Celebrating all the moms-Mother's Day Week

I thought with Mother’s Day coming up I wanted to discuss some celebrity mothers out there with famous children and also focus on how our relationships between our mothers change when we go from infancy to adulthood. How we began to form a dynamic relationship that changes we are no longer just daughter/son to mom. We often become much more to our parents then they or we even realize until we become adults. This is my tribute to all of the mothers around the world. All of whom I know, will meet in the future, and have learned from as well. 

This was an epic night! I just saw Swizz Beats and Alicia Keys lol...my mom and I at Brooklyn Museum Summer 2015

At National Harbor in Maryland out celebrating all together November 2015

Posing at  Madison Square Garden in New York City my 30th birthday celebration going to see Maxwell and Mary J. Blige in concert 

Spring 1987-10 months old mom and me

Mother's Day 2011

My father, Jewel, my big brother, Daheed, and my paternal grandmother, Ms.Carlene Imogene Dubard November 2011 in Palm Bay, Florida 

My great-great-grandmother Bessie ("Mama Margie's mother) when she was probably in her  late 30s about age 38 in 1944

My great-grandmother, Margie and me one last kiss before I headed home June 2012-her 90th birthday celebration

My gorgeous grandma Shirley during her modeling days when she was about 27 in this picture circa 1967

This is a throwback I love this picture this will probably go in my house one day it's my great-grandmother sitting next to her mother and two ladies out celebrating a summer night this was taken June 1940 right before my grandmother
was born!

The gang my grandmother and my mom were  all together in New York City Fall 2014

My beautiful grandmother, Shirley, my mom, her sister Sandra, my cousin Anton (1 of my 6 first cousins)

My best friend, Marisa (Macaroni's wedding) my mom was there hey she knew the couple lol ! 

Grandma Shirley aka "Miss Shirley" to you... and I partying with her St. Louis Club in Washington, DC 

Mom chillin' in the Hamptons Summer 2015 by this gorgeous Milk and Honey Yacht

Flemings Steakhouse Edgewater, NJ Mothers Day 2009

Grandma Shirley and Me at Sevilla restaurant

Summer 2011-Celebration of MLK at the memorial in Washington, DC

One of my other besties Theresa!!! Both of my girls have taught me how to be a mom. They are my sisters so I know I have good company =) lol! Shout out to my goddaughter, Jayleen and her dad, Jose lol thank you guys for everything  =)

When my bestie became a mom for the first time I was so proud of her and husband, Chris  now she's a mother to two beautiful girls, Adriana, 2 and Alessia, 4 months old Summer 2016

My great-great grandmother, Bessie and my great-grandmother, Margie (1940s)

You wonder why I pose so much...yep it's because of this lady right here!!!!!! My great-grandmother, Margie lol!!!! Foxy mama lol =) love you always

When we are infants our parents are preparing us for the world, teaching us how to crawl, walk, laugh, smile, burp, they play with us, and they focus on making everything for us easier, smoother, and pleasant. We are and become their main focus and they develop a bond because we ultimately need them for everything especially that first year of life. Every day, month, and year is significant we should never take those little moments for granted at all I think when you become a parent. I believe the key is making sure that our child recognizes us right away. I think all parents should definitely bond from the moment with skin-to-skin treatment where your child automatically is placed in your arms for that skin connection and contact. It’s crucial so that your baby(ies) they know immediately that this is their parent and they need to form that bond. It is great psychologically, physically, and emotionally for the mother, father, and child.

When we become toddlers and we began developing our vision abilities, hearing abilities, motor skills, how to form words, and then we begin to call our parents “Mama, Papa, Baba, Dada, Mommy….”all of the nicknames and names we will come to call our parents becomes a momentous occasion and memorable time for parents because they are learning to communicate their feelings, emotions, and thoughts. These little people we have carried for nine-to ten months (40-week) period is so special because now you see how your genetics start playing a major part in the role. How will your babies voice sound, will your baby be strong, loud, shy, rambunctious, or will they be loving, affectionate or more. Those 46 chromosomes that took to make us all the human beings we grow up to be are put to use in our DNA in ways sometimes we are quite surprised and amazed to see in years to come.

I have a niece, two nephews (they are grown now ages Kamani 26, Shania 21, Jaleel , 20) . I remember when my oldest nephew was born how I cradled him in my arms and I was only 7! I loved that moment of being an aunt was significant and special. Then seeing my little cousins as time passed, meeting other little children I played or grew up with, and later down the road when I turned 21 I became a godmother. One of my best friends had her little girl who just happened to be a preemie like me and I instantly fell in love. She was adorable, sweet, fun, sensitive, and one of the little kids who I have adored watching growing up. She’s very special to me because I want to see her succeed and achieve just as one of my family members too. I think at that age of the formative years are crucial.

I had a great childhood over all looking at every moment, every class, school picture, little friendships, and everything I can truthfully say it was a fun, interesting childhood. It forced me to grow up fast too. I think for all children during these years you need to be present, this is the time when you are learning to teach them manners, behaviors that are normal, and healthy. This is the time when your morals and values start kicking in. What is acceptable vs. what is not acceptable for a child. Your mother’s influence comes to you as well the other people in your life. This is who you learn directly from, you learn from your caregivers and nurturers. The people who will guide you and protect you.

Your relationship takes a dramatic shift during your teenage years I remember this was the time when my womanhood and identity was being tested. I was becoming my own person around this time. This is often when societal pressures and expectations start to take an affect when you’re a teenager. Your relationship changes with your mom. My mother and I we began to have arguments sometimes and fights. I am not ashamed to admit it because all relationships are tested. Every relationship you have whether mother-daughter, father-daughter, business, family, co-workers, friendships, girlfriend-boyfriend, husband-wife. You will find a test this is when you learn how to gain integrity, respect, you’re learning what you need to voice your opinion on. Sometimes we have it wrong, sometimes our parents may have it wrong. We may not agree on everything but I believe you have to take a step back because it happen so fast. You often don’t realize what is really happening you’re growing up and your parents are realizing that their baby is no longer a baby anymore. They are changing into another version of themselves. Some people may distance themselves from their parents. They may want to claim more independence and freedom.

I think for me I realized it when we had arguments about dumb things, silly and stupid things. That we needed that time, space, and we needed to give each other room. I needed to reflect on what was really happening those moments. I was growing up and things were happening quickly.   She sent me to stay with my father one time when I was in my teen years. I remember having arguments where I wanted to move and go live with one of my boyfriends at the time. We even had disagreements about other things too. It let me know that sometimes even the people we love we’re not always going to see eye-to-eye on everything in our relationships.

One of my mother’s boyfriends gave me some wise advice when I was 13 he told me something I always live by and respect. He said “Chloe, you are going to need your mother during this time. You need to make sure you hold on to her, spend time with her, do things together go to lunch, go get a pedicure/manicure”. He was right because from the time I was 13 to 19 those years were a time when I needed her for support, guidance, to answer questions tough questions I had about life and about making decisions that would affect my future later. Our bond and is still very tight we became very strong at that time. We took trips to Martha’s Vineyard, The Hamptons, cruise ships, and other places together. Or even times when she wasn’t there she always made sure my friends and I would have a great time, concerts, and other events. I met many of my mother’s friends old , new, and co-workers. So I built a strong bond with my mother during my teenage years that sustained me even now in my thirties.

Adulthood-Oh yes when we have left adolescence and we reach and have arrived at adulthood this is when you appreciate everything your parents have done for you. The sacrifices, the choices, their advice, the celebratory occasions, the hand- holding moments when your parents are there, and everything in between. These are the lessons that you will carry with you into raising and building your own family. You don’t have to be by the book but you take what works for you. Every individual is different has had different experiences, choices, customs, backgrounds, and people who raised them. What matters is that the great things that made you a decent human being.

What makes me want to be a mother even more now. I think growing up around my grandmothers I had my paternal grandmother, Carlene until I was 27 years old. She was a huge part of my upbringing growing up. I also had my great-grandmother until I was 27 as well. My great-grandmother Margie Catherine Wall-Golden-Joplin Gillespie was born June 16, 1922 she worked for the United States Postal Service for 30 plus years, did gardening, volunteered, danced for the YMCA community, raised 5 children: 2 girls, 3 boys, and she passed May 14, 2014 in St. Louis, Missouri and my paternal grandmother, Carlene Imogene Dubard was born September 9, 1928 she attended Touro College, she was a nurse for a senior citizen facility, worked a couple of jobs, raised 3 boys, and she passed on May 18, 2014 in Jacksonville, Florida they passed where they were born and raised actually. My great-grandmother taught me to have confidence that it is ok to be shy. You will gain your confidence over time. She taught me the virtue of patience.  How important family is and why you need them. She taught me far more than that  but those lessons come in handy today.

My grandmother Carlene taught me how important it is to be strong, to make sure your voice is heard, how to work hard, be a hustler, to be tough, how to appreciate great food, beauty, enjoy the finer things in life too.

I thank god for my maternal grandmother, “Miss Shirley” I call her but Shirley Mae Golden-Worthy she’s amazing and continues to amaze us all and has been a huge part of my life as well. I could go on about how her affect still is a big part of me today. How if it weren’t for her in the tough times I wouldn’t know how significant and special it is to have a grandmother even in your adult years. She has 3 children (2 daughters, 1 son), 7 grandchildren (4 boys, 3 girls) and 2 great-grandchildren so she’s been amazing cannot wait to see what else God has in store for her in the future.

When my paternal grandmother and great-grandmother both had their home going it was a huge part of me was affected but I stand by what they taught me, what they blessed me with genetically, and what values they instilled in me. I talk about them often on my blog because they have and still are a special piece of me.  I think after having and seeing how special that time was with the both of them. I think seeing how my friends and family are with their children, and my own relationship with my mother. It has made me want to be a mother even that much more. Your mom is your security blanket there to protect and keep you safe until its time for you to keep you safe. I think my goal for me when I am a mother is to make sure that communication lines are open and that they are genuinely happy. I don’t want them to feel like they can’t discuss certain topics with me. Or they cannot be real or honest with me. I want them to be their own individuals not like me or anyone else but be the best version of themselves. To put God first and to always give back especially when they have been blessed with so much.

 Celebrities and their mothers I have been inspired by their relationship with their children.

I also wanted to discuss some celebrity mothers I have seen a few of my favorite musicians, recording artists, actors/actresses who their bond with their mothers is transcendent you see it when they are on the red carpet, if they take their parents to special occasions and different events. Back in 2001 I once bought my mom a book called “Hollywood Moms” and I think I wrote something about how I wanted us to be like that in case one of us became famous. (I smile writing this because you never know). We have had many encounters with some celebrities so yes I believe dreams come true….I wanted to discuss some of my favorite people and their relationship or advice they learned. How even their business relationship was a crossover into their personal relationship.

Ashanti, Tina, and Shia 

Ashanti (her sister)-her mom, Tina Douglas

Ashanti Douglas hip/hop R&B superstar and her mother or her “momager”, Tina Douglas helped assisted Ashanti in every step of the way from raising her and her younger sister, to when Ashanti decided she wanted a career in entertainment and the music business. She stepped in with a right hook and firm foot to make sure her daughter would be guided and protected along the way. There’s something I admire about their relationship because they have a beautiful balance of professional and personal. They know when to cut and draw the lines. I always wanted a similar balance if I ha decided to my acting career seriously. I was going to have my mother be my manager.

Kate Hudson, Goldie Hawn, and family

Goldie Hawn-Kate Hudson (her siblings) Their relationship is very special to me too because they both happen to be actresses and entertainers. Kate Hudson followed her mother’s footsteps and wanted a career as an actress. She had her first break out role in “Almost Famous” now Kate has learned well on how to balance actress/businesswoman/spokeswoman/ mother of 3 (2 sons and a daughter).

Solange, Beyonce, Celestina "Tina" Lawson 

Beyonce/Solange – Celestina “Tina” Knowles-Now come on Beyhive you know I couldn’t forget this famous mama she’s been instrumental in assisting Beyonce since she first started doing performance competitions when she was a little girl, assisting, sketching, designing every costume for both Beyonce and her younger sister, Solange when it comes to their busy lives and careers. Tina Knowles knows how to multitask and get things done. She’s instilled that business savvy with both of her daughters. She has a beauty/hair salon that she worked on and then also kept and made time to design clothing in her spare time for Beyonce’s group, Destiny’s Child and came up with her own clothing line. They even collaborated with their Dereon clothing line as well which did very well. She’s been amazing and continues to surprise us as well. Now we know where Beyonce gets it from when the surprises come out with albums and other projects. Her mother has become an example and the epitome of grace, class, and strength. She not only makes sure she’s an influence to her daughters, her 4 grandchildren: Juelz, Blue Ivy, Sir, and Rumi . She makes sure to be an example to other females and males in all different communities.

Trey Songz, his mother April, and his brother 

Trey Songz (his brothers)-his mom –Okay I am bias lol! I have a huge crush on him and I know he has a great relationship with his mother because of how he discusses her in interviews and even his songs he sings about her in a few of his successful albums. You sense and get that they have a strong connection and closeness. It’s important as a young male, an African -American man that he has that bond with his mother and connection. There’s something very special about the first woman, the first “girl” he falls in love with is his mother. So remember that ladies when you have sons. You want to make an impression a positive impression on your sons because when he becomes a teenager and young man. You see the impact on him when he gets older. He was raised by both his grandmother and his mother. So how about that now you see why he appreciates a good woman when he sees one.

Angie Martinez-mom- She’s one of my favorite dee-jays I have grown up literally listening to her on WQHTHot 97  many of you know my mother worked at the station in the marketing/promotion/sales department. This station always has a special place in my heart. 

Angie Martinez and her mother 

(I love you Angie! Lol) and now that she has moved on to Power 105.1 she is still breaking records, expands the role that I am not just a female radio broadcaster behind the microphone. I can wear other hats too. Angie’s story always touched me I have learned over the years how her mother was in the radio business as well. She broke into the business and got her start as well interning and assisting. Always felt I could relate with that because I started interning when I was about 17 for a station as well. Angie’s career though she wears many different hats so you don’t just see her as a radio broadcaster or deejay. She has had successful hit songs, a  New York Times best seller, she has one of the top radio shows, she’s been in films, she’s an author of a cookbook, and continues to expand her brand. She’s been influential in all different communities. So that’s one thing a lot of these people have in common. You see how their parents influence and careers sometimes can make your child or children see their own potential too.

Sean “P.Diddy/Brother Love/Puff Daddy”Combs and

Sean "P.Diddy/Puff Daddy/Brother Love Combs and his mother, Ms. Janice Combs 

Puffy and the kids 

his mom

Sean “P.Diddy” Combs he has many monikers and nicknames over his 30 year career he’s been a hustler from day one and definitely got it from his parents. His mother became a single mother early after Sean lost his father in a tragic accident when he was younger and his mother became a soldier stepping in to raise his sister and him. I saw recent photos of Sean and his mother, Janice Combs on the May 2019 Essence issue really touched my heart because he bowed down to his mother. I was touched by that for a man who has been through a rollercoaster ride and never wants to stop he is extremely driven and tenacious. He needs someone strong, confident, real, honest, and open behind him. Behind every strong man is a strong woman and sometimes your mother might just be the one to keep you in check and stand firmly by your side too.

Now to every celebrity or non-celebrity average Joe or Jane (just like me )out there it doesn’t matter you all are unique, special, different in each of your own way. You cannot be duplicated at all you are an original person with talent, intelligence, gifts, hearts, souls, voices, and so much to offer the world. I hope all of you will have a very special mother’s day whether if you are a new mother, foster mother, mother who adopted children, stepmother, aunt, sister, or cousin. If you are raising a child on your own especially know that you are capable and can raise a child by yourself if you feel the need to as well. So to all of the mothers out there God bless, keep doing an incredible job because remember something God gives us these special gifts for a reason from the moment we make and decide to raise these children. They are truly the gift that keeps giving to the universe. Without them we cannot move forward or progress in society. That’s what makes becoming a mother so special you are influencing society and the future. Happy Mother’s Day! to all of my family members, friends, their moms, and yours Enjoy. All the best Kisses, Hugs, Bacios, and Besos to you and yours =)

Have an Arabian Night experience with Aladdin and Jasmine in theaters May 24, 2019

I remember when I was a kid one of my earliest memories of growing up was definitely watching Disney films with my family, classmates, and child hood friends. Pocahontas, Beauty and the Beast, Lion King, The Jungle Book, and now Aladdin. I loved “Jasmine” the love interest of Aladdin. I even had a Jasmine doll and the Jasmine sleeping bag I proudly took to one of my old classmates sleepovers growing up. So the Disney characters and I we go way back. I think for all of us Disney film lovers this has been a long time coming actually with the remake of The Jungle Book, Dumbo, and others it made perfect sense for them to want to tell stories in a different light and bring them to life. All of the movies take you to a beautiful place that you want to visit in real life. They have a way of taking you out of your reality into a magical, mystical, and whimsical dream. Every Disney film I have seen probably made me want to visit the place if it were real. Let’s say if Aladdin the film location were real wouldn’t you want to visit the middle eastern or African countries full of animals, hot desert sands, and people coming up to you from all over the world. The fictional Agrabah is a place similar to that.  

An original photo of Fantasy/Romance classic Aladdin the original characters, Jasmine and Aladdin (November 1992)

Abu Aladdin's sidekick in Live Action Film in theaters May 24, 2019

Now that it’s Aladdin’s turn we have some new actors and actresses on the rise who will be starring in this film. The film is directed by Guy Richie and the lead actor, Aladdin will portrayed by Mena Massoud (What Happens Next, Americanistan, Let’s Rap, Ordinary Days, Masters in Crime, Final Exam, Run this Town, Strange but True, Nikita, Poser, The 99, Saving Hope,  and he has done voiceovers for Watch Dogs 2) plays the Agrabah “streetrat” who becomes smitten and wants to win the heart of the Sultan’s daughter, Jasmine.

 Jasmine will be portrayed by Naomi Scott is a British actress and was featured as Kimberly Hart in the 2017 film version of Power Rangers she played the “Pink Powerranger”, “Lemonade Mouth”, and her next film is now a new version of the 1970s classic, “Charlie’s Angels” she teamed up with fellow actress and director, Elizabeth Banks.

The film will also star Marwan Kenzari as the evil, calculating, sorcerer, Jafar who is definitely one of the most well known villains in Disney. You can also see him in Katia’s sister, The Last Days of Emma Blank, Loft, Rabat, Black Out, Wolf, The Promise, The Mummy, What Happened to Monday, Murder on the Orient, and The Angel.

One person we cannot forget is the person who grants Aladdin his three wishes is the genie. The original November of 1992 animated film the genie was portrayed and voice over’s were done by the late, great, multitalented, Robin Williams. Someone had to come in to fill the shoes of him who would be just as talented, comical, fun, and bring his own background and experience. It makes perfect sense to me this person would do the role justice. I am honored to finally get a chance to discuss this person because I haven’t had a chance to mention him much in my blog. I have mentioned and wrote about his gorgeous wife, her achievements, accolades, and latest projects, I have talked about his daughter even and other family members. I have never had a chance to mention or put the spotlight on him but I am honored because he truly is one of my heroes.

Will Smith replaces Robin Williams as The genie in Aladdin 2019 version

Ladies and Gentlemen give it up for Will Smith! He will portray the genie in the live action remake of Aladdin. I can go on and on about this person because he is so well accomplished as an actor, producer, and what he has done in our community for those who want to act, sing, rap, perform, and more. I had a big crush on him growing up too so it’s such a great way to see him on a huge scale again in mainstream media. Will has revamped and reemerged again you could say now he’s Will the 2.0 version where you thought he was great he’s been phenomenal with his YouTube channel, his Instagram posts, advice. His family should go ahead and say we are taking over with the SMITH DYNASTY. It’s been incredible to watch him and his family just grow and continue to shine motivating and pushing us all to be better versions of ourselves. So I needed to get that out because he truly has made and created a lane and is on a level that exceeded our expectations. He pretty much let us all know don’t put me in a box I am going to do it all and then some. So congratulations to him on this role. He’s going to do phenomenal he has the background experience with dramatic , comedic, romantic comedy, animated film, action, and other roles. So we have seen him dip himself into many different lanes and channels. My hats off to you on this one!

The film also will star Navid Negahban has been featured in the following films (The Fallen Ones, Broken, Waking Dreams, Charlie Wilson’s War, The Stoning of Soraya M., Powder Blue, Brothers, American Assassin, 12 Strong, and Damascus Cover., Nasim Pedrad is a cast member of Saturday Night Live from (2009 to 2014), she has been featured in It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, The Awesomes, The Mindy Project, New Girl, Brooklyn Nine Nine, and Billy Magnussen has been featured on the Elephant Garden, Happy Tears, Ingrid Goes West, Bridge of Spies, Law & Order, Blue Bloods, CSI, The Good Wife, The People vs OJ Simpson: American Crime Story, and Friends from College, and Tell Me A Story.  He also has appeared in theater for The Ritz, Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike, and Sex with Strangers.  He earned a best ensemble cast award from the San Diego Film Critics Society.

For more information visit http://www.disney.com/aladdin and visit the website for information on upcoming Broadway performances around the globe.

The Lion King Returns for Live Action Film this Summer 2019

The Lion King returns after twenty-five years of hit Broadway shows within the United States and internationally around the globe. The animated film will finally become a live action film starring a few of their original cast members and some very new faces and upcoming stars will appear in their first leading roles in a major production film. The small animated lion cub we remember being launched in the air by a colorful wise bam boon monkey has become an iconic image in our minds for two decades. He is the symbol in the film of hope, promise, his legacy from the moment he is presented to the jungle as the next ruler and gives all of the animals a sense of comfort, pride, and a better future for them and their community within the film.

This time the gang is all back together: Simba, Nala, Timon, Pumbaa, Mufasa, Scar, and all of the beloved characters are back in this diverse and beautiful film. The following stars have been cast within the film. This is a huge ensemble cast and I wanted to make sure I covered everyone’s most recent acting achievements and some accolades many of my readers may not have known or do know too.

1. James Earl Jones the award winning theater, television, and film actor will star and reemerge in his role as Mufasa. It’s pretty amazing because he played and contributed his legendary and famous voice as Simba’s father. Mufasa is the protector to Simba he oversees the pride. There is no one else I could have imagined taking on this role that both children and adults have come to love.
2. Donald Glover aka “Childish Gambino” stars as the Adult Simba he’s a Grammy award winner with a hit television series, “Atlanta” and his multi platinum award winning album from 2018 featuring the hit single, “Redbone”.
3. Funny man Seth Rogen will stars as Timon’s sidekick “Pumbaa” (“The End is near”, “Knocked Up”, “The Neighbors 1 and 2”, , “The 40 year old virgin”, “Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy” and “Long Shot” which debuts this May 2019 also.
4. Eric Andre stars as Azizi he is the creator, host, and co writer of The Eric Andre Show on Adult Swim featured on the Cartoon Network. He was also featured on Man Seeking Woman, “Two Broke Girls”, “Disenchantment”.
5. Billy Eichner stars as Timon we all remember Pumbaa’s best friend and sidekick. He has been featured on the Netflix series, “College with Friends” “Billy with friends”, and has upcoming film “Noelle”.
6. John Oliver stars as Zazu English comedian is the British correspondent and featured on “The Daily Show with Jon Stewart”, had a podcast titled “The Bugle”, he has also received many accolades for Emmy, TCA Award for Outstanding Achievement for News and Information, Webby Award, MTV Movie and TV Award.
7. Keegan Michael Key is a comedian, actor, writer, and producer he was featured on the show “Key & Peele”, “Playing House”, “Whose Line is it anyway”, “Lets Be Cops”, “Tomorrowland”, “Pitch Perfect”, “Keanu”, and is featured on hilarious show, “Friends From College” on Netflix will star as Kamari in the Lion King.
8. John Kani-Rafiki he is a theater thespian and received an Oliver Award for “My Children! My Africa”, “Captain America: Civil War”, “How to Steal Two Million”, “Endgame” “Nothing But the Truth”, and starred in the mega billionare dollar hit, “Black Panter” as T’Challa’s father and will also play Rafiki in the Lion King.
9. Florence Kasumba stars as Shenzi is a voiceover actress and was also featured in “The Black Panther”, she played Senator Acantha in 2017’s”Wonder Woman”, “Emerald City”, “Mute”, “Offline : Are You ready for the next level”, and “Captain America: Civil War”.
10. Alfre Woodard activist, Emmy, Grammy Award, and multi-nominated Academy Award actress, who has been featured in a whole book of hit films  (Crooklyn, Love & Basketball, How to make an American Quilt,  Blue Chips, Beauty Ship, Something New, Mississippi Grind,  Captain America, Clemency,  Juanita,   and she will star as Sarabi. Well seasoned actress and love her because when you see her play certain roles you see another dimension come out of her. She’s an actress who knows how to bring the character to life and make it even more realistic.
     
11. Get ready “Beyhive”… Grammy award winner, multiplatinum artist, actress, songwriter, singer, fashion designer,  and businesswoman,  Beyonce Knowles-Carter will play the adult Nala character. As many of you know Beyonce starred in “Dreamgirls”, “The Fighting Temptations”, “Cadillac Records”, “Obsessed” and a few animated roles so she is no stranger to performing and crossing over into film. She also has her own documentary “Life is but a dream” she produced with HBO and just recently her documentary, “Homecoming” which takes a behind the scene looks at her life currently after she just had her fraternal twins, Rumi & Sir Carter and raising, 7-year-old, Blue Ivy, and managing business and her beautiful marriage with husband, Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter. She shows the full process of finding her talented dancers, the marching band, and how her production team, fashion team, stage crew, and everyone involved including her family have all found a way to become successful as a unit.
12. Chiwetel Ejiofor  another theater, television, and film actor, BAFTA award winner, Laurence Olivier award winner who has been featured intelevision , film, and theater projects “Amistad”, “Dirty Pretty Things” “Love Actually”, “She Hate Me”, “Melinda & Melinda”, “Four Brothers”,”Talk to Me”, “Sherlock Holmes”, and will star in the sequel to Maleficent: Mistress of Evil”.
     
13. Jaydon “JD” McCrary fans he has been featured on the Oprah Winfrey Network, “The Paynes”,  “American Soul” he played the king of pop as child, “Little” he made his debut as Isaac, he was featured on Childish Gambino’s “Awaken my Love”, and he has three singles, “Inviting all of you”, “My Name”, and “Keep In Touch” He just received an award from Bounce TV Network as Trumpet Award as an official sponsor and rising star. I see amazing things happening for this kid right here nothing but going up from here.

 

1. Shahadi Wright Joseph is the breakout star of the film “Us” (2019) I definitely recommend that you see her performance and she will be playing the Young Nala in the live action film this year.

 

That’s one theme that takes place within this film of the Lion King you see how everyone plays their part. Every single character has a purpose and reason within the film of the movie and at the end of the day it is all about making sure that the future king becomes successful to rule the wild and growing jungle and still remains a protector of his pride and his self.  For more information on this amazing film, the original soundtrack, merchandise, and everything you want to know visit http://www.disney.com  and visit http://www.lionking.com for more information on the Broadway show, film tickets, and more. The film debuts July 19, 2019

 

 

The cast of Lion King Live Action Film (2019)

 

Legendary Filmmaker leaves his mark on the film industry

“Legendary Filmmaker Leaves Impact in Filmmaking community and around the world”

 

We have been losing some amazing icons in a variety of industries. Some people who have left their mark on this planet. It breaks our hearts of course it hurts but when you leave your mark you leave your history, your story, and you change the world I believe in this…. “When you are fortunate to live on this amazing, beguiling, and ever-changing planet you can leave footprints in the sand, send shooting stars and comets across the sky, or you can simply just blow in the wind.”-Chloe J. Riccardo

            I knew I had to write this story it struck me and I had a feeling it was coming when the news broke I knew right away who this person was and how his life and story has changed so many of us around the world who want to tell stories whether through media, film, acting, or through other ways of expression.

 This person left paintbrush, canvas, and painted his mark with a stamp and then some. Legendary filmmaker, John Singleton passed away yesterday April 29, 2019. I wanted to discuss this topic because I have realized his impact in the art, film, and all creative industries he touched many people around the world.

            The word genius exists for a reason because you simply think to yourself “Why didn’t I think or create something amazing and powerful like that?” I believe we all are here for many purposes and to share our stories and journeys within our community so we learn what choices to make and what not to make. What can impact our lives comes from the notion that you have the ability and free thought to choose what kind of life you want to live.

            He did the same with his films like “Poetic Justice” a film I discussed on my personal blog when the anniversary came up. Singleton gives you a snapshot of a young African American woman who is in her twenties living and growing up in a Los Angeles South Central community after losing and grieving the death of her boyfriend. She just so happens to channel her emotions and pain through her poetry. We learn later in the film that her poems were actually written by the amazing phenomenal woman herself, Maya Angelou. The film has had an impact on the hip-hop community because it was one of the breakout roles for a young hip-hop artist named, Tupac Shakur, and a young woman who has become a cultural icon, Janet Jackson.  His impact broke boundaries and his film translated to the community all around the world. Myself included I love the story, the music soundtrack, the characters were relatable, real, and honest. You can easily connect to their story and I think that’s something that many people can identify with too. You also see issues being raised within the community at that time back in 1993 with gang related violence, discrimination, heavy senseless violence, drug abuse, and other issues are exposed within the story line that just created more consciousness around us all. How we needed to do better and grow better. John gave many new actors and actresses all a chance and everyone within his films have gone and paved the way for many actors, actresses, and filmmakers of color. He studied at the University of Southern California filmmaking school as well. Their filmmaking program has launched the career of some gifted directors and filmmakers. Singleton is definitely included.

His other films and television projects he was involved in continues today to impact many up and coming artists daily. Films like the 1991 classic, “Boyz In the Hood” which launched O’Shea “Ice Cube” Jackson, Morris Chestnut, Nia Long, Cuba Gooding Jr., Laurence Fishburne, and Angela Bassett’s careers at that time. The film told a story of a young man growing up in South Central, LA with his father he comes to live with him during his teenage years. It is a coming-of-age story so to speak but he’s dealing with the issue of learning how to balance being a man and making the right choices. He struggles to deal with getting involved in the gangster life of some of his friends who sit around drinking malt liquor and shooting guns. He deals with the issue of becoming a father too soon and teenage pregnancy. Then he also deals with the issue of making sure to come out alive within school and his community itself. These are the stories John helped create and bring on film. He wanted his people to identify with the characters he created. He wanted to translate the story and bring it on film. So we all could say to ourselves “That’s me I see myself within that character, that’s my child, or that’s my neighbor”.

            One other film I saw was how he changed the game with “Higher Learning” (1995), “Shaft” (2000) “Baby Boy” (2001), and “2 Fast 2 Furious” (2003) he changed the film industry and took other musicians and artists under his wing and helped launched their careers like Taraji P. Henson, Tyrese, Chris “Ludacris” Bridges, and many others who were featured in this film. He changed their lives. “Baby Boy” a story many of us can relate to within the African American community a young man is coming of age and struggling with getting out on his own. He is trying to find his way within his community in his career, as a father, and a son to his mother. “Baby Boy” is one of those stories where you get a male perspective so to speak. You see what a young twenty-year old man is facing day to day.  Absentee father issue comes up when his father may not be present or around his single mother. Singleton knew how to write and capture a story adding color, life, and making us all even want to emulate the characters he created. He made us want to become those people. Some of them were fearless, others were gifted talented, stylish, beautiful, and some were comical, silly, or funny. He should be known as the visionary of positive black images. He wanted to tell the truth with his films and also show what we could become eventually in the future. I believe we may have exceeded his expectations and then some for the reality and what he really wanted to see achieved in the film industry, in the African American, and all minority communities. He will be truly missed by his fans, his family, his friends, his colleagues, and everyone he touched who loved his films.

John Daniel Singleton (January 6, 1968-April 29, 2019)

 

 

 

 

 

Two big pop divas coming to the new entertainment state

She's coming to Vegas bringing all of her hits, "Cardi B" making her way on your KAOS nightclub stage

Queen of Pop Janet Jackson coming to MGM Grand hotel this spring 

Let's call Las Vegas instead of sin city. Let's just call it our new entertainment capital. Everyone is coming there to do a show and these two ladies are no different they deserve it with the incredible achievements and successes they have had it's their time to shine. They both recently just had children under 5 and are out here managing family, motherhood, success as entertainers, and are breaking barriers as women of color, and women in general. 

She’s a newly fresh-minted Grammy award winner. She just won her first Grammy award for her 2018 album, “Invasion of Privacy”. I am talking about the new hip-hop goddess, “Cardi B” (Belcalis Alamanzar) who has been considered as a hip hop Marilyn Monroe who rose from the Bronx and has made a name for herself in Hollywood. Cardi will be heading to the West Coast as one of the A list big stars (_ this summer to do quick residency.

Next the pop queen, Janet Jackson will be heading to the Vegas strip for her residency. Couldn’t believe when I heard it but it makes perfect sense because she has had three decades of number ones and successful albums that have made their mark all around the globe worldwide. Of course she has had many sold out successful tours but there’s something about doing a big Vegas residency these days that takes peoples careers to a whole different level. You go from not just a celebrity but now you’re officially a legend. You’re at the level of Frank Sinatra, The Beatles, Michael Jackson (who of course Janet is his little sister), and now for her to be considered and put at that mark it takes her to a completely different place.

For some of you who may have been born in the nineties or the early 2000s let me school you on who is Janet Jackson and why this is a big deal….

The woman is an icon, who has influenced many pop, R&B, soul, dancers, actresses, and more. Without her there would be no Beyonce, no Ciara, no Aaliyah, no Tinashe, and many more. Her influence is incredible she showcased and showed superstars I am more than a pretty face. She’s multitalented and she has influenced a generation of women to demand control, respect, to be fierce, creative, and not intimidated by themselves or anyone else. Janet’s influence as an artist doesn’t just come from her music but she has affected generations of people politically and many other realms.

Cardi will perform at the nightclub KAOS which opens this month she will be scheduled for a few shows there in May. Janet Jackson will also be performing at the MGM Grand Hotel featuring her new show Metamorphosis which is about her journey from being a child star then becoming the icon she is now. It will feature detail about her life with the Jacksons, her journey through her solo career, and where she is now today. So make your way out to Vegas. You know I will! I will see you all there very soon. Looking forward to seeing my “sheroes” on stage this spring and summer. Congratulations ladies.

Visit http://www.kaosnight.uvtix.com for Cardi B’s residency

Visit http://www.iamcardibofficial.com for more information on her upcoming shows and performances.

Visit http://www.janetjackson.com