Isaac Carree-Rising To His Calling With “Uncommon Me”

After years of working in the background as a backup singer for John P. Kee and the New Life Community Choir, to becoming a founding member of trio, Men Of Standard, Greensboro, NC native Isaac Carree truly knows what it’s like to follow your dreams and make the impossible possible. Since that time, he’s gone on to tour as background singer and member of the nations Top Gospel Inspirational Artist, Kirk Franklin And The Family, but it doesn’t end there. Now he’s transitioned from background singer to opening act. After years of experience, for sure Carree can sing just about any style of music and be considered one of America’s top new Gospel Inspirational solo artists, but what sets him apart from other artists is his appearance on late night television’s “The Monique Show” on Black Entertainment Television, which has open doors like never before. This episode broke the ratings box because of the prize-winning moment where Monique and side kick Rodney Perry left the live audience speechless during the telecast. This prank got attention from around the world as host Monique did the unexpected “walk off”, which still has people talking.

Just days after this interview, I reached out to publicist Chidonna Kardar about the cancellation of "The Monique Show”, where she stated “yea we were very surprised as well that the show got canceled, but we’re just glad that Isaac got the opportunity to be part of the show”. Where Carree adds, “ It was an amazing experience, “ he says. “ There was not a lot of adlib, and I was confused about what happened. I was sitting there talking then all of a sudden Rodney and Monique got into it and she walks off. I was totally confused and didn’t no what to do. Then when she came back to the stage, I was relieved, but they totally got me. I love to play pranks on people and this time they really got me. I really got a kick out of it”. Later in the show, Carree performed single “In The Middle”, from his upcoming album “Uncommon Me”.

“Uncommon Me”, refers to people being common, “ continues Carree. “God gave me this title. People are complacent and many don’t want to change. Many artists like to copy what they see in society and I’m different. I look different, I act different, I’m just different and I can’t deny that. To enhance that, I don’t have a problem saying that I stand out. I want people to see that I’m a child of God and that Christ is in charge of my life. My sound is fresh and different and positive. People are always talking about the negative stuff, the bad things, but there’s nothing wrong in talking about the good things. I’m extremely proud of this album because it gives me an opportunity to talk about the good things, how unique we all are. When writing the songs, it was difficult to come up with them because I was looking for that uniqueness, in sound and style. God talk to me telling me that he was giving me something new, and different that people could relate to, but would be my own style and sound. I am so use to doing things my way, I had to get out side of me and let God take over, and that’s when we were able to create all this great music.”

In listening to current singles on the fourth coming album, you’re instantly welcomed with songs that convict, as well songs that will convince you to examine your inner self. Throughout, the project takes no prisoners as it’s filled with peaceful and encouraging thoughts. “Simply Redeemed”, (penned by Tommy Simms and Marc Harris), is a slow soothing rhythmic ballad, which gives Carree the ability to grab his audience and instill truth and understanding. There’s also “In The Middle”, which says, “I’m just like you, I’ve been hungry and had no food to eat”, I’ll praise you anyway- in the middle of it”. This single really gets the audience involved to help Carree get his point across. Other singles are “Navigation”, “Shout It Out”, and “We’re Not Ashamed”, which are for sure geared to elevate the overall style and sound of Carree. Other writers and musicians on the project include Warren “Baby Dub” Campbell, Gerald Haddon, Eric Dawkins, Antonio Dixon and more. “When people listen to this album, I want then to get on this journey with me”, states Carree. “ It’s filled with songs that I feel will minister to a lot of people. Again it was hard to make decisions about what’s included, but I feel that we have songs that will bless people and speak truth, while giving people something that they can be entertained by.”

Believe it or not, Carree never wanted to be out front. And he explains, “A lot of people think that me and the guys have broken up, but we are still together. We have no bad blood. There has never been any bad blood. Men Of Standard are still a group despite what people are saying. I’m one of those people who get along with everyone and don’t mind being in the background. It’s all about how you treat people in getting such opportunities, and I’ve always been one of those people who tried to do people right. This is also how I feed my family so I have a certain level of responsibility when it comes to them as well. I do feel pressured at times being now in the spotlight, out front by myself, having been in the back for so long, but God is good. I believe this is an area that he wanted me to grow in, so I’m here doing the work of the Lord. Wisdom keeps me going, being that I am now out front. Wisdom from all the different experiences that I’ve had has equipped me for the future. I realize what my calling is and God has prepared me to handle whatever comes my way.”

In closing, Carree talks about family and entertainment. “ I love my family because they have always been very supportive of everything that I do. As far as entertainment, you have to follow your heart, but foremost you have to do what Matthew 6:33 says, “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you”. That’s my advice to any young person who wish to pursue this industry. Carree is currently on tour with Kirk Franklin and The Family as an opening act. His album “Uncommon Me”, is in stores August 23^rd, 2011. For more information on Isaac Carree, visit http://isaaccarree.com/

George Duke- A In Demand Legend Entertaining and Educating While Delivering Musical Greatness

As America and the world continue to evolve into a musical stratosphere of the unknown, there have been very few artists, musicians or producers who can say they’ve made a contribution to music in the 1960’s, 70’s, 80’s, 90’s, at the turn of the century, and still at it in 2011. George Duke is definitely one of a kind, as he’s contributed his own very unique greatness in sound and style with the likes of legends such as Nancy Wilson, Joe Williams, Dizzy Gillespie, Quincy Jones, Cannonball Adderly and Frank Zappa, to name a few. The Duke has not only laid down tracks with superstars, but produced award winning television specials with legends, who headline sound stages around the world. All of his work has made us dance and relax to endless sounds of Funk, Jazz, Rhythm and Blues. Without question, George Duke has been a triple threat in entertainment as part of a process to educate and entertain an audience way bigger than he could have ever imagined. After countless recordings, tours and productions, he’s still in the business of keeping the art form of “music” alive. His latest contributions are “The George Duke Band Live in Prague DVD”, “The DMS Tour” featuring George Duke, Marcus Miller and David Sanborn, and a few more surprises guaranteed to keep audiences dancing and critics talking.

Music has changed tremendously over the years, but the sounds of George Duke remain timeless, soothing and a formula that has taken multiple superstars to the top of the charts. Despite a worldwide recession, he continues to perform around the globe. “ I want to do this for as long as I can”, explains Duke. “Believe it or not I’m still having fun. As the saying goes, what goes up, must come down, and I know is at some point all of this will stop, but until then I’m still enjoying the ride. I just want to try to do more why I still have time left on this earth, and I probably won’t have time to do all that I want or would like to do, but something that I have not done is record and do some performances with artists from other countries- more ethnically oriented artists like African Indigenous artists, just plain folk who have good ideas and a good sound”.

After a life of performances around the world and having recorded with every popular artist from his era, Duke talks about why he continues to love what he does. “It’s simple, I love the smiling faces”, he continues. “My life is like a bubble, I’m always traveling, meeting people, and doing all of this has had great rewards for me. I believe that music has the power to heal people, to deliver people, and present a positive message in a positive way. And it’s been my goal to do that from day one. Now that I’m older, I’m now taking the opportunity to give back to all the many fans who have supported us over the years. At the ends of shows, I get out there to the audience and shake hands, take pictures and mingle with people. This current show is actually very successful because of that, and I got Marcus (Miller) and Dave (Sanborn) out doing the same. We’re all tired after the shows, but I see it a very worthwhile thing to get out there and see the people face to face, that one on one experience. The audience loves it, and it helps us because we get to see and learn things about making the audience experience a better one. I have a project coming up with Al Jerreau, and I’m working on getting him out there as well”.

Since “Live In LA”, released in 1971, to “Déjà Vu” released in 2010, Duke continues to make himself a household name. Unlike many in the entertainment business, he continues to work despite a bad economy. His records remain timeless regardless of the Internet age. “Art is important for us to keep alive, “ continues Duke. “ If you’re not into the digital thing now, you’re out of the game, and you’re in trouble. I love the Internet because it allows artists from all over the world to connect, study and discover new styles of music to make what they do better. The Internet in my opinion is saving music. It’s opening up a world to many of us that we didn’t know existed. You can get digital downloads with Itunes, Amazon and all of that. What I don’t like and has become tuff for musicians is the cuts in education and music departments in schools for the kids. The kids are suffering because of this. Obcourse we know it’s about finances, and that makes it very difficult. At the same time it makes it very difficult for those super talented artists out here looking to make a living at making music. The chances to see the industry return to what it use to be is not very good at all. Everything is changing, and not for the better”.

And what does he listen to, “ I listen to it all. We’re living in a new age of distribution with the Internet. CD’s are a thing of the past. The Internet has changed the entire world and I feel very fortunate to be living in this day and time. I’m glad about where we are going when it comes to music and entertainment. It was just a few days ago, Erykah Badu came over and brought some of her new tracks to let me hear. It’s really a slamming album. Then I like Jill Scott and all of her stuff. What I would like to see also is more collaboration between older artists and the new artists. I’ve done a lot of projects, and I can’t say that I get a lot of calls from the young kids who like what I do and won’t to collaborate. It seems that our worlds are so distant, and the music is somewhat so different, but I welcome the opportunity to work with some of them. One project that I do have is the new Christian McBride project. This is going to be a good project as well”. McBride is no newcomer to the industry being that he’s introduced a few projects (“Kind of Brown”, “Conversations With Christian”, and “Live At Tonic”, which are his most recent projects), but this is a good example of the old school working with a somewhat younger demographic, although McBride is considered a Contemporary Jazz Artist.

In closing Duke shares his support system, and talks about the future. “yea I do the music, but I can’t do it without a supportive family. “ My son handles the business and my wife handles everything else. It’s like she sat down beside me and never got up. She does it all. When I travel, I can call her and she’s got the schedule there so we know what’s next. I could not do this without her”. And what’s happening in the future? “ I’m currently on tour with Marcus Miller and Dave Sanborn. I’m also talking with Al Jerreau for a project, and there’s also a new project with Paxton Baker at Black Entertainment Television, and perhaps a few more projects. And touring, and maybe a project with Stanley Clark. For more information about George Duke, visit http://www.georgeduke.com/

Former TV Star Wilson’s- “Un-Ringing The Bell” Premieres At NC National Theater Festival

In the past few years the American economy has been practically destroyed by greedy politicians, Fortune 500 Companies expecting big government bale outs, and fanancial investors in for their own gain. Looking at the over all picture for the small man, many of us continue to be affected by job loss, the mortgage crisis, which has left many consumers lives in shambles, automotive franchises going up in smoke, and finally poor sales and rising prices in retail outlets. But it doesn’t stop there, when it comes to entertainment, Hollywood was hit with a brick, as production houses shut down, television shows were canceled and actors from every walk of life were left standing in hall ways, not only looking for that next big break, but in disbelief that their steady gigs were gone. For some, this reality hit harder than others as the bottom fell out, and their poisons of choice entered front and center, making them re-evaluate what it really meant to be part of the human race.

Actor Dorien Wilson was one of those casualties who felt a swift kick in the gut after Hollywood shut down countless productions, and offices that were once considered the bread and butter of the entertainment industry halted on projects. For once in his life, instead of concentrating on going that extra mile to deliver a character to the screen that people could relate too, he turned an about face to a very weary and destructive shell of his former self as the urge to drink took over. Poisons of his past led him to pockets of deep depression and remorse as he drank to forget his problems, the industry and the economy. Simultaneously, he was forced to deal with the death of his mother, which pushed him further into a state of denial that there was no job to go to. “I’ve enjoyed my career and my life”, comments Wilson. “ Here, I was the first African American on “Seinfeld” and ‘Friends’, and had work straight for like 15 years with shows like “The Parkers’, and all of a sudden one morning I woke up and there was no job to go to. This was a very hard thing. So I fell into a bout of depression, then my mother passed away, and that too had me on edge. I loved her so. And so things were not the same. I started drinking and things just got out of hand. If you were talking to me maybe 6 months ago, you would not have known me because I was really out there”.

To make amends and address his circumstances, Wilson turned to his many friends and family to get back on track. This was when he began developing ideas for a one man stage play which later became known as “Un-Ringing The Bell”, a comedic, yet introspective journey delving into real life experiences about his highs and lows in the entertainment business, alcoholism, depression and the passing of his mother. “ Un-Ringing The Bell” refers to when something is done you can’t undo it”, he continues. “I’ve been through a lot of things in my career, but this is the first time in 15 years things just stopped. I was so used to working television gigs because it was like a regular 9 to 5 job that lasted and lasted. Then I looked around to see who else was being affected, and I saw it was not just me, but there were a lot of us very talented actors not working. The reality tv thing had taken over. Hollywood was not hiring actors to do anything, but putting smaller budgets in to reality television series. So after getting myself together, and realizing that if I was not being called to work, I had to create something. Like the old saying goes, when the phone stops ringing, you have to create your own stuff”.

Wilson’s creation, “Un-Ringing The Bell”, features him portraying all the characters including Dr. Ira Feinsteine, a persnickety old man with a European accent. Legendary actress Marla Gibbs (Florence from The Jefferson’s), joins in to speak as the voice of his mother. Wilson pays homage to her in a very sincere way. He recently appeared on “The Monique Show” to talk about the project as well. “It was great to reunite with Monique, whom I played opposite of as Professor Oglevee on tv show “The Parkers” for 6 years”, says Wilson. “She and I have always had a good relationship, (she called me the night she was getting ready for the Academy Awards) and it was just ironic, because when she first got the BET Show, she had the entire cast of “The Parkers” on, and then a year later she called me about doing the show to promote this work. I’m really appreciative of her giving me the opportunity to talk about the project there. This was really good for me because I haven’t been in a television role for a while, people that recognize me are always asking, “when are you going to be on tv again? We miss you.”. This makes me feel very good about the work that I’ve done. And this is also good because I can always go back to theater”.

In the future Wilson says he’s working on writing a new theatrical play entitled “Under The Elm Tree”, and he’s also waiting to hear back about a role in a new upcoming project for television, and an Internet series, which may include some voice over work for an animation company. “I love the Internet”, he says in closing. For the future I will be writing more material to keep busy”. “Un-Ringing The Bell” will be showcased in Winston Salem, North Carolina at the National Black Theater Festival at 8pm nightly, from Tuesday, August 2^nd- Thursday, August 4^th, 2011, where there will be Red Carpet Treatment for Celebrity arrivals and a Celebrity After Party. For more information about actor Dorien Wilson, “Un-Ring The Bell” and The National Black Theater Festival, visit. http://www.nbtf.org/. Also view a recently added link to a performance by Wilson at http://youtu.be/XU0i8pgIwLs

Kardenas- Compassionate Provider For Man's Best Friend Releases Benefit Project

America has always been labeled the home of the free, the strong and the brave. Because of this, many from other countries have come to our shores to accomplish their dreams and Sergio Kardenas is no different. After living in America for 13 years, the Mexican born natives’ accomplishments include becoming an established photographer, filmmaker and model. He’s been touted as the “Jack Of All Trades” in Hollywood, rubbing elbows with a variety of celebrities including many in the African American community. For sure industry wide respect in any profession is a big deal, but respect is a major issue when people such as actor Boris Kodjoe, Actress Nicole Arie Parker, and Singer Kenny Latimore are on hand to speak highly of your work. Like many in show business, Kandenas tackles his next venture with a vengeance, where he strikes up the band as a singer, with album “The Time Machine”, which also incorporates hosting a variety of events that accentuate what it means to be a humanitarian and activist. (Seen in photo with Former Los Angeles Lakers Pro Basketball Player, Ervin "Magic" Johnson).

As a writer, it’s not everyday that I get to talk about, not to mention, interview people who were born and raised in México. Not quite my expertise, but I have to pay attention when that person or those persons make an impact on Africa Americans here in the United States. “ I’ve been taking pictures since I was 14 years old, “ says Kardenas. “ I love photography, and working with people. With this whole Hollywood thing, I feel as if I’ve been lucky. You don’t see to many Mexicans making it in Hollywood and I feel very fortunate for that. I’m trying to be famous for a totally different reason than most people who search out this Hollywood thing. I want people to hear what I have to say. That’s my goal”. Part of what he’s compassionate about includes working with animals and animal shelters where he provides food for pets of homeless people. He’s also passionate about people having insurance for medical reasons.

“I do not really have what I consider a political position as such, “continues Kandenas. “To me it is more a matter of trying to treat all beings with compassion and respect, not cutting deals and winning elections. But this country seems so polarized and on the brink right now. I mean, when you have a supposed candidate for President who is totally without a clue about the history of slavery-which has left a huge mark on this country. No, I do not think that I really have the personality for politics because I get too angry and impatient with stupidity and thoughtless cruelty. Though, I must say, I really admire the patience and coolness of President Obama who can deal with lunatic’s day in and day out and stay smiling. I don’t think I could”. And his explanation about the new project, “This project is not anything political. The new CD, "The Time Machine" actually started out with a stage play and developed from the songs for that. I’m taking the proceeds and using them to buy food for dogs including dogs of homeless people.”

Kardenas’ efforts to support the homeless population is for sure a well respected one a he’s received countless request to participate in a variety of events surrounding the African American celebrity initiative. Some of those events include hosting “The Black AIDS Institute”, event “Hero’s In The Struggle”, and most recently an event for the African American Critics Association in Los Angeles. “The facts are just plain and simple, I get more respect from African American’s”, Kardenas says in closing. “ They treat me good, and respect the fact that life is hard, that I’ve had a hard time trying to make it in this country. We’ve all had tough times, but I like to treat people right and be treated right.”

Past projects for Kardenas include “The Slayer Bureaucrat”, which is an exploitation film such as A Pam Grier style film of the 1970’s. As a photographer, he’s produced the book, “The Magazine of Sex” and working on a new project, “ The World of Kolorama” and his new film "Cafe '65". He’s had countless assignments as a photographer, which have allowed him the opportunity of doing several photo shoots with celebrities such as Arnold Schwartz nagger, Bruce Willis, Demi Moore for Planet Hollywood, Sylvester Stallone, and Ralph Moeller for Planet Hollywood. He’s also photographed such celebrities as Pat Benatar, Rupaul, Randy Jones from the Village People and many others. He’s appeared in television as an actor on several occasions, once portraying a photographer in television on “ JAG”, “Johnny Dangerous” and several other projects. To learn more about Sergio Kardenas, visit http://www.imdb.com/name/nm2758375/ and/or http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=632213476

Lee Bailey/ Radio Mogul Who Took Extraordinary To Another Level

Before there were morning radio shows featuring Doug Banks, Tom Joyner or Russ Parr, all of America enjoyed the mild mannered and very professional voice of former Military man Lee Bailey, who lit the airways with a remarkable taste of creativity and style. The program was entitled “Radio Scope”, which was viewed by African American’s as one of the leading Independent radio productions on the air in 1980’s. The show filled in the blanks for America when it came to the real deal in information about African Americans in entertainment. At the time, Jet and Ebony Magazine were hot commodities, but “Radio Scope” was different, creating a vehicle and format that few radio stations were displaying. Lee identified with the void in the system, taking full advantage of the excitement by syndicating the show to Urban Radio stations around the country. Where other show formats failed, “Radio Scope” was making history as one that would go on to inspire and motivate future stars in radio. In the present day, the “Radio Scope” dream has sparked yet another venture of excitement and awareness as www.EURweb.com (Electronic Urban Report) was created to tackle the vast landscape of the Internet, with even more features, original ideas and past spotlights that many today continue to remember. Pioneers come and go, but the legacy of Lee Bailey will forever be the launch pad that paved the way for several well-known personalities in the world of entertainment.

For sure the way in which many of us receive our news and entertainment from day to day has changed in a major way. Fueling that change is the Internet, and today if you don’t have a website, perhaps you’re missing out on a host of services, clients and resources. “Like always, this business still takes a lot of work”, says Radio Scope founder Lee Bailey. “When we first started www.EURweb.com, it was just a one-sheet newsletter, which was published 3 times a week. As time would have it, we evolved into what you see now. I only have one full time person along with myself, but a host of contributors, whom are writers, and Independent contractors from around the country. Some people I call and ask to do assignments, while others call me looking for an opportunity to have their work showcased. Two major pluses for us is that we’re located in Los Angeles, and that we’ve been doing this for a long time, and we know a lot of people in the business. When being considered a pioneer, I’m appreciative because it makes me feel as if I’ve accomplished something. So I see it as a compliment”.

Back in the day, “Radio Scope”, produced and voiced by Bailey was the vehicle that many publicists used to get the word out about their clients new projects. “Radio Scope” came out of several things, “continues Bailey. “I was a big fan of the television news show “60 Minutes”, and I loved everything about it and I wanted to create something like it for radio. People were always asking about various artists. They always wanted to know what they (the artists) were doing so we made it our job to keep them informed. Once we got started, we worked and worked to make it what it is now. There was no dramatic shift, but it was very personality driven. The other thing is that back then, Radio DJ’s were like Rock Stars and everywhere you went you had your local heroes. Each city had their own and people gravitated to them. So it was a very big deal to be in radio back then”. When "Radio Scope" was introduced it provided content that many stations had very limited knowledge of. This variety of R&B, Hip-Hop Radio news was delivered in a timely fashion, sparking relationships with Hollywood bigwigs that would open many doors for Bailey.

Lee Bailey got his start in radio as an announcer in the 1970’s under the legendary Dr. Jerry Bolding. He’s been a radio DJ in several cities including Sacramento, California; Stockton, California; Los Angeles, California, and Flint, Michigan. After working in Los Angles, at KUTE-FM, he decided to try something, which was form Lee Bailey Communications, a voice over production company specializing in radio commercial spots (local and national) and corporate slide presentations (audio). Along with this success, the company began gravitating toward the radio of works and ideas. Then in 1983, Bailey introduced his flagship syndicated radio program, “Radio Scope: The Entertainment Magazine of the Air” in 35 US markets and primary division, Bailey Broadcasting Services (BBS) began it’s journey to become known world wide as the “Urban Infotainment Specialist.”

“The Challenges for me in doing all of this, “continues Bailey, “is that I didn’t have money to do all that I wanted to do, nor did I know business. I was actually baffled by the business. There was marketing, promotions, advertising, and a lot of stuff I was not familiar with. I had ideas. I was a creative guy and that’s what I wanted to do, create. When you look back at your artists, they are creative people and most of us are not business people. So as things began to really take off I enlisted others whom I felt comfortable with to work along with me so that we could get the business going in a positive direction”. And his comments about the future of radio, “ I see everything going down hill at this point”, continues Bailey. “ In my opinion there is not much of a future. It’s a paradigm shift because there are too many forces at work. The Internet is one major tool for the future. This new technology helps you get there faster, and it allows one person to do a lot, but there is nothing like having a actual person handle promotion, marketing and all those things”. And when it comes to music, Bailey speaks his mind, “I like the old school stuff. I’m really bored right now because there is no innovation, no real music happening. But I do like artists such as Reno Scott, a Detroit artists who’s been around since the 70’s. He’s got that old school kind of sound and feel. As much as I like Beyonce, I’m still bored there as well at times. Bruno Mars is good. Music is not like it use to be where you had really creative people. Today the artists are totally different.”

Bailey, an avid sports fanatic and work-a-holic has plans to at some point take a break from his entertainment empire, but not sure when, “ I’m consumed by this”, he says in closing. “I have no free time. I also love bowling, but I would love to take a month to travel, may watch a few movies and just get a way”. And his advice to young people, “ learn as much as you can. People devalue education. I love Goggle because it makes you well rounded. The power to think and knowledge from learning is a very powerful thing. You must be open to learning your entire life. We all make mistakes because no one is goof proof. You are going to make mistakes, but mistakes are vital to who you are, and your existence in whatever profession you choose”.

For more information about Lee Bailey and his new entertainment empire, visit

www.EURweb.com

Teen Vocalist Courtney Addresses Nation Wide “Bully” Epidemic

We’ve all had our experiences of being treated less than equal, or to some degree, a second rate citizen, but those who have been a victim to actions of a bully can tell you first hand just how it feels. When we think about the actions of bullies, we think about threatening, abusive, controlling, people who are often bigger than we may be, but for sure people who want to not only ruin our day, but anything that we do in and out of their presence. The attitudes of a bully have been around for as long as we humans have existed, but until recently, major media organizations such as CNN have began to publicize what it really means to be a bully due to a long list of teen suicides, and other in excusable behavior that creates fear that many of our children are exposed to on a daily basis. Perhaps solutions may be few, but 17 year old Vocalist Stephanie Courtney has released “Taken Over”, to address issues of bullying, which is taking America by storm.

“This is about showing encouragement”, says Courtney. “One of the reasons why I wrote this song was because one of he kids in my school committed suicide due to another kid bullying him. And then there were other things that happened that got my attention. People (kids) need to know that they have their mothers and fathers, brothers and sisters, teachers, and whoever in their corner when they have people who try and bully them. It’s not fun; it doesn’t feel good and who likes to be afraid of people all the time? That is not what life is about. I wrote this song to address these issues because we’ve all been down this road one time of the other. And I am thankful to say that my mother and father, and family and friends came to my aid”. Since a young age, Courtney has suffered from a skin disorder where kids in her school would tease her endlessly, making her feel less than equal. “ Yea it made me cry often, and just mad, “as she continues. “First it’s important that regardless of who you are, you have to love yourself because kids have a tendency to believe whatever people say about them. What I also recommend is that kids find a support group or organization in their communities, locally, wherever they are and get the help they need".

“Taken Over”, was written by Courtney, accompanied by Jemelle Jones as co-writer and producer. Her other work includes single “I Need You”, from album, “Lord Just Me And You”, which was written as a Gospel project released when she was 15. Soon she’s looking forward to attending the Mt. St. Vincent College in the Bronx, NY to study Nursing. The single “Taken Over” has an accompanying video available on You Tube, with the song is available at various outlets online. For more information on Stephanie Courtney, visit http://www.facebook.com/pages/Stephanie-Courtney/ http://www.myspace.com/stephaniecourtneymusic, www.youtube.com/watch?v=9tCR5FRXe6o, Twitter@stephaniesmusic and www.stephaniecourtneymusic.com

Prolific Literary Party Starter Dr. Peter John Releases “Search Me”.

Some call him the mix master of modern day social media, while others refer to Dr. Peter John as a seasoned communicator driving the political agenda to see how many people he can make happy while invading the inevitable. Fame and popularity has not come easy for Dr. John, aka P’Ta Mon, as he grew up in an environment of poverty, in St. Croix, in the US Virgin Islands. After moving to the United States, he just knew life was all up hill, but as reality would have it, his ideals of a rich and prosperous life was traded for yet another hot bed of ill stricken wants and needs that motivated him to pursue several degrees, a flamboyant life style and a bevy of materialistic possessions that many dream of, but find more than difficult to achieve. Today, after accepting his shortcomings and capitalizing on his mistakes, dreams to one day become the man whom people would love and respect has brought him full circle. “Search Me- The Art Of The Question”, his latest literary offering has the nation talking, and soon the world through websites such as www.talkcalm.com and tweets on Twitter.

In this highly technological age of tweeting, texting, messaging, and emailing, somehow, believe it or not, many of us have lost the ability to call our neighbor on the telephone and say, “how are you today?’, “can I borrow a cup of sugar?”, or ‘what are you doing this weekend?”. Well Dr. Peter John realized the break down in communication and wrote, “Search Me: The Art of The Question” to discuss and shed light on the many difficulties we, as a community and a people have as it pertains to everyday life. “ As a father, a family man, an educator, a business man, it’s very important to me to communicate to those around me like we use to do, “ says Dr. John. “ As Black men we have a lot of hurt and anger toward people. I’m learning to let go of the past. To let go of the problems and issues that hold us back in society. I am learning to let go as a man. I’m learning more every day about being a good father, and we all have wants needs and desires for the basics, food, shelter, clothing and love. Television exploits a lot of this for us. So in bringing back communication I’m trying to preserve some of what we’ve lost in generations past. There is a hurt everywhere you go. When I moved with my family here from St. Croix, all I saw was good things in America. We were poor, living around drug infested areas, and all that, and when we got here, we got put right back in it. So through working hard I’ve been able to change a lot of that to give my kids something great to look forward to.”

And working hard he has, as Dr. John took education very serious, creating a gamut of careers that have catapulted him to stardom. Moving from St. Croix, the family settled in Harvey, Louisiana, where the surroundings were colorful and deadly at the same time, but this didn’t stop a young ambitious John from pursing his ideas of originality. He began writing poetry, which became infused with Rap and soon came his real voice. His mother also gave good advice about going to school, so he enrolled into LA Tech University for a brief period before joining the Marine Corps. While in the Marines, his father died, which resulted in him hitting his lowest emotional state. This sparked him to begin reaching out by writing music to reconnect to reality. There after he received a BS in Professional Aviation, to later receive a JD from LSU Law School followed by an MBA from the University of New Orleans. “Going to school was my way of climbing out of poverty, “ continues Sr. John. “We have a lot of violence and a lot of problems with our people and kids because we lack opportunity. Lack of communication in some cases is also a cause of failure in our communities”. And he goes further to educate on the differences in his careers. “When I went to business school, it was very competitive. Law School was a lot of pressure. When I got there, my idea was that I knew that the law was not fair and I had this plan that I was going to get all of my people out of jail, but after being there for a while, I had to see the other side of this. Some of our people were bad people and deserved to be in prison. So law School was an eye opener for me. I wanted to be there for everyone, and be able to change the world. My first dream was to fly. I love being an aviator. This represents freedom for me. Beyond that, my passion has always been about helping others.”

Beyond his expertise as a licensed Commercial Pilot, a talk show host, and Criminal and Civil Defense Attorney, Dr. Peter John is an author who wrote his first book, “ Watch Your Step! A Law Book for Teens”. “Before writing this book, I was seeing how many of our young people were getting in trouble, “as he continues. “ A lot of them were missing fathers at home, no role models, plainly stated, mothers were single parents. The media glorifys entertainment; sex, athletes, money and all these things, and therefore the kids are getting mixed messages. There is no value system. So I put this book together to show kids that going to jail was not the way to go. And I’ve gotten a lot of good reviews from it and a lot of people like it. With my latest “Search Me- The Art Of The Question”, I’ve made a lot of mistakes, but it’s simple this book teaches you to talk and listen. It’s about communicating. We as a people have to get rid of words that judge people, and cross-examine people. Communication is the key, we have to be willing today to sit with our young people and have a conversation. They have to take the time to talk to us. No tweeting, text messages, My Space, Face book or any of that. The Internet is a great tool that allows us to make people aware and educated, but we have to limit ourselves. With hosting a radio show, I get the opportunity to not only find out about others lives, but it gives me a chance to look at my own life, and then help people”. In review, “Search Me- The Art of The Question” is a coffee table stylebook chunked full of thought provoking ideas that will keep you entertained.

For those of you who feel the urge to talk, Dr. Peter John is always open for a good conversation. His radio talk show airs on the Gulf Coast’s Power 102.9FM radio. There’s also the website www.talkcalm.com (Communicate And Learn Through Mediation). For the future he leaves these words with the youth, “look in the mirror, and identify what you do well, believe in it, have faith and work at it to be the best that you can be. Foremost in all the things that I do, I’m conquering my demons thru conversation and communication”. Dr. Peter John’s books are available in bookstores nationwide.

Country/Pop Sensation Balances Rock Stardom With Reality

Like many recording artists, Chris Gardner has seen the music industry from a variety of angles, during it’s good times and bad. He’s an independent song writer, musician and singer, and he can tell you what it’s like to work through the night, get up early the next morning and prepare for yet another show with little or no money to work with. For some music is a hobby, but Gardner, like most independent artists, has gotten use to the uncertainty of a hobby that he loves, but now greater than any other time in his life, he’s witnessing his big break, and life couldn’t be better. When many would have thrown in the towel, trying to record that platinum-selling album, Gardner formulated a plan to attract the vocal power that he needed to reach outside of his box of comfort. This plan included recording with the likes of world renound vocalist Sarah Dash, famous for her contributions to records by Rock Legend Keith Richards of the Rolling Stones, The Marshall Tucker Band and LaBelle.

Well after 20 years of performing original music around Texas and New York, Gardner, is hot on the trail of promotion, performance and appearances for release “Belong”, recorded with industry veteran Sarah Dash. It’s not often that you see a duo in the industry delivering two different styles that borderline Pop and Country, but as a connoisseur of Country licks that put a whipping on the mind, Gardner brings about a twist in the writing to make his fans want to listen. Dash, on the other hand, a vocalist trained to do what she does with her eyes closed, is from the old school, and has her own style layering every record she touches with R&B, Pop and Gospel blessings that would make any singer jealous. Together they deliver vocals that will be sure to win you over. “ I feel very blessed and gracious to have Sarah as a vocalist on my record, “ says Gardner. “ She just has one of those voices that I’ve always loved. We made this process very easy for her. We recorded the music and most of my vocals in Texas and then we flew to New York to record hers. We had one day together, where she came into the studio and did her part. Then we recorded some together and it was done. It was short and sweet and she did a excellent job.”

Gardner was born as an Air Force brat in Goldsboro, North Carolina, where he grew up in Buffalo, New York. After school, he received a baseball scholarship, which took him to Texas. While in training, he blew out his shoulder in the first season. Since he loved music and was looking for a new opportunity to help pay for school, he began entering Country Music contests for a radio station to promote his music. The contest paid off, when he was nominated for 3^rd place in the state of Texas. Since then, he’s traveled between New York and Houston, working in clubs developing his style and sound. In the mid 1990’s he put music on hold for 12 to 13 years to work on family. During this time, he worked very hard to put all the pieces to his recording and music career back together. “This was a difficult period in my life, “states Gardner. “ I had just went through a divorce and got custody of my two children. When it came to recording, I would go record maybe 3 or 4 songs at a time until I had a full album of material so that when I was ready to get back out there again, I had all my work done. I did this for a while, along side being a father and coaching little league soccer, basketball, taking the kids to piano lessons and all that. But I’m really proud now because the kids (he has two) are doing well in school. One is a Junior on a Trumpet Scholarship at Stephen F. Austin University, and the other is a Freshman on an Academic Scholarship at The University of Houston”. He’s also worked with Patrick McGuire (Gabriel, Diamond Rio), Mark Matejka (Charlie Daniels, Lynryrd Skynyrd) and Mike Sack, (Goo Goo Dolls), where he recorded a demo CD for Chris with his former band, “Cultured Species. Gardner’s other job is that of owner and operator of Spectrum DHI, a locksmith company, where they install and trouble shoot-locking mechanisms for major corporations and construction sites. “I feel very fortunate that I have this other life, “ continues Gardner. “ The music and entertainment business is so hard right now and people are really starving. Then to have the music, I feel that I get my therapy (through music), have fun, and make a decent living at the same time.”

Gardner worked tirelessly in the studio with two time Grammy Winner Andy Bradley to pin his recent album release entitled “Nothing For Free”, which includes singles “Miracles”, “Wastin Time”, “ It’s Alright”, “ Human”, “Take Me Away’, “Bottle Bag”, “ Right Outside your Door”, “ Stinky Guy”, “Nothing For Free” and “Belong”, with Dash. “This was a fun project for me, “ states Dash. “ I love Chris’s song writing. He’s a very positive person. We did this song in New York, and he had it all together, and I love working with people when they are this professional. We sang together two times and I let the spirit lead me and we got the project done. I like it when those I work with come with a complete package. Like past projects that I was called in to do that were not R&B or Pop, this project gives me that fortunate opportunity where I get to broaden my horizons and reach markets that otherwise I would not have. I’m moved by who is watching me as a singer and performer. And it’s a good feeling. My talents are being heard and appreciated by so many people that it’s just incredible. It was a chance meeting that I met Keith Richards, but he instantly knew of me and wanted to work with me because of my voice. This was similar. Chris stated he was a fan of my work on LaBelle’s Lady Marmalade, and he knew then that he wanted some day to do a duet. So I feel very blessed and fortunate that people recognize me and want to work with me.”

Gardner has released five projects in the past, where some have received moderate play on college radio and others have gotten national attention. He further explains where he would like to take “Nothing For Free. “ I can already see where this is going to be the break through project for me, “ states Gardner in closing. “ We shot a video in the later part of last year and waited until this year to release the album. We’re getting a lot of people who like what they’re hearing and things are getting better and better everyday. I love the Internet and it’s an incredible tool. I feel that I’ve somewhat missed it, but it’s an awesome tool to promote your work. I do see this as a means for young people to hold on to their dreams that they can make it in this industry. For me, writing songs is about my life and the things I go through are like therapy for me”. Where Dash leaves final comments. “ When I was offered this opportunity, I began doing research on Chris, and he’s a great song writer. That’s the era I come from. I’m a product of great songwriters, singers and performers and I believe he’s that caliber of entertainer”.

For more information on Chris Gardner, visit http://www.chrisgardnermusic.com.

For more information on Sarah Dash, visit http://sarahdash.net/

Red Carpet Treatment for Apollo Drummer’s “Soul Snacks”

If you’ve ever been to the World Famous Apollo Theater in Harlem, New York, on show nights, it’s straight lights, camera, action and the who’s who of the music and entertainment industry could be standing just a few footsteps away. Ralph Rolle, the Show Time At The Apollo Veteran Drummer and businessman has gotten use to all the star-studded hoopla after 18 years of playing with the best in a line up that has included hundreds of performers, established and new comers. He’s also no stranger to making cookies, and watching how the tasty treats bring a smile to everyone’s face lucky enough to eat one. Yea that’s right- a drummer who bakes cookies? Wow, now that’s original and for sure worthy of a day in the spotlight. Rolle is the proud owner of The Soul Snacks Cookie Company, a sweeter secret than he and his family ever imagined. To celebrate the return of the company, Rolle is working harder than ever to balance a career in music while becoming a king in the snack industry.

“This is a recipe that came from many generations of my family, “ explains Rolle. “Baking cookies is just something that I was taught since I was kid growing up”. The Soul Snacks Cookie Company was founded in 1996, while Ralph was living in an apartment. Today the company is housed in a bakery in Long Island City, New York. “Yea this was something that I had my former girlfriend to help me with, “ as he continues. “ We were baking cookies out of the house and people loved them. I actually had a music studio in the house and all the different musicians and singers that came by, we didn’t go all out and get expensive foods or any of that, we just gave them cookies. So people were like ‘ you need to sell them cookies’, and finally we put our heads together and took a shot at it”. What resulted was people throughout the surrounding areas began asking for the tasty treats and Rolle was in business. The business lasted, but the then relationship failed. The cookie flavors cover a variety including the Down Home Double Chocolate Chip, the Georgia Oatmeal Raisin, the Miami Raisin Nut, the Chunked Up Chocolate Walnut, the Peanut Peanut Butter cookie, the Grampy’s Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookie, and the recently added Sweet Potato Cookie. Cookie tins are $12.50 each, or you can purchase a gift box, which includes an assortment of cookies for $65.00.

Beyond his passion to bake cookies, Rolle is a gifted and inspiring musician who has traveled the world, working with a variety of artist, including Biggie Smalls, Queen Latifah, Erykah Badu, D’Angelo, India Arie, Roberta Flack, and is the drummer for Showtime At The Apollo along with Ray Chew and The Crew. “ I started playing drums in 1978 after experience from the Drum and Bugle Corp, “continues Rolle. “This group was everything for me. I learned so much and it gave me so much exposure to all kinds of people and techniques. My first professional job was when I turned 19 years old. I was on the road and I played with anyone that would give me a paycheck. Back in those days playing the clubs and bars was totally different, and after playing all night you might have $100.00. So in doing the roadwork, I landed the job of A&R for Jive Records. One of my major accounts at the time was that of the group High Five, which really gave me an opportunity to gain exposure and experience. The next project was Robert Kelly (R. Kelly), I had a hand in working with him as well.”

Rolle has been a musician for 33 years, where he got his start in music as a member of the Drum and Bugle Corp. He remembers how at age 9 he would visit The Apollo Theater for the first time. “When I was young my mother would only allow my sister to go to the Apollo if she would take me with her. So for me this was great because I will never forget one of the shows we went to, which had on the marquee, The Jackson 5, and I thought to myself, why do they have a Gospel Group as the headliners? We went inside and I saw this little small kid named Michael Jackson, singing, tearing the Apollo up. I was hooked, and I’ve been going ever since. For me, The Apollo is like our very own Smithsonian Institute, with all the lights and everything. It was very fascinating and exciting for me. The way I got the gig as drummer for The Apollo, was that the lead drummer at the time, Buddy Williams, was real busy, and he asked if I would sub for him. The Executive Producer of the show and Ray Chew got together and decided they liked what I was doing and I worked well with the other musicians and they hired me on full time”. But the magic is in what Rolle would love to do for today’s generation, “ My other passion is working with our youth, “ as he continues. “ Something that I have not done and wish to establish is something like the Drum and Bugle Corp, similar to what I had growing up. With all the music programs being cut in the schools, and money for the arts slowly being cut everywhere, I feel that young people would really benefit from such a venture. So to establish a funding source for kids to get instruments would be a program I could see investing in for the future”.

Searching for that perfect solution to merge entertainment and baking, Rolle depends on family to make all of his operations run smoothly. His nephew is owner and operator of Jaia Distributing, which is responsible for delivering his Soul Snack Cookies throughout the city and other areas, while his sister handles the day-to-day business administration duties. In building his brand, he utilizes the skills and talents of PR guru Angelo Ellerbe and Double Exposure Public Relations. Just a few of the celebrities who have enjoyed Rolle’s tasty snacks include Singer Gladys Knight, Academy Award Winners’ Whoppi Goldberg and Monique, Actor Chris Rock, TV personality Lou Dobbs, Actress/Singer Jennifer Lopez, Actor Steve Harvey, Singer Roberta Flack, Singer D’Angelo, DJ Kid Capri, Rapper Doggie Fresh and others. “We’re one big family, “ says Rolle. “ I’m so busy and I can’t do it all so I have other people who help me make it all happen. But with technology today, I might be out of the country, but with the Blackberry, and computers, I can still do what I do even though I’m not there. The way I see it there are no excuses any more. We have the tools; you just have to be willing to put in the time. Sometimes sleep is a commodity in my life. I have started a many businesses sitting on the phone and on the computer at the same time. So it can be done, we just have to be willing to put in the time to make it work.”

For the future, look for Rolle as he continues his gig at Showtime At The Apollo. In closing he says, “ Live with passion. I don’t want a single day to go by that I didn’t do something good in the world”. Upcoming events for Ralph Rolle include touring with Recording Artist Nile Rodgers and Chic in China and Japan. He’s also in the process of completing some voice over work and recently created an online social networking company entitled http://www.imgiggin.com/. His company, Rolle Entertainment is currently developing and working with singer Danielle Ashley and Singer/Counselor Dr. Eric Turner. The Soul Snack Cookie Brand (888-SOUL-NYC) or (http://www.soulsnacksnyc.com/Soul_Snacks/Home.html) is soon to be available nationwide via The Chef’s Warehouse Distributing Company. For more information about Ralph Rolle visit http://web.mac.com/phatkatproductions/Ralph_Rolle/Welcome.html

“Two Time Author, Dr. Martin-Stewart Returns With Miraculous Moments”

Some people just dream and make it through life on a whelm of excitement and charisma, while others take life serious, dotting every I and crossing every T. For some, miracles do come true, while others work a lifetime with no real success visible in anyway, shape or form. In short, we all have a distinctive path designed for us to grow, prosper and mature, and the greatest challenge in that is identifying with who we are, what we are and where we belong. Dr. Valerie Martin- Stewart, a gifted and encouraging activist of individualism and value driver principles, shares her talents and increased awareness of self by empowering others to fly higher, while rising above her own demons of rejection, self worth and criticism. In the past, many have witnessed Dr. Martin- Stewart as she’s electrified audiences at the Library of Congress, The Department of Treasury and in countless other venues. Without a doubt, her strength of experience has been her anthem for success, while painful issues, which have torn at the core of her existence, keep her grounded and ready for any new opportunity.

Dr. Valerie Martin-Stewart’s latest literary offering is entitled “Miraculous Moments: Living In The Super Natural’, which according to nation press is a very powerful book that all people, from all walks of life must read. And further says “Dr. Stewart has seen visions and dreams in the night for many years. More than just seeing them, she has witnessed most of them come to past”. “I love writing, ” says Dr. Stewart, “And when I retire my goal is to be a writer and motivational speaker full time. The materials that I write are motivational and self help, empowerment books. These books allow readers to look within themselves to see who they really are, the real sources of their own pain. Since I was 12 years old, I’ve had this vision, dreams over and over. A friend from Alabama told me that I had supernatural experiences and they would make a great book. So people who are churchgoers as well people who are not all enjoy reading these books. I like to also include on the back cover parables for truth.”

Dr. Stewart is a native of Mississippi. She over came people making fun of her slow speech by becoming one of the best in Women’s Basketball. She’s played in Peru, Italy, and Australia, where she received the coveted MVP Award and Defensive Player of the Year Award. “Sports has always been that outlet for me’” she explains. “ Growing up I was very shy and not really a people person. My friends would poke fun at me for any little thing. So playing basketball allowed me to find myself and develop something that I could be good at. It allowed me to shine”. Once she wrapped up her professional basketball career, she began working for the Australian Government, which eventually helped her find her way back to America. Once back in the states, she was hired by the Unites States Government, to later use her Doctorate Degree from Andersonville Theological Seminary to be come a successful Electrical Engineer. “Out of all the places that I’ve lived, Australia was probably my favorite. You would have thought that people were kind of racist there, but I found none of that. Instead I found people who were very open and encouraging, very outstanding. I was embraced while living there. In Italy there was the language barrier that I had to overcome, and the people were not all that friendly, but the food was really good. I had to have an interpreter in Peru, the language barrier was a major problem for me there as well. It was truly like culture shock for me. There were people on the streets who were homeless, poor, begging and lame. Again this was something that I never thought I would see there.”

Beyond her careers as an Electrical Engineer and Author, Dr. Stewart is also a licensed minister. She’s ministered in several countries, including Peru and Jamaica. “I’ve been running from my calling to be a ordained minister since I was in the 11^th grade, “ as she continues. “ Growing up in a Baptist Church, I was always told that a woman should not preach. Then in 1997, the feeling was just too great. I had to step up and do what God called me to do. This has given me an opportunity to do mission trips and talk to a lot of your women as well. Because I’ve been through so much, I feel as if I have something I can share with other women. I know that I’m not the only one who has felt rejected, been depressed, attempted suicide or thought about it. So my books, when it comes to others, are about how do I over come all of the pain that I’ve suffered throughout my life. My younger sister is inspired because she says that I’ve lived a dream life. I’m hesitant about some things I write about because I always look to be judged or put in a particular category”.

Dr. Stewart’s additional books include her first book- “Out Of Pain Came Poetry”, which was written as a pallet of poetic passages that she began writing at age 12. Many of her poems were written when she was very depressed, experiencing feelings of rejection and low self esteem. Over the years, people around the world have been inspired and moved to tears as they read and connected with each poem, discovering their own pain. Her second book- “Rise Above Rejection: Exposing the Little Girl in Me” is an earth-moving, true story about how she had a divine revelation of her past pain and suicidal thoughts moments after she was being tempted to end her life by pulling out in front of an 18-wheeler in 2003. Dr. Stewart has struggled most of her life with many emotions despite achieving many of her goals. She has painfully recorded her story with hope that all readers and listeners will be healed from their own rejection. “Rise Above Rejection: Exposing the Little Girl in Me” is slated to become a movie. Her fourth book, yet to be published is entitled “Do It Afraid”, which was taken from a seminar she conducted in 2006. All of her books are available in hardback, paperback and e-book versions.

For those interested in her live seminars, you can catch her at one of the following locations. On May 14, she will be Keynote Speaker for the Judah Praise Conference Segment called "Living Well" at Calvary Tabernacle in Long Island, NY. She will also participate in an Interview for the "New York Christian Times Magazine" in Long Island. Then an Interview on the National TV Show "Speak Lord" in Long Island. Next an Interview for the "Encore Generation Now" Magazine in Long Island. On May 21, she’s doing an Interview on the Radio Show WLVJ "Spiritual Downloads" in Miami, FL. On May 27, she’s doing an Interview on the Total Christian Television Network program entitled "I'm Just Sayin'" in Detroit, MI. On May 29, she’s doing an Interview on the Radio Show "What's the 411" WFSK in Nashville, TN. On June 4, she’ll be with Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. (VA chapter) has selected her as one of six authors to be honored and featured at their event entitled "Rolling out the RED Carpet for Rising Authors" in Manassas, VA. And finally on Aug 3^rd, Dr. Stewart will be Keynote Speaker at the Dept. of Treasury 21st Financial Management Conference. For more information, please visit http://www.valeriemstewart.com/

Mark Adams/Pianist- Preserving Jazz At Any Cost

Since the early 1990’s, the piano sounds of Mark Adams have flooded the airways with artists such as Bell, Biv, Devoe, Mary J. Blige, Eyrah Badu, Savion Glover and many others. His unique studio tones have a way of ripening everything in their path. Although Hip-Hop paved the way, opening doors that welcomed in his stellar talent for entertaining, it’s his passion for Jazz that will keep you excited about all he has to offer. His latest is “Embellishments”, a collection of smooth Jazz idioms that feature a piano player at his best. The album is crafted with the delight of real instrumentation and not watered down tones that just any old musician can belt out. This album gives Adams’ the opportunity to enjoy delivering his craft with passion and confidence and for sure you will be delighted to welcome any project that bears his name.

Piano players are a dime a dozen, some good and some not so good, but Mark Adams is spectacular at what he does, and his music continues to compliment that. “ I studied Classical growing up, “says Adams. “I was influenced by Dennis Moorman, Ron Carter, and my idol and inspiration, Roy Ayers. This is what I call good Jazz Music. The musicians of my time, I consider good Jazz musicians, who were not only creative, but leaders in their crafts”. In efforts to continue what legends such as Moorman started, Adams has taken his skill and ability to the classroom. He’s currently on staff at York College (CUNY), where he teaches music theory, piano, jazz style and techniques, jazz improvisation and keyboard harmony. “I want to give our youth some of the opportunities that I had, and it’s getting harder and harder because of the budget cuts and all of that. So outside of my day-to-day job, I teach two times a week, giving kids private lessons, and instruction for free. President Obama sees the importance of preserving music in our schools, and a lot of people do, then there are a lot of people who do not. So there is really no real music anymore. And it’s not the kid’s fault; this is just the times in which they live. Also our Black schools get very few instruments because of budget cuts. So in providing classes for free, this is something that I like to do to kind of give back.”

When it comes to the music recorded for his latest, “Embellishment”, Adams’ explains, “Again, we don’t have a lot of that (real Jazz) right now, and I’m trying to keep it alive. One great thing about my career is that I’ve been able to play with many of the greats, including Roy Ayers. This album for me is well rounded. It gave me an opportunity to play what I felt and do it the way that I wanted to do it. Music and entertainment is about balance. That is important for young people to know. Music is like human nature. You don’t have to read music before you can play it. It’s a feeling, an emotion and that’s what I like to do with music”. Singles on the album include “Lady in My Life”, ‘Round Midnight”, “ All The Things That You Are”, “ Dedicated To You”, the lead single, “ Embellishments”, “If I Ruled The World”, “ Marleigh”, which features Jonathan Quash and Roy Ayers. Other singles are “ Mona Lisa”, “ Virtuous Patience”, “ Flamingo”, “ Angels Sing”, “ Final Answer” and “Stellar By Starlight”, which round out a very interesting set. “ My listeners are 18 years of age and up. Jazz Music is getting less and less airplay, and I’m very grateful for platforms like the Internet. People who have never heard of me before are discovering my music on the Internet. And it has it’s good and bad points, but it allows the world to see and hear you immediately. This will be the thing that keeps the new artists going. I know there are still real Jazz lovers out there who want an alternative, and that’s what I provide with Jazz music”.

In the past many followers of Adams have recognized his work on such productions as the Savion Glover produced and directed, “5 Guys Named Moe”, and “Hoofin and Bangin”, which have become Off Broadway Classics. Adams’ has also been seen playing piano in films such as “The Prince of Central Park”. But it’s his current work that has him excited,” . “Yes, it’s been real nice to be part of Roberts Music Group, which was formed by Barry Roberts. The label has a few new artists other than myself developing, and we’re getting ready to do some big things. I know we have a new record for 2012, with a new DJ Jazz project with a few Hip-Hop artists. Our goal is to bring some of the younger minds back to Jazz. Jazz started as Dance music and has evolved over the years into a variety of styles. And because Jazz is loosing its’ prominence of the past, I’m taking it upon myself to keep it alive. Again music is all about being grounded, and it’s sorry to say, but because a lot of the music programs in the schools are being cut, our African American kids are suffering the most. The cuts to the arts are so drastic that our kids don’t have a chance”.

Recently Adams participated in the Berks Jazz Festival in Reading, PA., along with such legendary artists as Joe Sample, Welton Felder and Wayne Henderson. To learn more about Pianist Mark Adams, visit, http://www.smooth-jazz.de/Artists4/Adams_Mark.htm or http://www.myspace.com/markadamssje

Gospel Heritage Conference Returns to Jacksonville, Fl.

Black History Month wouldn’t be the same without the efforts of Dr. Teresa Hairston and Gospel Today Magazine. For the last few years, Hairston has sponsored “The Gospel Heritage Praise and Worship Conference”, paying homage to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., while opening doors for those who love good Gospel Music through musical performances, seminars, and ministry.

For over 20 years, Gospel Today Magazine has used it’s platform of written communication to educate it’s readers about the African American experience, while promoting some of the hottest Urban Gospel Contemporary artists and projects around. February 17^th-19^th, 2011 will mark yet another chapter in that book as Dr. Hairston prepares for another conference. “This conference is about how Gospel Music changes lives, “ states, Dr. Hairston. “As always we’re going to feature artist from around the country, highlighting music and ministry. This conference affects the lives of a lot of people, and gives us the ability to share the story of so many. We still have great moments to celebrate. We still have a lot to do”. Some of the participants for the week in question include Bishop Kenneth Ulmer, Singer VaShawn Mitchell and Bishop Hezekiah Walker. On Friday look for Pastor Sheryl Brady of The Potters House, and on Saturday Pastor Donnie McClurkin will be ministering with singer Jonathan Nelson and others providing the entertainment.

“Dr. King sacrificed his life for our culture, “ continues Hairston. “My goal with this conference is to allow people to see the big picture here. How Dr. King’s approach to the issues of this country and the world impacted a lot of people. Through this conference people’s lives are changed. We the media have the power to tell these stories and it’s important that we do so. It’s always been my mission to create projects where you celebrate people and we still have many great moments to celebrate”. Also participating in the event will be the Dove Award Nominated Singer Melinda Watts, who recently recorded with J. Moss, Smokie Norful, and a host of others. “This will be my first time as part of this event”, explains Watts. “ My goal is to bring a relevant sound, communicating in a manner people can relate. This is about ministry and I see the Gospel Heritage event as an opportunity to minister to a multitude of people, therefore I’m very glad to be part of it”. Watts is set to sing before Pastor McClurkin delivers the word of God.

Dr. Hairston is also scheduled to receive a Community Service Award for 25 years of service. For more information about The Gospel Heritage Praise and Worship Conference visit www.teresahairston.com, http://mygospeltoday.com http://www.streamingfaith.com/index.php/straightalk/meet-dr.-teresa-hairston or mygospeltoday.com/heritage/