Female Emcees – Can We Get Some Love?
You do not have to dig deep when doing a Google Search for the current top female emcees. Along with the search, there are even fewer selections listed on the Billboard Charts, let alone receiving radio play. Where are our female lyricists hiding? With the exception of Lil Kim who has an album due to be released later in the spring, and McLyte, who still perform in venues world-wide, Foxy Brown, Remi Martin, and other potential female rap vixens are held back by unsettled legal matters. Other past reigning female artist such as Eve and Queen Latifah promote projects that are dear to their hearts as well as becoming entrepreneurs leading them away from their original craft. What are we left with? We are left with an over-sized vault of local female emcees who perform vigorously to crowds that will receive them on any given open-mic night.
The venues that hold these weekly if not daily club nights are generally for the male dominated emcee. Artists like Boston born Observa www.myspace.com/observa , Empress www.myspace.com/emperessmusic , or Jerkahonis www.myspace.com/tiffdajerk aka Jerko Flow attend these events in the hopes that they can be “put on” without prejudice. Sometimes the female rapper has to appear “hard”, or “down”, to even get an invitation. Do not let this be the reason the hip-hop world is lacking the female emcee. These women can move the crowd just as good as their male counterparts, but what is really lacking is the support from the brothers. I smell a new “Movement” coming on. Toney Smith of Vintage Vibez
http://www.myspace.com/jamesetonee , along with a handful of other promoters in the Washington, DC area, hosts weekly events in the Downtown, U Street area. These events are geared towards open mic nights featuring male and female emcees. Although the word about these events is being spread through various message boards and community sites, the support is continuously lacking in the female department.
Few promoters or event hosts go the extra mile and host two separate open mic nights leaving one for the male emcee, and the other for the female emcee. The problem with this marriage was made clear to me one Saturday night as I pardoned an open mic night. When the stage is lit for the male performers, the turn-out is packed. Female emcees come out to support their male counterparts in their climb to be the hottest emcee. The following night was not so supportive. Our female emcees are not receiving the same love that they give in return. On any given night, the ladies use any time given to express their lyrical flow to only a handful of peers that come out to support. This unfortunate reoccurring factor does little for the promoter as well, and limits their ability to continue to provide a forum for the female rappers.
We all know that if a venue is booked for two nights where one night there are no patrons to fill the house, there is a significant loss of revenue and out of pocket expense for the promoter. This lack of love for female emcees not only hurts our need for an obvious void in hip-hop, but it limits the people who try their best to get the voice of a female rapper heard in such a male dominated field. I have seen first-hand the talent of our local female emcees. I have seen many hit the scene every week as they step up to the mic whenever the floor is open. The only missing treat was the support of the brothers, the brothers they supported the previous open mic night. Again, where is the love?
Let us go over the underwritten formula for a female emcee to break out into mainstream. You either have to join an all male click, or make it on a top 40 chart with a “breakthrough” song. Just ask Lil Kim, Remy Martin, Eve, Sole, and many others, some we do not remember. Biggie, Big Pun, and the Lox played a key role in the success of these female artists and the industry will not let us forget it. What happened to the day when people respected the flow and not rely on an entourage to help get these ladies to the top?
Artists like Salt-n-Pepa, MC Lyte, and Queen Latifah held it down for years dominating the charts with the respect they deserved. No one did them any favors by coming to their shows. The love was there, but sometimes the best female artists had to get a little help from their homies to be heard. Just ask Yo-Yo and lady of Rage to stamp that one. The solution to this void would be the obvious. If you see a flyer promoting an open mic night for both male and female emcee, please support the females with as much love as you give the males. We are all peers in this hip-hop “Movement”. Show the female emcee that there is a need for them to be heard. You do not know what you are missing.
InTheMixWithTre’
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Getting Your Grown Man On!!!
FROM YOUNG AND RAUNCHY, TO GROWN AND SEXY!!
As I sit on the couch clicking away on the laptop, a video playing on the television grabs my attention. A jam fit to start the new season off caused my head to bob as Flo-Rida and from what I thought a new artist blazes the new release “Shone.” Shone" (Flo Rida The hook grabbed my attention immediately along with the face of the cutie who sang it. This voice carried a familiar sound. A week went by and an email conversation with a friend prompted me to initiate further research. Marcus Ramone Cooper aka Pleasure P Did You Wrong" is the former lead singer of Pretty Ricky.
Pleasure P has gone from young and raunchy to grown and sexy. Do you recall the few seasons where a group of young boys who clearly were misguided in their career, exploded on BET, MTV, and various other pre-award shows? With Pleasure P’s second breakthrough performance and hopefully many more collaborations, we have a fresh new voice in R&B. Just check out “Boyfriend # 2 if you have not heard it yet. You will find that his music is much classier than his former group, and it appeals to grown up fan base. Be on the lookout for the rebirth of an artist. You are officially in the mix.
Marcus Ramone Cooper (born December 27, 1984), better known by his stage name Pleasure P a contemporary R&B singer who experienced success as a member of the group Pretty Ricky before embarking on a solo career in 2007.
In 2008 he released his solo debut single, "Did You Wrong," which quickly charted on the Billboard Hot 100, and though it only reached the top 90 on the US charts, it was successful for an unprecedented debut, and charted high on the R&B Charts and Airplay Charts. His solo debut album, tentatively titled The Introduction of Marcus Cooper, is scheduled for release on June 9, 2009. It was originally going to be released in January but got pushed back to March 31, then to May 5, and now is scheduled to be released June 9. Pleasure P's career received a boost by being featured in the second single from Flo Rida's upcoming album "R.O.O.T.S.", gaining much publicity from his presence on its guest list. Pleasure P also released a 2008 EP entitled "Boyfriend #2", including "Did You Wrong" and a promo single "Boyfriend #2", released digitally and as an LP disc."The reason I named it that is because Pretty Ricky introduced you all to Pleasure P, but now Pleasure P is going to introduce you to Marcus Cooper, which is my government name," says the 24-year-old, who left his post as lead singer of the group last year.
"This time, I'm in my own lane musically -- I'm grown up now. I'm talking about things that average R&B guys don't talk about but that average people can relate to. Pretty Ricky was overly raunchy, young and with no direction. Now, my music is classier and I'll tell you exactly how it is."[cite this quote
InTheMixWithTre’
Related Links:
http://www.pleasurepmusic.com
Pleasure P Interview on BlackVibes
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pleasure_P
As I sit on the couch clicking away on the laptop, a video playing on the television grabs my attention. A jam fit to start the new season off caused my head to bob as Flo-Rida and from what I thought a new artist blazes the new release “Shone.” Shone" (Flo Rida The hook grabbed my attention immediately along with the face of the cutie who sang it. This voice carried a familiar sound. A week went by and an email conversation with a friend prompted me to initiate further research. Marcus Ramone Cooper aka Pleasure P Did You Wrong" is the former lead singer of Pretty Ricky.
Pleasure P has gone from young and raunchy to grown and sexy. Do you recall the few seasons where a group of young boys who clearly were misguided in their career, exploded on BET, MTV, and various other pre-award shows? With Pleasure P’s second breakthrough performance and hopefully many more collaborations, we have a fresh new voice in R&B. Just check out “Boyfriend # 2 if you have not heard it yet. You will find that his music is much classier than his former group, and it appeals to grown up fan base. Be on the lookout for the rebirth of an artist. You are officially in the mix.
Marcus Ramone Cooper (born December 27, 1984), better known by his stage name Pleasure P a contemporary R&B singer who experienced success as a member of the group Pretty Ricky before embarking on a solo career in 2007.
In 2008 he released his solo debut single, "Did You Wrong," which quickly charted on the Billboard Hot 100, and though it only reached the top 90 on the US charts, it was successful for an unprecedented debut, and charted high on the R&B Charts and Airplay Charts. His solo debut album, tentatively titled The Introduction of Marcus Cooper, is scheduled for release on June 9, 2009. It was originally going to be released in January but got pushed back to March 31, then to May 5, and now is scheduled to be released June 9. Pleasure P's career received a boost by being featured in the second single from Flo Rida's upcoming album "R.O.O.T.S.", gaining much publicity from his presence on its guest list. Pleasure P also released a 2008 EP entitled "Boyfriend #2", including "Did You Wrong" and a promo single "Boyfriend #2", released digitally and as an LP disc."The reason I named it that is because Pretty Ricky introduced you all to Pleasure P, but now Pleasure P is going to introduce you to Marcus Cooper, which is my government name," says the 24-year-old, who left his post as lead singer of the group last year.
"This time, I'm in my own lane musically -- I'm grown up now. I'm talking about things that average R&B guys don't talk about but that average people can relate to. Pretty Ricky was overly raunchy, young and with no direction. Now, my music is classier and I'll tell you exactly how it is."[cite this quote
InTheMixWithTre’
Related Links:
http://www.pleasurepmusic.com
Pleasure P Interview on BlackVibes
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pleasure_P
AT WEYONE LOUNGE EVERY !!!!!!!!!!
THURSDAY NIGHT!!!!!!!!!!
5801 DUKE STREET ALEXANDRIA, VA 22304 AT THE OLD RUBY TUESDAY - LAMDMARK MALL
GO TO http://dmvradio.blogspot.com OR CALL 202-261-6644
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO PERFORM OR FOR MORE INFORMATION
HOSTED BY: ALADDIN FROM WPGC 95.5
CO-HOSTED BY: JO' IYCE FROM WKYS 1NATION HIPHOP SHOW
DMV RADIO IN THE BUILDING DOING LIVE INTERVIEWS WITH LOCAL ARTIST
____________________________________
DMV RADIO - RADIO THAT REPRESENTS YOU !
WHW Rocks.......Join in On "The Movement"
WHW Rocks Is Looking For Energetic, Enthusiastic, Pumped Up Audience Members For The Taping Of Our Next Three Episodes Of "WHW Rocks"!!!
All that is required is of you as the audience member is to........ENJOY AN AMAZING SHOW!!!
What is WHW Rocks?
"WHW Rocks!" is a half hour live performance show that showcases the BEST Indie Artists in the region. 4 performers from various musical genres will ROCK the stage before a live audience (You). At the end of the season (13 episodes), DC, MD & VA will select the top 4 artists that will go on to perform in an hour-long special where every act is a headliner.
"WHW Rocks" is Casting Extras as audience members!!(For June 27th)
If you're interested in being an audience member on "WHW Rocks!" email castings@whwweb.com with the following information.
* Your first and last name
* Which episode taping you will attend (12noon / 2pm / 4pm / all 3 )
(Please note that if you're attending all 3 or even 2 tapings, be sure to bring a different top to change into for each episode)
You MUST submit your first and last name to be considered. A parent or guardian must accompany audience members under 18.
WORD IS SPREADING FAST ABOUT WHW ROCKS! The first taping was ABSOLUTELY NUTS and we're gearing up to do it all again!
When, Where, What Time?
When: Saturday June 27th.
Where: Access Montgomery/AMTV
Studio B
7548 Standish Place
Rockville, MD 20855
Time: First Episode Taping --- 12pm to 1pm
Second Episode Taping --- 2pm to 3pm
Third Episode Taping --- 4pm to 5pm
Contact: Ashley Scott, Talent Coordinator
castings@whwweb.com
****THIS GIG, LIKE MOST STUDIO AUDIENCE CASTINGS, IS NON-PAID. COMPLIMENTARY LUNCH AND REFRESMENTS WILL BE AVAILABLE.*****
What's Hot Washington...Keeping Your Fingers On the Pulse of the Nation's Capital.
All that is required is of you as the audience member is to........ENJOY AN AMAZING SHOW!!!
What is WHW Rocks?
"WHW Rocks!" is a half hour live performance show that showcases the BEST Indie Artists in the region. 4 performers from various musical genres will ROCK the stage before a live audience (You). At the end of the season (13 episodes), DC, MD & VA will select the top 4 artists that will go on to perform in an hour-long special where every act is a headliner.
"WHW Rocks" is Casting Extras as audience members!!(For June 27th)
If you're interested in being an audience member on "WHW Rocks!" email castings@whwweb.com with the following information.
* Your first and last name
* Which episode taping you will attend (12noon / 2pm / 4pm / all 3 )
(Please note that if you're attending all 3 or even 2 tapings, be sure to bring a different top to change into for each episode)
You MUST submit your first and last name to be considered. A parent or guardian must accompany audience members under 18.
WORD IS SPREADING FAST ABOUT WHW ROCKS! The first taping was ABSOLUTELY NUTS and we're gearing up to do it all again!
When, Where, What Time?
When: Saturday June 27th.
Where: Access Montgomery/AMTV
Studio B
7548 Standish Place
Rockville, MD 20855
Time: First Episode Taping --- 12pm to 1pm
Second Episode Taping --- 2pm to 3pm
Third Episode Taping --- 4pm to 5pm
Contact: Ashley Scott, Talent Coordinator
castings@whwweb.com
****THIS GIG, LIKE MOST STUDIO AUDIENCE CASTINGS, IS NON-PAID. COMPLIMENTARY LUNCH AND REFRESMENTS WILL BE AVAILABLE.*****
What's Hot Washington...Keeping Your Fingers On the Pulse of the Nation's Capital.
I Love My City..........
INDEPENDENT ARTISTS “SHOWED AND PROVED” MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND
When I search for an adjective to describe my Memorial Day weekend in the DMV, nothing comes to mind. This was a day where all bets were off. Independent artists came to show and prove what they were made of. Once again, April Watts hosted her second taping of WHW Rocks opening the stage to the DMV’s local artist. www.whwweb.com This new line-up included various artists in many different genres. Ten acts graced the stage, each with their own energy and flair. You may have heard the buzz around the DMV involving the birth of a networking empire of independent artists on the rise. I have witnessed a social gathering of fresh new artists, management teams, producers, and sponsors become a part of history in the making. Music, comedy, and theater come together and merge with community leaders and organizers and open doors for the longevity of this movement while giving back.
Angela Byrd, who is the Executive Director of the DC Metropolitan Foster and Adoptive Parent Association www.dcmfapa.org , is passionate about music and her city. Did I mention that Angela is also the COO of Diamond Management www.keyonte.com, home of Keyonte & 24Sevn? I was also excited that the lovely Ms. Watts allowed me to plug DMVRADIO.NET during the live taping. With DMVRADIO.NET’s commitment to giving the Washington metropolitan area “Radio that Represents You”, and April Watts headlining a movement to showcase independent artists with WHW Rocks, the opportunities are endless. At the end of each taping, Ms. Watts welcomes the audience to send anyone who wants their music to be heard along with contact information.
So here are a couple of highlights that caught my eye. Keyonte is a smooth R&B vocalist who graced the stage in what seemed to be his second home. This gentlemen is a Grammy award nominee for his songwriting on “Strong Woman” http://www.theloveexperience.com . I just knew from the start to finish that this was going to be a good line-up. Jamie Jones brought attitude, fire, and a powerful voice, along with her back-up dancers to let the audience know that SHE is here. What you see is what you get. This ball of flames roared onto the set belting out three of her singles that left my bones aching the next day. I thought that I was twenty one again, dancing all over the place. www.myspace.com/itsjamiejones This North Carolina native representing the DMV holds working with Kwame, yes I said Kwame, to her credits as well.
The fun and excitement did not stop with the musical artists. Between set changes, the audience had the pleasure of multiple heart palpitations caused by the hilarious comedians provided to hold our attention and the energy flowing. You had no idea that the person you were conversing with in the audience would step up and tickle your funny bone. Comedians like Seaton Smith, www.seatonsmith.com Erin Jackson, who you may remember appearing on Ellen http://www.erinjackson.net , and the one and only “Bishop of Comedy” TL Fitz http://www.freewebs.com/thebishopofcomedy . Erin Jackson had the crowd rolling with her smooth girlfriend delivery of hilarious stories and encounters. The “Bishop” had us laughing during taping, after taping, and during taping again. Seaton Smith was a welcomed return as well rambling scenarios that make A.D.D seem like a good thing…………..It WAS!!
All in all, the DMV is a good place for networking and meeting new people in the industry or your preference. The platform is set and the venues are here. The only thing left to do is SHOW AND PROVE. Independent artists…..all you have to do is show your passion, energy, and drive. Let your managers do the rest. If I were an independent artist that had the opportunities such as these placed before me, I would hope on it like “white on rice”.
InTheMixWithTre’
Featured Artists and Management Contact Info:
www.teri-s.com
www.myspace.com/mcsoho
www.shadowmgtent.com
www.seatonsmith.com
www.myspace.com/braatmusikllc
www.myspace.com/entrigue3
www.sugabrownmusic.com
www.myspace.com/whwrocks
When I search for an adjective to describe my Memorial Day weekend in the DMV, nothing comes to mind. This was a day where all bets were off. Independent artists came to show and prove what they were made of. Once again, April Watts hosted her second taping of WHW Rocks opening the stage to the DMV’s local artist. www.whwweb.com This new line-up included various artists in many different genres. Ten acts graced the stage, each with their own energy and flair. You may have heard the buzz around the DMV involving the birth of a networking empire of independent artists on the rise. I have witnessed a social gathering of fresh new artists, management teams, producers, and sponsors become a part of history in the making. Music, comedy, and theater come together and merge with community leaders and organizers and open doors for the longevity of this movement while giving back.
Angela Byrd, who is the Executive Director of the DC Metropolitan Foster and Adoptive Parent Association www.dcmfapa.org , is passionate about music and her city. Did I mention that Angela is also the COO of Diamond Management www.keyonte.com, home of Keyonte & 24Sevn? I was also excited that the lovely Ms. Watts allowed me to plug DMVRADIO.NET during the live taping. With DMVRADIO.NET’s commitment to giving the Washington metropolitan area “Radio that Represents You”, and April Watts headlining a movement to showcase independent artists with WHW Rocks, the opportunities are endless. At the end of each taping, Ms. Watts welcomes the audience to send anyone who wants their music to be heard along with contact information.
So here are a couple of highlights that caught my eye. Keyonte is a smooth R&B vocalist who graced the stage in what seemed to be his second home. This gentlemen is a Grammy award nominee for his songwriting on “Strong Woman” http://www.theloveexperience.com . I just knew from the start to finish that this was going to be a good line-up. Jamie Jones brought attitude, fire, and a powerful voice, along with her back-up dancers to let the audience know that SHE is here. What you see is what you get. This ball of flames roared onto the set belting out three of her singles that left my bones aching the next day. I thought that I was twenty one again, dancing all over the place. www.myspace.com/itsjamiejones This North Carolina native representing the DMV holds working with Kwame, yes I said Kwame, to her credits as well.
The fun and excitement did not stop with the musical artists. Between set changes, the audience had the pleasure of multiple heart palpitations caused by the hilarious comedians provided to hold our attention and the energy flowing. You had no idea that the person you were conversing with in the audience would step up and tickle your funny bone. Comedians like Seaton Smith, www.seatonsmith.com Erin Jackson, who you may remember appearing on Ellen http://www.erinjackson.net , and the one and only “Bishop of Comedy” TL Fitz http://www.freewebs.com/thebishopofcomedy . Erin Jackson had the crowd rolling with her smooth girlfriend delivery of hilarious stories and encounters. The “Bishop” had us laughing during taping, after taping, and during taping again. Seaton Smith was a welcomed return as well rambling scenarios that make A.D.D seem like a good thing…………..It WAS!!
All in all, the DMV is a good place for networking and meeting new people in the industry or your preference. The platform is set and the venues are here. The only thing left to do is SHOW AND PROVE. Independent artists…..all you have to do is show your passion, energy, and drive. Let your managers do the rest. If I were an independent artist that had the opportunities such as these placed before me, I would hope on it like “white on rice”.
InTheMixWithTre’
Featured Artists and Management Contact Info:
www.teri-s.com
www.myspace.com/mcsoho
www.shadowmgtent.com
www.seatonsmith.com
www.myspace.com/braatmusikllc
www.myspace.com/entrigue3
www.sugabrownmusic.com
www.myspace.com/whwrocks
Not Just Eye Candy?? There's More......
What is His Name?
When you hear the name “Stringer”, what is the first thing that pops into your mind? Men may shout out “The Wire”, and the ladies will scream in several octaves. This character represented what went on in the streets of Baltimore on HBO’s original smash hit “The Wire.” www.thewire.com Every Sunday this actor delivered a raw portrayal and truth to his role but his name remained a mystery. Maybe it is because his name is not a common one let alone American. I will take British actors for the final clue Alex. What actor is currently starring opposite Beyonce Knowles in the box office hit “Obsessed?” His name is Idris Elba. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Idris_Elba I must admit that I could never remember his name when mentioned but was aware of the fact that Sir Elba was British. I knew this because of his sexy yet heavy accent that seeps through his vernacular during interviews. We have seen Idris grace the screen displaying his passion for the art in movies such as Daddy’s Little Girls Daddy's Little Girls, First Sunday, and the Reaping.
As the child of a Sierra Leonean father and a Ghanian mother, the Afro-British cinema and television actor Idris Elba built his reputation as a performer in sitcoms and cable dramas during the 1990s and early 2000s before segueing into Hollywood movies in 2005.
Born in London on September 6, 1972, and raised in the Hackney borough of that city (in the northeast quadrant), Elba pursued acting as a high-school student, at the behest of a drama teacher. Although his film, television, and stage work officially commenced around 1992, Elba's premier credited role arrived in 1995, with a supporting role on the episode of the farcical British series Absolutely Fabulous, entitled "Sex." Many supporting roles on British television followed, including such series as Bramwell, The Bill, Degrees of Error, The Ruth Rendell Mysteries, and The Governor. Elba grew deeply frustrated, however, over the seemingly irrepressible tendency of British casting directors to peg him in supporting roles. "Back in London," he later recalled, "I was always just going to be the best friend, or the crook or the detective on the side." When Elba could take no more of this, he immigrated to the United States. A couple of years of inactivity ensued, but after a supporting turn on a 2001 episode of Law & Order, Elba landed a starring role on a 2002 HBO cop drama, The Wire.
In that part -- Elba's best-known and highest-profiled to date -- he plays pusher "Stringer" Bell, the second in command to drug-dealing kingpin Avon Barksdale (Wood Harris). Elba immediately became notorious for daring to impart a pronounced level of affability to Stringer (despite the character's profession); as a result, the role attained widespread popularity with viewers and helped put the series on the map. Elba stayed on the series through its first three seasons.
Elba then transitioned into big-screen roles; his most prominent turns included that of Rev. Frank, a Southern Baptist minister and gospel music hopeful threatened by the arrival of an old friend who challenges his pastoral position, in Rob Hardy's powerful spiritual drama The Gospel (2005); Augustin Muganza, a Hutu captain grappling with the 1994 Rwandan genocide, in the mind-blowing HBO historical drama Sometimes in April (2005); and a scientist and partner of Hilary Swank's professional debunker of religious myths in Stephen Hopkins' gothic, biblically themed horror picture The Reaping (2007).
In 2006, Elba also signed on as the lead of the seriocomedy Tyler Perry's Daddy's Little Girls (2007), playing Monty, a blue-collar mechanic who falls in love with a six-figure attorney (Gabrielle Union) and finds the relationship threatened by the re-arrival of his ex-wife. He also joined the supporting cast of Juan Carlos Fresnadillo's 28 Weeks Later, the horror-themed sequel to Danny Boyle's 2002 zombie picture 28 Days Later. ~ Nathan Southern, All Movie Guide
Awards/nominations
BET Awards
2007, Best Actor: Daddy's Little Girls (Nominated)
Black Reel Awards
2006, Best Actor: The Gospel (Nominated)
2006, Best Actor Network/Cable: Sometimes in April (Nominated)
Image Awards
2006, Outstanding Actor in a Mini-Series/Television Movie: Sometimes in April (Nominated)
Screen Actors Guild Awards
2008, Outstanding Cast in a Motion Picture: American Gangster (Nominated)
Who reads the credits after the end of the show? As an avid fan of “The Wire”, I can honestly say that the preview for the next episode was my only concern. I can also say that since his breakthrough performance, many others along have followed his career. Maybe it was his good looks or strong screen prescience that held my attention. Now you know his name and I am definitely keeping with up with his game. Idris Elba has been and will be here to stay. As long as this man is on the screen, you will not forget his name. You are officially in the mix.
InTheMixWithTre’
Related Sources:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Idris_Elba
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H3swMmqBTVQ
When you hear the name “Stringer”, what is the first thing that pops into your mind? Men may shout out “The Wire”, and the ladies will scream in several octaves. This character represented what went on in the streets of Baltimore on HBO’s original smash hit “The Wire.” www.thewire.com Every Sunday this actor delivered a raw portrayal and truth to his role but his name remained a mystery. Maybe it is because his name is not a common one let alone American. I will take British actors for the final clue Alex. What actor is currently starring opposite Beyonce Knowles in the box office hit “Obsessed?” His name is Idris Elba. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Idris_Elba I must admit that I could never remember his name when mentioned but was aware of the fact that Sir Elba was British. I knew this because of his sexy yet heavy accent that seeps through his vernacular during interviews. We have seen Idris grace the screen displaying his passion for the art in movies such as Daddy’s Little Girls Daddy's Little Girls, First Sunday, and the Reaping.
As the child of a Sierra Leonean father and a Ghanian mother, the Afro-British cinema and television actor Idris Elba built his reputation as a performer in sitcoms and cable dramas during the 1990s and early 2000s before segueing into Hollywood movies in 2005.
Born in London on September 6, 1972, and raised in the Hackney borough of that city (in the northeast quadrant), Elba pursued acting as a high-school student, at the behest of a drama teacher. Although his film, television, and stage work officially commenced around 1992, Elba's premier credited role arrived in 1995, with a supporting role on the episode of the farcical British series Absolutely Fabulous, entitled "Sex." Many supporting roles on British television followed, including such series as Bramwell, The Bill, Degrees of Error, The Ruth Rendell Mysteries, and The Governor. Elba grew deeply frustrated, however, over the seemingly irrepressible tendency of British casting directors to peg him in supporting roles. "Back in London," he later recalled, "I was always just going to be the best friend, or the crook or the detective on the side." When Elba could take no more of this, he immigrated to the United States. A couple of years of inactivity ensued, but after a supporting turn on a 2001 episode of Law & Order, Elba landed a starring role on a 2002 HBO cop drama, The Wire.
In that part -- Elba's best-known and highest-profiled to date -- he plays pusher "Stringer" Bell, the second in command to drug-dealing kingpin Avon Barksdale (Wood Harris). Elba immediately became notorious for daring to impart a pronounced level of affability to Stringer (despite the character's profession); as a result, the role attained widespread popularity with viewers and helped put the series on the map. Elba stayed on the series through its first three seasons.
Elba then transitioned into big-screen roles; his most prominent turns included that of Rev. Frank, a Southern Baptist minister and gospel music hopeful threatened by the arrival of an old friend who challenges his pastoral position, in Rob Hardy's powerful spiritual drama The Gospel (2005); Augustin Muganza, a Hutu captain grappling with the 1994 Rwandan genocide, in the mind-blowing HBO historical drama Sometimes in April (2005); and a scientist and partner of Hilary Swank's professional debunker of religious myths in Stephen Hopkins' gothic, biblically themed horror picture The Reaping (2007).
In 2006, Elba also signed on as the lead of the seriocomedy Tyler Perry's Daddy's Little Girls (2007), playing Monty, a blue-collar mechanic who falls in love with a six-figure attorney (Gabrielle Union) and finds the relationship threatened by the re-arrival of his ex-wife. He also joined the supporting cast of Juan Carlos Fresnadillo's 28 Weeks Later, the horror-themed sequel to Danny Boyle's 2002 zombie picture 28 Days Later. ~ Nathan Southern, All Movie Guide
Awards/nominations
BET Awards
2007, Best Actor: Daddy's Little Girls (Nominated)
Black Reel Awards
2006, Best Actor: The Gospel (Nominated)
2006, Best Actor Network/Cable: Sometimes in April (Nominated)
Image Awards
2006, Outstanding Actor in a Mini-Series/Television Movie: Sometimes in April (Nominated)
Screen Actors Guild Awards
2008, Outstanding Cast in a Motion Picture: American Gangster (Nominated)
Who reads the credits after the end of the show? As an avid fan of “The Wire”, I can honestly say that the preview for the next episode was my only concern. I can also say that since his breakthrough performance, many others along have followed his career. Maybe it was his good looks or strong screen prescience that held my attention. Now you know his name and I am definitely keeping with up with his game. Idris Elba has been and will be here to stay. As long as this man is on the screen, you will not forget his name. You are officially in the mix.
InTheMixWithTre’
Related Sources:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Idris_Elba
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H3swMmqBTVQ
Getting Nasty!!!
HIP HOP AND THE ADULT ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY DIRTY LITTLE SECRET……….Could it possibly go MAINSTREAM?
Over the years we have seen countless rock and heavy metal videos glamorizing the Playboy bunnies and adult film stars. Melting on the screen were vixens sprawled across vintage cars, pool parties, and backstage concerts exploding out of their extra small bathing suits. We would see long manes swinging from left to right and posing with a painted on smile in the middle of a blizzard. Do Slayer, Poison, and Van Halen come to mind? When the nineties hit, we began to see a rebirth of this trend hit the hip-hop world. This virus spread by small appearances of models standing next to the artist fulfilling her contractual obligations as good “eye candy.” Eminem’s video “Without Me”, paid homage to female porn stars Jena Jamison and Raven. If you were not aware, Jena Jamison is the Elvis of females in the adult entertainment industry. A self made millionaire so to speak. Soon, other hip hop artists followed this rising trend. Vanessa Del Rio is considered to be the cream of the crop as well. There are and were mountains of request for cameos in film and in music. Her name is also the hook and catch phrase slipping through 16 bars in many studios.
Soon, other hip artists followed. These sightings did not come across the television screen once in a while, but quite often. The repetition grew and introduced a make shift marriage between hip-hop and adult entertainment. Artists like 50 Cent, Flo Rida, Snoop Dogg, Big Boi, and many more indulge in their attempts to let the world know that they have either met, know, or have had business or personal relationships with people in the adult entertainment industry. My question is…………….. Is the mainstream public ready to be guest of this informal union? Unfortunately this slow infiltration is ever growing despite the vigorous censorship attempts of those prudes on Capitol Hill and the Supreme Court. Clearly these two industries will continue to impact mainstream audiences sparingly depending on which coast you reside. Just take a trip to www.avn.com It is an online magazine catering to the adult entertainment industry which also has an annual award show for adult film. Flo Rida performed last year for best hip hop artist. So you tell me. www.avnawards.com Do hip hop and the adult entertainment industry mix?
As an outsider looking in, I attended an event in Los Angeles for research. This was a convention held strictly for adult entertainers, affiliates, web hosts, directors, producers, and musicians. Here is what I found……………..
When I went to Erotica LA 2007, I was exposed to a world that I would never envision. I only saw this kind of Erotica on the Playboy Channel or through my dirty collections of pleasurable DVDs. Meeting people in the adult entertainment industry was an extremely exciting and intoxicating experience for me, being a closet freak and all. Aside from my visit to Amsterdam, viewing Jenna Jamison, Evan Stone, and Ron Germy, I had no clue I was mixing and mingling with the best of them. I felt like Nicole Kidman without Tom Cruise because I did not want my eyes to be shut. That is exactly how I wanted it. I purposely did not watch any porn because being a NEO erotic writer in this industry. I did not want to make any preconceived notions or judgments. I wanted to talk to these entertainers and know them as a person, and not porn stars. I could look at them and have a moderate conversation without visions of them in the buff performing. As a result, I met a host of great industry stars amateur and professional. I had the time of my life. Tre’ Chamborg is hooked. I’m taking baby steps on this one guys. Please be gentle. I came home to Washington, DC and immediately viewed all the material of the people that I met in Erotica LA. Boy oh boy was I blushing. Wow. Kaylani Cream was on me in LA and now she is on the computer at home. She made me nervous there but seeing her work the screen and everything else made sent my mind into a tailspin. This woman is smart, beautiful, sexy, and yes……..a porn star. I made these same revelations with Ms. Panther, Jada Fire, Nina Hartley, Jeff & Raven of Trashy Entertainment, Sara Jay, Pinky, Shadow Cat, Evan Stone, and many more. I can’t leave out my #1 Crush Mr. Kato Cooks. Kisses!The moral of the story is……………………..Never judge a book by the book’s cover or the contents. Just have an open mind and the guts to step outside the box.
To sum it all up, the adult lifestyle is no longer shunned in society. With the increasing intrigue of closet fanatics and the help of Hugh Heffner www.playboy.com , we are likely to see more to come. Music and the adult entertainment industry have been flirting for years. The courtship has crept through the big screen by long time porn producer Bennie Boom who recently released the smash hit comedy “Next Day Air”. Now how did this happen? Maybe the same way that Vanessa Del Rio stole the scene from the late Bernie Mac in “Soul Man.” For those who think this is a despicable thing………Close your eyes and plug your ears. This is a train that will not slow or stop. There will be more to come………
InTheMixWIthTre’
Related Sources:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C0c3MtQPY6Y
Over the years we have seen countless rock and heavy metal videos glamorizing the Playboy bunnies and adult film stars. Melting on the screen were vixens sprawled across vintage cars, pool parties, and backstage concerts exploding out of their extra small bathing suits. We would see long manes swinging from left to right and posing with a painted on smile in the middle of a blizzard. Do Slayer, Poison, and Van Halen come to mind? When the nineties hit, we began to see a rebirth of this trend hit the hip-hop world. This virus spread by small appearances of models standing next to the artist fulfilling her contractual obligations as good “eye candy.” Eminem’s video “Without Me”, paid homage to female porn stars Jena Jamison and Raven. If you were not aware, Jena Jamison is the Elvis of females in the adult entertainment industry. A self made millionaire so to speak. Soon, other hip hop artists followed this rising trend. Vanessa Del Rio is considered to be the cream of the crop as well. There are and were mountains of request for cameos in film and in music. Her name is also the hook and catch phrase slipping through 16 bars in many studios.
Soon, other hip artists followed. These sightings did not come across the television screen once in a while, but quite often. The repetition grew and introduced a make shift marriage between hip-hop and adult entertainment. Artists like 50 Cent, Flo Rida, Snoop Dogg, Big Boi, and many more indulge in their attempts to let the world know that they have either met, know, or have had business or personal relationships with people in the adult entertainment industry. My question is…………….. Is the mainstream public ready to be guest of this informal union? Unfortunately this slow infiltration is ever growing despite the vigorous censorship attempts of those prudes on Capitol Hill and the Supreme Court. Clearly these two industries will continue to impact mainstream audiences sparingly depending on which coast you reside. Just take a trip to www.avn.com It is an online magazine catering to the adult entertainment industry which also has an annual award show for adult film. Flo Rida performed last year for best hip hop artist. So you tell me. www.avnawards.com Do hip hop and the adult entertainment industry mix?
As an outsider looking in, I attended an event in Los Angeles for research. This was a convention held strictly for adult entertainers, affiliates, web hosts, directors, producers, and musicians. Here is what I found……………..
When I went to Erotica LA 2007, I was exposed to a world that I would never envision. I only saw this kind of Erotica on the Playboy Channel or through my dirty collections of pleasurable DVDs. Meeting people in the adult entertainment industry was an extremely exciting and intoxicating experience for me, being a closet freak and all. Aside from my visit to Amsterdam, viewing Jenna Jamison, Evan Stone, and Ron Germy, I had no clue I was mixing and mingling with the best of them. I felt like Nicole Kidman without Tom Cruise because I did not want my eyes to be shut. That is exactly how I wanted it. I purposely did not watch any porn because being a NEO erotic writer in this industry. I did not want to make any preconceived notions or judgments. I wanted to talk to these entertainers and know them as a person, and not porn stars. I could look at them and have a moderate conversation without visions of them in the buff performing. As a result, I met a host of great industry stars amateur and professional. I had the time of my life. Tre’ Chamborg is hooked. I’m taking baby steps on this one guys. Please be gentle. I came home to Washington, DC and immediately viewed all the material of the people that I met in Erotica LA. Boy oh boy was I blushing. Wow. Kaylani Cream was on me in LA and now she is on the computer at home. She made me nervous there but seeing her work the screen and everything else made sent my mind into a tailspin. This woman is smart, beautiful, sexy, and yes……..a porn star. I made these same revelations with Ms. Panther, Jada Fire, Nina Hartley, Jeff & Raven of Trashy Entertainment, Sara Jay, Pinky, Shadow Cat, Evan Stone, and many more. I can’t leave out my #1 Crush Mr. Kato Cooks. Kisses!The moral of the story is……………………..Never judge a book by the book’s cover or the contents. Just have an open mind and the guts to step outside the box.
To sum it all up, the adult lifestyle is no longer shunned in society. With the increasing intrigue of closet fanatics and the help of Hugh Heffner www.playboy.com , we are likely to see more to come. Music and the adult entertainment industry have been flirting for years. The courtship has crept through the big screen by long time porn producer Bennie Boom who recently released the smash hit comedy “Next Day Air”. Now how did this happen? Maybe the same way that Vanessa Del Rio stole the scene from the late Bernie Mac in “Soul Man.” For those who think this is a despicable thing………Close your eyes and plug your ears. This is a train that will not slow or stop. There will be more to come………
InTheMixWIthTre’
Related Sources:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C0c3MtQPY6Y
DMV Indie Artists!!!!
DMV Indie Artists-Voices Seen and Now Heard
Just like any other city, Washington, DC is full of independent artists who want their voices to be heard. These indie artists continuously search for a platform to express and share their various forms of creativity. There is one key factor that allows our city to stand out from the rest. That golden key master is April Watts of Maximum Watts, Inc. www.alwaysapril.com This powerhouse queen is known for holding various hats as a model, actress and on-air radio personality. April Watts also provides career opportunities within her company to promote spiritual cleaning and a healthy way of living. Along with her team of managers, producers, and loyal followings, Maximum Watts, Inc is bringing to the DMV what all unsigned artists have wished for.
April "Mecca" Watts was considered the voice (Face) of DC on Radio ONE’s Billboard Awarded Urban Station MAJIC 102.3.Her career began as the youngest Jazz Programmer on the East Coast, garnering the respect of her peers and the attention of her idols vaulting her to the front lines of Radio as one of the most well known Radio Personalities of the region. Her charisma and flare easily transferred to on camera with a plethora of television hosting opportunities as an entertainment journalist to Giant Steps Hip Hop Urban Show to being a celebrity Judge on the hit reality show TV One’s Gospel Challenge.A published personality, she has written articles for The Washington Informer, Washington Afro Newspaper and Musician Minds Magazine as well as a featured photographic model in international magazines such as ESSENCE.
This past weekend, April Watts hosted a live taping showcasing some of these independent artists to be featured on www.whwweb.com April sent out invitations throughout her many networking sites for audience members to attend. I was happy to be a part of her movement along with Jerkahonis and Egypt who are unsigned artists as well. What better way to network and have your vision heard? The featured artists of the show which will appear on the web and other venues included an alternative band, Christian vocalist Indigo, and rapper Wordsmith. Closing the show was Baltimore’s own Mzery Loves Company www.mzerylovescompany.com
This group of females along with rapper Oliver Twist ripped the soundstage with their unique blend of rock, soul, and hip-hop. They totally blew my mind as well as the other listeners who had the pleasure of attending. I soaked in the creativity of these indie artists as Mzery kicked the flow, Sasha commandeered the drums, Chin singing in her blues turned soulful voice, Clair picking her guitar, and Liz chilling on the bass. Mzery turned out to be a great day for me and as I enjoyed their company. Thanks to the great passion of April Watts and many others in the DMV area, independent artists are seen and heard. Our own DMVRADIO.NET is proof alone that the DMV supports their own. If it were not for April Watts, I along with many others would have missed the opportunity to participate in this “Movement.” Soon, the support will be nation-wide and everyone can join in on the support of independent artists all over, not just the DMV.
InTheMixWithTre’
Related Sources:
www.aprilwatts.com
www.myspace.com/aprilwatts
mzerylovescompany@gmail.com
Just like any other city, Washington, DC is full of independent artists who want their voices to be heard. These indie artists continuously search for a platform to express and share their various forms of creativity. There is one key factor that allows our city to stand out from the rest. That golden key master is April Watts of Maximum Watts, Inc. www.alwaysapril.com This powerhouse queen is known for holding various hats as a model, actress and on-air radio personality. April Watts also provides career opportunities within her company to promote spiritual cleaning and a healthy way of living. Along with her team of managers, producers, and loyal followings, Maximum Watts, Inc is bringing to the DMV what all unsigned artists have wished for.
April "Mecca" Watts was considered the voice (Face) of DC on Radio ONE’s Billboard Awarded Urban Station MAJIC 102.3.Her career began as the youngest Jazz Programmer on the East Coast, garnering the respect of her peers and the attention of her idols vaulting her to the front lines of Radio as one of the most well known Radio Personalities of the region. Her charisma and flare easily transferred to on camera with a plethora of television hosting opportunities as an entertainment journalist to Giant Steps Hip Hop Urban Show to being a celebrity Judge on the hit reality show TV One’s Gospel Challenge.A published personality, she has written articles for The Washington Informer, Washington Afro Newspaper and Musician Minds Magazine as well as a featured photographic model in international magazines such as ESSENCE.
This past weekend, April Watts hosted a live taping showcasing some of these independent artists to be featured on www.whwweb.com April sent out invitations throughout her many networking sites for audience members to attend. I was happy to be a part of her movement along with Jerkahonis and Egypt who are unsigned artists as well. What better way to network and have your vision heard? The featured artists of the show which will appear on the web and other venues included an alternative band, Christian vocalist Indigo, and rapper Wordsmith. Closing the show was Baltimore’s own Mzery Loves Company www.mzerylovescompany.com
This group of females along with rapper Oliver Twist ripped the soundstage with their unique blend of rock, soul, and hip-hop. They totally blew my mind as well as the other listeners who had the pleasure of attending. I soaked in the creativity of these indie artists as Mzery kicked the flow, Sasha commandeered the drums, Chin singing in her blues turned soulful voice, Clair picking her guitar, and Liz chilling on the bass. Mzery turned out to be a great day for me and as I enjoyed their company. Thanks to the great passion of April Watts and many others in the DMV area, independent artists are seen and heard. Our own DMVRADIO.NET is proof alone that the DMV supports their own. If it were not for April Watts, I along with many others would have missed the opportunity to participate in this “Movement.” Soon, the support will be nation-wide and everyone can join in on the support of independent artists all over, not just the DMV.
InTheMixWithTre’
Related Sources:
www.aprilwatts.com
www.myspace.com/aprilwatts
mzerylovescompany@gmail.com
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