one that looks like me doing what it is that I do, and I think that means something and I've got to take that seriously in terms of always earning and never betraying the trust––of listeners or viewers, period––but certainly of those African-American listeners and viewers.

When you were a child, did you have a sense that great things would happen for you?

My public life began shortly after I did a one-man dramatic performance at my church, at age 13, of James Weldon Johnson's work “The Creation.” I began to hit the lecture circuit in my home state of Indiana from that point on.

One of the blessings of being an African-American is that I have been embraced by my community for as long as I can remember. I have heard from everybody in my circle their expectation: that I would make significant contributions. What I have learned over the years, as Dr. King said––is that anybody can be great, because anyone can serve. All it takes is a heart full of grace and a soul generated by love. The people we most admire in history, people like Dr. King, Robert Kennedy, Mahatma Gandhi, Rosa Parks, Mother Teresa, Nelson Mandela –– they all found a way to serve, to make a contribution to make life better for the rest of us...Our service is the rent we pay for the space we occupy.

AAPRC's Mission
The African-American Public Relations Collective (AAPRC) is an assemblage of professionals who provide communication conduits among clients, journalists, media and our communities. We come together as a collective because we recognize the importance of building those same conduits amongst ourselves.

A great deal of what we do is professional development––updating our skills, keeping pace with technology, refining and streamlining processes, providing a forum to tackle the issues that impact our work environment––but we believe our professional lives benefit most from the forging of effective alliances. Connected to one another, we possess the power of a nationwide body of committed, knowledgeable practitioners with an eye on the future.

As we move into the 21st century at lightning speed, mass media and its potent messages occupy an ever-larger part of our daily lives and our collective psyche. The AAPRC is focused on helping our members gain a deeper understanding of media's force and supporting their growth as powerful participants in the global communications network.

AAPRC's Contact
GQ Media & Public Relations
1650 Broadway Suite 1011
New York NY 10019
1212 765 7910
1212 765 7905
aapublicistcoll@aol.com

Message Gwendolyn Quinn and Tavis Smiley and tell them what you think

The Herbert Holla

Herbert's Hot Picks
fri(02): starfoods - thank god it's freedom - the illest - see gigs below!
fri(02): plaid - big ben/peter parker - hiphop/r&b/rock/80s/reggae

Herbert's Hot Picks
wed(31): 6's + 8's (old 205 club) - jazzy jeff/qool marv - hiphop/soul/old school
wed(31): canal room - sweetback live/king britt - nusoul/nujazz/house - 8PM doors
wed(31): apt - rich medina/guest djs - soul/afrobeat/old school/funk/classics
wed(31): angel bar - scratch famous/teflon - reggae
wed(31): marquee - stretch armstrong - rock/old school/hiphop
wed(31): show - dj reach/jus-one - hiphop/rock/80s/r&b/reggae
wed(31): play - dj carl blaze/todd 1 - hiphop/r&b/reggae/80s/classics
wed(31): afterwork/rumor - snatch 1/m.o.s./self/kaos - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
wed(31): afterwork/mission - tanya stephens showacse/guest djs - reggae - 7PM
wed(31): aubette - qool marv - soul/classics/world beat/hiphop/r&b - 8PM to 2AM
wed(31): flat - guest djs - rock/soul/electro - fader mag party
wed(31): blo - dj naomi - hiphop/80s/rock/soul/r&b - WOMEN ONLY - www.cakenyc.com

thu(01): tonic - dj herbert - hiphop/rock/soul/house/80s - 8PM to 2AM
thu(01): guernica - blessed/selly/reborn/monica pineda - soul/funk/house/hiphop
thu(01): crobar - am/soul/airloom - hiphop/rock/r&b/house/reggae/80s
thu(01): sob's - rekha/phil money - bhangra music - happy birthday!!!!
thu(01): jazz standard - claudia acuna quartet - www.jazzstandard.net
thu(01): southpaw/bk - wordsworth live/masta ace live/eclipse/avee - hiphop - 8PM
thu(01): marquee - reach - hiphop/r&b/rock/80s
thu(01): afterwork/kanvas - dj sweets - hiphop/70s/80s - 6PM
thu(01): afterwork/flat - dj elle - hiphip/soul/reggae/old school/classics - 6PM
thu(01): afterwork/deep - judy torres live/lucho/guests - hiphop/r&b/reggae/latin
thu(01): afterwork/tangerine - do it - hiphop/reggae/classics - 6PM till 2AM
thu(01): suede - ani - hiphop/r&b/old school
thu(01): show - strecth armstrong/ody rock - hiphop/rock/old school
thu(01): pm - crooked - hiphop/funk/soul/classics/80s/house
thu(01): manhatta - max glazer/edwin houghton - reggae/reggae/reggae/reggae/reggae
thu(01): joe's pub - mary mack - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
thu(01): rumor - sure shot/jlayne - new soul/classics/house

fri(02): starfoods - thank god it's freedom - the illest - see gigs below!
fri(02): plaid - big ben/peter parker - hiphop/r&b/rock/80s/reggae/classics/house
fri(02): volume - francoise k/matthias heilbronn - house music - giant step!!!
fri(02): afterwork/madame x - liftkid - hiphop/r&b/reggae/house/80s/nujazz - 6PM
fri(02): bb king's - red alert!!! - hiphop/r&b/reggae/old school/classics
fri(02): blvd - spinbad/reach/jus-ske/guests - hiphop/r&b/reggae/rock/80s/house
fri(02): etoile - snatch one/smoove c - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
fri(02): lunhbox diner/west side hwy - dj dollar bill - hiphop/reggae/r&b/classics
fri(02): arc - db/frankie bones/soulslinger/on-e/joeski/keoki - nasa reunion!!!!!
fri(02): play - jozen/guests - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/old school
fri(02): mars 2112 - kulcha - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
fri(02): joe's pub - guest djs - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/old school
fri(02): planet 28 - guest djs - 70s + 80s soul classics/deep, jazzy, gospel house

sat(03): lot 61 - herbert - hiphop/r&b/80s/reggae/rock/house
sat(03): cafe deville - cosi/guests - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/house/80s
sat(03): mars 2112 - self/legend sounds - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
sat(03): satalla - tapestry world music dance party - guest djs
sat(03): savannah - snatch one/showcase bashment - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
sat(03): vue - spin one/roy/andre - latin/brazilian/hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
sat(03): sullivan room - dave mothersole/francis harris - house/techno
sat(03): nv - ski hi/will/guests - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/soca/latin
sat(03): metronome - big ben/lucho - hiphop/r&b/reggae/latin/house
sat(03): 40/40 - rahlo/k.o. - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics/80s
sat(03): coral room - reach friedman - hiphop/r&b/80s/rock
sat(03): plaid - stretch armstrong/riz - hiphop/r&b/reggae/rock/80s
sat(03): discotheque - hud - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
sat(03): shelter - timmy regisford - house!
sat(03): guernica - mano/ola - hiphop/reggae/house/old school/80s
sat(03): pm - crooked - hiphop/funk/soul/classics/80s/house
sat(03): chetty red - van vader - hiphop/r&b/reggae/80s/classics/old school
sat(03): float - s&s - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
sat(03): halcyon/bk - dub is a weapon/dr. israel's bk dub - dub/reggae/roots

sun(04): fez uptown - marc smooth/guests - rare groove/soul/hiphop/reggae/classics
sun(04): joe's pub - evil d/lord sear/butta l - classic hiphop/reggae/old school
sun(04): pravda - obah - soul/funk/old school/afrobeat
sun(04): lotus - soul - hiphop/80s/r&b/rock/old school
sun(04): halcyon/bk - dj olive/bbq! - house/tech - 4PM to midnight
sun(04): nocturne - shobiz - hiphop/r&b/classics/reggae
sun(04): anju - goldfinger/kulcha/hud - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
sun(04): eugene's - crooked - hiphop/funk/soul/classics/80s/house

mon(05): apt - cucumber slice - soul/funk/rare grooves/latin/uprock/old school
mon(05): cielo - francois k - future dub/space vibes/abstract grooves (aka house)
mon(05): sway - citizen kane/preservation - rock/soul/reggae/old school/hiphop
mon(05): lot 61 - reach/ody rock - hiphop/reggae/rock/house/r&b
mon(05): anju - dj big kap - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
mon(05): sapphire lounge - guest djs - house/soul

tue(06): joe's pub - guest djs/live soul performances - soul/funk/classics/hiphop
tue(06): open air - jlayne/elijah - rare grooves/70s/80s/old school/house
tue(06): afterwork/2nd nature - stimulus - soul/funk/rock/afrobeat/hiphop/r&b
tue(06): afterwork/bar below/bk - ayana soyini - reggae - 7PM
tue(06): afterwork/climate 8 - derrick spaulding - salsa/merengue/house/olskool
tue(06): pangea - crooked - hiphop/rock/classics/house/old school/r&b
tue(06): sapphire lounge - eman/lola/guests - house
tue(06): belmont lounge - qool marv - soul/funk/r&b/old school/house/afro/world
tue(06): nocturne - spinbad/cassidy/reach - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics
tue(06): suite 16 - stretch armstrong - hiphop/rock/old school/80s
tue(06): social club - camillo - hiphop/r&b/reggae/classics

Herbert's Heard
"Optimo" -- Liquid Liquid
"Turn Me On" -- Kevin Lyttle
"Couldn't Hear Me Over the Music" -- Eric Roberson
"Dial 7" -- Digable Planets
"The May 4th Movement" -- Digable Planets
"Graffiti" -- Digable Planets
"9th Wonder" -- Digable Planets

Word To Herbert
Yes yes, y'all. To the beat, y'all. Herbert's here, y'all. Holler back, y'all.

What's really really really really good? (That's the new ish, by the way. Really times 4.) I'm feeling alright cuz my big toochis has been to the gym a bunch of times these past couple of weeks, and I've got this little spring in my step, you know? Oh, that reminds me. If you're going to hit the treadmills at the gym, and you stretch out, make sure you stop by the bathroom first. You know all that stretching opens up your ... channels and what-not, so you need to expel whatever you got cooking beforehand. I was running a few miles the other night, and dude right next to me on the treadmill basically lets one go, and I was already having a hard time breathing, you know what I mean? I almost passed out, and not just cuz it smelled like rotten flesh, but because I'm huffing like a cow and taking huge breaths through my mouth and I think I tasted it! Ah God.

Let's stay in the same ballpark for a second. Do you know there's a new report claiming people who pick their nose AND eat it are healthier then the rest of us? Do you believe that?? They say nosepickers are constantly keeping their nasal passages clean making for better breathing, and boogieeaters are introducing bacteria into their stomach hence warding off future virus attack. Hah! No way! That means the kid we all made fun of in first grade has the last laugh. He's healthier than all of us right now. It makes sense though. I mean ... look at Biz Markie! Tell me he's not healthier than brown rice, huh? Remember his hit "Pickin' Boogers?" Did you know the original name used to be "Pickin' Boogers (And Eatin' Them Shits, Too!)????" Yup. That's right. Radio yanked the last part of the name to comply with FCC regulations. Anyways, check the article out for yourselves: http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_903083.html?menu=

Here's some more ish for the record. On Friday night, while I was working another beautiful, successful night at Freedom on the Lower East Side, my girl was working at Club Black, the old Exit. There were a number of performances, including a mad show by Busta Rhymes, Mario Winans, and Puffy. Now. My girl was shaking her tush in the cage and what-not, doing what she does better than any other female dancer out there, and all-of-a-sudden, Puffy comes by and looks right in her face and says "Beautiful." Yo. What??? What son??? That's my girl, yo! What should I do? Should I let him know who I is, who I be, or should I just chill? You know what I'm a do, Puff? I'm a let it slide, dog. It's cool, yo. It's cool. Do you. but if you ever come within 100 feet of my girl ... I'm a ... I'm a ... just ... you ...you'll see what I'm a do. Hoh oh ... yo! Son. Yo. I'm not the one, b! Not me. Not Herbert.

(She is pretty though, ain't she?)

Back to Freedom. It was hot again as usual. The weather was nice, the crowd was gorgeous (if I do say so myself), the music was right, the drinks were flowing, and love was in the air. Big shout out to DJ Sure Shot from Cornerstone, Beef, Forrest from KYA Entertainment, Wais from Da Rahnjaz, DJ Take 5, Pesci, and anyone else I forgot. The dance floor was jammin' as usual, and the biggest joint of the night was ... (drum roll) ... "Cool It Now" by New Editon. Holler!

Speaking of which, Paul Stuart better "slow it down," too. I figured I'd waltz into the store on Madison Avenue the other day, you know. I am a famous DJ after all--I can afford a little extra here and there, right? So I walk into this place, and they got all these suits standing around, waiting to help you find something, which shoulda had me turn right around and head out, especially when I saw one of them bringing out coffee and croissants for a customer. I told them I wanted a light spring jacket, you know, in the $100 range, something like that. Dude takes me to this section where they got these cotton microfiber coats which didn't look anything that special. I checked out the price tag: $487!!!!!!!!!!!!!! What??? Is you crazy, son? I can get the same coat with the same materials at fricking K-Mart for $27. How dare they? How ... what the ... what is wrong with the world when in one hemisphere, families are eating themselves they're so hungry, but a plane ride away, people are shelling out a year's supply of food for a stinking little piece-of-ish coat?? Anyways, I said to the guy: "Well, the price is right. Let me go get my girlfriend over here and have her pick one out for me. We're staying at the Essex House for the weekend, so I'll be back within the hour. Is that okay?"

This past Sunday, the boys at Mission put together a little charity event for the Lower East Side Girl's Club. Herbert was drafted for turntable purposes alongside Stretch Armstrong, Mark Ronson and Rekha (from Basement Bhangra). At one point, I saw all these flashes going off out the corner of my eye, in the middle of a mix, but I thought nothing of it. I mean, I am DJ Herbert after all. I have graced the pages of AM News, Time Out, DJ Times, countless websites and--the latest--Nytes Out Magazine (see the B'Lo party up front in the mag). I'm a walking photo op, you know? Then I realized that, well, as hot and cool as I am, Iman is prolly 10 times hotter. And then if it's Iman and Rosario Dawson, you're prolly looking at 100 times hotter. Yes, yes. They were there to steal the spotlight from Herbert. So they tag-teamed and got it back. So what? I'll let them live a little, you know? There's enough room for all three of us (in my king-size futon). Just kiddingJ! (David Bowie don't want none, but I have a girlfriend! Sorry, girls.) Anyway, it was a fun night, and then the after party at Mission with DJ Matt Treble was bonkers. I had 4 free whiskeys, and you know what happens to Herbert when he drinks whiskey.

I go home and go to bed! But not before San Loco's for Macho Nachos!

No more bread-based products for Herbert, though. I have to delete regular bread from my diet because Pesach is fast approaching. Pesach is the Hebrew word for Passover. Remember: When pronouncing the "ch" in any Hebrew word, it's not said like the "ch" in "chump" or "coochie." You say it like you are hocking a big loogie, like you are about bring up the biggest spitball you ever did spit: ccccccccccccchhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh pitooie!!!!!!!!! Anyways, Jews don't eat bread to commemorate the time when our ancestors had to hurry up and skidaddle out of Egypt, leaving little time for the bread to rise. So we eat matzoh. It's like a big cracker. Cover the joint in cream cheese, and it ain't that bad--you can't even taste the blood! (kidding) I gotta head home for a couple days to see momma, and I'm all ready as heck to go and see some old Jersey shore summer friends. I dug out "Blow Out Comb" the other day and now I'm fully prepped!

Last couple announcements. Herbert predicts George Bush and his goons will put weapons of mass destruction themselves in Iraq and free themselves from any indictments. Also, a new reality TV show is looking for battle djs. Call: (866) 278-7780. And big shout to Mickey Dread, Troy Kristoff and the rest of Lot 61 Saturday night for pulling in a record 810 people! That ish is hot!

World peace, universal love, complete understanding,

DJ Herbert

P.S. - Aja Baxter!!! The "Society of Soul" CD kind a sucks. I want my "Sleepy's Theme" back. Now!!!!

Herbert's Gigs
thursday - club tonic (727 7th ave b/w 48th + 49th)
rock/hiphop/soul/funk/old school/house/80s
8PM to 2AM - no cover - huge new megalounge!

friday - freedom - starfoods (64 e. 1st b/w 1st + 2nd aves)
classic hiphop/soul/dancehall/80s/house/classic r&b/afrobeat
djs herbert + cosi lay it down -- dj marc smooth keeps it kosher
no dress code - dancing - food - $6 peach/cran punch
$5 on my list ... rsvp djherbert@earthlink.net

saturday - lot 61 - 21st st + west side hwy
hiphop/r&b/80s/rock/reggae/house
sexy + upscale + hot + dancing
$10 all night ... rsvp djherbert@earthlink.net

Message DJ Herbert and tell him what you think