NEWSLETTER
Updated: December 30, 2002
Happy New Year! Let’s ensure that 2003 is one that we will
all remember by remembering to give back and to be grateful for all our
individual gifts and talents. This
week’s highlights include some sad news about the passing of Carl Redhead,
an instrumental part of the institution of FLOW 93.5, many New Year’s Eve
events – something for everyone, including Irie Food Joint, The
Countdown New Year’s Eve Gala, 10th Annual Black Tie Affair, New Year’s Eve - Las Vegas Style!, and then move right into the New Year at the 30-Something Social, 1st Saturdays! Industry news includes updates this week on Quincy Jones,
Stellar Gospel Music Awards, in-depth interview
with Queen Latifah, Aaliyah,
Pro Football Goes Gospel,
Danny Glover, Tanya Stephens for a reggae update and Rodney Jerkins,
and much, much more!
This newsletter is
designed to welcome all the new members, give you some updated
entertainment-related news and provide you with our upcoming event
listings. To be removed from this email distribution, please CLICK HERE! Welcome to those who are new members. Want your
events listed by date? Check out EVENTS.
FLOW
93.5 MOURNS PASSING OF ITS VICE PRESIDENT AND GENERAL MANAGER
Excerpt
from www.flow935.com
FLOW
93.5 FM
is sad to announce the passing of Carl Redhead, our Vice President and General
Manager, who passed away early Sunday morning
[December 22] after a long illness.
Redhead was instrumental in the establishment of FLOW 93.5 FM,
Canada's first and only Black-owned and operated radio station. As a partner in
FLOW 93.5 FM's parent company, Milestone Radio Inc., Redhead worked
tirelessly for more than 12 years to make the dream of Canada's first Urban
radio station a reality. With this determination FLOW 93.5 FM received a
license from the Canadian Radio-Television and Telecommunications Commission
(CRTC) in June 2000 and was launched on-air in Toronto on February 9,
2001. Redhead had more than 36 years
of radio and television broadcasting and broadcast management experience. He
was former Vice President and Assistant General Manager for Radio 1540 Limited
which operates CHIN-AM and CHIN-FM in Toronto.
Early in his career he won a novice radio announcers' contest that lead to a
career change from teacher to broadcaster. Within five years, Redhead rose to
the status of Chief Announcer. For three years he anchored a major television
news and interview program as a freelancer in his native Trinidad. Redhead's contributions to the broadcasting industry and the Black
community were numerous. He was founding Secretary of the Black Business and
Professional Association (BBPA). He developed the Code for Ethnic Brokers, on
behalf of the Canadian Association of Broadcasters (CAB) and the Canadian
Association of Ethnic (Radio) Broadcasters (CAEB), which was later adopted by
the CRTC. Redhead is listed in the Canadian "Who's Who" directory. In
1998, he was the recipient of the (Pride Newspaper) African Canadian
Achievement Award for Media.
Well-versed in CRTC and industry affairs, he served as a Consultative Committee
member on a CRTC Committee for Radio and was the chair of the Broadcasting
Sub-committee for Public Awareness on Meteorology. Redhead will be sorely missed by his wife, Lenore, his two sons,
daughters-in-law, four grandchildren, and his many friends in the broadcasting
industry.
For more information contact: Aisha
Wickham, Director of Spoken Word & New Media, FLOW 93.5 FM (416) 214
5000 e: aisha@flow935.com.
IRIE FOOD JOINT NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY –
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 31
Tired of the club scene on New Year’s Eve?
Want to experience fine Caribbean food and then welcome in 2003 with an
elegant party with some great people?
Then Irie Food Joint is the place to be! Carl Cassel is offering two four-course dinner seatings for New
Year’s Eve - the first dinner seating is at 6:00 pm but you must vacate your
table by 8:45 pm. The second dinner
seating begins precisely at 9:00 pm.
Then the party continues with music, party favours, free champagne at
midnight and a midnight buffet – Irie style – in their heated patio! Do something different this year and
celebrate the dawning of 2003 at Irie Food Joint!
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 31
IRIE FOOD JOINT NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY
Irie Food Joint
745 Queen Street W. (just west of Bathurst)
6:00 pm dinner seating only - $50.00 (prices do not include alcohol)
9:00 pm dinner seating only - $50.00 (prices do not include alcohol)
Dinner and party - $80.00
Party only 11:00 pm - $40.00
“THE COUNTDOWN” - NEW YEAR’S EVE GALA 2002
- TUESDAY, DECEMBER 31
United Professional Associates, Another Croft Original and Too Nubian
Entertainment proudly present “The Countdown” - New Year’s Eve Gala 2002. For
many years, since about 1985 to be exact, we were looked to as the leaders in
quality entertainment for our adult patrons.
Our flagship product had always been our
annual New Year's gala. Featuring the DJ stylings of Juiceman Jonathan Shaw with
the GTA party phenomena Mr. Kicks. Your
$50 advance ticket includes free finger food / hors d’oeuvres between
9-10:00 pm and free parking (with validation).
Come check out “Where the adults will
be”.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2002
THE COUNTDOWN - 2002 NEW YEAR’S EVE GALA
Presented by United Professional Associates, Another Croft Original and Too
Nubian
Entertainment
The Tasting Rooms Restaurant (On the 2nd floor in the 1st
Canadian Place – north side of King between York and Bay)
From 9:00pm–3:00am
$50 advance (With free finger food /hors
d’oeuvres between 9-10:00 pm)
Free parking with validation – underground on east
side of York, north of King
Very limited $65 door tickets, if available
Arrive Early!!! Formal attire only
(416) 410-4653 / 1-877-2-NUBIAN / (416) 804—5143
thecountdown02@yahoo.ca
OR Juiceman@toonubian.com
EXCLUSIVE ENTERTAINMENT PRESENTS THE 10TH ANNUAL BLACK
TIE AFFAIR - NEW YEAR'S EVE – TUESDAY, DECEMBER 31
Start 2003 in style, class and the elegance you deserve. Experience a
flamboyant affair that truly captures the essence of this rare and remarkable
occasion. The Exclusive Entertainment Family - Eddie Williams, George Fynn,
Quincy, Mark Anthony, Jennifer Huntley, Glen Cooper, and Mohamed DJ proudly
presents Canada's most prestigious event "The 10th ANNUAL BLACK TIE AFFAIR"
inside the glamorous FOUR POINTS HOTEL 5444 Dixie road (at Hwy 401) in
Mississauga. On Tuesday, December 31, 2002 join us for an affair of sheer
splendor that enchants and indulges you our honored guest. Your evening begins
with cocktails served upon arrival followed by a delectable Deluxe all you can
eat hot and cold hors d’oeuvres, not to be outdone by our captivating Ten Year
Anniversary cake. Dance the night away with Canada's #1 upscale Clientele DJs:
"The Crowd Pleaser" DJ Mark Anthony, "The Mailman" George
Fynn DJ Glen C, "The untouchable Mohamed DJ and the one and only Ebony
Sound Crew featuring DJ Quincy. All hosted by The Voice of Choice HBO and The
Advocate Eboe aka Boo. Count down live from New York City's Time Square on a
jumbo video screen. It all takes place in 2 huge ballrooms....
The best DJs, the best venue, the finest cuisine and ten years of being sold
out every year. If we could make one suggestion, it would to get your tickets
early to avoid disappointment. Limited 10th Year Anniversary special tickets
are now on sale at all Nappy's, Salon Paradise, and other locations for ONLY
$40.00/person until Monday December 23, 2002. Please give us a call at 416 781
1695 ext. 3 to take advantage of our Preferred Client Group VIP discounted
packages.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 31
THE 10TH ANNUAL BLACK TIE AFFAIR
PRESENTED BY EXCLUSIVE ENTERTAINMENT
Four Points Hotel
5444 Dixie Road (at Hwy 401)
$40.00/person until Monday December 23
Contact: (416) 781-1695 ext. 3
NEW YEAR’S EVE -
LAS VEGAS STYLE! – DECEMBER 31, 2002
Tired of doing the same old thing every New Year’s Eve? Interested in somewhere refreshing, mature
and sociable? Fed up of outrageous
prices and false promises??? These Eyes
Ent cordially invites you, our family and friends to join us as we celebrate
this New Year’s Eve – LAS VEGAS
STYLE! Usher in the New Year with
style & class! Party alongside
like-minded, progressive revellers as we capture the essence, allure and
grandeur of the city that never sleeps and bring it to you, inside FLAVA CITY! Your evening features:
a 6 Course, Caribbean Buffet,
LIVE Showgirls, Sensational Vocal Performance by Liberty Silver, Complementary
Midnight Champagne Toast, Musical Entertainment by DA INFAMOUS, DJ NIGEL
B. Special Guest Host, the Illustrious
MC BIGG KEVV along with tons of prizes and giveaways all night long! Admission for this incredible experience
is only - $45 or $75
couple! To further increase the
tremendous value you will already have received, your ticket stub from this
event grants you FREE
admission to either the Old School Music with Soul party on Friday Jan 3rd,
or the 30 Something Social, New Year’s Edition on Saturday Jan 4th! Get ready Toronto…we’re gonna’ make this a
night to remember!
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2002
NEW YEAR’S EVE - LAS VEGAS STYLE!
Flava City
Dinner Theatre
247 Spadina
Ave. 2nd Floor (south of Dundas)
For more
info/tickets: 416-877-3882, info@flavacity.com, www.flavacity.com
Semi-Formal Dress Code in effect.
19+ with valid ID
To view the itinerary or menu, please see the attached flyer or visit us
at: www.flavacity.com (events listings)
30-SOMETHING
SOCIAL, 1ST SATURDAYS! – JANUARY 4, 2003
Here’s your 1ST chance to sport that new sweater, pair of socks or
earrings you just got from Santa! Join These Eyes Ent and Mark Anthony for the
30 Something Social New Year’s Edition
inside Flava City! You are cordially invited to socialize and
party at the only event created with you in mind! Featuring eclectic Caribbean cuisine, musical entertainment with
soul and the perfect social atmosphere infused with elegance and class! Work off that Holiday turkey by dancing the
night away to the soulful vibes of the Crowd Pleaser, DJ Mark Anthony. Sponsored and tasting provided by; El Dorado
5yr Rum, the Finest Rum in the Caribbean
and Grey Goose Vodka, the Executive
choice. Flava City is the place to be in 2003 for the 30-Something clientele!
Guaranteed to provide mature theme events the 1st SATURDAY of every month! To show our appreciation and to set the New Year off right, this
event is absolutely FREE for
all New Year’s Eve ticket holders for: Flava
City or Four Points Hotel! Other
New Year’s ticket holders welcome, please rsvp at: info@flavacity.com. Wishing you all the best for the New Year!
SATURDAY,
JANUARY 4, 2003
30-SOMETHING
SOCIAL – NEW YEAR’S EDITION
Flava City
Dinner Theatre
247 Spadina
Ave. 2nd Floor (south of Dundas)
Doors/Kitchen
Open: 10pm
Adv tix,
$10 single, $15 couple
For more
info/tickets: 416-877-3882, info@flavacity.com, www.flavacity.com
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2002
KELLY PRICE Christmas (Def Soul)
TUESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2003
MONICA All Eyez On Me (J Records)
TYRESE I Wanna Go There (J Records)
LISTEN UP! WE TALKED TO QUINCY
JONES: A LIVING LEGEND PENS HIS AUTOBIOGRAPHY
Excerpt from www.eurweb.com
- by
Rhonda Planer
It’s
Quincy's unfailing honesty that makes his autobiography so compelling. That and
enough celebrity cameos to earn Q the nickname of “Ghetto Gump.” Quincy can
name drop with the best of them, (Alex Haley! Malcolm X! Stravinsky!) and is on
a first name basis with more than one world leader. He affectionately refers to
former president Bill Clinton as Bubba and when he talks of Nelson Mandela he
playfully quips, “You know all brothas like sweet wine,” as he relates a story
of a recent visit to South Africa and sharing wine with the elder
statesman. One of the most potent
moments in the book occurs as Quincy describes the circumstances surrounding
the moment he discovered the power of music. The epiphany came at the Bremerton,
Washington Armory rec center in Sinclair Heights when Quincy and his two
brothers, Lloyd and Waymond broke into the soda fountain area and found the
freezer where the lemon meringue pie was stored. While the others were stuffing
themselves with the ill-gotten sweets, Quincy broke into a smaller room next
door. He writes, “there was a tiny
stage in the room and on it was an old upright piano. I went up there, paused,
stared, and then tinkled on it for a moment.” “That’s where I began to find
peace. I was eleven. I knew this was it for me. Forever.” He then tells Lee Bailey. “God sent me there so that I’d find music.
Music to me was my substitute for a mother. The word mother means nothing to
me, it has no meaning. I could intellectualize it, I could vicariously go
through it because I have babies, but it means nothing.” Quincy's mother, Sarah Jones, was a
brilliant woman. She played piano, and spoke and wrote several languages.
However, she was also mentally ill. Her illness took its toll on Quincy and his
brother Lloyd. She was unable to give them the nurturing and guidance the young
boys needed. It had a lifelong impact on Quincy.
In another chapter entitled, “My Life as a Dog,” Quincy answers the hounding
question about his predilection for women of various racial backgrounds. “When I look at a woman, race is the last
thing I’m looking at: I’m checking out her legs, her pretty eyes, her
‘whatevers’, how she expresses herself, how she relates to me. It all started
in the Pacific Northwest, (where Quincy grew up) where if there were three or
four fine sisters, they were nailed down already. I expanded my criteria
quickly.” Music enthusiasts will also
enjoy the first person account of American music history as Quincy describes
touring with the Lionel Hampton Band, playing back up for Billie Holiday.
Arranging albums for Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles, Dinah Washington, and Sara
Vaughn. In a chapter entitled “Thriller,” Quincy answers his peers who “misread
[his] presence in the pop arena.” He writes.
“Since age thirteen in Seattle I’d played rhythm and blues, swing, big
band, Sousa, marches, polkas, Debussy, and bebop. I even played for strippers
and sang backup vocals. It was always a 360-degree gumbo. Every step along the
way prepared me for wherever I needed to go musically. There were never any
limitations.” It is his seemingly
limitless passion for all things that is the genius of Quincy Jones. Long time
friend Clarence Avant describes Quincy’s unquenchable thirst for knowledge
about all things, in the chapter he submitted. “Quincy survived in this record business because he’s like that
Duke Ellington song 'New World a-Coming.' He knows what’s coming and going
before anyone else. He knows about Bill Gates and eBay and music on the
Internet and all that sh*t, and he shares it with whomever he knows. He knows
what a bottle of 1922 blah blah is, and whose grandma made it and why they sit
on the grapes or whatever the fu*k they do. I have no idea why he cares for all
that dumb sh*t, but I love him. Only in heaven, will I find a better friend.”
At 69 Quincy is still a ladies man, although now he looks more like a grandpa
than the womanizer of years ago. He’s still passionate and gracious about the
opportunities that have come to him. He is currently working on a musical about
the life of Sammy Davis Jr., and wants to write and compose a show based on the
evolution of black music. Quincy continues to be a wellspring of creativity,
love and compassion. It must have been
quite a challenge to fit such a full life into 37 chapters. Readers will take
away enduring lessons on, integrity, personal triumph and living your dreams.
Oh! If we could all live like Quincy!
Quincy Jones' book, “Q The Autobiography of Quincy Jones" is published by
Doubleday and is available now.
MORE
ON THE 18TH ANNUAL STELLAR GOSPEL MUSIC AWARDS - LINEUP INCLUDES DONNIE MCCLURKIN, MARY MARY, AND MORE
Excerpt from www.eurweb.com - by A. Jalila Larsuel
The "18th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards," the
only annual televised gospel music awards show, returns for the fifth year to
Atlanta. This two hour musical television special will be taped at the Atlanta
Civic Center on Saturday, January 11. 2003. Co-hosting and performing at the
2003 Stellar Awards are popular gospel artists Donnie McClurkin and Mary Mary
along with gospel newcomer Michelle Williams, of the Grammy-award winning music
group Destiny's Child. Some of the
most talented artists in gospel music are slated to perform this year they
include Donald Lawrence and Tri-City Singers, Donnie McClurkin, Ted and Sheri,
Smokie Norful, Israel and Dorinda Clark Cole. The celebrities scheduled to
present are the female cast of the hit UPN series Girlfriends, Kirk Franklin,
The Winans, Karen Clark-Sheard, and actor Sean Patrick Thomas to name a
few. Special moments scheduled for
this year's show will be a tribute to Stellar Awards Hall of Fame recipient, Yolanda
Adams. She is nominated for six Stellar Gospel Music Awards. The James
Cleveland Award will be presented to gospel music pioneer and living legend
Pastor Andre' Crouch. Richard
Smallwood with Vision is nominated for an astonishing ten Stellar Gospel Music
Awards. Kirk Franklin and Donald Lawrence received five Stellar Award
nominations, respectively, and the Commissioned Reunion received four
nominations. All of the aforementioned Stellar Award nominees will be present
at this year's ceremony (see nominee list).
The "18th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards" show is executive
produced by Don Jackson, produced by Barbara Wilson and directed by Chuck
Vinson for Central City Productions. Founded in 1970 by Don Jackson,
Chicago-based Central City Productions is a distributor of original programming
to television and cable networks.
The show is sponsored by General Motors, Merrill Lynch, Musicworld Gospel and
Gospel Truth Magazine. The official airline is American Airlines. The
"18th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards" will air in national
syndication over broadcast, cable and PAX-NET stations January 18, 2003 through
February 16, 2003. Stellar Awards.com and CCPTV.com websites are powered by
Grazing Media.
Please contact A. Jalila Larsuel at 626.398.5028 (office), 626.794.8973 (fax)
or email at JLMediaPR@aol.com. You may also reach Denyse Parks at 404.377.2990
(office), 404.377.3030 (fax) or email at DMParks01@aol.com for additional
information.
QUEEN REIGNS SUPREME IN ‘CHICAGO’
Excerpt from www.eurweb.com
- by Karu F. Daniels
(New York, NY)
Though
mainstream media outlets are overflowing with exposure about “Chicago”
stars Catherine Zeta-Jones and Renee Zellweger, they should not
sleep on the contribution that hip-hop superstar Queen Latifah has made
to the filmed version of the hit Kander & Ebb Broadway musical. In the Rob Marshall-directed film,
which opened this week to critical acclaim, Queen Latifah (born Dana Owens)
plays Matron Mama Morton, a crooked, no-holds barred diva that oversees the
inmates at the Cook County Correctional Facility for Women. And she brings much
gusto to the role. “Queen Latifah is
an amazing actress,” says “Chicago’s executive producer Neil Meron.
“It’s putting a spin on the role, and reinventing it, and not disrupting the
period. She’s incredibly believable, and she brings her own spirit, talent, and
brilliance to the role of Mama Morton.”
Queen Latifah’s spirit is what
audiences have grown to know since she first stepped on the scene as an
Afro-centric, female-liberating rap goddess in 1989 with her debut album, “All
Hail To The Queen.” Numerous accolades, a Grammy award, gold and platinum
records, a critically-acclaimed TV sitcom that made it into syndication soon
followed, along with Hollywood cache. Her star power even shines more with her
endorsement deal with Cover Girl cosmetics. Her breakout role in the gritty
urban heist drama, “Set It Off,” made Tinsel Town take notice of the
Newark-bred home girl. The former syndicated talk-show host and best-selling
author (“Ladies First”) has worked alongside Spike Lee, Wesley Snipes
(“Jungle Fever”), Jada Pinkett-Smith, Vivica A. Fox (“Set It
Off”), Danny Devito, Holly Hunter (“Living Out Loud”), Denzel
Washington, Angelina Jolie (“The Bone Collector”), Sanaa Lathan,
Taye Diggs and Mos Def (“Brown Sugar”), to date.
The RU Report caught up to Queen Latifah while doing publicity chores
for the remarkable film. Here’s what she had to offer in relations to the
following subjects:
Teaching the girls the ropes… “Well, I just inspired them a bit, you
know. I told them to watch me and see how I do it. Actually, there was a guy
from Miramax whose sole job was to make sure we got the lip synch right. So, if
anything, he drove my ass crazy. I was like, “Damned, I missed that word?” It
wasn’t too bad because we all sang it so it wasn’t like we were trying to mimic
someone’s music. It was us doing ourselves… For the most part, you had to
because if you didn’t, it wouldn’t look right. I’m not going to lie. I tried to
get over once, but it didn’t work out. So I belted out every single time, but
it got more fun as we did it. Even with atmosphere, and I have to give the
extras props, because they had a good time. They were sitting there and
enjoying this good thing like we are.”
’Chicago’ confidence… ”I always believed in me. I never take a job I
don’t feel like I can do. Some people take jobs for the money or some take it
for the opportunity, but I don’t on things I don’t think I give a 100% to. I
felt I could give a 100% to this movie. I was delightfully surprised at
everybody’s reaction. I was actually paying homage to everyone else. Catherine
Zeta-Jones was dancing her ass off and I didn’t know she could do that. John C.
Reilly got me with his song number. I was like, “Wow, I’ m part of something
special”. And some of the dancers that are in this movie are from the Broadway
production. The things that men and women can do with their bodies’ amazes me
so I was sort of in awe throughout the whole process and really proud of how
Director Rob Marshall was handling this whole thing. It could be a big
undertaking in his first picture. This guy was rock steady and you trusted
yourself in his hands because he was cool about everything and so was his whole
team. He’s the director and at the same time he could have you work with one of
his assistants and you know that they will do just a good of a job as Rob. He
has good people working with him and that was cool. We had a lot of fun doing
this movie. It was work, but we had fun.”
The return of the movie musical… “I grew up watching this stuff. I don’t
even understand why they stopped making musicals. If anything, I’m like, “What
happened” They look at these numbers and money. That’s one the things I’m most
happy about with this movie. [Miramax Pictures’ head honcho] Harvey
[Weinstein] loves this movie. He’s passionate about it. He’s not trying to
go out and sell it to make $100 million on this thing. If it does that, then
that would be great. But it’s more about the love to make this movie happen and
the passion behind it, and I’m enjoying that. Like they really care about the
movie itself not so much about the money. I’m hoping that with success of “Moulin
Rogue” and I thanked Nicole Kidman just recently for doing their
thing because she and Baz Luhrman made it a lot easier for us to do
this. And if this film can be successful, then more people can make more
musicals. It would be like, “Monkey see, monkey do”. That’s the Hollywood
follow the leader sort of thing. There’s a lot of talent out here. They will
get a chance to work, not just on stage, but in films. That’s what I like to
see. You look at these dancers and they’re dancing, singing, and acting; and
you want to see them work. So, that’s where I’m at with it.”
Taking on Hollywood… ”You know me, I’m kind of one of those people who
loves the opportunity to work and do creative things and do a film that’s
different from the last one which is different from the one before that. I’m
one of those people who feel like they can do anything if I put my mind to. So
you’ll never catch me doing one kind of movie, that’s just my thing. Or stay in
one kind of music, or just do film not TV or just do TV and not do film. I just
love the opportunity to just do different things and try to be creative. I’m
not into “R” stuff. I’m not good at peddling myself if that makes sense. Some
people are great at selling themselves. I’m too humble for that. I’m still
trying to learn. I enjoy it. I feel like it’s a blessing like it’s a one in a
million shot and you have to respect it because there are actors out there who
are dying for jobs. I was blessed to get into it through music. To me, it was
like, “Respect what you are doing and try to get better. Respect the craft and
do your best”. I’m riding this thing and having a ball. I’m not into the
stalker things and invasion of your privacy but it is what it is so I’m just
having fun working. That’s where I’m at.”
The almighty Oscar… ”It’s great, but to me, I don’t think it should have
taken this long for Denzel to get a Best Actor Award. As a black woman, I’m
realistic about it and that’s just how it is. I think it would great and I like
being part of it. I think it’s exciting. I got to perform at the Oscars a few
years back in this big musical number and it was great. To be a part of it is
very exciting and I think this movie does deserve some. There are people in
this film who do deserve to get a nod. But for me personally, I’m looking at it
realistically. I’m going to fight for it because I’m going to fight for this
movie. I think it’s great film and it should be in the race. But me personally,
I deal with the reality of the fact that it is hard for an African-American
woman to get an Oscar let alone get nominated. I look at it with a grain of
salt at the same time.”
An album of straight singing, not rapping… ” I’m going to one day. I may
do a jazz standard album. Just for fun. Not before I turn 35. I need something
to look forward to. I have to have these little goals. Give me a few years and
I’ll be ready. I have to make sure I do it right.”
Next movie project with Steve Martin… “Yeah, we just did a film as
executive producers, we did for Disney called “Bringing Down the House”. It’s
freaking hysterical and funny as well. I’m not just saying this because I’m in
it but you’ll see the trailers and if you not bursting with laughter when you
see it, then I will be highly surprised. But the movie is really funny and it’s
with good old classic Steve Martin like “The Jerk.” Eugene Levy has a crush on
me in this film and I’m teaching him some slang. Wait until you hear the stuff
that comes out of his mouth. He does it so well. He’s so good.
Staying grounded… ”I shovelled the driveway at my mother ‘s house when
it snowed recently. That’s how you stay grounded. She makes me walk the dog and
take out the trash, so how can I get a big head.”
FANS TAKING "CARE" -
AALIYAH SET PULLS BIG NUMBERS
Excerpt from www.eurweb.com
If sales are any indication, Aaliyah is
surely missed by music fans. The singer's posthumous album, "I Care 4
U," led last week's debuts on the album charts, landing at No. 3. The
album features six previously unreleased tracks along with the singer's top
radio hits and a DVD collection of videos.
"I Care 4 U" sold 280,000 units. Her last album pulled in
186,000 its first week out. In
addition to the Aaliyah album, a number of popular acts are planning to be a
part of an Aaliyah tribute album that will feature renditions of songs Aaliyah
was just beginning to work on before her fatal plane crash last August.
DONNIE
MCCLURKIN AND OTHERS AT THE SUPER BOWL: PRO FOOTBALL GOES GOSPEL
Excerpt from www.eurweb.com
Since we've already mentioned football and gospel music we
figured we might as well mention them both in the same story. The Super Bowl Gospel Celebration, in
association with the NFL Concert Series, will bring one of gospel music’s most
celebrated tours to San Diego for Super Bowl Weekend;
"Hopeville." Featuring
Grammy award-winning, platinum-selling, crossover artists Kirk Franklin, Donnie
McClurkin and Yolanda Adams, the concert will take place on Friday, January 24
at 8:00 p.m. at The San Diego Sports Arena.
The Broadway staging, short skits and interaction among the artists make
Hopeville a place where people can feel safe and find hope through soul-stirring
music, words of encouragement and the spirit of unity. Performed before sold-out crowds across the
nation, Several current and former National Football League (NFL) players who
are members of Christian Athletes United for Spiritual Empowerment (C.A.U.S.E.)
will make appearances during the Super Bowl Gospel Celebration.
GLOVER
AND OTHERS FIND OUT "WHAT'S GOING ON" - NEW SERIES LOOKS AT WHAT
CHILDREN THINK ABOUT TRAUMATIC EVENTS
Excerpt from www.eurweb.com
The
Showtime cable network has reached an agreement with RCN Entertainment to
produce a 10 part series entitled "What's Going On?" set to debut on
January 19. The show is said to be an
original family documentary series that goes beyond the headlines to examine
critical global issues from the perspectives of children. Danny Glover, Angelina Jolie, Jeff Bridges,
Laurence Fishburne and Michael Douglas are already onboard as celebrity
hosts. The 10-part series will kick
off with an episode hosted by UN Goodwill Ambassador Danny Glover and will
focus on the HIV/AIDS crisis in the Caribbean.
REGGAE UPDATES FROM JAMAICA: TANYA
STEPHENS BACK ON THE CHARTS
Excerpt from www.eurweb.com
- by
Kevin Jackson / k.jackson@cwjamaica.com
"Touch
Me No More" her contribution on the "diwali" rhythm hit the Top
10 of the New York reggae charts a few months ago. Now Tanya Stephens is back
on the chart, this time with the acoustic "What a Day," which entered
at #30 on the New York Reggae chart last week. Produced by Phillip "Fattis" Burrell on the Exterminator
label, "What a Day" is among a batch of songs from Stephens which are
enjoying heavy rotation on the airwaves. Others include "What's Your
Story" on the Flabba Music label; "Me A Go Want You" on the
G'String Label; "Addicted" from In De Streetz; "It's About
Time" on the Clappas rhythm, "Own Gal" on the Masterpiece
rhythm, "Girl Fun" on the Shanghai rhythm by Déjà Vu label and
"Please Me" on the B. Rich label.
Stephens is currently putting together the finishing touches to an
upcoming album which will feature most of the aforementioned tracks as well as
some of her European singles such as "It's A Pity" and "Need You
Tonight." Performance wise, Tanya
has a hectic schedule, as on she recently returned from a performance in
Trinidad. On Dec 22, she will be performing at the Zoo Night Club, Nassau in
Bahamas, while on December 31, she is scheduled to perform at the Caribbean
Beach Park in Montego Bay.
JERKINS WORKIN' FOR HONEY: PRODUCER
TO WRITE SONGS FOR, AND PRODUCE SOUNDTRACK
Rodney
Jerkins used to be nothing but a thick-necked kid from Jersey, now he's a rich
and famous thick necked kid from Jersey.
The Grammy winning producer has signed to write songs and produce the
soundtrack for Universal Pictures' "Honey." Jerkins will also make
his acting debut in the film, playing the role of record producer KMX. The film, directed by Bille Woodruff, stars
Jessica Alba ("Dark Angel"), Joy Bryant ("Antwone Fisher"),
Mekhi Phifer ("8 Mile") and rapper Lil' Romeo. "Honey" is a music-driven
coming-of-age drama about an inner-city woman (Alba) who fulfills her dream of
becoming a successful video choreographer until an unforeseen setback causes
her to discover greater satisfaction in creating dance with neighbourhood kids.
Many of the dance scenes are being choreographed to meet Jerkins' musical
vision, by the way. Jerkins has worked with such artists as Jennifer Lopez,
Britney Spears, *N Sync, Michael Jackson, Backstreet Boys, Whitney Houston,
Toni Braxton and Mary J. Blige. Jerkins won a Grammy in 2000 for best R&B
song for writing Destiny's Child's No. 1 hit "Say My Name." He most recently produced singles on the latest
CDs by TLC and Santana.
MONDAY,
DECEMBER 30
VIP JAM WITH SPECIAL GUESTS
Revival Bar
783 College Street (at Shaw)
10:00 pm
NO COVER
EVENT PROFILE: Featuring Rich
Brown, Andrew Craig and Shamakah Ali with various local artists.
TUESDAY,
DECEMBER 31
IRIE FOOD JOINT NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY
Irie Food Joint
745 Queen Street W. (just west of Bathurst)
6:00 pm dinner seating only - $50.00 (prices do not include alcohol)
9:00 pm dinner seating only - $50.00 (prices do not include alcohol)
Dinner and party - $80.00
Party only 11:00 pm - $40.00
EVENT PROFILE: Tired of the
club scene on New Year’s Eve? Want to
experience fine Caribbean food and then welcome in 2003 with an elegant
party? Then Irie Food Joint is the
place to be! Carl Cassel is offering
two four-course dinner seatings for New Year’s Eve - the first dinner seating
is at 6:00 pm but you must vacate your table by 8:45 pm. The second dinner seating begins precisely
at 9:00 pm. Then the party continues
with music, party favours, free champagne at midnight and a midnight buffet –
Irie style – in their heated patio! Do
something different this year and celebrate the dawning of 2003 at Irie Food
Joint!
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2002
THE COUNTDOWN - 2002 NEW YEAR’S EVE GALA
Presented by United Professional Associates, Another Croft Original and Too
Nubian
Entertainment
The Tasting Rooms Restaurant (On the 2nd floor in the 1st
Canadian Place – north side of King between York and Bay)
From 9:00pm–3:00am
$50 advance (With free finger food /hors
d’oeuvres between 9-10:00 pm)
Free parking with validation – underground on east
side of York, north of King
Very limited $65 door tickets, if available
Arrive Early!!! Formal attire only
(416) 410-4653 / 1-877-2-NUBIAN / (416) 804—5143
thecountdown02@yahoo.ca
OR Juiceman@toonubian.com
EVENT PROFILE: United Professional Associates, Another Croft Original
and Too Nubian Entertainment proudly present “The Countdown” - New Year’s Eve
Gala 2002. For many years, since about 1985 to be exact, we were
looked to as the leaders in quality entertainment for our adult patrons. Our
flagship product had always been our annual New Year's gala. Featuring the DJ
stylings of Juiceman Jonathan Shaw with the GTA party phenomena Mr. Kicks. Your $50 advance ticket includes free
finger food / hors d’oeuvres between 9-10:00 pm and free parking (with
validation). Come check out “Where the adults will be”.
TUESDAY,
DECEMBER 31
THE 10TH ANNUAL BLACK TIE AFFAIR
PRESENTED BY EXCLUSIVE ENTERTAINMENT
Four Points Hotel
5444 Dixie Road (at Hwy 401)
$40.00/person until Monday December 23
Contact: (416) 781-1695 ext. 3
EVENT PROFILE: Start
2003 in style, class and the elegance you deserve. Experience a flamboyant
affair that truly captures the essence of this rare and remarkable occasion.
The Exclusive Entertainment Family - Eddie Williams, George Fynn, Quincy, Mark
Anthony, Jennifer Huntley, Glen Cooper, and Mohamed DJ proudly presents
Canada's most prestigious event "The 10th ANNUAL BLACK TIE AFFAIR"
inside the glamorous FOUR POINTS HOTEL 5444 Dixie road (at Hwy 401) in
Mississauga. On Tuesday, December 31, 2002 join us for an affair of sheer
splendor that enchants and indulges you our honored guest. Your evening begins
with cocktails served upon arrival followed by a delectable Deluxe all you can
eat hot and cold hors d’oeuvres, not to be outdone by our captivating Ten Year
Anniversary cake. Dance the night away with Canada's #1 upscale Clientele DJs:
"The Crowd Pleaser" DJ Mark Anthony, "The Mailman" George
Fynn DJ Glen C, "The untouchable Mohamed DJ and the one and only Ebony
Sound Crew featuring DJ Quincy. All hosted by The Voice of Choice HBO and The
Advocate Eboe aka Boo. Count down live from New York City's Time Square on a
jumbo video screen. It all takes place in 2 huge ballrooms.... The best DJs,
the best venue, the finest cuisine and ten years of being sold out every year.
If we could make one suggestion, it would to get your tickets early to avoid
disappointment. Limited 10th Year Anniversary special tickets are now on sale
at all Nappy's, Salon Paradise, and other locations for ONLY $40.00/person
until Monday December 23, 2002. Please give us a call at 416 781 1695 ext. 3 to
take advantage of our Preferred Client Group VIP discounted packages.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER
31, 2002
NEW
YEAR’S EVE - LAS VEGAS STYLE!
Flava City
Dinner Theatre
247 Spadina
Ave. 2nd Floor (south of Dundas)
For more
info/tickets: 416-877-3882, info@flavacity.com, www.flavacity.com
Semi-Formal Dress Code in effect.
19+ with valid ID
To view the itinerary or menu, please see the attached flyer or visit us
at: www.flavacity.com (events listings)
EVENT PROFILE: Tired of doing the same old thing every New
Year’s Eve? Interested in somewhere
refreshing, mature and sociable? Fed up
of outrageous prices and false promises???
These Eyes Ent cordially invites you, our family and friends to join us
as we celebrate this New Year’s Eve – LAS
VEGAS STYLE! Usher in the New Year
with style & class! Party alongside
like-minded, progressive revellers as we capture the essence, allure and
grandeur of the city that never sleeps and bring it to you, inside FLAVA CITY! Your evening features:
a 6 Course, Caribbean Buffet,
LIVE Showgirls, Sensational Vocal Performance by Liberty Silver, Complementary
Midnight Champagne Toast, Musical Entertainment by DA INFAMOUS, DJ NIGEL
B. Special Guest Host, the Illustrious
MC BIGG KEVV along with tons of prizes and giveaways all night long! Admission for this incredible experience
is only - $45 or $75
couple! To further increase the
tremendous value you will already have received, your ticket stub from this
event grants you FREE
admission to either the Old School Music with Soul party on Friday Jan 3rd,
or the 30 Something Social, New Year’s Edition on Saturday Jan 4th! Get ready Toronto…we’re gonna’ make this a
night to remember!
THURSDAY,
JANUARY 2, 2003
PEPPA SEED MOTOWN REVIVAL
Indian Motorcycle
355 King Street
10:30 pm
NO COVER
EVENT PROFILE: Featuring
Divine Earth Essence, Kenny Moran, Rohan Staton, Roger Williams, Deryck Roche
SATURDAY, JANUARY 4, 2003
30-SOMETHING
SOCIAL – NEW YEAR’S EDITION
Flava City
Dinner Theatre
247 Spadina
Ave. 2nd Floor (south of Dundas)
Doors/Kitchen
Open: 10pm
Adv tix,
$10 single, $15 couple
For more
info/tickets: 416-877-3882, info@flavacity.com, www.flavacity.com
EVENT PROFILE:
Here’s your 1ST chance to sport that new sweater, pair of socks or
earrings you just got from Santa! Join These Eyes Ent and Mark Anthony for the
30 Something Social New Year’s Edition
inside Flava City! You are cordially invited to socialize and
party at the only event created with you in mind! Featuring eclectic Caribbean cuisine, musical entertainment with
soul and the perfect social atmosphere infused with elegance and class! Work off that Holiday turkey by dancing the
night away to the soulful vibes of the Crowd Pleaser, DJ Mark Anthony. Sponsored and tasting provided by; El Dorado
5yr Rum, the Finest Rum in the Caribbean
and Grey Goose Vodka, the Executive
choice. Flava City is the place to be in 2003 for the 30-Something clientele!
Guaranteed to provide mature theme events the 1st SATURDAY of every month! To show our appreciation and to set the New Year off right, this
event is absolutely FREE for
all New Year’s Eve ticket holders for: Flava
City or Four Points Hotel! Other
New Year’s ticket holders welcome, please rsvp at: info@flavacity.com. Wishing you all the best for the New Year!
SUNDAY,
JANUARY 5, 2003
SOULAR
College Street Bar
574 College Street (at Manning)
10:30 pm
$5.00
EVENT PROFILE: Featuring
Dione Taylor, Sandy Mamane, Davide Direnzo, Justin Abedin, Dafydd Hughes and
David French.