Podcast appearances and mentions of Pearl Cleage

In this episode, Lissa Jones welcomes playright Pearl Cleage back to Black Market Reads as they talk about her play The Nacirema Society Requests the Honor of Your Presence at a Celebration of Their First 100 Years, playing at the Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis April 19-May 29, 2025. SYNOPSIS Grande dames Grace Dunbar and Catherine Green prepare for the Nacirema Society's 1964 centennial cotillion — the event of the season in Montgomery, Alabama. The elegant African American debutantes include Grace's granddaughter Gracie, escorted by Catherine's grandson Bobby, and the two grandmothers hope the young couple will soon be engaged. But Gracie and Bobby have other ideas. As the young ladies prepare for their debuts, a blackmail scheme brews behind the scenes and subterfuges unfold, all under the nose of a skeptical reporter covering the ball. Featuring clever storytelling and scandalous plots, this lighthearted comedy winds its way to an ending as charming as its characters.  Our production team for this episode includes co producers Lissa Jones and Edie French, technical director Paul Auguston, the voice Yo Derek, and our artist of inspiration Ta-coumba T. Aiken. We thank Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota for supporting this series focusing on the intersection of health, race, and culture. This is Black Market Reads. 

What happens when the countercultural artmakers get old? What happens when their revolutionary criticisms of the establishment become the establishment? Pearl Cleage dives into these deep waters in her play "Angry, Raucous, and Shamelessly Gorgeous." Listen in as Jackson and Jacob discuss this smart, funny, and energetic play.   ------------------------------ Check out these other conversations on Angry, Raucous, and Shamelessly Gorgeous: Artistic Director of Hartford Stage, Melia Bensussen, discusses the play with Pearl Cleage: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=2550992795208574 Interview with the cast of the Hartford Stage production: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qvJr-omr3UQ Discussion between Pearl Cleage and director Susan V. Booth: https://www.alliancetheatre.org/content/playwright-pearl-cleage-and-director-susan-v-booth-talk-angry-raucous-and-shamelessly  Alliance Theatre's Study Guide: https://www.alliancetheatre.org/sites/default/files/ARSG%20Study%20Guide.pdf  ------------------------------ Please consider supporting us on Patreon. For as low as $1/month, you can help to ensure the No Script Podcast can continue.  https://www.patreon.com/noscriptpodcast  ----------------------------- We want to keep the conversation going! Have you read this play? Have you seen it? Comment and tell us your favorite themes, characters, plot points, etc. Did we get something wrong? Let us know. We'd love to hear from you. Find us on social media at:  Email: noscriptpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/No-Script-The-Podcast-1675491925872541/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/noscriptpodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/noscriptpodcast/ ------------------------------ Thanks so much for listening! We'll see you next week.

Director Amanda Washington and playwright Pearl Cleage discuss the new production of “Blues for an Alabama Sky,” which opens tomorrow at Actor's Express and runs through June 23. Plus, we hear about the Atlanta high school student who placed second in this year's “Next Narrative Monologue” Competition.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Women's Magazine hosts Margo Okazawa-Rey and Jovelyn Richards talk with award-winning free lance journalist and author Thandisizwe Chimurenga about her  collection of interviews in the book  “Some of Us Are Brave: Interviews and Conversations With Sistas in Life and Struggle” and her second volume “Some Of Us Are Brave (Vol 2): Interviews and Conversations with Sistas in Life and Struggle” two books that counter the  white supremacy and cis-heterosexual patriarchy (and by extension, misogyny) of our society that  by definition belittles and ignores the voices of women of color in general and Black women in particular (misogynoir). Part of the corrective to white patriarchal supremacy is  the centering and airing of Black women's voices through Some of Us Are Brave: A Black Women's Radio Program that aired on Pacifica-Los Angeles (KPFK 90.7 FM) from 2003 until 2011. The program covered a myriad of issues by amplifying the voices of a broad cross-section of Black women. Some of those voices have been preserved as transcripts and they primarily make up this work. Based on interviews with Asata Shakur, Barbara Ramsy, Carol Boyce-Davies, Euzhan Palcy, Michelle Alexander, Evelyn White, Paula Giddings, Pearl Cleage, Ramona Africa and Sisters on the Run.   Thandisizwe Chimurenga is an award-winning, freelance journalist based in Los Angeles, CA. She has written for New America Media; the Los Angeles Watts Times, Sentinel and Wave newspapers; the Final Call; Black Agenda Report; Ebony; CounterPunch, Truth-Out and Daily Kos. She is a former radio reporter for the KPFK Evening News (Pacifica-Los Angeles) and Free Speech Radio News (FSRN). A creator or co-creator of independent, grassroots media (newspapers, cable tv, radio) for over 20 years, her activism has ranged from electoral organizing; anti-police terror work; freedom for political prisoners and prisoners of war; to organizing against violence against women. The post Some of Us Are Brave: Interviews and Conversations With Sistas in Life and Struggle with Thandisizwe Chimurenga appeared first on KPFA.

Award-winning Atlanta poet and playwright Pearl Cleage discusses her newest play, “Something Moving: A Meditation on Maynard,” coming to the Alliance Theater this fall. Plus, we learn about the use of music in film and television and highlight Nikki Marshall in our series, “Speaking of ‘The Boom.'”See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A lively and informative conversation with Pearl Cleage, the renowned playwright, essayist, novelist, poet, and political activist! Cleage will join Doris for a live discussion about her body of work, her creative process, and her thoughts on the most pressing issues of our time. This is an episode you won't want to miss!

Chicago director Lili-Anne Brown brings extraordinary levels of funny and heart to the Goodman Theatre production of Pearl Cleage's wonderful comedy of class, The Nacirema Society Requests the Honor of Your Presence at a Celebration of Their First One Hundred Years. Brown discusses the kind of rehearsal room she creates; how she worked her way up the theatrical ladder; how we don't talk enough about the value of comedy; how the comedy basics of high status versus low status goes too frequently unrecognized; how she gives license to her actors to explore and invent; how the best and funniest idea wins; and how the recipe always begins with great actors and giving them permission to try. (Length 21:08)

This week, playwright, poet, and author Pearl Cleage discusses her life and career with Remy Bumppo Theatre Artistic Director Marti Lyons. Remy Bumppo staged Cleage’s Blues for an Alabama Sky in the fall of 2023. This conversation originally took place September 26, 2023 and was recorded live via Zoom. AWM PODCAST NETWORK HOME More about [...]

This week, playwright, poet, and author Pearl Cleage discusses her life and career with Remy Bumppo Theatre Artistic Director Marti Lyons. Remy Bumppo staged Cleage's Blues for an Alabama Sky in the fall of 2023. This conversation originally took place September 26, 2023 and was recorded live via Zoom. AWM PODCAST NETWORK HOME More about the speakers: Pearl Cleage (she/her/hers) is an Atlanta-based writer whose plays include POINTING AT THE MOON, WHAT I LEARNED IN PARIS, FLYIN' WEST, BLUES FOR AN ALABAMA SKY, and BOURBON AT THE BORDER, commissioned and directed by Kenny Leon at the Alliance Theatre. She is also the author of A SONG FOR CORETTA, written in 2007 during Cleage's time as Cosby Professor in Women's Studies at Spelman College. Her play, THE NACIREMA SOCIETY REQUESTS THE HONOR OF YOUR PRESENCE AT A CELEBRATION OF THEIR FIRST ONE HUNDRED YEARS, was commissioned by the Alabama Shakespeare Festival and premiered in 2010, in a joint production by the ASF and Atlanta's Alliance Theatre, directed by Susan Booth. Her plays have also been performed at Arena Stage, Hartford Stage, the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, the Huntington Theatre, the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, the Long Wharf Theatre, Just US Theatre, True Colors Theatre, Bushfire Theatre, the Intiman Theatre, St. Louis Black Repertory Company, and Seven Stages. She is also an accomplished performance artist, often working in collaboration with her husband, writer Zaron W. Burnett, Jr. They have performed at the National Black Arts Festival, the National Black Theatre Festival, and colleges and universities across the country. Cleage and Burnett also collaborated with performance artists Idris Ackamoor and Rhodessa Jones on the script for THE LOVE PROJECT, which premiered at the National Black Theatre Festival in 2008, and is currently touring the country. Cleage is also an accomplished novelist. Her novels include “What Looks Like Crazy on an Ordinary Day,” a New York Times bestseller and an Oprah Book Club selection, “I Wish I Had a Red Dress,” “Some Things I Never Thought I'd Do,” “Babylon Sisters,” “Baby Brother's Blues,” “Seen It All and Done the Rest,” and “Till You Hear from Me.” She is also the author of “Mad at Miles: A Blackwoman's Guide to Truth,” a groundbreaking work of race and gender, and “We Speak Your Names,” a praise poem commissioned by Oprah Winfrey for her 2005 celebration of legendary African American women and written in collaboration with Zaron Burnett. Cleage has also written for magazines, including “Essence,” “Vibe,” “Rap Pages,” and “Ms.” In addition to her work as the founding editor of “Catalyst” magazine, a literary journal, she was a regular columnist for the Atlanta Tribune for ten years, winning many awards for her thought-provoking columns. She has also written for TheDefendersOnLine.com. Cleage has been awarded grants in support of her work from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Fulton County Arts Council, the Georgia Council on the Arts, the Atlanta Bureau of Cultural Affairs, and the Coca-Cola Foundation. Her work has earned her many awards and honors, including an NAACP Image Award for fiction in 2008. Pearl Cleage is represented by Ron Gwiazda at Abrams Artists Agency in New York City. Her website is www.PearlCleage.net. She also maintains a Facebook fan page. www.pearlcleage.net. Marti Lyons (she/her/hers) most recently directed the world-premiere of Galileo's Daughter by Jessica Dickey at Remy Bumppo, Georgiana and Kitty: Christmas at Pemberly at Northlight Theatre, Wife of a Salesman by Eleanor Burgess at Milwaukee Rep, Sense and Sensibility adapted by Jessica Swale at American Players Theatre and the world-premiere of John Proctor is the Villain by Kimberly Belflower at Studio Theatre in D.C. Marti's other productions include The Niceties by Eleanor Burgess at Writers Theatre; Cymbeline at American Players Theatre; The Wolves by Sarah DeLappe and both the stage and audio productions of Kings by Sarah Burgess at Studio Theatre; the world-premiere of How to Defend Yourself by liliana padilla, a Victory Gardens and Actors Theatre of Louisville co-production; Cambodian Rock Band by Lauren Yee at Victory Gardens and City Theatre; Witch by Jen Silverman at Geffen Playhouse and Writers Theatre (LA Drama Critics Circle Award for Best Direction); Native Gardens by Karen Zacarías at Victory Gardens; Botticelli in the Fire by Jordan Tannahill at Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company; I, Banquo at Chicago Shakespeare Theater; Title and Deed by Will Eno at Lookingglass Theatre Company; Laura Marks' Bethany and Mine at The Gift Theatre. Marti is also an ensemble member at The Gift Theatre, and a member of Stage Directors and Choreographers Society. martilyons.com

On this episode Kelundra and J.R. talk to the Atlanta playwright about Chicago's month-long celebration in her honor, the value of community-driven storytelling, and her new play 'Something Moving: A Meditation on Maynard.'

Pearl Cleage is an author, poet, and playwright with a resume full of challenging works on difficult topics.  Her accomplishments and publications are many and she is no stranger to late nights and long hours of hard work.  That said, she also understands the importance of downtime and caring for ourselves amidst the hustle and bustle.  Today's quote highlights that need and shows us the difference between solitude and loneliness.

Atlanta playwright, author, poet, and political activist Pearl Cleage stops by to discuss winning the 2022 Paul Robeson Award. Plus, we'll hear about busking in Atlanta, and executive director Shalondra Henry details the youth dance organization, “Moving in the Spirit.”See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This episode features a conversation with Pearl Cleage, an American playwright, novelist and poet, and Laysha Ward, the executive vice president and chief external engagement officer at Target. Together they explore the power of truth, the responsibility of storytelling, and the praise poem, “We Speak Your Names,” which was commissioned by Oprah Winfrey in celebration […] The post Pearls of Wisdom with Playwright Pearl Cleage appeared first on The Conferences for Women.

Multidisciplinary artist and curator Edouard Duval-Carrié discusses the elements of Haitian Voodoo and mythology in his surreal mixed-media paintings. His artwork is on view at Hammond's House through October 1. Plus, Mia S. Willis takes the spotlight in our series, “Speaking of Poetry,” and then playwright, poet, and political activist Pearl Cleage joins us for a moving reading of “A Poem for Our Children.”See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode we welcome Thandisizwe Chimurenga and Yusef “Bunchy” Shakur to have a conversation that revolves around Sanyika Shakur's final book, Stand-Up, Struggle Forward: New Afrikan Revolutionary Writings on Nation, Class and Patriarchy. Thandisizwe Chimurenga is an award-winning Los Angeles-based journalist. Having worked in print and radio/broadcast journalism, she is the author of No Doubt: The Murder(s) of Oscar Grant; Reparations … Not Yet: A Case for Reparations and Why We Must Wait; the soon-to-be-published Some Of Us Are Brave: Interviews and Conversations with Sistas on Life, Art and Struggle, published by Daraja Press, and Nobody Knows My Name: Coming of Age in and Resilience After the Black Power Movement co-written with Deborah Jones, to be published by Diasporic Africa Press. Her commitment to infusing radical Black feminist/womanist politics within Revolutionary New Afrikan Nationalism, which she believes is key to destroying capitalism, patriarchy and white supremacist imperialism, has been informed by Aminata Umoja, Assata Shakur, Pearl Cleage, bell hooks, Angela Davis, Queen Mother Moore, Gloria Richardson, Fannie Lou Hamer, Ella Baker, Claudia Jones, Ida B Wells and the “Amazons” of Dahomey. Yusef “Bunchy” Shakur is a father, neighborhood organizer, author of multiple books, educator and a member of Community Movement Builders. He organizes in Detroit, Michigan. Yusef wrote the foreword to Sanyika's Stand Up, Struggle Forward which we're discussing today and Sanyika Shakur wrote the foreword to Yusef Shakur's book Redemptive Soul.  In this discussion Thandisizwe and Yusef talk about their own personal and political relationships with Sanyika Shakur and to his writings. We talk a little bit about New Afrikan political thought as it emanated from the New Afrikan Prisoners Organization particularly as was elaborated by Owusu Yaki Yakubu formerly known under the names James “Yaki” Sayles and Atiba Shanna. We discuss the importance of terminology within the New Afrikan Independence Movement and the contributions of Yaki and Sanyika to this body of political thought.  Thandisizwe Chimurenga and Yusef “Bunchy” Shakur share reflections on Sanyika's writings on patriarchy, homophobia and transphobia and on revolutionary transformation. They discuss the difficulties of re-entry for politicized and political prisoners in an environment without a strong political home to return to, as well as the use of solitary confinement and control units as weapons against politicized figures. Since the publication of our last episode Dr. Mutulu Shakur has transitioned beyond this realm and we want to send our condolences to all of his loved ones and co-strugglers, we also want to take this moment to recognize his indelible contributions to the New Afrikan Independence Movement and the cause of Black Liberation. In the show notes we will link to the book we discuss which can be found through Kersplebedeb or leftwingbooks.net along with the writings of Yaki. We highly, highly recommend both. We will also include a link to many more related writings available digitally through Freedom Archives.  And of course if you like what we do, bringing you these episodes on a weekly basis, become a patron of the show. You can do so for as little as $1 a month at patreon.com/millennialsarekillingcapitalism Links: Thandisizwe's website (includes ways to support her work) Yusef "Bunchy" Shakur's website (includes a store with his books) Stand-Up, Struggle Forward: New Afrikan Revolutionary Writings on Nation, Class and Patriarchy Meditations on Frantz Fanon's Wretched of the Earth: New Afrikan Revolutionary Writings by James "Yaki" Sayles Freedom Archives: New Afrikan Prisoner Organization Archives "Pathology of Patriarchy: A Search for Clues at the Scene of the Crime" by Sanyika Shakur Beneath My Surface - Thandisizwe Chimurenga (includes reflection on Sanyika's passing as discussed in the episode) Day of the Gun (George Jackson Doc) The Political Theory of Dr. Mutulu Shakur with Thandisizwe Chimurenga, Kalonji Changa, & Akinyele Umoja  

Dominique Morisseau joins Windham-Campbell Prizes director Michael Kelleher to talk about the still-resonant power of Pearl Cleage's What Looks Like Crazy on an Ordinary Day, representing Black men on the page and onstage, the AIDS epidemic and COVID, and why the writers of Family Guy seem to hate Meg. Reading List: Idlewild, Michigan for colored girls... by Ntozake Shange The Color Purple by Alice Walker Family Guy (1999-present) Flyin' West and Other Plays by Pearl Cleage For a full episode transcript, click here. Dominique Morisseau has established herself as not only one of America's preeminent dramatists but as a visionary force in the field of theater across the globe. Her body of work, including the hugely ambitious and critically acclaimed three-play cycle The Detroit Project (Skeleton Crew [2016], Paradise Blue [2015], and Detroit '67 [2013]), is both deeply poetic and sharply philosophical, drawing upon the rich histories of Black American literature, music, and activism to create unflinching—and wildly entertaining—dramatic experiences. In the Detroit Project plays, as well as in standalone works like Confederates (2022), Pipeline (2017), and Blood at the Root (2014), Morisseau dramatizes the entanglement of art and politics with care, sophistication, and a fervent conviction. Morisseau also has made an impact as a leader in her artistic communities. Countless young writers name Morisseau as a key influence, and her perspectives on community-building, inclusion, and transparency have changed the culture of theater-making for the better. Her many accolades include, most recently, a Drama Desk Award (2019), a MacArthur Fellowship (2018), two Obie Awards (2018, 2016), and a Steinberg Playwright Award (2015). She lives in Los Angeles with her husband and son.

In Episode 36 of the Princeton Podcast, our host, Mayor Mark Freda, welcomed Sarah Rasmussen, the new Artistic Director of the McCarter Theatre Center.In addition to discussing her role as the Artistic Director of McCarter Theatre, Sarah described McCarter's Theatre Series of original productions, including 'Blues For An Alabama Sky', McCarter's current production written by Pearl Cleage and directed by McCarter's Associate Artistic Director, Nicole A. Watson.Sarah also detailed McCarter's Presented Series, a innovative mix of performances and cultural attractions including the upcoming performance of Eddie Palmieri and his Salsa Orchestra, McCarter's Jazz in June series presenting 6 events over 3 weekends including Samara Joy, the 2023 Grammy award winning Best New Artist, as well as the return of the McCarter Theatre Dance Series and Classical Music performances.Mark and Sarah also touched on McCarter Theatre Center's Educational and Community Engagement programs including camps and classes for both children and adults.

In this episode Lissa talks with playwright and author Pearl Cleage about Blues for an Alabama Sky, her current work and references to inspirations and influencers including Langston Hughes, Stacey Abrams, Ntozake Shange, Viola Davis, audience development and more. Blues for an Alabama Sky is playing on the Wurtele Thrust stage at the Guthrie through March 12, 2023 Tickets: https://www.guthrietheater.org/shows-and-tickets/performance-calendar/ Go Deeper www.BlackMarketReads.com 

Welcome to the Green Room Meditations Podcast, presented by the Indiana Repertory Theatre and hosted by Devon Ginn.   About Pearl Cleage: Pearl Cleage is an Atlanta based writer whose work has won commercial acceptance and critical praise in several genres. An award winning playwright whose Flyin' West was the most produced new play in the country in 1994, Pearl is also a best selling author whose first novel, What Looks Like Crazy On An Ordinary Day, was an Oprah Book Club pick and spent nine weeks on the New York Times bestseller list. Her subsequent novels have been consistant best sellers and perennial book club favorites. I Wish I Had A Red Dress, her second novel, won multiple book club awards in 2001. Some Things I Never Thought I'd Do was a “Good Morning America!” book club pick in 2003, and Babylon Sisters made the ESSENCE Magazine best seller list in 2005. Her most recent novel, Baby Brother's Blues, was the first pick of the new ESSENCE Book Club and an NAACP Image Award winner for fiction in 2007. In the March 2007 issue of ESSENCE, Pearl had two books on the best seller list, Baby Brother's Blues and We Speak Your Names, a poetic celebration commissioned by Oprah Winfrey and co-authored with her husband, writer Zaron W. Burnett, Jr. The poem was also an NAACP Image Award nominee in 2007. Pearl was a popular columnist with The Atlanta Tribune for ten years and has contributed as a free lance writer to ESSENCE, Ms., Rap Pages, VIBE and Ebony. Her recent play, A Song for Coretta, played to sold out audiences during its Atlanta premiere in February of 2007 and was produced at Atlanta's Seven Stages Theatre in February of 2008 before a national tour. Pearl is married to Zaron W. Burnett, Jr., with whom she frequently collaborates. She has one daughter, Deignan, and two grandchildren, Chloe and Michael.   About the Indiana Repertory Theatre: Founded in 1971, the Indiana Repertory Theatre (IRT) is the largest professional not-for-profit theatre in the state and one of the leading regional theatres in the country. The mission of the Indiana Repertory Theatre is to produce top-quality, professional theatre and related activities, providing experiences that will engage, surprise, challenge, and entertain people throughout their lifetimes, helping us build a vital and vibrant community. Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access (IDEA): The IRT strives to celebrate and serve the diverse people and cultures that make up our whole community. The IRT is committed to providing access for all; to creating and maintaining an antiracist theatre that is inclusive, safe, and respectful. https://www.irtlive.com/ 

From a farming family in Jamaica to travelling in Europe and Northern Africa, the writer Claude McKay became a key figure in the artistic movement of the 1920s dubbed The Harlem Renaissance. Publishing under a pseudonym, his poems including To the White Friends and If We Must Die explored racial prejudice. Johnny Pitts has written an essay about working class community, disability and queer culture explored in Claude McKay's Romance in Marseille, which was published for the first time in 2020. Pearl Cleage's play Blues for an Alabama Sky is set in 1930s New York. The African-American playwright is the daughter of a civil rights activist, and has worked as speechwriter for Alabama's first black mayor, founded and edited the literary magazine Catalyst, and published many novels, plays and essays. Nadifa Mohamed's novels include Black Mamba Boy and her most recent The Fortune Men (shortlisted for the 2021 Booker Prize). They talk to Shahidha Bari about Claude McKay and the flourishing of ideas and black pride that led to the Harlem Renaissance. Producer: Tim Bano Blues For an Alabama Sky runs at the National Theatre in London from September 20th to November 5th. Johny Pitts presents Open Book on Radio 4. His books include Afropean: Notes from Black Europe which you can hear him discussing on Free Thinking https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m0005sjw His collaboration with Roger Robinson Home Is Not A Place exploring Black Britishness in the 21st century is out this month. You can hear more from Nadifa talking about her latest novel The Fortune Men and comparing notes about the writing life with Irenosen Okojie in previous Free Thinking episodes available on our website in the prose and poetry playlist and from BBC Sounds https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000x06v and https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000k8sz Alongside Verso's reissue of Home to Harlem they have 3 other books out: Not Without Laughter by Langston Hughes, The Blacker The Berry by Wallace Thurman, and Quicksand And Passing by Nella Larson. On BBC Sounds and in the Free Thinking archives you can find conversations about Black History https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p08t2qbp and a Radio 3 Sunday Feature Harlem on Fire in which Afua Hirsch looks at the history of the literary magazine https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p06s6z0b

Join Lyvonne and hip hop womanist scholar and master manifester, EbonyJanice Moore, for a conversation on dreaming with ease, inspired by Pearl Cleage's seminal novel, Some Things I Never Thought I'd Do!For this episode's supplemental materials, visit patreon.com/lyvonnebriggs (aka Sensual Faith Academy) and join the tier that's right for you! The Sensual Faith tier supports the podcast and the Lavish Love tier supports the podcast *and* grants you access to bonus content (like book studies, audio essays, and tarot/oracle card readings)!Other ways to support Lyvonne and her work:Cash App: $PastorBaeVenmo: @LyvonneBriggsZelle/Paypal: Lyvonne.Briggs@gmail.com

In this episode, Jordan and Leticia interview playwright Pearl Cleage. They discuss the way she has navigated her career as a Black feminist/womanist playwright often working in Black spaces; how she found her home in Atlanta, Georgia; and her most recent play, Angry, Raucous, and Shamelessly Gorgeous.

In this episode, Jordan and Leticia interview playwright Pearl Cleage. They discuss the way she has navigated her career as a Black feminist/womanist playwright often working in Black spaces; how she found her home in Atlanta, Georgia; and her most recent play, Angry, Raucous, and Shamelessly Gorgeous.

Welcome back to season 2, friends! Join Brittany and Kyle as they share life updates and changes over the last several months. Inspired by Pearl Cleage's book 'Seen it All Done the Rest', our hosts unpack the process, challenges and beauty of finding home and becoming rooted in the places they thought the least likely.

Part 1 - Next month, the curtain will go up on the Caribbean Community Theater's latest production, Flyin' West. Co-director Sayeeda Carter joins guest host Jamila Russell in the studio with a preview of the Pearl Cleage play and a conversation on the value of making room for the performing arts. For more information: https://cct.vi/ or https://www.facebook.com/cctvi. 

It's our discussion on Pearl Cleage's What Looks Like Crazy On An Ordinary Day. Happy Reading!

In this episode, Tori and Nicole do a live unboxing of some new library books that arrived on Tuesday, February 22. Nicole runs through the nonfiction titles that will be available on shelves soon, while Tori continues to highlight books by Black authors about Black characters. The resources discussed in this episode are listed below: The Code Breaker: Jennifer Doudna, Gene Editing, and the Future of the Human Race by Walter Isaacson; Life Force: How New Breakthroughs in Precision Medicine Can Transform the Quality of Your Life & Those You Love by Tony H. Robbins, Peter Diamandis, with Robert Hariri; Beautiful Things: A Memoir by Hunter Biden; Between Two Kingdoms: A Memoir of a Life Interrupted by Suleika Jaouad; Trucking Business Startup: The Complete Step-By-Step Guide to Starting & Maintaining a Successful Trucking Company Even If You're an Absolute Beginner by Walter Grant and Gary Field; The Grieving Brain: The Surprising Science of How We Learn from Love and Loss by Mary-Frances O'Connor, PhD; Fuzz: When Nature Breaks the Law by Mary Roach; Stiff: The Curious Life of Human Cadavers by Mary Roach; Black Women, Black Love: America's War on African American Marriage by Dianne M. Stewart; I Wish I Had A Red Dress by Pearl Cleage; Things That Make White People Uncomfortable (Adapted for Young Readers) by Michael Bennett; MUTED: A Novel in Verse by Tami Charles; Surviving R. Kelly (2019) documentary; Nubia: Real One by L.L. McKinney, illustrated by Robyn Smith; Disney Magic Kingdoms mobile app; P.Tracker mobile app

In this episode, Nicole returns with some new non-fiction and fiction reads after a cataloging frenzy! She highlights some nonfiction that is coming soon, along with some a revival of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, a new graphic novel, and more. Tori continues to highlight books by Black authors during Black History Month. The resources discussed in this episode are listed below: Things I Should Have Said: Family, Fame, and Figuring it Out by Jamie Lynn Spears; The Enneagram from A Christian Perspective: An Enneagram Journey to Self-Discovery and Spiritual Growth by Andy Connor; The 21st Century Man: Advice from 50 Top Doctors and Men's Health Experts to Help You Feel Great, Look Good and Have Better Sex by Judson Brandeis; What Looks Like Crazy on an Ordinary Day by Pearl Cleage; Queen of Tehano Music: Selena by Silvia López, illustrated by Paola Escobar; Selena (1997) movie; Selena: The Series (2020) Netflix show; Encanto (2021) movie; Hatchet by Gary Paulsen; Northwind by Gary Paulsen; In Every Generation by Kendare Blake; Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1992) movie; Interview with the Vampire: The Vampire Chronicles (1992) movie; Squad by Maggie Tokuda-Hall, illustrated by Lisa Sterle; Black Girl, Call Home by Jasmine Mans; The 1619 Project: Born on the Water by Nikole Hannah-Jones and Renée Watson, illustrated by Nikkolas Smith; Reaction of The 1619 Project: Born on the Water by Nikole Hannah-Jones and Renée Watson, illustrated by Nikkolas Smith by a young reader

Today's program continues my consideration of the end of the calendar year and is the first of several programs that will focus on poets born in December. I begin with poets who were born in the first week of December, during various decades and in various countries. I read poems by Rainer Maria Rilke, translated by Alfred Corn; William Stanley Braithwaite, Joyce Kilmer, Ira Gershwin, Yosano Akiko, and Pearl Cleage.

My guest Kelsey Scott is a fellow graduate of Florida A&M University, my line sister (we pledged Delta  Fall 93), and my friend.  I wanted to release this episode around the premiere of Insecure where she plays Felicia, another attorney who works with Molly at a  law firm.  Part of my podcast is to feature guests who have overcome obstacles to make it to their finish lines. Kelsey has done just that. She has an amazing story of triumph and literally reaching for the stars.  In this episode she shares her love for screen, working in Hollywood, the importance of fighting for your purpose, losing her mom, meeting the love of her life, and how movement is vital in her life.  You can't miss this episode!  Episode Highlights:  How she started her acting career Moving from local theatre to TV at a young age Studying at FAMU  Her favorite work as a screenwriter and how it changed her life Her role in Twelve Years A Slave Losing her mother, navigating pain while on the job Working with Viola Davis and her role in numerous hit-shows Her role in Insecure and her biggest lesson from working with Issa Rae The word  ‘NO' and why it shouldn't break your dreams  How she met her husband, their wedding and appearing on Essence Magazine What fitness means to her and how she stays active  Guest Bio Two-time Emmy-nominated actress and screenwriter Kelsey Scott began her career in the theatre scene of her hometown of Atlanta. Best known for her role as Anne Northup in the Oscar-winning Twlve Years A Slave and her two-season arc as Wes Gibbins' mother, Rose, on How to Get Away With Murder, her credits also include: Insecure, NCIS, Dynasty, and True Detective. She is a 2019 Daytime Emmy nominee for her Guest Star role on Giants. In 2017, she received a Primetime Emmy Nomination for her leading role on Fear the Walking Dead: Passage. On stage, Kelsey originated the role of Ann Madison in Pearl Cleage's political romance, "What I Learned in Paris". Additional stage credits showcase her work as a vocalist - with productions like "Once On This Island", "Little Shop of Horrors", "The Wiz" and a touring company of "Dreamgirls". As a public speaker, she has shared platforms with such accomplished individuals as Oprah Winfrey, Jesse Jackson, the late Maya Angelou, and departed political pioneer Shirley Chisholm. Kelsey penned the Sony Pictures thrillers Motives and Motives 2: Retribution. A former screenwriting professor, she consults for studio and private clients and continues to write commissioned scripts - in addition to shepherding her slate of original projects. Kelsey is a firm believer in the power of artistic expression as an avenue to personal and educational growth, and joins Ty Burrell as an Ambassador for Kids in the Spotlight - a non-profit organization that enlists professional filmmakers to train foster care youth to create, write, cast and star in their own short films. She also enjoys an ongoing relationship with WriteGirl, a non-profit, that matches professional women writers with teenage girls who would not otherwise have access to creative mentors.   Connect with Kelsey Scott Follow her on Instagram here Read Kelsey and Malik's  love story here What is Twelve  Years a Slave? Watch  here Watch Kelsey's interview with Chay Rodriguez here   Did you enjoy today's episode? Please subscribe and leave a review. If you have questions, comments, or possible show topics, email runningischeaperthantherapyolb@gmail.com. To subscribe and review use one links of the links below  Apple Spotify Google  Get a copy of the book  Running Is Cheaper Than Therapy: A Journey Back to Wholeness

It's time for another visit with Midday theater critic J. Wynn Rousuck, who joins Tom this week with her review of Everyman Theatre's live (and streamed) production of Flyin' West. Pearl Cleage's 1992 play tells the story of four 19th-century Black women forging a new life, working their own land, and beating the odds as strong-willed homesteaders in the all-Black town of Nicodemus, Kansas. Directed on stage by Everyman's Associate Artistic Director Paige Hernandez, Flyin' West features Aakhu TuahNera Freeman as Miss Leah,Eleasha Gamble as Sophie Washington; Bianca Lipford as Minnie Dove Charles;Calvin McCullough as Frank Charles;Gibson Reeves as Fannie Dove; and Everyman resident company actor Jefferson A. Russell as Will Parish. Flyin' West continues live on stage at Baltimore's Everyman Theatre until October 31. The play also streams for ticketed patrons from October 22 through November 11. For times and ticketing information, click here. Flyin' Westcontains portrayals of physical violence and mature language. Viewer discretion is advised. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pearl Cleage creates in all literary forms, and the many facets of her writing were acknowledged by Mayor Bottoms recently, as she named Pearl Cleage the first Poet Laureate of Atlanta. She spoke with Lois Reitzes about the honor.Also, the High Museum's Sarah Kennel and Maria Kelly talk with Lois about the exhibition “Underexposed: Women Photographers from the Collection”.And, Fernbank's Education Director, Sarah Arnold takes us through some habitats found throughout the world.

On Easter Sunday 1967 the Reverend Albert Cleage renamed his church in Detroit the Shrine of the Black Madonna. He preached that if man was made in God's image there was little chance that Jesus was white as most of the world's population is non-white. Reverend Cleage also pointed to the many depictions of black madonnas all over the world throughout history. Claire Bowes has been speaking to his daughter Pearl Cleage, a writer and activist, about her father's belief in black representation and self-determination. Photo: Black Madonna and Child courtesy of BLAC Detroit. Archive: Thanks to the Chicago History Museum and WFMT for the Studs Terkel Radio Archive.

On Easter Sunday 1967 the Reverend Albert Cleage renamed his church in Detroit the Shrine of the Black Madonna. He preached that if man was made in God's image there was little chance that Jesus was white as most of the world's population is non-white. Reverend Cleage also pointed to the many depictions of black madonnas all over the world throughout history. Claire Bowes has been speaking to his daughter Pearl Cleage, a writer and activist, about her father's belief in black representation and self-determination. Photo: Black Madonna and Child courtesy of BLAC Detroit. Archive: Thanks to the Chicago History Museum and WFMT for the Studs Terkel Radio Archive.

Tori isn't ready for the heat wave and Nicole is missing her Virginia springs! The ladies bring all books green to the table for this episode of Worth Reading Wednesday. The resources discussed in this episode are listed below: The World Encyclopedia of Trees: A Reference and Identification Guide to 1300 of the World's Most Significant Trees by Tony Russell with Catherine Cutler and Martin Walters; Ladybird Tales of Super Heroes by Sufiya Ahmed, Yvonne Battle-Felton, Sarwat Chadda, and Maisie Chan and illustrated by Louise Warwick, Victoria Sandøy, Aviel Basil, Fotini Tikkou, Poonam Mistry, and Jia Liu; Ladybird movie; Migration: Incredible Animal Journeys by Mike Unwin and illustrated by Jenni Desmond; Finding Nemo movie; Stepping Stones by Lucy Knisley; The Mountain Between Us movie; The Mountain Between Us by Charles Martin; I Wish I Had A Red Dress by Pearl Cleage; What Looks Like Crazy On An Ordinary Day by Pearl Cleage; A Seed Is The Start (National Geographic Kids) by Melissa Stewart; Linnea's Windowsill Garden by Christina Björk and illustrated by Lena Anderson; Credit Karma mobile app; Shop app by Shopify

Season 4, Spring Semester 2021Filmed October 2, 2012. Atlanta-based novelist and playwright Pearl Cleage joins writer Alice Walker for a conversation that focuses on their creative influences, the writers they read, and how they've been inspired by each other's work. The conversation, hosted by Rosemary Magee, is moderated by University of Georgia journalism professor and author Valerie Boyd. Watch the original conversation:This conversation is introduced by host/Emory Arts employee Maggie Beker and artist, Emory Student, and Conversations with Eggs: Virtual Arts Zine editor Lennox Elrod. Beker and Elrod introduce the podcast and discuss how Elrod approaches creating as meditation and his podcast The Phoenix Radio. Listen to the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/3hsWTq7Co7CL6p2tkPUlgC?si=ckAJlOxZTOuE-21c_siEvQThis program is part of the Rosemary M. Magee Creativity Conversation endowed series.

Digging in the Dark takes audiences to a moonless night in the woods outside Atlanta, where a woman awaits her scheming brother’s arrival. He thinks he’s coming to claim a valuable family heirloom, but she’s not to be underestimated. Listen in as one family excavates generational wounds to settle an old score before sunrise.…………………………………Digging in the DarkBy Pearl Cleage​Directed by Taylor ReynoldsStarring Rachel Christopher, Russell G. Jones, and Janelle McDermothSound Design by Fan ZhangStage Managed by Norman Anthony SmallSound Engineered by Garrett SchultzKeen Company Artistic Director: Jonathan SilversteinThe Hear/Now Audio Consultant: Garrett SchultzThe Hear/Now Theme Composer: Billy RecceTranscriptions: Inclusive Communication Services, Inc. (available online)Keen Company is an award winning Off-Broadway theater championing identification and connection. Sign-up for a Hear/Now Season Membership, make a tax-deductible gift, and join us on social media at www.keencomapany.org.

Digging in the Dark takes listeners to a moonless night on a wooded estate outside Atlanta, where a woman awaits her scheming brother’s arrival. He’s coming to claim a valuable family heirloom, but she is determined to settle an old score before sunrise.…………………………………Digging in the DarkBy Pearl Cleage​Directed by Taylor ReynoldsStarring Rachel Christopher, Russell Jones, and Janelle McDermothSound Design by Fan ZhangStage Managed by Norman Anthony SmallSound Engineered by Garrett SchultzKeen Company Artistic Director: Jonathan SilversteinThe Hear/Now Audio Consultant: Garrett SchultzThe Hear/Now Theme Composer: Billy RecceTranscriptions: Inclusive Communication Services, Inc. (available online)Keen Company is an award winning Off-Broadway theater championing identification and connection. Sign-up for a Hear/Now Season Membership, make a tax-deductible gift, and join us on social media at www.keencomapany.org.

Lois Reitzes interviews playwright Pearl Cleage, as well as Chris Moses and Dan Reardon of the Alliance Theatre about the play "Sit-In"; Karla Redding-Andrews about her new children's book "Respect"; Brook Adams and Rachel Cochran about Callanwolde Fine Arts Center's Ability Garden

Andrea Dymond is a Chicago-based freelance director, specializing in new work, Andrea was formerly Resident Director at Victory Gardens Theater. She directed 11 productions there, including 7 world premieres. Chicago credits include Tree, Year Zero, Blue Door, Free Man of Color, Shoes, and I Have Before Me a Remarkable Document…(Victory Gardens); Helen (Next); and Keep A Song In Your Soul, which she directed and developed with the Grammy Award-winning Carolina Chocolate Drops (Old Town School of Folk Music). Other regional credits include: the new musical, St. Heaven (Village Theatre) and Having Our Say (Madison Repertory). Recent credits include: Shepsu Aahku's Softly Blue (MPAACT) and Lynn Nottage's Mud River Stone, (Eclipse) In addition, Andrea's experience includes research and production dramaturgy, directing at new works festivals nationally; serving as thesis play advisor for MFA playwrights at Carnegie Mellon; and, directing at NNPN's MFA Playwrights Workshops, at the Kennedy Center. Andrea teaches directing, collaboration, text analysis, acting and new play development at Columbia College Chicago, where she recently directed a production of Blues for an Alabama Sky, by Pearl Cleage and Euripides's Hecuba, in the traditional style, with masks, and a singing and dancing Chorus.

Author Janus Adams reads "Going Home"--her story of history, healing, and hope. This personal essay was published in Essence Magazine (2000). It was reprinted in the anthology, "MENDING THE WORLD: Stories of Family by Contemporary Black Writers" (2002), edited by Rosemarie Robotham. Preface by Maya Angelou. Forward by Pearl Cleage.

DJ Transcend on The DJ Sessions presents Silent Disco Saturday's 10/10/20 Where and when does a person's story begin? Is it with their birth or with any of the pivotal moments of adolescence? Or with their first steps into adulthood? Perhaps, as we look back it is not so much any specific detail that pinpoints the start of our story, but rather the technicolor dreamcoat, the patchwork of our experiences and those who helped shaped them, that provide the map to who we are and who we are destined to become. For Rico, known to so many now as Transcend, the twists and turns of this map, the stitchings of his dreamcoat, tell the story of a man determined to make a difference in this world.  Growing up amongst the soaring evergreens, jagged cliffs, and concrete jungles of Washington State, Rico's admiration for Mother Earth and the beautiful and often challenging nature of the elements instilled in him a deep respect for the lands and waters in which we live. His adventures in these forests and cities, often taken with his father, grandfather, stepdad, mother, and brother taught Rico many life lessons that continue to inform his thinking and actions today. Indeed, the memories of love, laughter, teamwork, and the heartbreak that comes from loss and sacrifice, shape the compass of Rico's heart––his true north points to service, in the caring for others and inspiring through example that we can transcend the problems that weigh us down to become more than we may have ever imagined and to break free of societal expectations to create a world where we love and honor each other for who we truly are, no questions asked. In conversations shortly before his passing, Rico's grandfather spoke about the future, of what qualities make an honorable man, and about the passions that fuel a life well-lived. It was in this wisdom, shared between the turning of the cards in their weekly poker games, that Rico came to better understand that we cannot have the treble without the bass, that the high notes and low notes of our experiences create the music of our lives, and to grasp without fear the opportunity to change course and embark on the journey of becoming our truest self. Rico took these lessons and keeping his family close to his heart took to the road, traveling across much of the western United States in search of his true self. It was in the music, the pounding beats and ethereal loops flooding amphitheaters and arenas along the way, that Rico began to hear his own voice. The chorus of souls he met, the teachable moments shared in providing care to others no matter their circumstances, opened Rico to new levels of understanding of his own identity and place in the world. Passing along the skills and memories of his own life with these new friends, many of whom are still a part of his life today, was the start of Rico's own transcendence. Pearl Cleage once said, “Sometimes you meet yourself on the road before you have a chance to learn the appropriate greeting. Faced with your own possibilities, the hard part is knowing a speech is not required. All you have to say is yes.” It was in the transformative sounds, the goosebump-inducing moments experienced during shows featuring such artists as Odesza, Rüfüs Du Sol, Jai Wolf, Lane 8, and Alison Wonderland, that Rico said yes to his truest self. Dancing now to a new heartline, feeling the intensity of the unity created in the harmonious steps and twists of bodies in motion, Rico said yes to music. Having already delved into various parts of the industry, most notably as a promoter in Seattle, Rico continued to explore the music that touched him the most, to reflect deeply on the possibilities of music to transform the world, and to cultivate the marriage of music and teachable moments that would ultimately become his signature sound. It was during a leisurely conversation while at home lounging on the sofa with Sarah that Rico's journey took another pivotal step. After illuminating the beauty of dance, remembering the ebbs and flows of each note and flash of light, a simple but direct recommendation was made. She said, “just go be a dj.” These words struck at the core of one of Rico's strongest beliefs––that we shouldn't just talk about it, we should be about it. Don't just dream, make the dream a reality. It was on that day, in that conversation, that every experience, every memory, every emotion, every road converged and Transcend was born.  Every aspect of Rico's life has helped shape the look and sound of Transcend. From song selections that pay respect to the history and range of musical genres to weaving pivotal speeches into his sets, Rico is ever conscious of his goal—that music can inspire us to transcend our present circumstances and create a world unhindered by borders, a world fueled by love and unity rather than hate and division. His core beliefs extend to his stage presence where you can find pieces of his childhood and memories of his father and grandfather stitched into the fabrics of his outfits. From favorite movies such as Alien and Predator, beloved songs like Phil Collins' In the Air Tonight, and nods to his family's service in the Army, Rico is never far from the love that helped shape him. He carries them with him wherever he goes, marking his gear with representations of the number 3 to acknowledge the roots of strength passed on to him by his father, mother, and grandfather. Rico keeps them close to his heart and mind, laboring tirelessly not only to make them proud but carry on their legacy of working in the service of his others. Transcend is truly a living testament to Rico's journey––of where and who he's been, where and who he is today, and where and who he hopes to be in the future.   About The DJ Sessions - We go LIVE every Wednesday at 6 p.m. PST. Be sure to follow us to watch our Silent Disco Saturday's and Sunday's in addition to our "Rooftop", "On Location", "Mobile" and "Secret Studio" Sessions happening every month. You can find out more information about our shows at www.thedjsessions.com/events. “The DJ Sessions" is an online/downloadable series featuring the hottest electronic music DJ's with live mixes and interviews, streamed live to a global audience. Check out the website: www.thedjsessions.com With over 1,800 episodes produced over the last eight years "The DJ Sessions" has featured international artists such as: BT, Simon Patterson, Darude, Morgan Page, Thievery Corporation, Sander Van Dorn, Jody Wisternoff, Benny Bennasi, Christopher Lawrence, Oliver Twizt, Sunshine Jones, Elite Force, Revolvr, Kenneth Thomas, Paul Oakenfold, George Acosta, Reid Speed, TyDi, Donald Glaude, Mr. Sam, Steve Aoki, Funtcase, Dirtyloud, Kalm Kaoz, Marco Bailey, Dirtmonkey, Beltek, Dyro, Darin Epsilon, Kyau & Albert, Kutski, Vaski, Moguai, Blackliquid, Joop, Angry Muffin and many more. In addition to featuring international artists “The DJ Sessions” features local top talent from the home location of Seattle. Hundreds have been featured on the show such as: Pezzner, Johnny Monsoon, Fraktured, Karl Kamakahi, Sean Majors, Ramrio, Uniting Souls, 1LUV, De La Creme, In Motion Productions, Soft Option, Ocean Grooves, Keano Martinez, Darrius Washington, Micahel Mannahan, Compound Records, Tony Rockyhorror, and many more. We have also undergone a massive upgrade in our TDJS studios and to our TDJS Mobile Studio to full HD streaming and HD audio to make the quality of the shows even better than before. Along with that, we have launched a new website in June of 2019 that now features our current live streams and past episodes in a much more user-friendly social environment. About "The DJ Sessions" Distribution - "The DJ Sessions” is a Featured Partner on Twitch, their only regularly scheduled featured live streaming DJ show. The series has also been recognized by Apple twice as a "New and Noteworthy” podcast and has been featured three times in the iTunes store video podcast section. UStream and Livestream have also listed the series as a "Featured" stream their platforms since its inception. The DJ Sessions is also streamed live to multiple other platforms and hosted on several podcast sites. The series has a combined live streaming/podcast audience is over 90,000 viewers per week. For all press inquiries regarding “The DJ Sessions”, or to schedule an interview with Darran Bruce, please contact us at info@thedjsessions.com

DJ Transcend Pt. 1 on The DJ Sessions presents Silent Disco Sunday's 9/27/20 Where and when does a person's story begin? Is it with their birth or with any of the pivotal moments of adolescence? Or with their first steps into adulthood? Perhaps, as we look back it is not so much any specific detail that pinpoints the start of our story, but rather the technicolor dreamcoat, the patchwork of our experiences and those who helped shaped them, that provide the map to who we are and who we are destined to become. For Rico, known to so many now as Transcend, the twists and turns of this map, the stitchings of his dreamcoat, tell the story of a man determined to make a difference in this world.  Growing up amongst the soaring evergreens, jagged cliffs, and concrete jungles of Washington State, Rico's admiration for Mother Earth and the beautiful and often challenging nature of the elements instilled in him a deep respect for the lands and waters in which we live. His adventures in these forests and cities, often taken with his father, grandfather, stepdad, mother, and brother taught Rico many life lessons that continue to inform his thinking and actions today. Indeed, the memories of love, laughter, teamwork, and the heartbreak that comes from loss and sacrifice, shape the compass of Rico's heart––his true north points to service, in the caring for others and inspiring through example that we can transcend the problems that weigh us down to become more than we may have ever imagined and to break free of societal expectations to create a world where we love and honor each other for who we truly are, no questions asked. In conversations shortly before his passing, Rico's grandfather spoke about the future, of what qualities make an honorable man, and about the passions that fuel a life well-lived. It was in this wisdom, shared between the turning of the cards in their weekly poker games, that Rico came to better understand that we cannot have the treble without the bass, that the high notes and low notes of our experiences create the music of our lives, and to grasp without fear the opportunity to change course and embark on the journey of becoming our truest self. Rico took these lessons and keeping his family close to his heart took to the road, traveling across much of the western United States in search of his true self. It was in the music, the pounding beats and ethereal loops flooding amphitheaters and arenas along the way, that Rico began to hear his own voice. The chorus of souls he met, the teachable moments shared in providing care to others no matter their circumstances, opened Rico to new levels of understanding of his own identity and place in the world. Passing along the skills and memories of his own life with these new friends, many of whom are still a part of his life today, was the start of Rico's own transcendence. Pearl Cleage once said, “Sometimes you meet yourself on the road before you have a chance to learn the appropriate greeting. Faced with your own possibilities, the hard part is knowing a speech is not required. All you have to say is yes.” It was in the transformative sounds, the goosebump-inducing moments experienced during shows featuring such artists as Odesza, Rüfüs Du Sol, Jai Wolf, Lane 8, and Alison Wonderland, that Rico said yes to his truest self. Dancing now to a new heartline, feeling the intensity of the unity created in the harmonious steps and twists of bodies in motion, Rico said yes to music. Having already delved into various parts of the industry, most notably as a promoter in Seattle, Rico continued to explore the music that touched him the most, to reflect deeply on the possibilities of music to transform the world, and to cultivate the marriage of music and teachable moments that would ultimately become his signature sound. It was during a leisurely conversation while at home lounging on the sofa with Sarah that Rico's journey took another pivotal step. After illuminating the beauty of dance, remembering the ebbs and flows of each note and flash of light, a simple but direct recommendation was made. She said, “just go be a dj.” These words struck at the core of one of Rico's strongest beliefs––that we shouldn't just talk about it, we should be about it. Don't just dream, make the dream a reality. It was on that day, in that conversation, that every experience, every memory, every emotion, every road converged and Transcend was born.  Every aspect of Rico's life has helped shape the look and sound of Transcend. From song selections that pay respect to the history and range of musical genres to weaving pivotal speeches into his sets, Rico is ever conscious of his goal—that music can inspire us to transcend our present circumstances and create a world unhindered by borders, a world fueled by love and unity rather than hate and division. His core beliefs extend to his stage presence where you can find pieces of his childhood and memories of his father and grandfather stitched into the fabrics of his outfits. From favorite movies such as Alien and Predator, beloved songs like Phil Collins' In the Air Tonight, and nods to his family's service in the Army, Rico is never far from the love that helped shape him. He carries them with him wherever he goes, marking his gear with representations of the number 3 to acknowledge the roots of strength passed on to him by his father, mother, and grandfather. Rico keeps them close to his heart and mind, laboring tirelessly not only to make them proud but carry on their legacy of working in the service of his others. Transcend is truly a living testament to Rico's journey––of where and who he's been, where and who he is today, and where and who he hopes to be in the future.   About The DJ Sessions - We go LIVE every Wednesday at 6 p.m. PST. Be sure to follow us to watch our Silent Disco Saturday's and Sunday's in addition to our "Rooftop", "On Location", "Mobile" and "Secret Studio" Sessions happening every month. You can find out more information about our shows at www.thedjsessions.com/events. “The DJ Sessions" is an online/downloadable series featuring the hottest electronic music DJ's with live mixes and interviews, streamed live to a global audience. Check out the website: www.thedjsessions.com With over 1,800 episodes produced over the last eight years "The DJ Sessions" has featured international artists such as: BT, Simon Patterson, Darude, Morgan Page, Thievery Corporation, Sander Van Dorn, Jody Wisternoff, Benny Bennasi, Christopher Lawrence, Oliver Twizt, Sunshine Jones, Elite Force, Revolvr, Kenneth Thomas, Paul Oakenfold, George Acosta, Reid Speed, TyDi, Donald Glaude, Mr. Sam, Steve Aoki, Funtcase, Dirtyloud, Kalm Kaoz, Marco Bailey, Dirtmonkey, Beltek, Dyro, Darin Epsilon, Kyau & Albert, Kutski, Vaski, Moguai, Blackliquid, Joop, Angry Muffin and many more. In addition to featuring international artists “The DJ Sessions” features local top talent from the home location of Seattle. Hundreds have been featured on the show such as: Pezzner, Johnny Monsoon, Fraktured, Karl Kamakahi, Sean Majors, Ramrio, Uniting Souls, 1LUV, De La Creme, In Motion Productions, Soft Option, Ocean Grooves, Keano Martinez, Darrius Washington, Micahel Mannahan, Compound Records, Tony Rockyhorror, and many more. We have also undergone a massive upgrade in our TDJS studios and to our TDJS Mobile Studio to full HD streaming and HD audio to make the quality of the shows even better than before. Along with that, we have launched a new website in June of 2019 that now features our current live streams and past episodes in a much more user-friendly social environment. About "The DJ Sessions" Distribution - "The DJ Sessions” is a Featured Partner on Twitch, their only regularly scheduled featured live streaming DJ show. The series has also been recognized by Apple twice as a "New and Noteworthy” podcast and has been featured three times in the iTunes store video podcast section. UStream and Livestream have also listed the series as a "Featured" stream their platforms since its inception. The DJ Sessions is also streamed live to multiple other platforms and hosted on several podcast sites. The series has a combined live streaming/podcast audience is over 90,000 viewers per week. For all press inquiries regarding “The DJ Sessions”, or to schedule an interview with Darran Bruce, please contact us at info@thedjsessions.com

DJ Transcend Pt. 2 on The DJ Sessions presents Silent Disco Sunday's 9/27/20 Where and when does a person's story begin? Is it with their birth or with any of the pivotal moments of adolescence? Or with their first steps into adulthood? Perhaps, as we look back it is not so much any specific detail that pinpoints the start of our story, but rather the technicolor dreamcoat, the patchwork of our experiences and those who helped shaped them, that provide the map to who we are and who we are destined to become. For Rico, known to so many now as Transcend, the twists and turns of this map, the stitchings of his dreamcoat, tell the story of a man determined to make a difference in this world.  Growing up amongst the soaring evergreens, jagged cliffs, and concrete jungles of Washington State, Rico's admiration for Mother Earth and the beautiful and often challenging nature of the elements instilled in him a deep respect for the lands and waters in which we live. His adventures in these forests and cities, often taken with his father, grandfather, stepdad, mother, and brother taught Rico many life lessons that continue to inform his thinking and actions today. Indeed, the memories of love, laughter, teamwork, and the heartbreak that comes from loss and sacrifice, shape the compass of Rico's heart––his true north points to service, in the caring for others and inspiring through example that we can transcend the problems that weigh us down to become more than we may have ever imagined and to break free of societal expectations to create a world where we love and honor each other for who we truly are, no questions asked. In conversations shortly before his passing, Rico's grandfather spoke about the future, of what qualities make an honorable man, and about the passions that fuel a life well-lived. It was in this wisdom, shared between the turning of the cards in their weekly poker games, that Rico came to better understand that we cannot have the treble without the bass, that the high notes and low notes of our experiences create the music of our lives, and to grasp without fear the opportunity to change course and embark on the journey of becoming our truest self. Rico took these lessons and keeping his family close to his heart took to the road, traveling across much of the western United States in search of his true self. It was in the music, the pounding beats and ethereal loops flooding amphitheaters and arenas along the way, that Rico began to hear his own voice. The chorus of souls he met, the teachable moments shared in providing care to others no matter their circumstances, opened Rico to new levels of understanding of his own identity and place in the world. Passing along the skills and memories of his own life with these new friends, many of whom are still a part of his life today, was the start of Rico's own transcendence. Pearl Cleage once said, “Sometimes you meet yourself on the road before you have a chance to learn the appropriate greeting. Faced with your own possibilities, the hard part is knowing a speech is not required. All you have to say is yes.” It was in the transformative sounds, the goosebump-inducing moments experienced during shows featuring such artists as Odesza, Rüfüs Du Sol, Jai Wolf, Lane 8, and Alison Wonderland, that Rico said yes to his truest self. Dancing now to a new heartline, feeling the intensity of the unity created in the harmonious steps and twists of bodies in motion, Rico said yes to music. Having already delved into various parts of the industry, most notably as a promoter in Seattle, Rico continued to explore the music that touched him the most, to reflect deeply on the possibilities of music to transform the world, and to cultivate the marriage of music and teachable moments that would ultimately become his signature sound. It was during a leisurely conversation while at home lounging on the sofa with Sarah that Rico's journey took another pivotal step. After illuminating the beauty of dance, remembering the ebbs and flows of each note and flash of light, a simple but direct recommendation was made. She said, “just go be a dj.” These words struck at the core of one of Rico's strongest beliefs––that we shouldn't just talk about it, we should be about it. Don't just dream, make the dream a reality. It was on that day, in that conversation, that every experience, every memory, every emotion, every road converged and Transcend was born.  Every aspect of Rico's life has helped shape the look and sound of Transcend. From song selections that pay respect to the history and range of musical genres to weaving pivotal speeches into his sets, Rico is ever conscious of his goal—that music can inspire us to transcend our present circumstances and create a world unhindered by borders, a world fueled by love and unity rather than hate and division. His core beliefs extend to his stage presence where you can find pieces of his childhood and memories of his father and grandfather stitched into the fabrics of his outfits. From favorite movies such as Alien and Predator, beloved songs like Phil Collins' In the Air Tonight, and nods to his family's service in the Army, Rico is never far from the love that helped shape him. He carries them with him wherever he goes, marking his gear with representations of the number 3 to acknowledge the roots of strength passed on to him by his father, mother, and grandfather. Rico keeps them close to his heart and mind, laboring tirelessly not only to make them proud but carry on their legacy of working in the service of his others. Transcend is truly a living testament to Rico's journey––of where and who he's been, where and who he is today, and where and who he hopes to be in the future.   About The DJ Sessions - We go LIVE every Wednesday at 6 p.m. PST. Be sure to follow us to watch our Silent Disco Saturday's and Sunday's in addition to our "Rooftop", "On Location", "Mobile" and "Secret Studio" Sessions happening every month. You can find out more information about our shows at www.thedjsessions.com/events. “The DJ Sessions" is an online/downloadable series featuring the hottest electronic music DJ's with live mixes and interviews, streamed live to a global audience. Check out the website: www.thedjsessions.com With over 1,800 episodes produced over the last eight years "The DJ Sessions" has featured international artists such as: BT, Simon Patterson, Darude, Morgan Page, Thievery Corporation, Sander Van Dorn, Jody Wisternoff, Benny Bennasi, Christopher Lawrence, Oliver Twizt, Sunshine Jones, Elite Force, Revolvr, Kenneth Thomas, Paul Oakenfold, George Acosta, Reid Speed, TyDi, Donald Glaude, Mr. Sam, Steve Aoki, Funtcase, Dirtyloud, Kalm Kaoz, Marco Bailey, Dirtmonkey, Beltek, Dyro, Darin Epsilon, Kyau & Albert, Kutski, Vaski, Moguai, Blackliquid, Joop, Angry Muffin and many more. In addition to featuring international artists “The DJ Sessions” features local top talent from the home location of Seattle. Hundreds have been featured on the show such as: Pezzner, Johnny Monsoon, Fraktured, Karl Kamakahi, Sean Majors, Ramrio, Uniting Souls, 1LUV, De La Creme, In Motion Productions, Soft Option, Ocean Grooves, Keano Martinez, Darrius Washington, Micahel Mannahan, Compound Records, Tony Rockyhorror, and many more. We have also undergone a massive upgrade in our TDJS studios and to our TDJS Mobile Studio to full HD streaming and HD audio to make the quality of the shows even better than before. Along with that, we have launched a new website in June of 2019 that now features our current live streams and past episodes in a much more user-friendly social environment. About "The DJ Sessions" Distribution - "The DJ Sessions” is a Featured Partner on Twitch, their only regularly scheduled featured live streaming DJ show. The series has also been recognized by Apple twice as a "New and Noteworthy” podcast and has been featured three times in the iTunes store video podcast section. UStream and Livestream have also listed the series as a "Featured" stream their platforms since its inception. The DJ Sessions is also streamed live to multiple other platforms and hosted on several podcast sites. The series has a combined live streaming/podcast audience is over 90,000 viewers per week. For all press inquiries regarding “The DJ Sessions”, or to schedule an interview with Darran Bruce, please contact us at info@thedjsessions.com

DJ Transcend Pt. 3 on The DJ Sessions presents Silent Disco Sunday's 9/27/20 Where and when does a person's story begin? Is it with their birth or with any of the pivotal moments of adolescence? Or with their first steps into adulthood? Perhaps, as we look back it is not so much any specific detail that pinpoints the start of our story, but rather the technicolor dreamcoat, the patchwork of our experiences and those who helped shaped them, that provide the map to who we are and who we are destined to become. For Rico, known to so many now as Transcend, the twists and turns of this map, the stitchings of his dreamcoat, tell the story of a man determined to make a difference in this world.  Growing up amongst the soaring evergreens, jagged cliffs, and concrete jungles of Washington State, Rico's admiration for Mother Earth and the beautiful and often challenging nature of the elements instilled in him a deep respect for the lands and waters in which we live. His adventures in these forests and cities, often taken with his father, grandfather, stepdad, mother, and brother taught Rico many life lessons that continue to inform his thinking and actions today. Indeed, the memories of love, laughter, teamwork, and the heartbreak that comes from loss and sacrifice, shape the compass of Rico's heart––his true north points to service, in the caring for others and inspiring through example that we can transcend the problems that weigh us down to become more than we may have ever imagined and to break free of societal expectations to create a world where we love and honor each other for who we truly are, no questions asked. In conversations shortly before his passing, Rico's grandfather spoke about the future, of what qualities make an honorable man, and about the passions that fuel a life well-lived. It was in this wisdom, shared between the turning of the cards in their weekly poker games, that Rico came to better understand that we cannot have the treble without the bass, that the high notes and low notes of our experiences create the music of our lives, and to grasp without fear the opportunity to change course and embark on the journey of becoming our truest self. Rico took these lessons and keeping his family close to his heart took to the road, traveling across much of the western United States in search of his true self. It was in the music, the pounding beats and ethereal loops flooding amphitheaters and arenas along the way, that Rico began to hear his own voice. The chorus of souls he met, the teachable moments shared in providing care to others no matter their circumstances, opened Rico to new levels of understanding of his own identity and place in the world. Passing along the skills and memories of his own life with these new friends, many of whom are still a part of his life today, was the start of Rico's own transcendence. Pearl Cleage once said, “Sometimes you meet yourself on the road before you have a chance to learn the appropriate greeting. Faced with your own possibilities, the hard part is knowing a speech is not required. All you have to say is yes.” It was in the transformative sounds, the goosebump-inducing moments experienced during shows featuring such artists as Odesza, Rüfüs Du Sol, Jai Wolf, Lane 8, and Alison Wonderland, that Rico said yes to his truest self. Dancing now to a new heartline, feeling the intensity of the unity created in the harmonious steps and twists of bodies in motion, Rico said yes to music. Having already delved into various parts of the industry, most notably as a promoter in Seattle, Rico continued to explore the music that touched him the most, to reflect deeply on the possibilities of music to transform the world, and to cultivate the marriage of music and teachable moments that would ultimately become his signature sound. It was during a leisurely conversation while at home lounging on the sofa with Sarah that Rico's journey took another pivotal step. After illuminating the beauty of dance, remembering the ebbs and flows of each note and flash of light, a simple but direct recommendation was made. She said, “just go be a dj.” These words struck at the core of one of Rico's strongest beliefs––that we shouldn't just talk about it, we should be about it. Don't just dream, make the dream a reality. It was on that day, in that conversation, that every experience, every memory, every emotion, every road converged and Transcend was born.  Every aspect of Rico's life has helped shape the look and sound of Transcend. From song selections that pay respect to the history and range of musical genres to weaving pivotal speeches into his sets, Rico is ever conscious of his goal—that music can inspire us to transcend our present circumstances and create a world unhindered by borders, a world fueled by love and unity rather than hate and division. His core beliefs extend to his stage presence where you can find pieces of his childhood and memories of his father and grandfather stitched into the fabrics of his outfits. From favorite movies such as Alien and Predator, beloved songs like Phil Collins' In the Air Tonight, and nods to his family's service in the Army, Rico is never far from the love that helped shape him. He carries them with him wherever he goes, marking his gear with representations of the number 3 to acknowledge the roots of strength passed on to him by his father, mother, and grandfather. Rico keeps them close to his heart and mind, laboring tirelessly not only to make them proud but carry on their legacy of working in the service of his others. Transcend is truly a living testament to Rico's journey––of where and who he's been, where and who he is today, and where and who he hopes to be in the future.   About The DJ Sessions - We go LIVE every Wednesday at 6 p.m. PST. Be sure to follow us to watch our Silent Disco Saturday's and Sunday's in addition to our "Rooftop", "On Location", "Mobile" and "Secret Studio" Sessions happening every month. You can find out more information about our shows at www.thedjsessions.com/events. “The DJ Sessions" is an online/downloadable series featuring the hottest electronic music DJ's with live mixes and interviews, streamed live to a global audience. Check out the website: www.thedjsessions.com With over 1,800 episodes produced over the last eight years "The DJ Sessions" has featured international artists such as: BT, Simon Patterson, Darude, Morgan Page, Thievery Corporation, Sander Van Dorn, Jody Wisternoff, Benny Bennasi, Christopher Lawrence, Oliver Twizt, Sunshine Jones, Elite Force, Revolvr, Kenneth Thomas, Paul Oakenfold, George Acosta, Reid Speed, TyDi, Donald Glaude, Mr. Sam, Steve Aoki, Funtcase, Dirtyloud, Kalm Kaoz, Marco Bailey, Dirtmonkey, Beltek, Dyro, Darin Epsilon, Kyau & Albert, Kutski, Vaski, Moguai, Blackliquid, Joop, Angry Muffin and many more. In addition to featuring international artists “The DJ Sessions” features local top talent from the home location of Seattle. Hundreds have been featured on the show such as: Pezzner, Johnny Monsoon, Fraktured, Karl Kamakahi, Sean Majors, Ramrio, Uniting Souls, 1LUV, De La Creme, In Motion Productions, Soft Option, Ocean Grooves, Keano Martinez, Darrius Washington, Micahel Mannahan, Compound Records, Tony Rockyhorror, and many more. We have also undergone a massive upgrade in our TDJS studios and to our TDJS Mobile Studio to full HD streaming and HD audio to make the quality of the shows even better than before. Along with that, we have launched a new website in June of 2019 that now features our current live streams and past episodes in a much more user-friendly social environment. About "The DJ Sessions" Distribution - "The DJ Sessions” is a Featured Partner on Twitch, their only regularly scheduled featured live streaming DJ show. The series has also been recognized by Apple twice as a "New and Noteworthy” podcast and has been featured three times in the iTunes store video podcast section. UStream and Livestream have also listed the series as a "Featured" stream their platforms since its inception. The DJ Sessions is also streamed live to multiple other platforms and hosted on several podcast sites. The series has a combined live streaming/podcast audience is over 90,000 viewers per week. For all press inquiries regarding “The DJ Sessions”, or to schedule an interview with Darran Bruce, please contact us at info@thedjsessions.com

DJ Transcend Pt. 1 on The DJ Sessions presents Silent Disco Sunday's 9/26/20 Where and when does a person's story begin? Is it with their birth or with any of the pivotal moments of adolescence? Or with their first steps into adulthood? Perhaps, as we look back it is not so much any specific detail that pinpoints the start of our story, but rather the technicolor dreamcoat, the patchwork of our experiences and those who helped shaped them, that provide the map to who we are and who we are destined to become. For Rico, known to so many now as Transcend, the twists and turns of this map, the stitchings of his dreamcoat, tell the story of a man determined to make a difference in this world.  Growing up amongst the soaring evergreens, jagged cliffs, and concrete jungles of Washington State, Rico's admiration for Mother Earth and the beautiful and often challenging nature of the elements instilled in him a deep respect for the lands and waters in which we live. His adventures in these forests and cities, often taken with his father, grandfather, stepdad, mother, and brother taught Rico many life lessons that continue to inform his thinking and actions today. Indeed, the memories of love, laughter, teamwork, and the heartbreak that comes from loss and sacrifice, shape the compass of Rico's heart––his true north points to service, in the caring for others and inspiring through example that we can transcend the problems that weigh us down to become more than we may have ever imagined and to break free of societal expectations to create a world where we love and honor each other for who we truly are, no questions asked. In conversations shortly before his passing, Rico's grandfather spoke about the future, of what qualities make an honorable man, and about the passions that fuel a life well-lived. It was in this wisdom, shared between the turning of the cards in their weekly poker games, that Rico came to better understand that we cannot have the treble without the bass, that the high notes and low notes of our experiences create the music of our lives, and to grasp without fear the opportunity to change course and embark on the journey of becoming our truest self. Rico took these lessons and keeping his family close to his heart took to the road, traveling across much of the western United States in search of his true self. It was in the music, the pounding beats and ethereal loops flooding amphitheaters and arenas along the way, that Rico began to hear his own voice. The chorus of souls he met, the teachable moments shared in providing care to others no matter their circumstances, opened Rico to new levels of understanding of his own identity and place in the world. Passing along the skills and memories of his own life with these new friends, many of whom are still a part of his life today, was the start of Rico's own transcendence. Pearl Cleage once said, “Sometimes you meet yourself on the road before you have a chance to learn the appropriate greeting. Faced with your own possibilities, the hard part is knowing a speech is not required. All you have to say is yes.” It was in the transformative sounds, the goosebump-inducing moments experienced during shows featuring such artists as Odesza, Rüfüs Du Sol, Jai Wolf, Lane 8, and Alison Wonderland, that Rico said yes to his truest self. Dancing now to a new heartline, feeling the intensity of the unity created in the harmonious steps and twists of bodies in motion, Rico said yes to music. Having already delved into various parts of the industry, most notably as a promoter in Seattle, Rico continued to explore the music that touched him the most, to reflect deeply on the possibilities of music to transform the world, and to cultivate the marriage of music and teachable moments that would ultimately become his signature sound. It was during a leisurely conversation while at home lounging on the sofa with Sarah that Rico's journey took another pivotal step. After illuminating the beauty of dance, remembering the ebbs and flows of each note and flash of light, a simple but direct recommendation was made. She said, “just go be a dj.” These words struck at the core of one of Rico's strongest beliefs––that we shouldn't just talk about it, we should be about it. Don't just dream, make the dream a reality. It was on that day, in that conversation, that every experience, every memory, every emotion, every road converged and Transcend was born.  Every aspect of Rico's life has helped shape the look and sound of Transcend. From song selections that pay respect to the history and range of musical genres to weaving pivotal speeches into his sets, Rico is ever conscious of his goal—that music can inspire us to transcend our present circumstances and create a world unhindered by borders, a world fueled by love and unity rather than hate and division. His core beliefs extend to his stage presence where you can find pieces of his childhood and memories of his father and grandfather stitched into the fabrics of his outfits. From favorite movies such as Alien and Predator, beloved songs like Phil Collins' In the Air Tonight, and nods to his family's service in the Army, Rico is never far from the love that helped shape him. He carries them with him wherever he goes, marking his gear with representations of the number 3 to acknowledge the roots of strength passed on to him by his father, mother, and grandfather. Rico keeps them close to his heart and mind, laboring tirelessly not only to make them proud but carry on their legacy of working in the service of his others. Transcend is truly a living testament to Rico's journey––of where and who he's been, where and who he is today, and where and who he hopes to be in the future.   About The DJ Sessions - We go LIVE every Wednesday at 6 p.m. PST. Be sure to follow us to watch our Silent Disco Saturday's and Sunday's in addition to our "Rooftop", "On Location", "Mobile" and "Secret Studio" Sessions happening every month. You can find out more information about our shows at www.thedjsessions.com/events. “The DJ Sessions" is an online/downloadable series featuring the hottest electronic music DJ's with live mixes and interviews, streamed live to a global audience. Check out the website: www.thedjsessions.com With over 1,800 episodes produced over the last eight years "The DJ Sessions" has featured international artists such as: BT, Simon Patterson, Darude, Morgan Page, Thievery Corporation, Sander Van Dorn, Jody Wisternoff, Benny Bennasi, Christopher Lawrence, Oliver Twizt, Sunshine Jones, Elite Force, Revolvr, Kenneth Thomas, Paul Oakenfold, George Acosta, Reid Speed, TyDi, Donald Glaude, Mr. Sam, Steve Aoki, Funtcase, Dirtyloud, Kalm Kaoz, Marco Bailey, Dirtmonkey, Beltek, Dyro, Darin Epsilon, Kyau & Albert, Kutski, Vaski, Moguai, Blackliquid, Joop, Angry Muffin and many more. In addition to featuring international artists “The DJ Sessions” features local top talent from the home location of Seattle. Hundreds have been featured on the show such as: Pezzner, Johnny Monsoon, Fraktured, Karl Kamakahi, Sean Majors, Ramrio, Uniting Souls, 1LUV, De La Creme, In Motion Productions, Soft Option, Ocean Grooves, Keano Martinez, Darrius Washington, Micahel Mannahan, Compound Records, Tony Rockyhorror, and many more. We have also undergone a massive upgrade in our TDJS studios and to our TDJS Mobile Studio to full HD streaming and HD audio to make the quality of the shows even better than before. Along with that, we have launched a new website in June of 2019 that now features our current live streams and past episodes in a much more user-friendly social environment. About "The DJ Sessions" Distribution - "The DJ Sessions” is a Featured Partner on Twitch, their only regularly scheduled featured live streaming DJ show. The series has also been recognized by Apple twice as a "New and Noteworthy” podcast and has been featured three times in the iTunes store video podcast section. UStream and Livestream have also listed the series as a "Featured" stream their platforms since its inception. The DJ Sessions is also streamed live to multiple other platforms and hosted on several podcast sites. The series has a combined live streaming/podcast audience is over 90,000 viewers per week. For all press inquiries regarding “The DJ Sessions”, or to schedule an interview with Darran Bruce, please contact us at info@thedjsessions.com

DJ Transcend Pt. 2 on The DJ Sessions presents Silent Disco Sunday's 9/26/20 Where and when does a person's story begin? Is it with their birth or with any of the pivotal moments of adolescence? Or with their first steps into adulthood? Perhaps, as we look back it is not so much any specific detail that pinpoints the start of our story, but rather the technicolor dreamcoat, the patchwork of our experiences and those who helped shaped them, that provide the map to who we are and who we are destined to become. For Rico, known to so many now as Transcend, the twists and turns of this map, the stitchings of his dreamcoat, tell the story of a man determined to make a difference in this world.  Growing up amongst the soaring evergreens, jagged cliffs, and concrete jungles of Washington State, Rico's admiration for Mother Earth and the beautiful and often challenging nature of the elements instilled in him a deep respect for the lands and waters in which we live. His adventures in these forests and cities, often taken with his father, grandfather, stepdad, mother, and brother taught Rico many life lessons that continue to inform his thinking and actions today. Indeed, the memories of love, laughter, teamwork, and the heartbreak that comes from loss and sacrifice, shape the compass of Rico's heart––his true north points to service, in the caring for others and inspiring through example that we can transcend the problems that weigh us down to become more than we may have ever imagined and to break free of societal expectations to create a world where we love and honor each other for who we truly are, no questions asked. In conversations shortly before his passing, Rico's grandfather spoke about the future, of what qualities make an honorable man, and about the passions that fuel a life well-lived. It was in this wisdom, shared between the turning of the cards in their weekly poker games, that Rico came to better understand that we cannot have the treble without the bass, that the high notes and low notes of our experiences create the music of our lives, and to grasp without fear the opportunity to change course and embark on the journey of becoming our truest self. Rico took these lessons and keeping his family close to his heart took to the road, traveling across much of the western United States in search of his true self. It was in the music, the pounding beats and ethereal loops flooding amphitheaters and arenas along the way, that Rico began to hear his own voice. The chorus of souls he met, the teachable moments shared in providing care to others no matter their circumstances, opened Rico to new levels of understanding of his own identity and place in the world. Passing along the skills and memories of his own life with these new friends, many of whom are still a part of his life today, was the start of Rico's own transcendence. Pearl Cleage once said, “Sometimes you meet yourself on the road before you have a chance to learn the appropriate greeting. Faced with your own possibilities, the hard part is knowing a speech is not required. All you have to say is yes.” It was in the transformative sounds, the goosebump-inducing moments experienced during shows featuring such artists as Odesza, Rüfüs Du Sol, Jai Wolf, Lane 8, and Alison Wonderland, that Rico said yes to his truest self. Dancing now to a new heartline, feeling the intensity of the unity created in the harmonious steps and twists of bodies in motion, Rico said yes to music. Having already delved into various parts of the industry, most notably as a promoter in Seattle, Rico continued to explore the music that touched him the most, to reflect deeply on the possibilities of music to transform the world, and to cultivate the marriage of music and teachable moments that would ultimately become his signature sound. It was during a leisurely conversation while at home lounging on the sofa with Sarah that Rico's journey took another pivotal step. After illuminating the beauty of dance, remembering the ebbs and flows of each note and flash of light, a simple but direct recommendation was made. She said, “just go be a dj.” These words struck at the core of one of Rico's strongest beliefs––that we shouldn't just talk about it, we should be about it. Don't just dream, make the dream a reality. It was on that day, in that conversation, that every experience, every memory, every emotion, every road converged and Transcend was born.  Every aspect of Rico's life has helped shape the look and sound of Transcend. From song selections that pay respect to the history and range of musical genres to weaving pivotal speeches into his sets, Rico is ever conscious of his goal—that music can inspire us to transcend our present circumstances and create a world unhindered by borders, a world fueled by love and unity rather than hate and division. His core beliefs extend to his stage presence where you can find pieces of his childhood and memories of his father and grandfather stitched into the fabrics of his outfits. From favorite movies such as Alien and Predator, beloved songs like Phil Collins' In the Air Tonight, and nods to his family's service in the Army, Rico is never far from the love that helped shape him. He carries them with him wherever he goes, marking his gear with representations of the number 3 to acknowledge the roots of strength passed on to him by his father, mother, and grandfather. Rico keeps them close to his heart and mind, laboring tirelessly not only to make them proud but carry on their legacy of working in the service of his others. Transcend is truly a living testament to Rico's journey––of where and who he's been, where and who he is today, and where and who he hopes to be in the future.   About The DJ Sessions - We go LIVE every Wednesday at 6 p.m. PST. Be sure to follow us to watch our Silent Disco Saturday's and Sunday's in addition to our "Rooftop", "On Location", "Mobile" and "Secret Studio" Sessions happening every month. You can find out more information about our shows at www.thedjsessions.com/events. “The DJ Sessions" is an online/downloadable series featuring the hottest electronic music DJ's with live mixes and interviews, streamed live to a global audience. Check out the website: www.thedjsessions.com With over 1,800 episodes produced over the last eight years "The DJ Sessions" has featured international artists such as: BT, Simon Patterson, Darude, Morgan Page, Thievery Corporation, Sander Van Dorn, Jody Wisternoff, Benny Bennasi, Christopher Lawrence, Oliver Twizt, Sunshine Jones, Elite Force, Revolvr, Kenneth Thomas, Paul Oakenfold, George Acosta, Reid Speed, TyDi, Donald Glaude, Mr. Sam, Steve Aoki, Funtcase, Dirtyloud, Kalm Kaoz, Marco Bailey, Dirtmonkey, Beltek, Dyro, Darin Epsilon, Kyau & Albert, Kutski, Vaski, Moguai, Blackliquid, Joop, Angry Muffin and many more. In addition to featuring international artists “The DJ Sessions” features local top talent from the home location of Seattle. Hundreds have been featured on the show such as: Pezzner, Johnny Monsoon, Fraktured, Karl Kamakahi, Sean Majors, Ramrio, Uniting Souls, 1LUV, De La Creme, In Motion Productions, Soft Option, Ocean Grooves, Keano Martinez, Darrius Washington, Micahel Mannahan, Compound Records, Tony Rockyhorror, and many more. We have also undergone a massive upgrade in our TDJS studios and to our TDJS Mobile Studio to full HD streaming and HD audio to make the quality of the shows even better than before. Along with that, we have launched a new website in June of 2019 that now features our current live streams and past episodes in a much more user-friendly social environment. About "The DJ Sessions" Distribution - "The DJ Sessions” is a Featured Partner on Twitch, their only regularly scheduled featured live streaming DJ show. The series has also been recognized by Apple twice as a "New and Noteworthy” podcast and has been featured three times in the iTunes store video podcast section. UStream and Livestream have also listed the series as a "Featured" stream their platforms since its inception. The DJ Sessions is also streamed live to multiple other platforms and hosted on several podcast sites. The series has a combined live streaming/podcast audience is over 90,000 viewers per week. For all press inquiries regarding “The DJ Sessions”, or to schedule an interview with Darran Bruce, please contact us at info@thedjsessions.com

DJ Transcend Pt. 3 on The DJ Sessions presents Silent Disco Sunday's 9/26/20 Where and when does a person's story begin? Is it with their birth or with any of the pivotal moments of adolescence? Or with their first steps into adulthood? Perhaps, as we look back it is not so much any specific detail that pinpoints the start of our story, but rather the technicolor dreamcoat, the patchwork of our experiences and those who helped shaped them, that provide the map to who we are and who we are destined to become. For Rico, known to so many now as Transcend, the twists and turns of this map, the stitchings of his dreamcoat, tell the story of a man determined to make a difference in this world.  Growing up amongst the soaring evergreens, jagged cliffs, and concrete jungles of Washington State, Rico's admiration for Mother Earth and the beautiful and often challenging nature of the elements instilled in him a deep respect for the lands and waters in which we live. His adventures in these forests and cities, often taken with his father, grandfather, stepdad, mother, and brother taught Rico many life lessons that continue to inform his thinking and actions today. Indeed, the memories of love, laughter, teamwork, and the heartbreak that comes from loss and sacrifice, shape the compass of Rico's heart––his true north points to service, in the caring for others and inspiring through example that we can transcend the problems that weigh us down to become more than we may have ever imagined and to break free of societal expectations to create a world where we love and honor each other for who we truly are, no questions asked. In conversations shortly before his passing, Rico's grandfather spoke about the future, of what qualities make an honorable man, and about the passions that fuel a life well-lived. It was in this wisdom, shared between the turning of the cards in their weekly poker games, that Rico came to better understand that we cannot have the treble without the bass, that the high notes and low notes of our experiences create the music of our lives, and to grasp without fear the opportunity to change course and embark on the journey of becoming our truest self. Rico took these lessons and keeping his family close to his heart took to the road, traveling across much of the western United States in search of his true self. It was in the music, the pounding beats and ethereal loops flooding amphitheaters and arenas along the way, that Rico began to hear his own voice. The chorus of souls he met, the teachable moments shared in providing care to others no matter their circumstances, opened Rico to new levels of understanding of his own identity and place in the world. Passing along the skills and memories of his own life with these new friends, many of whom are still a part of his life today, was the start of Rico's own transcendence. Pearl Cleage once said, “Sometimes you meet yourself on the road before you have a chance to learn the appropriate greeting. Faced with your own possibilities, the hard part is knowing a speech is not required. All you have to say is yes.” It was in the transformative sounds, the goosebump-inducing moments experienced during shows featuring such artists as Odesza, Rüfüs Du Sol, Jai Wolf, Lane 8, and Alison Wonderland, that Rico said yes to his truest self. Dancing now to a new heartline, feeling the intensity of the unity created in the harmonious steps and twists of bodies in motion, Rico said yes to music. Having already delved into various parts of the industry, most notably as a promoter in Seattle, Rico continued to explore the music that touched him the most, to reflect deeply on the possibilities of music to transform the world, and to cultivate the marriage of music and teachable moments that would ultimately become his signature sound. It was during a leisurely conversation while at home lounging on the sofa with Sarah that Rico's journey took another pivotal step. After illuminating the beauty of dance, remembering the ebbs and flows of each note and flash of light, a simple but direct recommendation was made. She said, “just go be a dj.” These words struck at the core of one of Rico's strongest beliefs––that we shouldn't just talk about it, we should be about it. Don't just dream, make the dream a reality. It was on that day, in that conversation, that every experience, every memory, every emotion, every road converged and Transcend was born.  Every aspect of Rico's life has helped shape the look and sound of Transcend. From song selections that pay respect to the history and range of musical genres to weaving pivotal speeches into his sets, Rico is ever conscious of his goal—that music can inspire us to transcend our present circumstances and create a world unhindered by borders, a world fueled by love and unity rather than hate and division. His core beliefs extend to his stage presence where you can find pieces of his childhood and memories of his father and grandfather stitched into the fabrics of his outfits. From favorite movies such as Alien and Predator, beloved songs like Phil Collins' In the Air Tonight, and nods to his family's service in the Army, Rico is never far from the love that helped shape him. He carries them with him wherever he goes, marking his gear with representations of the number 3 to acknowledge the roots of strength passed on to him by his father, mother, and grandfather. Rico keeps them close to his heart and mind, laboring tirelessly not only to make them proud but carry on their legacy of working in the service of his others. Transcend is truly a living testament to Rico's journey––of where and who he's been, where and who he is today, and where and who he hopes to be in the future.   About The DJ Sessions - We go LIVE every Wednesday at 6 p.m. PST. Be sure to follow us to watch our Silent Disco Saturday's and Sunday's in addition to our "Rooftop", "On Location", "Mobile" and "Secret Studio" Sessions happening every month. You can find out more information about our shows at www.thedjsessions.com/events. “The DJ Sessions" is an online/downloadable series featuring the hottest electronic music DJ's with live mixes and interviews, streamed live to a global audience. Check out the website: www.thedjsessions.com With over 1,800 episodes produced over the last eight years "The DJ Sessions" has featured international artists such as: BT, Simon Patterson, Darude, Morgan Page, Thievery Corporation, Sander Van Dorn, Jody Wisternoff, Benny Bennasi, Christopher Lawrence, Oliver Twizt, Sunshine Jones, Elite Force, Revolvr, Kenneth Thomas, Paul Oakenfold, George Acosta, Reid Speed, TyDi, Donald Glaude, Mr. Sam, Steve Aoki, Funtcase, Dirtyloud, Kalm Kaoz, Marco Bailey, Dirtmonkey, Beltek, Dyro, Darin Epsilon, Kyau & Albert, Kutski, Vaski, Moguai, Blackliquid, Joop, Angry Muffin and many more. In addition to featuring international artists “The DJ Sessions” features local top talent from the home location of Seattle. Hundreds have been featured on the show such as: Pezzner, Johnny Monsoon, Fraktured, Karl Kamakahi, Sean Majors, Ramrio, Uniting Souls, 1LUV, De La Creme, In Motion Productions, Soft Option, Ocean Grooves, Keano Martinez, Darrius Washington, Micahel Mannahan, Compound Records, Tony Rockyhorror, and many more. We have also undergone a massive upgrade in our TDJS studios and to our TDJS Mobile Studio to full HD streaming and HD audio to make the quality of the shows even better than before. Along with that, we have launched a new website in June of 2019 that now features our current live streams and past episodes in a much more user-friendly social environment. About "The DJ Sessions" Distribution - "The DJ Sessions” is a Featured Partner on Twitch, their only regularly scheduled featured live streaming DJ show. The series has also been recognized by Apple twice as a "New and Noteworthy” podcast and has been featured three times in the iTunes store video podcast section. UStream and Livestream have also listed the series as a "Featured" stream their platforms since its inception. The DJ Sessions is also streamed live to multiple other platforms and hosted on several podcast sites. The series has a combined live streaming/podcast audience is over 90,000 viewers per week. For all press inquiries regarding “The DJ Sessions”, or to schedule an interview with Darran Bruce, please contact us at info@thedjsessions.com

DJ Transcend Pt. 1 on The DJ Sessions presents Silent Disco Sunday's 9/20/20   Where and when does a person's story begin? Is it with their birth or with any of the pivotal moments of adolescence? Or with their first steps into adulthood? Perhaps, as we look back it is not so much any specific detail that pinpoints the start of our story, but rather the technicolor dreamcoat, the patchwork of our experiences and those who helped shaped them, that provide the map to who we are and who we are destined to become. For Rico, known to so many now as Transcend, the twists and turns of this map, the stitchings of his dreamcoat, tell the story of a man determined to make a difference in this world.    Growing up amongst the soaring evergreens, jagged cliffs, and concrete jungles of Washington State, Rico's admiration for Mother Earth and the beautiful and often challenging nature of the elements instilled in him a deep respect for the lands and waters in which we live. His adventures in these forests and cities, often taken with his father, grandfather, stepdad, mother, and brother taught Rico many life lessons that continue to inform his thinking and actions today. Indeed, the memories of love, laughter, teamwork, and the heartbreak that comes from loss and sacrifice, shape the compass of Rico's heart––his true north points to service, in the caring for others and inspiring through example that we can transcend the problems that weigh us down to become more than we may have ever imagined and to break free of societal expectations to create a world where we love and honor each other for who we truly are, no questions asked. In conversations shortly before his passing, Rico's grandfather spoke about the future, of what qualities make an honorable man, and about the passions that fuel a life well-lived. It was in this wisdom, shared between the turning of the cards in their weekly poker games, that Rico came to better understand that we cannot have the treble without the bass, that the high notes and low notes of our experiences create the music of our lives, and to grasp without fear the opportunity to change course and embark on the journey of becoming our truest self.   Rico took these lessons and keeping his family close to his heart took to the road, traveling across much of the western United States in search of his true self. It was in the music, the pounding beats and ethereal loops flooding amphitheaters and arenas along the way, that Rico began to hear his own voice. The chorus of souls he met, the teachable moments shared in providing care to others no matter their circumstances, opened Rico to new levels of understanding of his own identity and place in the world. Passing along the skills and memories of his own life with these new friends, many of whom are still a part of his life today, was the start of Rico's own transcendence. Pearl Cleage once said, “Sometimes you meet yourself on the road before you have a chance to learn the appropriate greeting. Faced with your own possibilities, the hard part is knowing a speech is not required. All you have to say is yes.” It was in the transformative sounds, the goosebump-inducing moments experienced during shows featuring such artists as Odesza, Rüfüs Du Sol, Jai Wolf, Lane 8, and Alison Wonderland, that Rico said yes to his truest self. Dancing now to a new heartline, feeling the intensity of the unity created in the harmonious steps and twists of bodies in motion, Rico said yes to music.   Having already delved into various parts of the industry, most notably as a promoter in Seattle, Rico continued to explore the music that touched him the most, to reflect deeply on the possibilities of music to transform the world, and to cultivate the marriage of music and teachable moments that would ultimately become his signature sound. It was during a leisurely conversation while at home lounging on the sofa with Sarah that Rico's journey took another pivotal step. After illuminating the beauty of dance, remembering the ebbs and flows of each note and flash of light, a simple but direct recommendation was made. She said, “just go be a dj.” These words struck at the core of one of Rico's strongest beliefs––that we shouldn't just talk about it, we should be about it. Don't just dream, make the dream a reality. It was on that day, in that conversation, that every experience, every memory, every emotion, every road converged and Transcend was born.    Every aspect of Rico's life has helped shape the look and sound of Transcend. From song selections that pay respect to the history and range of musical genres to weaving pivotal speeches into his sets, Rico is ever conscious of his goal—that music can inspire us to transcend our present circumstances and create a world unhindered by borders, a world fueled by love and unity rather than hate and division. His core beliefs extend to his stage presence where you can find pieces of his childhood and memories of his father and grandfather stitched into the fabrics of his outfits. From favorite movies such as Alien and Predator, beloved songs like Phil Collins' In the Air Tonight, and nods to his family's service in the Army, Rico is never far from the love that helped shape him. He carries them with him wherever he goes, marking his gear with representations of the number 3 to acknowledge the roots of strength passed on to him by his father, mother, and grandfather. Rico keeps them close to his heart and mind, laboring tirelessly not only to make them proud but carry on their legacy of working in the service of his others. Transcend is truly a living testament to Rico's journey––of where and who he's been, where and who he is today, and where and who he hopes to be in the future.     About The DJ Sessions -   We go LIVE every Wednesday at 6 p.m. PST. Be sure to follow us to watch our Silent Disco Saturday's and Sunday's in addition to our "Rooftop", "On Location", "Mobile" and "Secret Studio" Sessions happening every month. You can find out more information about our shows at www.thedjsessions.com/events.   “The DJ Sessions" is an online/downloadable series featuring the hottest electronic music DJ's with live mixes and interviews, streamed live to a global audience.   Check out the website: www.thedjsessions.com   With over 1,800 episodes produced over the last eight years "The DJ Sessions" has featured international artists such as: BT, Simon Patterson, Darude, Morgan Page, Thievery Corporation, Sander Van Dorn, Jody Wisternoff, Benny Bennasi, Christopher Lawrence, Oliver Twizt, Sunshine Jones, Elite Force, Revolvr, Kenneth Thomas, Paul Oakenfold, George Acosta, Reid Speed, TyDi, Donald Glaude, Mr. Sam, Steve Aoki, Funtcase, Dirtyloud, Kalm Kaoz, Marco Bailey, Dirtmonkey, Beltek, Dyro, Darin Epsilon, Kyau & Albert, Kutski, Vaski, Moguai, Blackliquid, Joop, Angry Muffin and many more.   In addition to featuring international artists “The DJ Sessions” features local top talent from the home location of Seattle. Hundreds have been featured on the show such as: Pezzner, Johnny Monsoon, Fraktured, Karl Kamakahi, Sean Majors, Ramrio, Uniting Souls, 1LUV, De La Creme, In Motion Productions, Soft Option, Ocean Grooves, Keano Martinez, Darrius Washington, Micahel Mannahan, Compound Records, Tony Rockyhorror, and many more. We have also undergone a massive upgrade in our TDJS studios and to our TDJS Mobile Studio to full HD streaming and HD audio to make the quality of the shows even better than before. Along with that, we have launched a new website in June of 2019 that now features our current live streams and past episodes in a much more user-friendly social environment.   About "The DJ Sessions" Distribution -   "The DJ Sessions” is a Featured Partner on Twitch, their only regularly scheduled featured live streaming DJ show. The series has also been recognized by Apple twice as a "New and Noteworthy” podcast and has been featured three times in the iTunes store video podcast section. UStream and Livestream have also listed the series as a "Featured" stream their platforms since its inception.   The DJ Sessions is also streamed live to multiple other platforms and hosted on several podcast sites. The series has a combined live streaming/podcast audience is over 90,000 viewers per week.   For all press inquiries regarding “The DJ Sessions”, or to schedule an interview with Darran Bruce, please contact us at info@thedjsessions.com  

DJ Transcend Pt. 2 on The DJ Sessions presents Silent Disco Sunday's 9/20/20   Where and when does a person's story begin? Is it with their birth or with any of the pivotal moments of adolescence? Or with their first steps into adulthood? Perhaps, as we look back it is not so much any specific detail that pinpoints the start of our story, but rather the technicolor dreamcoat, the patchwork of our experiences and those who helped shaped them, that provide the map to who we are and who we are destined to become. For Rico, known to so many now as Transcend, the twists and turns of this map, the stitchings of his dreamcoat, tell the story of a man determined to make a difference in this world.    Growing up amongst the soaring evergreens, jagged cliffs, and concrete jungles of Washington State, Rico's admiration for Mother Earth and the beautiful and often challenging nature of the elements instilled in him a deep respect for the lands and waters in which we live. His adventures in these forests and cities, often taken with his father, grandfather, stepdad, mother, and brother taught Rico many life lessons that continue to inform his thinking and actions today. Indeed, the memories of love, laughter, teamwork, and the heartbreak that comes from loss and sacrifice, shape the compass of Rico's heart––his true north points to service, in the caring for others and inspiring through example that we can transcend the problems that weigh us down to become more than we may have ever imagined and to break free of societal expectations to create a world where we love and honor each other for who we truly are, no questions asked. In conversations shortly before his passing, Rico's grandfather spoke about the future, of what qualities make an honorable man, and about the passions that fuel a life well-lived. It was in this wisdom, shared between the turning of the cards in their weekly poker games, that Rico came to better understand that we cannot have the treble without the bass, that the high notes and low notes of our experiences create the music of our lives, and to grasp without fear the opportunity to change course and embark on the journey of becoming our truest self.   Rico took these lessons and keeping his family close to his heart took to the road, traveling across much of the western United States in search of his true self. It was in the music, the pounding beats and ethereal loops flooding amphitheaters and arenas along the way, that Rico began to hear his own voice. The chorus of souls he met, the teachable moments shared in providing care to others no matter their circumstances, opened Rico to new levels of understanding of his own identity and place in the world. Passing along the skills and memories of his own life with these new friends, many of whom are still a part of his life today, was the start of Rico's own transcendence. Pearl Cleage once said, “Sometimes you meet yourself on the road before you have a chance to learn the appropriate greeting. Faced with your own possibilities, the hard part is knowing a speech is not required. All you have to say is yes.” It was in the transformative sounds, the goosebump-inducing moments experienced during shows featuring such artists as Odesza, Rüfüs Du Sol, Jai Wolf, Lane 8, and Alison Wonderland, that Rico said yes to his truest self. Dancing now to a new heartline, feeling the intensity of the unity created in the harmonious steps and twists of bodies in motion, Rico said yes to music.   Having already delved into various parts of the industry, most notably as a promoter in Seattle, Rico continued to explore the music that touched him the most, to reflect deeply on the possibilities of music to transform the world, and to cultivate the marriage of music and teachable moments that would ultimately become his signature sound. It was during a leisurely conversation while at home lounging on the sofa with Sarah that Rico's journey took another pivotal step. After illuminating the beauty of dance, remembering the ebbs and flows of each note and flash of light, a simple but direct recommendation was made. She said, “just go be a dj.” These words struck at the core of one of Rico's strongest beliefs––that we shouldn't just talk about it, we should be about it. Don't just dream, make the dream a reality. It was on that day, in that conversation, that every experience, every memory, every emotion, every road converged and Transcend was born.    Every aspect of Rico's life has helped shape the look and sound of Transcend. From song selections that pay respect to the history and range of musical genres to weaving pivotal speeches into his sets, Rico is ever conscious of his goal—that music can inspire us to transcend our present circumstances and create a world unhindered by borders, a world fueled by love and unity rather than hate and division. His core beliefs extend to his stage presence where you can find pieces of his childhood and memories of his father and grandfather stitched into the fabrics of his outfits. From favorite movies such as Alien and Predator, beloved songs like Phil Collins' In the Air Tonight, and nods to his family's service in the Army, Rico is never far from the love that helped shape him. He carries them with him wherever he goes, marking his gear with representations of the number 3 to acknowledge the roots of strength passed on to him by his father, mother, and grandfather. Rico keeps them close to his heart and mind, laboring tirelessly not only to make them proud but carry on their legacy of working in the service of his others. Transcend is truly a living testament to Rico's journey––of where and who he's been, where and who he is today, and where and who he hopes to be in the future.     About The DJ Sessions -   We go LIVE every Wednesday at 6 p.m. PST. Be sure to follow us to watch our Silent Disco Saturday's and Sunday's in addition to our "Rooftop", "On Location", "Mobile" and "Secret Studio" Sessions happening every month. You can find out more information about our shows at www.thedjsessions.com/events.   “The DJ Sessions" is an online/downloadable series featuring the hottest electronic music DJ's with live mixes and interviews, streamed live to a global audience.   Check out the website: www.thedjsessions.com   With over 1,800 episodes produced over the last eight years "The DJ Sessions" has featured international artists such as: BT, Simon Patterson, Darude, Morgan Page, Thievery Corporation, Sander Van Dorn, Jody Wisternoff, Benny Bennasi, Christopher Lawrence, Oliver Twizt, Sunshine Jones, Elite Force, Revolvr, Kenneth Thomas, Paul Oakenfold, George Acosta, Reid Speed, TyDi, Donald Glaude, Mr. Sam, Steve Aoki, Funtcase, Dirtyloud, Kalm Kaoz, Marco Bailey, Dirtmonkey, Beltek, Dyro, Darin Epsilon, Kyau & Albert, Kutski, Vaski, Moguai, Blackliquid, Joop, Angry Muffin and many more.   In addition to featuring international artists “The DJ Sessions” features local top talent from the home location of Seattle. Hundreds have been featured on the show such as: Pezzner, Johnny Monsoon, Fraktured, Karl Kamakahi, Sean Majors, Ramrio, Uniting Souls, 1LUV, De La Creme, In Motion Productions, Soft Option, Ocean Grooves, Keano Martinez, Darrius Washington, Micahel Mannahan, Compound Records, Tony Rockyhorror, and many more. We have also undergone a massive upgrade in our TDJS studios and to our TDJS Mobile Studio to full HD streaming and HD audio to make the quality of the shows even better than before. Along with that, we have launched a new website in June of 2019 that now features our current live streams and past episodes in a much more user-friendly social environment.   About "The DJ Sessions" Distribution -   "The DJ Sessions” is a Featured Partner on Twitch, their only regularly scheduled featured live streaming DJ show. The series has also been recognized by Apple twice as a "New and Noteworthy” podcast and has been featured three times in the iTunes store video podcast section. UStream and Livestream have also listed the series as a "Featured" stream their platforms since its inception.   The DJ Sessions is also streamed live to multiple other platforms and hosted on several podcast sites. The series has a combined live streaming/podcast audience is over 90,000 viewers per week.   For all press inquiries regarding “The DJ Sessions”, or to schedule an interview with Darran Bruce, please contact us at info@thedjsessions.com  

DJ Transcend Pt. 3 on The DJ Sessions presents Silent Disco Sunday's 9/20/20   Where and when does a person's story begin? Is it with their birth or with any of the pivotal moments of adolescence? Or with their first steps into adulthood? Perhaps, as we look back it is not so much any specific detail that pinpoints the start of our story, but rather the technicolor dreamcoat, the patchwork of our experiences and those who helped shaped them, that provide the map to who we are and who we are destined to become. For Rico, known to so many now as Transcend, the twists and turns of this map, the stitchings of his dreamcoat, tell the story of a man determined to make a difference in this world.    Growing up amongst the soaring evergreens, jagged cliffs, and concrete jungles of Washington State, Rico's admiration for Mother Earth and the beautiful and often challenging nature of the elements instilled in him a deep respect for the lands and waters in which we live. His adventures in these forests and cities, often taken with his father, grandfather, stepdad, mother, and brother taught Rico many life lessons that continue to inform his thinking and actions today. Indeed, the memories of love, laughter, teamwork, and the heartbreak that comes from loss and sacrifice, shape the compass of Rico's heart––his true north points to service, in the caring for others and inspiring through example that we can transcend the problems that weigh us down to become more than we may have ever imagined and to break free of societal expectations to create a world where we love and honor each other for who we truly are, no questions asked. In conversations shortly before his passing, Rico's grandfather spoke about the future, of what qualities make an honorable man, and about the passions that fuel a life well-lived. It was in this wisdom, shared between the turning of the cards in their weekly poker games, that Rico came to better understand that we cannot have the treble without the bass, that the high notes and low notes of our experiences create the music of our lives, and to grasp without fear the opportunity to change course and embark on the journey of becoming our truest self.   Rico took these lessons and keeping his family close to his heart took to the road, traveling across much of the western United States in search of his true self. It was in the music, the pounding beats and ethereal loops flooding amphitheaters and arenas along the way, that Rico began to hear his own voice. The chorus of souls he met, the teachable moments shared in providing care to others no matter their circumstances, opened Rico to new levels of understanding of his own identity and place in the world. Passing along the skills and memories of his own life with these new friends, many of whom are still a part of his life today, was the start of Rico's own transcendence. Pearl Cleage once said, “Sometimes you meet yourself on the road before you have a chance to learn the appropriate greeting. Faced with your own possibilities, the hard part is knowing a speech is not required. All you have to say is yes.” It was in the transformative sounds, the goosebump-inducing moments experienced during shows featuring such artists as Odesza, Rüfüs Du Sol, Jai Wolf, Lane 8, and Alison Wonderland, that Rico said yes to his truest self. Dancing now to a new heartline, feeling the intensity of the unity created in the harmonious steps and twists of bodies in motion, Rico said yes to music.   Having already delved into various parts of the industry, most notably as a promoter in Seattle, Rico continued to explore the music that touched him the most, to reflect deeply on the possibilities of music to transform the world, and to cultivate the marriage of music and teachable moments that would ultimately become his signature sound. It was during a leisurely conversation while at home lounging on the sofa with Sarah that Rico's journey took another pivotal step. After illuminating the beauty of dance, remembering the ebbs and flows of each note and flash of light, a simple but direct recommendation was made. She said, “just go be a dj.” These words struck at the core of one of Rico's strongest beliefs––that we shouldn't just talk about it, we should be about it. Don't just dream, make the dream a reality. It was on that day, in that conversation, that every experience, every memory, every emotion, every road converged and Transcend was born.    Every aspect of Rico's life has helped shape the look and sound of Transcend. From song selections that pay respect to the history and range of musical genres to weaving pivotal speeches into his sets, Rico is ever conscious of his goal—that music can inspire us to transcend our present circumstances and create a world unhindered by borders, a world fueled by love and unity rather than hate and division. His core beliefs extend to his stage presence where you can find pieces of his childhood and memories of his father and grandfather stitched into the fabrics of his outfits. From favorite movies such as Alien and Predator, beloved songs like Phil Collins' In the Air Tonight, and nods to his family's service in the Army, Rico is never far from the love that helped shape him. He carries them with him wherever he goes, marking his gear with representations of the number 3 to acknowledge the roots of strength passed on to him by his father, mother, and grandfather. Rico keeps them close to his heart and mind, laboring tirelessly not only to make them proud but carry on their legacy of working in the service of his others. Transcend is truly a living testament to Rico's journey––of where and who he's been, where and who he is today, and where and who he hopes to be in the future.     About The DJ Sessions -   We go LIVE every Wednesday at 6 p.m. PST. Be sure to follow us to watch our Silent Disco Saturday's and Sunday's in addition to our "Rooftop", "On Location", "Mobile" and "Secret Studio" Sessions happening every month. You can find out more information about our shows at www.thedjsessions.com/events.   “The DJ Sessions" is an online/downloadable series featuring the hottest electronic music DJ's with live mixes and interviews, streamed live to a global audience.   Check out the website: www.thedjsessions.com   With over 1,800 episodes produced over the last eight years "The DJ Sessions" has featured international artists such as: BT, Simon Patterson, Darude, Morgan Page, Thievery Corporation, Sander Van Dorn, Jody Wisternoff, Benny Bennasi, Christopher Lawrence, Oliver Twizt, Sunshine Jones, Elite Force, Revolvr, Kenneth Thomas, Paul Oakenfold, George Acosta, Reid Speed, TyDi, Donald Glaude, Mr. Sam, Steve Aoki, Funtcase, Dirtyloud, Kalm Kaoz, Marco Bailey, Dirtmonkey, Beltek, Dyro, Darin Epsilon, Kyau & Albert, Kutski, Vaski, Moguai, Blackliquid, Joop, Angry Muffin and many more.   In addition to featuring international artists “The DJ Sessions” features local top talent from the home location of Seattle. Hundreds have been featured on the show such as: Pezzner, Johnny Monsoon, Fraktured, Karl Kamakahi, Sean Majors, Ramrio, Uniting Souls, 1LUV, De La Creme, In Motion Productions, Soft Option, Ocean Grooves, Keano Martinez, Darrius Washington, Micahel Mannahan, Compound Records, Tony Rockyhorror, and many more. We have also undergone a massive upgrade in our TDJS studios and to our TDJS Mobile Studio to full HD streaming and HD audio to make the quality of the shows even better than before. Along with that, we have launched a new website in June of 2019 that now features our current live streams and past episodes in a much more user-friendly social environment.   About "The DJ Sessions" Distribution -   "The DJ Sessions” is a Featured Partner on Twitch, their only regularly scheduled featured live streaming DJ show. The series has also been recognized by Apple twice as a "New and Noteworthy” podcast and has been featured three times in the iTunes store video podcast section. UStream and Livestream have also listed the series as a "Featured" stream their platforms since its inception.   The DJ Sessions is also streamed live to multiple other platforms and hosted on several podcast sites. The series has a combined live streaming/podcast audience is over 90,000 viewers per week.   For all press inquiries regarding “The DJ Sessions”, or to schedule an interview with Darran Bruce, please contact us at info@thedjsessions.com  

Summer Evans talks with Caitlin Hargraves and Erika Miranda of SheATL, a summer theater festival that produces work by female-identifying playwrights as well as playwright Jocelyn Rick; Lois Reitzes interviews playwright Pearl Cleage, as well as Chris Moses and Dan Reardon of the Alliance Theatre about their upcoming family series season; and playwright Will Power about his reinterpretation of Shakespeare's Richard III.

Make sure you're sipping on the FINEST sherry as you join us to discuss "The Nacirema Society Requests The Honor of Your Presence At A Celebration of Their First One Hundred Years" by Pearl Cleage!! Remember: There are 107 HBCUs...pick one.

Lois Reitzes talks with playwright Pearl Cleage about the Palefsky Collision Project, which teaches teenagers how to write plays; singer/songwriter Rhonda Ross Kendrick about discovering her own voice; andauthor Leesa Cross-Smith about her book "Whiskey and Ribbons." Summer Evans interviews Tiffany Parks about her documentary "The Jazz Age: An African American Perspective";

Two-time Emmy-nominated actress and screenwriter Kelsey Scott began her career in the theatre scene of her hometown of Atlanta. Best known for her role as Anne Northup in the Oscar-winning 12 Years A Slave and her two-season arc as Wes Gibbins' mother, Rose, on How to Get Away With Murder, her credits also include: Insecure, NCIS, Grey's Anatomy, True Detective, and Army Wives. She is a 2019 Daytime Emmy nominee for her Guest Star role on Giants. And in 2017, she received a Primetime Emmy Nomination for her leading role on Fear the Walking Dead: Passage. On stage, Kelsey originated the role of Ann Madison in Pearl Cleage's political romance, "What I Learned in Paris". Additional stage credits showcase her work as a vocalist - with productions like "Once On This Island", "Little Shop of Horrors", "The Wiz" and a touring company of "Dreamgirls". Kelsey penned the Sony Pictures thrillers Motives and Motives 2: Retribution. She consults for studio and private clients, and continues to write commissioned scripts - in addition to shepherding her slate of original projects. Her popular screenwriting seminars are offered to the public and to educational communities. And she sits on the Dean's Alumni Council of the Florida State U. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/theactorslounge/support

Lois Reitzes talks with contributor Scott Stewart about soothing music to listen to during the pandemic; and playwright Pearl Cleage about the essential role of a theater audience.

Lois Reitzes interviews BIlly Bragg about his career, Dantes Rameau, founder & chief executive officer of the Atlanta Music Project about their virtual offerings as well as Alliance Theatre playwright in residence Pearl Cleage and director/actor Tinashe Kajese-Bolden about the Alliance Theatre Virtual Play Club.

This Creativity Conversation podcast audio is pulled and edited down from the live 2011 Rosemary Magee Creativity Conversation ("Notes on History, Music and Literature") features poet, novelist and playwright Pearl Cleage and Vice President and Secretary of the University Rosemary Magee '82PhD. As in the other Creativity Conversations held over the last four years with influential thinkers, the talk ranges widely across poetry, fiction, music and history, including insights on the creative process and the power of the imagination. This conversation was held as part of the Atlanta Music Festival (Sept. 21-24) and took place on Sept. 22nd in the Jones Room of Emory's Woodruff Library. Sponsored by Creativity: Art and Innovation, and Emory College's Center for Creativity & Arts. Watch the original recording: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=exh1Q8IMVI8 Follow us! Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/artsatemory) Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/emoryarts/)

1. Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie 2. What looks like crazy on an ordinary day by Pearl Cleage 3. Things fall apart by China Achebe

Fifty Famous Stories Retold by James Baldwin What Looks Like Crazy on an ordinary day by Pearl Cleage

The 2nd Annual Detroit Heritage Theatre Festival-2019 Friday May 17-Sunday May 19 ... "It's ALL About Detroit" Founded by Karen Chappelle who grew up in Detroit and after years away from Detroit and a career in Law has come back to her roots in Detroit and her love of the Arts since she was a young girl because of the plays she got to be involved in with the Detroit Parks and Rec. Here is an overview.... Detroit Heritage Theatre Festival-2019 "It's ALL About Detroit" 1 Welcome to Detroit’s Newest Theatrical Event. This year the Detroit Heritage Theatre Festival (DHTF) continues its tradition celebrating Detroit’s rich heritage. The Opening Play takes us back to a more genteel period in our history; Nacirema- American spelled backwards. In this year of the woman, we share the work of playwright Pearl Cleage, who spent many years growing up here in Detroit. A Celebration of Art for Detroit, by Detroit. The Detroit Heritage Theatre Festival proudly invites playwrights of all ages to showcase their talents during an amazing and immersive new festival! An experience like none other, participants are invited to present work that inspires and innovates; intentionally subverting the traditional narratives about Detroit. The festival is designed to utilize as many of the spaces in the cultural corridor as possible, in addition to reaching out and including the oldest, newest, professional, amateur and student artists. The festival will take place over three days. Day one: May 17, The festival opening and reception takes place at The Players Club, 3321 East Jefferson Avenue Detroit, MI. The Players Club was designated as a Michigan Heritage site in 1975, built in 1925. With a four story high stage and auditorium accommodating 200, a kitchen, dressing rooms, basement storage, prop rooms and a formal meeting room on upper floor. This is a private club and not traditionally open to the public. The commonality of mission, using art to educate and engage the community has formed a wonderful home for DHTF Opening Night festivities. The mission of the Detroit Heritage Theatre Festival coincided with the current mission of the Players club for community outreach. We will utilize the services of the Capuchin kitchen, whose services to the poor and under served in Detroit and help restore their lives is also consistent with the mission of the transformative nature of art. Day Two: May 18, 2019 our venue is the Historic and beautiful Detroit Main Public Library located at 5201 Woodward Ave. Detroit Michigan. The Detroit Public Library enlightens and empowers people and artists by providing diverse and dynamic pathways to literacy and learning. This year we will launch the very first Dominique Morisseau monologue competition. This is more than a competition. It’s a workshop with teaching and professional artists, and an introduction to one of the gifted playwrights of our generation. . .from OUR hometown! High School students in grades 9-12 from across the city will gather at the HYPE Teen Center in the Detroit Main Public Library to broadcast live on 791.4 HYPE radio. The three round progressive competition will award a cash prize to the top 3 students. It will be held in the friends auditorium May 18, 2019 from 9 am to 4 pm. Also, Day 2, right down the hall, in the Explorer Room, we look forward to performances from students at Mosaic Youth Theatre of Detroit. Mosaic, with a mission of empowering young people through professional performing arts training is, will perform their signature piece and excerpt from their current production: Detroit to Dakar, the powerful true story of a group of Detroit teenagers who traveled to sing in Dakar, Senegal in 2003. This performance opens the Ten Minute Festival of Plays About Detroit. This is a showcase of performances by students and professional artists in Detroit. We will again offer coffee and pastries compliments of Avalon Bakery- Midtown Detroit. There will be follow up workshops offered with “ How To” tips on writing 10 minute play. This will continue to connect and promote great theatre community engagement. Day 3: Closing day of the festival takes place a the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History located 315 E. Warren Ave, Detroit, Michigan 48201, now the second largest permanent collection on African-American culture. The museum now hosting an exhibit which pays tribute to the intellect, heroism and brotherhood of the World War II heroes. Detroit boasts of several original Tuskegee airmen ages 93 to 103! The event begins with a reception. The tribute will be followed by a production of the Off- Broadway Sensation: Black Angels Over Tuskegee, by Layon Gray in the beautiful General Motors Theatre. There will also be an awards program which acknowledges the outstanding work of selected artists: Renee Elyse Goldsberry, Pearl Cleage, and Jeff Daniels. Awards will be given to festival participants and honorees, and certificates awarded from the mayors office. . . . Because It's All About Detroit!! Selected playwrights will be provided with all the necessary resources, and watch as their pieces are produced featuring professional artist. Once selected, playwrights will be assigned dedicated industry professionals as mentors. Join us as we use theatre to build our community. www.detroitheritagetheatrefestival.org

On this edition of Political Rewind, we talk with two women who write about issues of race, gender and social inequity.

Midday theater critic J. Wynn Rousuck joins Tom for her weekly review of a regional theater production. Today, she spotlight the new production of Flyin' West now running at Arena Players in Baltimore, the oldest continuously operating African-American community theater in the United States.Flyin’ West is a historical drama by playwright Pearl Cleage that premiered in Atlanta in 1992 and has been widely produced ever since. It's set in Nicodemus, Kansas in 1898, and tells a story from a little-known chapter in African American history. In the decades following the Civil War, many former slaves and their descendants took advantage of the federal Homestead Act, which opened up vast tracts of Western lands for people willing to settle in undeveloped and often difficult regions of the country. In the play, we meet a small group of African-American women who show great strength as they confront their harsh new environment, threats of domestic violence, and the enduring challenge of racism. Directed at Arena players by Rosiland Cauthen, Flyin' West features performances by Isaiah Evans, Keyonna LeShawn Hill, Yakima Rich, Paul Jon West, Lisa Wooten and Rosey Young.Flyin' West continues at Arena Players through Sunday, March 24. Ticket info here.

This week, we sit down with photographer and archivist Sierra King. She is the Digital Strategist and Community Manager at TILA Studios. We talk about the importance of community, activism through photography, and archiving with Kathleen Cleaver.Send creative questions to studionoizepodcast@gmail.comFollow Jasmine @Negress.SupremeFollow Jamaal @JBarberStudioFollow Sierra: @TheThirtySixthFrameJasmine inspiration: Pearl Cleage’s “Things I Should Have Told My Daughter”Jamaal inspiration: Wonderroot’s Off The Wall

Today's books are: Anne of Avonlea by L.M. Montgomery. L.C. Page & Company, 1909. What Looks Like Crazy on an Ordinary Day by Pearl Cleage. Avon Books, Inc., 1997. Other things discussed today: #12daysofannestagram The history of Oprah's book club. Camp Nanowrimo

This episode is sponsored by IA Path - Unlocking Your Adjusting Superpowers. Go to https://iapath.com If in any moment of crisis you need to call Olivia Pope, you are not practicing risk management but crisis management. In this episode of Profiles in Risk, I speak with Lawanda Hall, a Risk Manager for a global automobile firm. We discussed how her passion for math and numbers lead her to a degree in risk management and how she went on to become a corporate risk manager. She discusses what it takes to become a risk manager, including how to sharpen your communication skills, which is a big part of properly communicating risk and risk prevention/mitigation throughout an organization. CONNECT WITH LAWANDA HALL:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawandamichell/ MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:CPCU designationAIC DesignationARM DesignationIntelligent IntentionsBOOKS RECOMMENDED BY LAWANDA:The One Thing by Gary Keller & Jay Papasan: https://amzn.to/2sDhU0uInfluencer by Kerry Patterson & Joseph Grenny: https://amzn.to/2sQblXMFictional Book by Nicholas Sparks: https://amzn.to/2xPU475Mystery Books by Harlan Coben: https://amzn.to/2kXkNoVBooks by Pearl Cleage: https://amzn.to/2kXlEWFBooks by E. Lynn Harris: https://amzn.to/2LzurcL SUBSCRIBE AT:Buzzsprout RSS: https://goo.gl/5K4X3QGoogle Play: https://goo.gl/WMAvW4iTunes: https://goo.gl/7SqwvP Overcast: https://goo.gl/8b4cbDStitcher: https://goo.gl/DmE7MiYouTube: https://goo.gl/1Turar

07: Trump’s Lies and Dominique Morisseau’s Truths about Race and Class ***Please subscribe to us on iTunes (bit.ly/BetterOffRediTunes) and leave us a rating and review. It helps us reach a wider audience with these ideas. Also, we have just launched a Patreon account. Please check it out and consider making a small financial contribution. Thank you.*** In this week’s episode, we talk to award-winning playwright Dominique Morisseau. She is the author of a three-play cycle about Detroit. One of those plays, Paradise Blue, opens at the Signature Theater this week. In this wide-ranging conversation, we talk about violence against women, Black feminism, the destruction of the Black Power movement, the importance of earned rage, the power of that rage when directed outwards, and the pain when it gets twisted and directed against those closest to us. Dominique shares her influences with us, from Pearl Cleage to Tupac to her revolutionary family—and more. Music is an important source of inspiration for her, and we’ve included some of the music that appears in her plays. We also discuss her work as a social justice activist and her fight to expand both representation in and access to the theater. In the opener, Jen, Danny and Eric discuss Trump’s “welfare reform 2.0” plan and what it tells us about how race, poverty and class are talked about in this country. There’s so much we got into in this episode. If you want to follow any of the threads further, check out our Patreon page (Patreon.com/BetterOffRedPod) with links to articles and music (access is free to all regardless of whether you are a patron).

Our guest in the Booth this week is the multi-talented Robert Cornelius. Singer, Actor, Songwriter, Band Leader, Educator, Activist, and Writer - he excels at them all! And...we learn that he can design and construct costumes as well. A long-time friend of the show, we were finally able to work it out with his busy schedule to have him on. Robert grew up on the South Side and studied theatre and psychology at Western Illinois University. When he came back to Chicago, he got cast in Rosencrantz & Gildernstern Are Dead at Stage Left. He quickly became a company member. Other highlights of his career include acting and designing costumes for A Member of the Wedding (also at Stage Left), and playing the lead in Blues for an Alabama Sky by Pearl Cleage at Madison Rep. Robert tells us about recent favorite acting projects, including appearing in a new play called Lottery Day by Ike Holter for the Goodman Theatre's New Stages project. Robert is also a successful musician, whose "unattainable goal" when he was young was to become a backup singer. When Poi Dog Pondering's band leader Frank Orall met Robert when both were performing in Brigid Murphy's Milly's Orchid Show, Frank asked him to come sing a couple of lines for a Poi Dog recording. Soon after, he was asked to join the group for a show outside of the Field Museum in Chicago. There were 10,000 people in attendance! Later he went on tour with the band for several years. Robert is still a proud member of the Poi Dog Pondering collective. They'll be performing five shows this December at City Winery in Chicago. Their live shows are joyous and not to be missed! On this episode, you'll hear a couple of short clips from one of Poi Dog Pondering's great albums, Pomegranate. Robert is the founder and leader of the musical group RC7, which started as a Soul and R & B cover band. Later, Robert started writing songs and they've produced a CD called To Your Soul. Both Poi Dog Pondering and RC7 have performed marvelous outdoor free shows at Petrillo Music Shell and at the Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park, one with the Grant Park Music Festival's sublime orchestra. The great Don Cornelius, creator of Soul Train, was Robert's uncle. Robert and a friend won one of the weekly dance contests with a cash prize, but he had to give it back because it was his uncle's show. Still he earned a place as a regular (unpaid) dancer for 2 1/2 years. The legend King of Soul Sam Cooke was married to Robert's dad's step sister. So being around huge talent and fame was par for the course when he was growing up. Director of Arts Education for Victory Gardens Theater, Robert and his staff go into the Chicago Public Schools to bring theatre training and fun to 600 kids a year! Gary and Robert talk about Victory Garden's magnificent production of Tony Award winning musical, Fun Home, running through November 19. Watch a great short video that introduces you to some of the staff and advisors to VG here. Kiss Of Death: Roy Dotrice, who started acting when he was a POW in World War II, has an amazing story. After the war, he performed in hundreds of productions. He did audio book narration and was perhaps best known for his one-man shows, holding the Guinness Record for most non-consecutive performances (1,782) for Brief Lives, about John Aubrey until Hal Holbrook eventually beat that number with his portrayal of Mark Twain. Dotrice became part of the precursor to the Royal Shakespeare Company, and introduced baseball to his fellow actors. You won't BELIEVE the team he fielded. Mr. Dotrice was 94.        

This week we began with discussing the survey results (thank you again for your participation!) and have our first interview in the to be named "non-readers" interview series. We spend the great majority of the show fangirling over one of our literary giants, Pearl Cleage. Books discussed in the episode have been added to the Bookshelf page.

Pearl Cleage is an Atlanta based writer, currently Mellon Playwright in Residence at The Alliance Theatre in Atlanta where her play, “What I Learned in Paris,” opened the 2012-2013 Season. Her works include award winning plays, bestselling novels and numerous columns, articles and essays for a wide variety of publications including Essence, Ebony, Rap Pages, Vibe, The Atlanta Tribune, and The Atlanta Journal Constitution. Her first novel, What Looks Like Crazy On An Ordinary Day, was an Oprah Book Club pick and spent nine weeks on the New York Times bestseller list. She is the author of thirteen plays, including Flyin’ West, the most produced new American play in the country in 1994. Her Blues for An Alabama Sky was included in Her the 1996 Olympic Arts Festival in Atlanta and will receive a 20th anniversary revival at the Alliance in 2015. other plays include Chain; Late Bus to Mecca; Bourbon at the Border; A Song for Coretta and The Nacirema Society Requests the Honor of Your Presence at a Celebration of Their First One Hundred Year. She is the author of eight novels, including Baby Brother’s Blues, which received an NAACP Image Award for Literature. She is also the co-author with her husband, writer Zaron W. Burnett, Jr., of We Speak Your Names, a praise poem commissioned by Oprah Winfrey for her 2005 Legends Weekend. Cleage and Burnett are frequent collaborators, including their award winning ten year performance series, “Live at Club Zebra!” featuring their work as writers and performance artists. Her new book of non-fiction entitled Things I Should Have Told My Daughter: Lies, Lessons and Love Affairs, was published by Simon and Schuster/ATRIA Books in April, 2014. 

[Fiction, Contemporary Women, Romance] LaToya is the author of SBF Seeking… and K-RHO: The Sweet Taste of Sisterhood. She has been featured in the Ladies of Literature at the 2014 Atlanta Black Pride and The Ask Rayceen Show. She’s an active supporter of LGBTQ issues and health disparities that affect her community. Her literary influences include Zora Neale Hurston, Walter Mosley, Anne Rice, and Pearl Cleage. Her motto, borrowed from Hurston, is: “I do not weep at the world, I am too busy sharpening my oyster knife.”

Bestselling novelist, award-winning playwright and Oprah Book Club pick’s inspiring memoir of juggling marriage, motherhood and politics as Pearl Cleage worked to become a successful writer and self-fulfilled woman. In this revelatory and deeply personal memoir, Cleage takes readers back to the 1970’s and 1980’s, retracing her struggles to hone her craft amidst personal and professional tumult. Pearl Cleage is an Atlanta-based writer and author of eight novels, including What Looks Like Crazy On An Ordinary Day, which was an Oprah's Book Club pick and spent nine weeks on the New York Times bestseller list. Her novel Baby Brother's Blues, was awarded an NAACP Image Award for Literature. She is also a widely produced playwright. Deborah Santana is an author, philanthropist, activist for peace and social justice, and founder of Do A Little, a non-profit that serves women and girls in the areas of health, education and happiness. Her memoir, Space Between the Stars: My Journey to an Open Heart was published in 2005. She is a member of the Board of Directors at MoAD.

Memorials are here to remind us, to motivate us, to inspire us. This month we explore and remember the leadership, courage and creativity that molded art, music, and educational arenas in Atlanta, and places far beyond. What we find is that memorials are community building, not necessarily isolated to one static place. Today we will tell two stories that have shaped the physical and cultural contours of Atlanta -- the Orly plane crash of 1962 alongside the musical life and premature death of Blind Willie McTell. Our guests are (1) JOE BANKOFF - President and CEO of the Woodruff Arts Center (2) PEARL CLEAGE - a poet and playwright as well artist in residence at the Alliance Theatre (3) and DAVID FULMER - an author and musical historian.

Today we speak to Ethel Long Scott, Executive Director of WEAP and Tamara Perine, Shop Stewart at UFCW about the four day public hearing, the first ever World Courts of Women on Poverty in the US, May 10-13, 2012 at Laney College in Oakland, CA. Visit www.weap.org We then speak to cast in the Lorraine Hansberry Theatre's season's production of Pearl Cleage's Blues for an Alabama Sky, directed by Michele Shay. It is at LHT through Saturday, May 12. We'll speak to actors Tobie Windham, Leilani Drakeford and Joshua L. Green. Visit www.lhtsf.org  Music: Somi's "When the Rains Come"; Liz Wright selection from Salt.

Pearl Cleage is an Atlanta based writer whose work has won commercial acceptance and critical praise in several genres. An award winning playwright whose Flyin' West was the most produced new play in the country in 1994, Pearl is also a best selling author whose first novel, What Looks Like Crazy On An Ordinary Day, was an Oprah Book Club pick and spent nine weeks on the New York Times bestseller list. Her subsequent novels have been consistant best sellers and perennial book club favorites. I Wish I Had A Red Dress, her second novel, won multiple book club awards in 2001. Some Things I Never Thought I'd Do, was a "Good Morning America!" book club pick in 2003, and Babylon Sisters made the ESSENCE Magazine best seller list in 2005. Her most recent novel, Baby Brother's Blues, was the first pick of the new ESSENCE Book Club and an NAACP Image Award winner for fiction in 2007. In the March 2007 issue of ESSENCE, Pearl had two books on the best seller list, Baby Brother's Blues and We Speak Your Names, a poetic celebration commissioned by Oprah Winfrey and co-authored with her husband, writer Zaron W. Burnett, Jr. The poem was also an NAACP Image Award nominee in 2007. Pearl was a popular columnist with The Atlanta Tribune for ten years and has contributed as a free lance writer to ESSENCE, Ms., Rap Pages, VIBE and Ebony. Her recent play, A Song for Coretta, played to sold out audiences during its Atlanta premiere in February of 2007 and will be produced at Atlanta's Seven Stages Theatre in February of 2008 in preparation for a national tour. Website: http://www.pearlcleage.net

Happy Birthday Bob Marley! A Belated Happy Birthday Langston Hughes. Happy Birthday also to my brother Fred Batin and friends: Portia Anderson, Raymond Nat Turner, Jamal Ali and all other Aquarians. 8-8:30 AM: Laura Elaine Ellis and Kendra Kimbrough: Black Choreographers Here and Now, opening tonight at Laney College in Oakland and continuing in San Francisco at Dance Mission next weekend. 8:30-9 AM: Ayodele Nzinga and Geoffrey Grier re: The Tenderloin Theatre's Night at the Black Hawk: 2/5-7 & 2/12-14, at the NMTL/CBD Community Center, 134 Golden Gate St., in SF. They are joined by the cast of Ellis Berry's Production of “MOSES,” a dramatic, inspiring and powerful stage play about the life of Harriet Tubman. Starring Yehmanja Houff as Moses, opening at the Malonga Casquelourd Theater 1428 Alice Street in Oakland, Friday, February 13 @ 8:00 p.m., continuing through the weekend, two 8 p.m. performances and a Sunday matinee. Tickets are $20.00 for age 18 and above and$10.00 for youths 17 and below. All youth tickets are sold at the door the night of the performances only. For further information please call Herma Jean Gardere at 510-904-8520. 9:00 AM: A Song for Coretta by Pearl Cleage, directed by Victoria Erville, at Brava for Women in the Arts!, 2789 24th Street, SF, through tomorrow, Feb. 7. Visit www.brava.org 9:30 AM Nefasha Ayer “The World that Travels”: with guests: vocalist, songwriter Meklit Hadero and her cousin, MC, Gabriel Teodros. The ensemble hits tonight, 2/6 and tomorrow, 2/7, 8 p.m. at Brava on the main stage.