424 Yonge Street, Suite 301, Toronto,
ON M5B 2H3
(416) 677-5883
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NEWSLETTER
Updated: December 5, 2002
Bothered by the cold
snap? Well, it won’t last forever but
neither will the exciting events coming up over the next 10 days! This week’s highlights include MICHAEL
RAWLINS update, MORRIS CHESTNUT visits Toronto at Charlies, FIRST
FRIDAYS, FLAVA CITY CHRISTMAS PARTY, exciting WHEN BROTHERS SPEAK spoken
word performances, IRIE FOOD JOINT GALLERY SHOWING AND PARTY, update on TERRIE
WILLIAMS from her book tour, ONTARIO SOUND RECORDING TAX CREDIT, great
opportunity for writers, entertainment tidbits 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.
SCOOP
MICHAEL RAWLINS LANDS ROLE IN PULITZER
PRIZE-WINNING PLAY “THE PIANO LESSON”
Toronto’s
own Michael Rawlins has accepted the lead role of Boy Willie in The Piano Lesson by August Wilson,
one of today's most acclaimed playwrights. Michael comes back to Toronto
from Los Angeles for The Piano Lesson’s Canadian Premiere with the Obsidian
Theatre Company on February 7, 2002, which runs through February 28,
2002. Michael believes this will be the most challenging role on stage to
date and is relishing the opportunity to be a part of this premiere.
The Piano Lesson is an uplifting portrait of an American family and
the true meaning of heritage. Boy Willie, a farm hand from the South, arrives on
his sister's doorstep to reclaim his share of the family legacy. Selling the hand-carved
heirloom piano will buy him land of his own. Filled with evocative music, smouldering
pride, and unwavering hope, this universal story shows us a choice we all must make:
moving ahead to the promise of the future, or clinging to the past. Of
special interest is that this role was originated by Samuel Jackson at
the Yale Repertory Theater in New Haven, Connecticut.
Michael Anthony Rawlins considers himself to be very fortunate to have garnered
work in three different aspects of the thespian world; stage, television and
film! Recent work includes the film Partners
in Crime with Armand Assante and a recurring role on the popular
television series, DOC.
Other television work has included a recurring role on the hugely popular
series of the 90's, 90210
as well as NYPD Blue,
Roseanne, Movies of
the Week; The Natalie
Cole Story and Lethal Vows with John
Ritter. Michael was also in a series regular role as Lt. Martin
Ehrenthal on the multiple award winning series TOTAL RECALL 2070.
Last year Michael decided to diversify as an artist and try his hand at
filmmaking. The result is a short film entitled, Judy Judy Judy which was received enthusiastically at
the Black Hollywood and Education Resource
Center's ninth annual film festival, (Nov. 14-17/02), in Los
Angeles. His hope is that three other scripts of his penning, the play Uncompromisingly So, the television pilot, Does Everyone Have
a Show Except Me and the feature film, The Pursuit Thereof, will
also be brought to fruition in the not too distant future.
HOT EVENTS TO CHECK OUT!
INDIA.ARIE
IN CONCERT- FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2002
In
support of her new album, this talented artist will be performing live in
Toronto at Massey Hall on Friday, December 6, 2002. Be sure to cop the
limited edition album that contains a bonus track! Voyage to India is the
follow up to India.Arie's critically acclaimed and PLATINUM + debut, Acoustic
Soul. In the two years since her debut, India has grown as a person and as an
artist, her music reflects that change. 'Little Things' reflects her
appreciation of the 'Little Things' that matter - love, family, fans and
friends.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6
INDIA.ARIE
Massey Hall
8:00 pm
$39.50 - $69.50
Ticketmaster: 416-870-8000
BACARDI
PRESENTS MORRIS CHESTNUT – FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6
IT HAS BEEN CONFIRMED! Morris Chestnut live in person
at Charlies this Friday! The same
Morris Chestnut that has starred in “Like Mike”, “The Brothers“, “The Best
Man“, “Boyz N the Hood“. His newest film is “HALF PAST DEAD“ which
also features Ja Rule and Steven Seagal. Come
join the excitement and luxurious appeal of Charlies. VIP passes and guest list not valid
that night. And don’t forget, Charlies happens every
Friday …
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6
BACARDI PRESENTS MORRIS CHESTNUT
CHARLIES
1 Jarvis St (at Queen's Quay )
10:00pm-3:00am
25 and over / dress code
www.majorleague-ent.com
FIRST FridayS – Friday, DECEMBER 6
First Fridays is a socializing and networking affair held the first Friday of
every month. This month’s presentations
(which begin at 8:00 pm) will feature: Alvin
Curling, MPP Scarborough-Rouge River, Tony
Young aka MASTER T and his new book MUCH MASTER T: One VJ's Journey, The
New Black Pages 2003 Directory, Who's Who In Black Canada Inaugural
Edition with Publisher Dawn Williams, Financial Advisor Dale Changoo,
Marcus Scott of BCI Canada, BITePro President Dave Forde, and more.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6
1ST FRIDAYSTM
"An After-Work Networking and Socializing Affair"
Berlins
2335 Yonge St.
From 7:00 pm – 9:30 pm
Admission is only $8 before 8:00 pm; $12
after 8:00 pm
$2 off for students with proper ID
Includes admission to the
AFTERPARTY
Live-to-Air on FLOW 93.5
with Mark Strong
Hosted by Warren Salmon, Lynrod Douglas
and Eddie Williams
30 SOMETHING SOCIAL CHRISTMAS
EDITION! SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7
These Eyes
Ent. & Mark Anthony invite you to experience a flamboyant affair that
will truly capture your essence - Toronto's only 30 Something Social!
Celebrating among your mature, influential and sociable peers in a
comfortable, sophisticated atmosphere, join us for our Christmas Edition!
Featuring Live Jazz/R&B performance by TRIFECTA
along with a special performance by CHRISTOPHER
ROUSE and music by
The Crowd Pleaser, DJ Mark Anthony, Hosted by MC Bigg Kevv!
SATURDAY
DECEMBER 7, 2002
30-Something Social, 1st Saturdays "Christmas 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
CELEBRATE
CHRISTMAS WITH THE SALVATION ARMY - SATURDAY,
DECEMBER 7
Surprised? Well, this listing is in
homage to my rich Salvation Army heritage – and the concerts really are
incredible – full brass band! See more
in my COMPANY BIO. Join the 400 involved in Canada's premier Salvation Army Band
with a full chorus and organ. Belt out your favourite carols and participate in
the Hallelujah Chorus with the festival chorus with band and organ. There will
also be a performance of the Christmas story performed by the Salvation Army
through song and monologues.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2002
CELEBRATE
CHRISTMAS WITH THE SALVATION ARMY
Roy Thomson Hall
60 Simcoe St.
7:30 pm
$12.00 -
$28.00
GET TICKETS
WHEN BROTHERS SPEAK – DECEMBER 13 AND 14
With the recent violence within Toronto's
Black Community, the debate over whether or not racial profiling exists, and
the mainstream media's attempted assassination of the Black male image, When
Brothers Speak is a timely event that is sure to touch on these issues and
more. Spoken word fans from across
North America are planning to converge on Toronto this December for the 4th
annual When Brothers Speak International Spoken Word Poetry Showcase,
taking place Friday December 13th and Saturday December 14th at the Jane
Mallett Theatre inside of the St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts. Founded and produced by local spoken word
artist Dwayne Morgan, When Brothers Speak has been recognized across North
America as the largest annual event of its kind, attracting over 600 people
last year, and featuring six Black, male artists, who are currently at the top
of their field, performing their original works on love, sex, politics, current
affairs and everything in between. This
year promises an all-star line up featuring New York City’s Jamaal St. John and
Osagyefo, Washington DC’s Komplex, New Jersey’s Faraji Salim,
as well as Toronto’s Unblind and Dwayne Morgan. For artist bios
visit www.upfromtheroots.ca. With the success of the 2001 edition of the
show, this year marks the first time that the show will be held over two
nights. Tickets for the show are already on sale via the St. Lawrence Centre
Website www.stlc.com, in person at the box office, 27 Front St. E @ Yonge, or
by phone at 416.366.7723. Tickets are
$21 for the upper level of the auditorium, and $26 for the lower. The 2002 edition of When Brothers Speak is
proudly sponsored by Word Magazine, Much Music’s The DownLo, the Bay Bloor
Executive Suites, CKLN 88.1, CHRY 105.5, Langfield Entertainment, and is
supported by the Canada Council for the Arts.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13 AND SATURDAY, DECEMBER
14
WHEN BROTHERS SPEAK
St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts
Jane Mallet Theatre
27 Front Street (east of Yonge)
$21.00-$26.00
Purchase
Tickets
Info: (416) 822-1465
Sunday,
December 15, 2002
Up
From the Roots say “Thanks”. This will be a night of partying, networking, and
great entertainment, inside of the Lula Lounge, 1585 Dundas St. W. This show
will be free for everyone who comes with their When Brothers Speak ticket stub,
and $7 for those who missed the show. We will have performers from both sides
of the border, as we showcase hip hop, dance, soul, and poetry as only we can.
Check out www.upfromtheroots.ca for more
info on confirmed artists.
IRIE FOOD JOINT GALLERY SHOWING AND
CHRISTMAS PARTY – DECEMBER 16
Carl Cassel, owner of Irie Food Joint presents his first gallery showing,
Interpretations of Light! Carl believes
that light defines reality and thus that art is an “interpretation of
light”. Carl, an artist as far back as
he can remember, will be showcasing 18 original pieces in various mediums. In pure Irie fashion, Carl is also holding a
customer appreciation Christmas party following the art showing featuring the
DJ styles of Carl Allen. Carl wants to
thank you, his patrons, for all the support over the course of this past
year. Come and join this celebration of
art and the festive season at Irie Food Joint!
MONDAY, DECEMBER 16
CARL CASSEL GALLERY SHOWING AND CHRISTMAS PARTY
Irie Food Joint
745 Queen Street W. (just west of Bathurst)
Gallery Showing: 7:00 – 10:00 pm
Christmas Party: 10:00 pm – closing
Pay What You Can!
IRIE FOOD JOINT NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY –
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? 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
NEW CD RELEASES
TUESDAY,
DECEMBER 3, 2002
50 CENT Get Rich Or Die Tryin' (Shady/Interscope)
FUNKMASTER FLEX TBA (Funkmaster Flex) (J Records)
MARIAH CAREY Charmbracelet (Island/Def Jam)
NEXT NEXT (J Records)
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2002
2 PAC Better Dayz (Interscope)
702 Star (Motown)
COMMON The Electric Circus (MCA)
QUEEN LATIFAH She's A Queen: Collection Of Hits (Motown)
TRACY CHAPMAN Let It Rain (DVD Audio) (Elektra)
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2002
*NSYNC *NSync's Most Requested Hit Videos (DVD/VHS)
(Zomba)
A TRIBE CALLED QUEST Rarities & Remixes
LIL ROMEO Game Time (Universal)
R. KELLY Chocolate Factory (Zomba)
INDUSTRY NEWS
PUBLICIST TERRIE WILLIAMS BARES HER HEART & SOUL
by Karu F. Daniels (New York, NY)
TERRIE TALKS: In tune with the Thanksgiving holiday
season and the idea of “giving back,” I decided to shine some light on someone
who is not a celebrity (in the traditional sense), but who remains an
inspirational figure to me and many others, publicist turned best-selling
author and renowned lecturer Terrie Williams. When I first entered the
‘business’ a little over ten years ago, there weren’t a bunch of loud-mouthed,
low-class, rich Jewish girls running around New York calling themselves
publicists and being touted as the “it” bunch, representing an A-list of
celebrity clientele, like today. Instead, the people who were behind the stars
and their images were classy and all about the business of servicing media. And
they stayed behind the stars, and not in front of the headlines. There was no
hype, no attitude … no pomp & circumstance. Ms. Williams stood out from the pack with
her self-named boutique publicity firm, opened in 1988, located in the heart of
New York’s Columbus Circle across from Central Park, where she represented a
who’s who in Black entertainment from the likes of Eddie Murphy, Russell
Simmons, Jackie Joyner-Kersee, Bill Cosby, Wesley Snipes, Martin Lawrence
and Janet Jackson, while also providing optimal work opportunities for
women and people of color.
In 1994, with her trademark caftan regalia and understated
demeanour Terrie Williams stepped out into the forefront by penning her first
book, “The Personal Touch: What You Really Need to Succeed in Today’s Fast-paced
Business World,” which has become a best-seller and a useful handbook to up
and coming public relations practitioners around the world. After many years of
selling people, their products and services, it was only befitting that she
look out for her best interests, and immortalize her legacy. Ms. Williams’s phenomenal and inspirational
success story began as the tale of a caring and shy young woman from Mount
Vernon, NY who “wanted to save the world.” A social worker by training holding
a Masters in Social Work from Columbia University, the 48-year-old Ms. Williams
has always kept sociological matters at heart. This month, she published her third book, “A Plentiful
Harvest: Creating Balance and Harmony Through Seven Living Virtues” (Warner
Books) and coupled with her well-promoted touring schedule, it’s doing quite
well. Although she’s not chasing
behind celebrity clients anymore, she continues to consult Sean “Puffy”
Combs (who refers to her as Auntie Terrie) and Attorney Johnnie Cochran,
along with keeping corporate clients like AT&T and Essence Communications
Partners in good standing.
The RU Report caught up to Terrie Williams while on the road promoting
her new book, to talk shop – life and love.
You’re such an inspiration to so many. What’s your key to
survival in this business? “I believe my
honesty – and my understanding that we are all the same. We must be kind to
everyone whose paths we cross because you never know in what disguise God is
coming to you.”
And what do you think of the new crop of people calling
themselves publicist these days? “True public
relations professionals understand there is more to what we do than
“publicity”. You can call yourself anything, but your delivery represents you.
I think young people coming into the business have to do a better job of
mastering the fundamentals & the details, following through on what they
say they're going to do, and stepping outside their everyday zone. They need to
know more than just Black culture, although that's key. There's a whole other
side to this industry that they're not tapping into. It will make the
difference.”
How has the industry changed since you first started? “The industry doesn’t change. The people in it do. Today
it’s more crowded than ever before, but we still have the same process with
different results.”
I loved the way you flipped your brand, evolving into a
best-selling author and sold out lecturer. What was your impetus? “When I first started to speak, people were hearing
me. Now they are listening. My driving force has been responding to my
God-given calling – using my life and experiences to help others reach their
potential. Once I listened to that inner voice, it was easy. I was following a
divinely mapped-out path. People make things more difficult than they need to
be by ignoring their inner voice.”
What inspires you?
“My chief inspiration is always God. And He inspires me to do the work I truly
love—helping others, especially our youth. That is why I wrote the book ‘Stay
Strong: Simple Life Lessons for Teens’ and, in conjunction with the book,
we established The Stay Strong Foundation last year. It’s a non-profit
organization that works to support, educate and inspire young people. We
provide mentoring, internship and shadowing programs, and hold special events
for kids. We’ve been able to reach thousands of youth all across the country.”
Why? “Why do I do this?
Because I know that our kids are our future. They’re in pain, and they need our
help. We have the Foundation, but even in the work we do our campaigns are
built around giving back to the community. As an example, Xavier Artis,
my partner and CEO of Players Govern Players Communications, created the
‘Recycling Inspiration’ campaign, which re-celebrates achievements and inspires
dreams. We get autographed awards from noted personalities and present them to
those who are building their own dreams. To make a long story short…I’m
inspired by God and also by inspiring others.”
What was your motivation for The Perfect Harvest? “I wrote ‘A Plentiful Harvest’ because in my heart I
know that we are all going through the fire. We are all challenged and trying
to figure out how to be successful, how to get the job done, and still have a
life. This book is a very personal journey. My hope is that we can begin to
heal as individuals and as a community. If we pull the masks off, shed the game
face, and break our silence about our shared pain and challenges, then we can
begin the healing process. It was a beginning for me.
How do you think hip-hop contributes to the state of the
Black race? “The catalyst for change
in any society will be its youth. With that being said, one would have to
acknowledge that hip-hop is the voice of the youth. Hip-hop tells our story.
Much like those who came before us, it is our history via song, dance and story
telling. Through their words, artists express their views, define culture, talk
about current events. And people use this information to formulate opinions on
relevant issues. That’s the biggest way it impacts on us as a whole.”
Where do we go from here?
“Each one of us has to do our part to take a young person under our wings.
Engage them, teach them, guide them, inspire them, empower them. Take them to
business meetings, the never-ending events we host and go to. Take them to
church, our family reunions. Smile at them when we meet them on the street.
Correct them when they make mistakes. Our youth will never hope, dream, or
aspire to anything if we don’t expose to them to the opportunities we
experience regularly.”
What’s next for you?
“Business-wise, I’m already there…it’s called Players Govern Players. PGP is
the umbrella company that recently acquired the Agency. We can offer something
unique—it’s all about multicultural marketing with a creative edge not seen
before. And it’s based on the premise that we have to take responsibility for
our generation and the new generation of youth. As for me personally, I have to
stay true to my life mission of helping others to reach their potential &
empowering our young people. As long as there are children facing challenges
then there will be plenty of work to do. So expect more of the same from Terrie
Williams.”
GET TIPS ON HOW TO ACCESS THE ONTARIO SOUND RECORDING TAX CREDIT
Do you own a record label in Ontario? Are you an entertainment lawyer or
accountant with music clients? Are you
overwhelmed by all the paperwork required to apply for a tax credit? The Ontario Media Development Corporation is holding an Information
Session on the Ontario Sound Recording Tax Credit (“OSRTC”) on Tuesday,
February 4, 2003. In order to assist
us in providing practical information, we would like you to submit questions
prior to the session. Please use the attached form to write your questions and
fax it to the OMDC by December 18, 2002.
This session will include an overview of the eligibility
requirements, administrative process and calculation of the OSRTC. We will
highlight common problems that can hold up your tax credit and give suggestions
to help you prepare for a fast turnaround. Representatives from both the OMDC
and the Ministry of Finance will be on hand to answer your questions. If you
haven’t applied for a tax credit before, please review the OSRTC information
and application package available on our website www.omdc.on.ca before the
session.
To register for the session,
please complete the information on the following page and fax it to Barbara
Hingley at (416) 314 - 6876. Registration is free. http://www.gov.on.ca/FIN/english/tb01e4.htm
Download OSRTC Application and Information (81kb)
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY
4, 2003
OSRTC INFORMATION SESSION
The
Conference Centre
175 Bloor Street
East, North Tower, 3rd Floor
4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
OPPORTUNITY
FOR WRITERS!!
This is a great opportunity for writers whose subjects include those of the
Black experience. Holloway House Books,
the world’s largest publisher of the Black experience paperbacks is in Los
Angeles and is currently looking for quality books on Black subjects,
specifically stories about music i.e. hip-hop, rap. Please do NOT email your synopsis or
outlines but instead use the address below:
Leon King
Editor
Holloway House Publishing
8060 Melrose, 3rd Floor
Los Angeles,
CA 90046
Check out their site at www.hollowayhousebooks.com.
TWEET
SPEAKS: SINGER TALKS ABOUT DEPRESSION AND PRESSURE TO COMPETE WITH ASHANTI
by Kenya Yarbrough
Tweet hit the scene last year with a the controversial hit “Oops (Oh My),”
which helped catapult her debut CD “Southern Hummingbird” to gold status – not
to mention a little help from the second single, “Call Me,” and her good friend
Missy Elliott. Tweet
met Elliott when both artists were just starting out. Elliott headed out on her
own path to stardom as songwriter and musician Tweet began her professional
singing career in a girl group called Sugar. Unfortunately, or fortunately
depending on how you look at it, the group just couldn’t seem to get off the
ground. Frustrated, Tweet left the project, but started to spiral down in
depression to a point where she considered suicide. In stepped her old friend
Elliott, the day before Tweet had actually planned to end her life. Elliott
helped her get back on her feet and back in the studio. Tweet faced another obstacle of sorts when
her CD hit last April. The obstacle was named Ashanti – another new artist
whose CD was released on the same day. Comparisons were made and rumours were
shaped when the projects hit the airwaves, but Tweet took it in stride,
continued to work her music, and says she never really felt any pressure. “I’m able to do music that I love. This
time last year I wasn’t here, so I’m just appreciative to be able to sing,”
Tweet says. “God is good. I’m not into getting into all that hoopla, the
political stuff with all the record labels, I’m just singing it and loving it. That’s
it. “I’m happy, I can’t say blessed enough. Just to be around all the love.
This is just the beginning of my career and people are acknowledging and loving
my music, so it feels great. I’m happy.”
Tweet’s
catchy tunes and new R&B flavour scored her a legion of fans and an
endorsement deal with Verizon Wireless' Free Up campaign. Turns out, the
company was looking for someone just as her hit “Call Me” was picking up great
radio response. But even with hot sales, and endorsement deals, and TV commercials,
Tweet says the greatest part of her success has been the fans. “Since being here and doing what I do, just
seeing the love from the people that appreciate what I’m doing and what I’m
doing and singing about and letting me be myself. It’s cool just to see the
faces and feel the love.” Tweet says
the love just started pouring in and because of the time that passed and the
dues she paid, she feels the love is even sweeter. “I think I’m a much wiser person coming out of that,” she says
about her time with the group Sugar. “I went through a lot from being in that
group, but I thank God for taking me through that ‘cause now I can appreciate
where I am today.” And where is she
today? Well, she’s already got designs on her next album. Tweet says, this time
around she’s going to put a little more of herself into the album in hopes that
singing about her trials and triumphs might help someone else. “It’s gonna get a little deeper. The more I
go and the more I grow. I’m here to help people. If my music can touch just
one, then I’m satisfied,” she says.
TIDBITS
JILL
SCOTT WON'T STOP: SINGER/WRITER STILL DOIN' IT
While millennium phenom Jill Scott is busy writing for a living, she's also
taking time out to do studio work. The singer is working on two albums, one
called "Brown Baby Lullabies" and the other is yet untitled. Still,
her voice is showing up a lot on paper right now. "Currently I'm
writing for magazines. I've been working with 'The New York Times,' 'O'
Magazine, and of course all the Philadelphia papers. I just write ... for
sanity's sake I write," she said.
Even if she's tucked away writing or in the studio, fans still seem to
find her. Scott says she still gets praise for her work and her image, but she
says a lot of it should go to another neo-soul star. "Young women come up to me often and say I inspired them
to be who they are - 'I'm thicker in the waist, and pretty in the face - but
nonetheless, sometimes you just have issues with just being those things like
thick thighs and all of those things. I hope that it makes people feel good
about themselves in seeing me, but I honestly think that India.Arie's
"Video" song did a lot more for us, globally, than my presence alone.
That song is just magnificent."
STONE'S
SOLID CAREER(S): ANGIE EXCITED ABOUT NEXT STEPS
Songbird Angie Stone is thankful this holiday season, too. The singer says she
always finds pleasure in using the gift that God gave her and is excited about
projects she's doing. One is a duet with alterna-pop star Moby. Stone worked with
him on his recent release and says that while she was reluctant, she's found a
new friend in Moby. "When Moby
called me to work on the album, I hadn't been listening to him a lot. Once I
got to know Moby, I was incredibly impressed. His roots are deeply rooted in
blues music and my dad's a blues singer, so for me it felt like home. We had a
wonderful time and we plan are doing a lot more work together." In the meantime, Stone continues to sing the
praises of black men (which she brought to the forefront with her hit
"Brotha" from her latest CD.
"I chose to do a tribute to black men because no one would go
there. I went there because someone had to do it. There are too many of our
brothers dying, there are still too many of our brothers incarcerated, there
are too many fall guys in our camp. For me, it was just a reason to do
something other than what was expected. For me I wanted to do better than the
last [disc], and in doing so I wanted to give praise and honour to
brothers." What's next for the
singer is acting. She appears in the Rob Schneider flick "The Hot
Chick" and stars in the upcoming Cuba Gooding Jr.- led film "The
Fighting Temptations." And after that?
"I would like to go to ministry school and get my preach
on eventually," she said. "That's what I want to do."
BERRY
TO BEST BOND: HALLE SAYS IT'S A GOOD TIME FOR SHE-ROES
With
two action hero stints under her belt, Halle Berry says she's down to do more
action, and hopes a number of women will step forward in the male-dominated
genre. "Somebody asked me, 'Did
you ever think you'd grow up and be an action hero?'" said Berry, who
stars with Pierce Brosnan in the latest agent 007 James Bond installment,
"Die Another Day. "The answer was 'no.' When I was growing up, there
were no women action heroes. It was all men. And only now as we're starting to
evolve, is it even becoming possible," she told The Associated Press. Berry may not have had enough of being an
action hero and neither has Hollywood. She'll be back as Storm in the
"X-Men" sequel and Bond distributor MGM, is considering spinning off
her role as 'Jinx' for another movie.
JORDAN
SAYS THE R-WORD: HE'S "RETIRING" FROM THE NBA ... AGAIN
NBA
legend Michael Jordan has retired from basketball twice before, in 1993 and
again in 1999. But each time he returned to play because, well, because he's MJ
and balling is what he does best. But
when his contract with the Washington Wizards ends at the close of this season,
Jordan, 39, says he won't return ... as a player. "I just want to fulfill my year and enjoy it," he
said. "From that point, I'll move on." Jordan, who has suffered
from weak knees and has recently endured a lawsuit involving a former mistress,
says that he'll return as part owner of the Wizards. "I think we have the right people in place that they will
continue their education when I go back upstairs," he said. "My
understanding was to make sure the guys understood what it took to play on this
level and learn certain things. I think they're getting it."
WEEKEND EVENTS
DECEMBER 5 - 9, 2002
THURSDAY,
DECEMBER 5
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
FRIDAY,
DECEMBER 6
INDIA.ARIE
Massey Hall
8:00 pm
$39.50 - $69.50
Ticketmaster: 416-870-8000
EVENT PROFILE:
With the new single "Little Things" climbing its way up the charts,
Grammy Award nominee India.Arie is getting ready to drop her new album
"Voyage To India" on September 24th. It contains a previously unreleased BONUS TRACK! In support of her new album, this talented
artist will be performing live in Toronto at Massey Hall on Thursday, October
17, 2002. Be sure to cop the limited
edition album that contains a bonus track!
Voyage to India is the follow up to India.Arie's critically acclaimed
and PLATINUM + debut, Acoustic Soul. In the two years since her debut, India
has grown as a person and as an artist, her music reflects that change. 'Little
Things' reflects her appreciation of the 'Little Things' that matter - love,
family, fans and friends.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6
1ST FRIDAYSTM
"An After-Work Networking and Socializing Affair"
Berlins
2335 Yonge St.
From 7:00 pm – 9:30 pm
Admission is only $8 before 8:00 pm; $12
after 8:00 pm
$2 off for students with proper ID
Includes admission to the
AFTERPARTY
Live-to-Air on FLOW 93.5
with Mark Strong
Hosted by Warren Salmon, Lynrod Douglas
and Eddie Williams
EVENT PROFILE: First
Fridays is a socializing and networking affair held the first Friday of every
month. This month’s presentations
(which begin at 8:00 pm) will feature: Alvin
Curling, MPP Scarborough-Rouge River, Tony
Young aka MASTER T and his new book MUCH MASTER T: One VJ's Journey, The
New Black Pages 2003 Directory, Who's Who In Black Canada Inaugural
Edition with Publisher Dawn Williams, Financial Advisor Dale Changoo,
Marcus Scott of BCI Canada, BITePro President Dave Forde, and more.
FRIDAY,
DECEMBER 6
BACARDI PRESENTS MORRIS CHESTNUT
CHARLIES
1 Jarvis St (at Queen's Quay )
10:00pm-3:00am
25 and over / dress code
www.majorleague-ent.com
EVENT PROFILE: IT HAS
BEEN CONFIRMED! Morris Chestnut live in
person at Charlies this Friday! The same Morris
Chestnut that has starred in “Like Mike”, “The Brothers“, “The Best
Man“, “Boyz N the Hood“. His newest film is “HALF PAST DEAD“ which
also features Ja Rule and Steven Seagal. Come
join the excitement and luxurious appeal of Charlies. VIP passes and guest list not valid
that night. And don’t forget, Charlies happens every
Friday …
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7
Roy Thomson Hall
60 Simcoe St.
7:30 pm
$12.00 -
$28.00
GET TICKETS
EVENT PROFILE:
Celebrate
Christmas with the Salvation Army. Surprised? Well, this listing is in homage to my rich
Salvation Army heritage – and the concerts really are incredible – full brass
band! See more in my COMPANY
BIO. Join the 400
involved in Canada's premier Salvation Army Band with a full chorus and organ.
Belt out your favourite carols and participate in the Hallelujah Chorus with
the festival chorus with band and organ. There will also be a performance of
the Christmas story performed by the Salvation Army through song and
monologues.
SATURDAY DECEMBER 7
30-Something Social, 1st Saturdays "Christmas 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:
These Eyes
Ent. & Mark Anthony invite you to experience a flamboyant affair that
will truly capture your essence - Toronto's only 30 Something Social!
Celebrating among your mature, influential and sociable peers in a
comfortable, sophisticated atmosphere, join us for our Christmas Edition!
Featuring Live Jazz/R&B performance by TRIFECTA along with a special
celebrity guest vocalist, music by The Crowd Pleaser, DJ Mark Anthony, Hosted
by MC Bigg Kevv!
SUNDAY,
DECEMBER 8
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.
NEXT WEEK’S
EVENTS
DECEMBER 9 - 15, 2002
MONDAY,
DECEMBER 9
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 10
JAZZ TUESDAYS AT MUSE
Muse Bistro
369 King Street W.
5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
EVENT PROFILE: The
ever-popular and hip Muse Bistro is beginning a new jazz night after work on
Tuesdays! Every Tuesday evening, join
us at Muse between 5:00 pm and 8:00 pm for some of the finest jazz Toronto has
to offer. It’s going to be a very cool
vibe and remember that Muse has some of the best food in town! Join us in filling this night with smiling
faces and wonderful music.
TUESDAY,
DECEMBER 10
JAM SESSION
Lava Lounge
507 College Street (west of Bathurst)
10:30 pm
NO COVER
EVENT PROFILE: Featuring
Divine Earth Essence, Calvin Beale, Michael Shand, Joe Bowden, Thomas Reynolds
and various local artists.
THURSDAY,
DECEMBER 12
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
FRIDAY, DECEMBER
13 AND SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14
WHEN BROTHERS SPEAK
St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts
Jane Mallet Theatre
27 Front Street (east of Yonge)
$21.00-$26.00
Purchase
Tickets
Info: (416) 822-1465
EVENT PROFILE:
Founded and produced by local spoken word artist
Dwayne Morgan, When Brothers Speak has been
recognized across North America as the largest annual event of its kind,
attracting over 600 people last year, and featuring six Black, male artists,
who are currently at the top of their field, performing their original works on
love, sex, politics, current affairs and everything in between. This year promises an all-star line up
featuring New York City’s Jamaal St. John and Osagyefo,
Washington DC’s Komplex, New Jersey’s Faraji Salim, as well as
Toronto’s Unblind and Dwayne Morgan. For artist bios visit www.upfromtheroots.ca. With the success of the 2001 edition of the
show, this year marks the first time that the show will be held over two
nights. Tickets for the show are already on sale via the St. Lawrence Centre
Website www.stlc.com, in person at the box office, 27 Front St. E @ Yonge, or
by phone at 416.366.7723.
SUNDAY,
DECEMBER 15
UP
FROM THE ROOTS THANK YOU PARTY
Lula Lounge
1585 Dundas St. W.
10:00 pm
$7.00 without ticket stub from show
EVENT PROFILE:
This
will be a night of partying, networking, and great entertainment, inside of the
This show will be free for everyone who comes with their When Brothers Speak
ticket stub, and $7 for those who missed the show. We will have performers from
both sides of the border, as we showcase hip hop, dance, soul, and poetry as
only we can. Check out www.upfromtheroots.ca
for
more info on confirmed artists. Lorraine
Reid, Tamla Matthews, DJ Complex, and Nikki at Up From The Roots year end
event inside of the Lula Lounge