“Fruitvale Station was a poignant; touching story that focused on a young man (Oscar Grant) getting his life right for himself, and his family. A story that proved; bad things happen to good people.”

Timothy L. Sanders
EntertainmentReporters.com

Fruitvale Station is the true to life story of Oscar Grant, a California native in the prime of his life; trying to make all the right moves for a positive future for his family. Written & Directed by Ryan Coogler, Fruitvale made its debut at the 2013 Sundance Film Festival. The independent drama film ultimately won the Grand Jury Prize and the Audience Award for U.S. Dramatic Film at the festival. Later going on to win the Best First Film Award at the 2013 Cannes Film Festival. The movie is scheduled to be released nationwide on July 19, 2013.

Fruitvale Station is centered around the main character, Oscar Grant (Michael B. Jordan – The Wire) whom worked within himself to make a better life. He gave up dealing drugs, cheating, and anything negative that would affect his daughter, Tatiana (Ariana Neal) or his girlfriend Sophina (Melonie Diaz). He was a good father, friend, boyfriend and son. Leaving all bad things behind, he honored his mother (Octavia Spencer – The Help).

After celebrating his mother’s birthday on New Years Eve, he proceeded to take a trip to San Francisco with his girlfriend and best friends to enjoy bringing in the New Year with family. At the urging of his mother, he took the BART train system instead of driving. After running into an enemy on the train, they proceeded to get into a fight on the train. The BART police pulled only the black people off the train in a profiling situation. While trying to calm the situation, Oscar begins to get roughed up by the police; ending in one police shooting him in the back for no reason at all. Oscar Grant died in the hospital leaving behind family members who loved him to no end, including his daughter who he adored and also adored her father.

It was a senseless crime that caused a major protest in California. It was amazing how the writer/director reenacted the issue on film. A much needed movie that deserved all the attention it received locally. It should have been more of an uproar nationally. It was a major lesson in Black History, and showed that racial profiling still exists.

Fruitvale Station hits theaters nationwide July 19, 2013. It is a must-see!!!

Thank you to Ryan Coogler and the cast for bringing the Fruitvale tragedy back to the forefront of the world. We need this… Just as we need more people like Oscar Grant in the world.

*My condolences to the family of Oscar Grant*

words by: Me’Lisa Sellers (New York Correspondent)

Broadway’s “The Trip to Bountiful” is a bountiful excursion indeed. Truly a must see, this production is wrought with a stellar cast, imaginative direction and cleverly crafted sets and lighting. Horton Foote’s American classic originally written as a screenplay in 1953 and adapted into a stage play later that year, was inked for an all white cast yet translates terrifically for the nearly all Black cast headed by Cicely Tyson, Vanessa Williams and Cuba Gooding, Jr.

Directed by Micheal Wilson, “The Trip to Bountiful” is a tale of Carrie Watts (Cicely Tyson), an active, highly motivated widow living in a cramped apartment in Houston in the Spring of 1953 with her son (Cuba Gooding Jr.) and daughter-in-law (Vanessa Williams). Carrie escapes her relatives’ watchful eyes to realize her dearest dream: to return to her beloved hometown, Bountiful. What starts as an ordinary trip soon becomes an inspiring and life-changing journey of discovery.

Cicely Tyson’s portrayal of ‘Carrie Watts’; the family matriarch trying to make her way back to her nearly defunct hometown of Bountiful, is downright superb at very the least. One is immediately captivated by her command of the stage. The audience is like putty in her hands. Her impeccable comedic timing, balanced with heart string-tugging tender moments make for an astounding and perfectly well-rounded performance. Every bit of the character insight and truth she brings to her screen performances is alive onstage. She doesn’t disappoint.

Perhaps one of the most endearing points of the show is the director’s clever choice to incite audience participation. During this moment, Tyson faces the audience and leads them in a medley of old Negro spirituals.

No stranger to the Great white Way, Vanessa Williams weighs in as a champ and manages to bring heart and humanity to the role of the spoiled and resentful ‘Jessie Mae Watts’. Though her dramatic abilities are what’s on display in this production, we do get a glimpse of Williams’ musical prowess. We are briefly serenaded by the songstress during a moment when the character is found singing along with the radio; a treat indeed.

Cuba Gooding, Jr. makes a strong Broadway debut with his portrayal of ‘Ludie Watts’, a man who ‘almost’ wears the pants and is torn between the strong personalities and unyielding desires of both his wife & mother. With such mastery for live performance, who would think, he’d never graced a Broadway stage?

Condola Rashad remains a newcomer to watch. She undertakes the ‘The Young Woman on Bus’ with wide-eyed enthusiasm, as well as angelic sensibility. Hardly intimidated by playing alongside such industry greats as Tyson & Gooding Jr., Rashad rises to the occasion and manages to make a memorable mark.

Rounding out the cast are stage vets Tom Wopat as the ‘Sheriff’ and Arthur French as ‘Roy.

“Bountiful” is a trip you won’t want to miss! Originally slated to run through July 7 at the Stephen Sondheim Theatre, the show has been extended until September 1st. “Bountiful” was recently nominated for four Tony Awards, including Best Actress in a Play (Cicely Tyson), Best Featured Actress in a Play (Condola Rashad), Best Sound Design for a Play (John Gromada) and Best Revival of a Play.

Kudos to the crew for their magnificent contributions: Jeff Cowie (scenery), Van Broughton Ramsey (costumes), Rui Rita (lighting), Paul Huntley (hair design), Angelina Avallone (makeup design) and John Gromada (original music and sound design). David Alpert is the associate director.

Stephen Sondheim Theatre is located at 124 W. 43rd St. Tickets are available by visiting Telecharge.com. For more information visit TheTripToBountifulBroadway.com.

*Special thanks to: Frances White and The Hartman Group

When Cory Taylor founded R&B Spotlight, he envisioned a place where up and coming artists, as well as seasoned artists could come together on one accord and rock out! His main focus: “to fill the hole that exists in R&B music today.” Taylor gives artists an opportunity to fulfill their dreams by hitting the stage and giving all they have to the craft that they love.

New York City was the place; April 28, 2013 the date; SOB’s the stage… In addition to acts aspiring to make it big in the music industry, Taylor brought out the sensational ladies of Sisters With Voices (SWV) to give a tribute to the 90’s. Coko, LeLee and Taj have been rocking stages & topping charts since the early 90’s. They are still producing multi-platinum hits and pleasing crowds with both new, as well as old favorites. Their new album, “I Missed Us” is a mainstay in R&B Music.

“We hope that by inviting national acts, we’ll inspire up and coming artists to pursue their dreams.” Cory Taylor

EntertainmentReporters.com were in the house to witness the continuation of R&B greatest through the Voices of SWV. Check out a clip of the performance (below):

Special thanks to Cory Taylor for providing access and opening up the channels to keeping real R&B music in the forefront. Also, thank you to Coko, LeLee and Taj for always being so open and flowing with the change of music.

photo/video credit: MBF for EntertainmentReporters.com

On April 28, 2013, Sisters With Voices (SWV); one of the most successful R&B Groups from the 90’s will be gracing the stage at SOB’s NYC to give a special performance: Tribute to the 90’s. We remember their breakout success with: Weak, I’m So Into You, You’re the One. Plus, albums worth of other great hits (You’re Always On My Mind, It’s About Time, Release Some Tension, just to name a few).

In 2011, SWV released “I Missed Us” which continued in their original style of ‘Real Rhythm & Blues’ Music. The album was surely one for the record books. With hits like: I Missed Us, Do Ya, CoSign and Better Than I, and my favorite – Show Off, they have no plans on stopping. The group has won numerous awards for their hard work in this industry.

If you are in NYC, check out SWV for an evening like no other. Flyer and Press Release below:

***Special Thanks to Cory Taylor – 21 Voices (EntertainmentReporters.com will be in the house)***

PRESS RELEASE

NEW YORK, NY -­‐-­‐ RnB Spotlight, an exclusive “live” showcase of favorite national and local R&B artists, fusing old and new school flavors, is back Sunday April 28, 2013 , featuring Grammy nominated RnB multi-­‐platinum artist SWV. Chart-­‐topping superstars have headlined past shows including Carl Thomas, R.L. of 90’s R&B group, Next; Meelah of 702, Kenny Lattimore, Musiq Soul Child, Marsha, Ambrosius, Mario Winans, and Sisqo, lead singer of multi-­‐platinum group Dru Hill.

The purpose of RnB Spotlight is to open the curtain of opportunity for the next superstar to be discovered. Amateurs are given a “platform” to showcase their talents
and gain local and national exposure in the RnB community. The event is streamed live for the world to see, thus expanding the audience beyond the walls of the venue.

“We hope that by inviting national acts, we’ll inspire up and coming artists to pursue their dreams,” RnB Spotlight founder Cory Taylor stated.

The monthly event will relocate all future shows to the “home of universal music” in SoHo, an eclectic venue, S.O.B’s, also known as Sounds of Brazil. This highly sought after “live” music
venue has earned the reputation as one of the trendiest “live” music venues in the city.

If you would like to be a part of our showcase please send a live video performance of your talent to TalentRnBSpotlight@gmail.com. For further information contact 21Voices Entertainment offices @ (718) 576-­‐1950. Doors open at 7 p.m. show starts at 8 p.m. the event. All advance tickets are $20.

Tickets may be purchased directly at SOBs at www.sobs.com.

VIBE and Singersroom are the official media sponsors for RnB Spotlight.

Monday night, Executive Producer Mona Scott-Young (Monami Entertainment) and Myx Fusions invaded the ATL to give over 300 Press and Industry notables an exclusive look at VH1’s “Love & Hip Hop Atlanta – season 2″ premiere before it airs publicly on April 22, 2013 at 8pm. Cream Ultra Lounge was the place to be as cast members enjoyed specialty drinks (Myx Fusions, Malibu Red and Ciroc) and Hors d oeuvres. There was also a Q&A session that got pretty heated. DJ Fadelf was on the ones and twos.

Cast members in attendance were: Benzino, Erica Dixon, Joseline Hernandez, Rasheeda, Traci Steele, Momma Dee, Kirk Frost, Stevie J, Mimi Faust, Shay Johnson, Che Mack and Babey Drew. Other notables in the building were: Adiz Bambi (Basketball Wives LA), Shawty Lo and DJ Toomp. Special shout out to: K.Michelle, Lil Scrappy and Karlie Redd whom could not make it out.

Check out a few pics:

Thank you to: Monami Entertainment, VH1, Myx Fusions, Malibu Red, Ciroc, Benzino, Greg Fields Jr., Saptosa Foster, Jen Farris and 135th St Agency.

Special S/O to Adiz BAMBI – Girl, you cool as a fan…

Photos by: Briana Crudup Photography

Til next time… CUTTY OUT!!!

Sunday, April 7, 2013 marked the final day of the Atlanta tour for Zeola Gaye’s hit stage play, ‘My Brother Marvin’ at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. In grandiose style, his sister showed accounts of the life, the music, and the untimely death of the Prince of Motown – Marvin Gaye. Directed by Clifton Powell (who also played his father), it’s the only play that brings to the forefront the true to life events that took place in Marvin Gaye’s life, up to his death by the hands of his father – Marvin Gaye, Sr.

With an all-star cast Zeola Gaye took journaled events from her mother’s diaries, as well as accounts of her own to show the families struggles, alcohol & drug addictions and the people who tried to silence them. “It’s time for me to be free,” she says. “I’m releasing it all! The conspiracy, the drama, the lies, the stealing, the control and even the death threats.”

One of the most prolific entertainers to ever walk the face of the earth, Marvin Gaye struggled with his own demons: women, drugs, suicidal tendencies, etc. While at the same time, dealing with the jealousy of his father. Even while being persecuted on a daily basis, he made the world love him. Marvin Gaye helped shape the way we listen to music forever!

Emmy Award Winning Actress, Lynn Whitfield played his mother, Alberta Gaye. She was the only person to witness her son’s death at the tender age of 45 (who was killed a day before his Birthday). She and Marvin had a relationship like no other. Pastor Marvin Gaye, Sr., played by Clifton Powell had issues of his own: dressing in ladies underwear, alcoholism, kinky sex & jealousy issues. “If you ever touch me again, I will kill you!” He told Marvin Gaye at a young age as he kicked him out of the families home. Singer/Actor/Radio Host, Keith Washington who played Marvin Gaye in his latter years gave an outstanding performance. Marvin Gaye adored his family. He loved his father and attempted to give him the world. Zeola Gaye was played by talented actress, Tondy Gallant.

Sadness struck when Zeola Gaye told us that she was denied clearance to use her brothers most popular songs in the play, My Brother Marvin. “However, the show must go on!” she said in pure confidence. Regardless of the music used, Marvin Gaye’s voice rang through the raptors as if he were still with us on this earth. Every song used held the same emotion as the to ones we loved that he made popular. We will always love OUR Brother, Marvin Gaye (April 2, 1939 – April 1, 1984).

Special thanks to Playwright, Angela Barrow Dunlap and Zeola Gaye for bringing the true to life accounts of ‘My Brother Marvin’ to the stage.

Video (Below):

Score!!! After putting her hustle on full-grind mode for years, Tocarra Hamilton has shown that she is more than ready to take this music industry and mold it into her vision of perfection. She is no newcomer to the game. Tocarra has the skills to pay the bills, and she has been getting them checks. You’ve heard her on collaborations with Usher (Daddy’s Home), Pitbull (Dance With Me), and Lil Scrappy (No Love). She has also been recognized by ASCAP for her talents as a songwriter.

Destined to become one of the most notable independent artists in the game, Tocarra Hamilton has dropped her debut single, “Just Like You”. A woman’s anthem, that can definitely be understand and loved by men also. Her sweet voice just pulls you into her world.

Hailing from Milwaukee, Tocarra is more than just an entertainer, she is a survivor! A near-death experience in an almost fatal auto accident; she was told that she would never walk again, but Tocarra turned her focus to becoming a singer. And now, I introduce you our new Queen of the Night: Tocarra Hamilton Live – “Just Like You”.

Live Footage:

***Footage shot & edited by: Cutty Shark for CuttRight Productions***

Boost Mobile teamed up with Atlanta Falcons Wide Receiver, Roddy White and his “Keep the Faith” Foundation for the Atlanta Community Food Bank to ‘Strike Hunger’. In addition to being an all-star on the field, White’s star shines even brighter off the field. He is lending his hands to help the fight on stopping hunger.

Atlanta residents were invited out to the Atlanta Food Truck Park to enjoy a complimentary lunch from Sweet Auburn BBQ. The Atlanta Falcons wide receiver even helped serve the food to fans. Fans also got a chance to take pictures with their favorite NFL player, as he simultaneously signed autographs & falcons paraphernalia.

Boost Mobile donated $8,400 to White’s, Keep the Faith Foundation to honor his dedication to the Atlanta Community.

An Evening with Holly Robinson Peete was A HOPE FLIES Health series presented by the Foundation for Mitochondrial Medicine. This particular series was an educational symposium about Autism, Parkinson’s and Mitochondrial disease. The keynote speaker for the evening was Holly Robinson Peete.

Peete, along with a panel of Medical experts talked about the effects of these diseases on ourselves and the ones we love. The panel included: Dr. John Shoffner: Medical Neurogenetics, Atlanta – talked about mitochondrial disease; Dr. Martha Herbert: Harvard & Mass General, Boston – discussed how Autism affects us; Dr. Zbigniew Wszolek: Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville explored Parkinson’s Disease; and, Robin Morris Ph.D.: Geogia State University talked to us about Neuropsychology. With the wealth of knowledge at this great evening of exploration and discussion of issues that hit close to home for a lot of us, we left with new information and hope for our family and friends.

The keynote speaker, Holly Robinson Peete is an actress, author and an advocate of Autism and Parkinson’s Disease. Both of these diseases live in her heart, as well as her home. Her father battled Parkinson’s disease, and her eldest son RJ Peete was diagnosed with Autism. She and her husband formed HollyRod Foundation in 1997 to help improve the lives of people fighting this great fight. In 2010, Ryan Elizabeth Peete (daughter) co-authored a children’s book about Autism: My Brother Charlie.

The video of A Evening with Holly Robinson Peete (below):

Icon Studios was definitely the place to be as Alja Ka’Million held a private listening session before she unleashes her new mixtape, Boss Bitch Presence in 2013. In case you were in a bubble for the last decade, Alja is a well-established rapper/singer/songwriter/producer/CEO that has penned hits for such industry veterans: Missy Elliott, Rihanna, Trey Songz, Diddy Dirty Money and The Pussy Cat Dolls just to name a few. Now it is her time to shine!

Alja grew up in the Pearlworld neighborhood of Jacksonville, FL. She moved to Los Angeles to jump start her career and now resides in the ATL (Atlanta, GA) where she is busy writing, performing, and recording her life experiences in the vocal booth. She labels her style of music Trap-N-B (hard south 808, heavy bass, gritty production and R&B).

Ka’Million made a name for herself in the industry when she was discovered by Jimmy Iovine and signed to Interscope Records. Now her own boss, she is the CEO of Rippahouse Records. Her first single, “Mr. Moneybags” featuring Future is on heavy rotation in the clubs. She recently shot a video for her next single, “Everywhere”. Yes, Alja Ka’Million is heavily on her grind and she is EVERYWHERE!

Ka’Million’s music appeals to a mass audience. Alja is ready! And; she’s the Fierce, Flirty, Femme Fatale.

For more information, go to: www.AljaKamillion.com

Facebook: Alja.Kamillion

Twitter: @AljaKamillion4k

***Check out the video of Alja Ka’Million in her element; EVERYWHERE***