THE FUNK OF BLACK TELEVISION
Earvin “Magic” Johnson and Sean “P-Diddy” Combs have entered in to the world of television. My initial reaction was “Great”, but we’ve been here before. Don’t get me wrong I’m happy, ecstatic, overjoyed that two of our most successful moguls in entertainment are about to grow their existing respective empires – good for them. However, we’ve had such a poor showing on a very short list of accomplishments thus far with Black Television.
For Whitney
My sister from another mother, you went to my grandfather’s church. Today is your going home party and man it really hurts. To think you were just here, only a ‘moment in time’ ago, and now you’re gone to sing, your greatest ever solo. You shared with millions ‘the greatest love of all’, so who else but you, would have to heed the call…
WHITNEY PHOTOS – Jennifer Hudson Pays Tribute!
Since Whitney Houston’s passing, there have been photos circulating of her engaging in activity the night before. This evening being the precursor if you will to Clive Davis’ annual pre-Grammy bash, of which Whitney was sure to grace with her presence. A gala attended by many, it’s invitation only, and always well attended. The party still went on last night, Davis was quoted saying “She loved music and loved this night that celebrated music… Whitney would have asked that the music go on,” and so it did. The annual gathering began with a performance by Tony Bennett, followed by Diana Krall, Diddy and Alicia Keys, who dedicated her song “No One” to Houston. Some photos of Houston and Davis from previous years…
WHITNEY HOUSTON DEAD AT 48
Whitney Houston was pronounced dead today at 3:43 pm Pacific time. She was found at the Beverly Hills Hilton Hotel, where she presently remains as her cause of death is under investigation with the Beverly Hills Police department. ”I am absolutely heartbroken at the news of Whitney’s passing. She was a true original and a talent beyond compare, I will miss her terribly.” Quincy Jones… Houston was a native of Newark, NJ. The daughter of Cissy Houston, a cousin to Dione Warwick and the God-daughter of Aretha Franklin, she was destined to be one of the best in music.
The FUNKIN’ DON of SOUL TV – Don Cornelius, Dead at 75
My mouth literally gaped open just now when I read the headline that television icon Don Cornelius was dead. It then opened wider when I read that he had shot himself!!! “Soul Train” hit the air in 1970 in Chicago, going national in 1971, I was eight. It was uplifting programming, seeing people of color dancing and enjoying themselves while some of the greatest talent in music performed.
THE POLOTRICKS OF BLACK FILM AND THE BITTERSWEET COVETED OSCARS
The nominees are in… this past Tuesday the annual Oscar nominations were announced. A lover of movies, I was always impressed by a show that honored the best of the best in film as a youth.
FUNKIN’ D’Angelo and Van Hunt – Are They Back?
D’Angelo is doing a European tour! According to various websites, he rocked the stage of Filadelfiakyrkan Church in Stockholm last night.
NICKI SAYS YOU’RE A “STUPID HOE”
It’s been almost a year since my blog entry on the rivalry between Nicki Minaj and Lil’ Kim. Just when you thought it was over, Nicki’s back with a new track called “Stupid Hoe.”
DOCTOR OF THE FUNK – The Honorable George Clinton
One who started out as a hair stylist and a staff writer for Motown Records in the late 60s, these days is known as one of the architects of FUNK. To honor his contributions and innovative approach to music, Berklee will grant the musician a Doctorate of Music degree on February 16th.
RED TAILS BRINGS THE FUNK
The new movie “Red Tails” garnered the number-two spot among top box office grossing films in its first week of release. It’s the story about the Tuskegee Airman of World War II.
AT LAST, IT’S JUST BEGUN: THE BEST IN FUNK – LEGENDS IN MUSIC
Two of music’s favorite children made their transitions recently. One was once considered the Queen of the Blues, the other a Master of Funk. I’m speaking of Etta James and Jimmy Castor, two people in music that may not have always been top of mind as artists via the mainstream, but certainly loved and highly respected among their fans and peers.
My FUNKIN’ TOP-10 for 2011!
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! 2012 – Wow! Peace Love & Abundant Blessings to Everyone. I hope and trust all are in great mind & spirit… Coldplay’s MYLO XYLOTO, a Christmas gift from my beautiful wonderful wife, rounds out my top-10 for favorite CDs in 2011. To my brother Jeff Cornell I have no doubt I’ll love the new “Portugal The Man” once I get it, but in terms of stuff I’ve heard and enjoyed…
c-dub’s Funkalicious Photo Album
Music is my life!
I have worked in the business of music entertainment in one form or another for over 25 years. Below are some of the music personalities that I have met along the way. I have also interviewed many celebrities. You can hear my interviews at my funkalicious blog or c-dub’s interviews page.
