Podcasts about quarantine series

What you'll learn in this episode: How synesthesia—the ability to hear colors and see music—has impacted William's work Inside William's creative process, and why he never uses sketches or finishes a piece in one sitting Why jewelry artists should never scrap a piece, even if they don't like it in the moment The benefits of being a self-taught artist, and why art teachers should never aim to impart their style onto their students How a wearer's body becomes like a gallery wall for jewelry About William Harper Born in Ohio and currently working in New York City, William Harper is considered one of the most significant jewelers of the 20th century. After studying advanced enameling techniques at the Cleveland Institute of Art, Harper began his career as an abstract painter but transitioned to enameling and studio craft jewelry in the 1960s. He is known for creating esoteric works rooted in mythology and art history, often using unexpected objects such as bone, nails, and plastic beads in addition to traditional enamel, pearls, and precious metals and stones. His work is in the collections of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the American Museum of Crafts, the Cleveland Museum of Art, and the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. A retrospective of his work, William Harper: The Beautiful & the Grotesque, was exhibited at the Cleveland Institute of Art in 2019. Additional Resources: William's Instagram Photos available on TheJewelryJourney.com Transcript: Rather than stifle his creativity, the constraints of quarantine lockdown and physical health issues helped artist-jeweler William Harper create a series of intricate jewels and paintings imbued with meaning. After 50+ years as an enamellist, educator and artist in a variety of media, he continues to find new ways to capture and share his ideas. He joined the Jewelry Journey Podcast to talk about his creative process; why he didn't want his art students to copy his style; and why he never throws a piece in progress away, even if he doesn't like it. Read the episode transcript here. Sharon: Hello, everyone. Welcome to the Jewelry Journey Podcast. This is the second part of a two-part episode. If you haven't heard part one, please head to TheJewelryJourney.com. I'd like to welcome back one of today's foremost jewelers, William Harper. To say he is a jeweler leaves out many parts of him. He's a sculptor, an educator, an artist, an enamellist, and I'm sure I'm leaving out a lot more. Welcome back.    Yes. Is that how you got to the collection you did during lockdown quarantine?   William: Yes. I live in New York, and New York had almost a complete shutdown. My husband and I were afraid we were going to come down with a disease if we intermingled with too many people. We essentially were in lockdown or quarantine for several months. In that period, I decided I wanted to do something absolutely different from anything I had done before, and I wanted it to be politically motivated. So, just as Goya or Manet or Picasso did important paintings based on criticizing a political body—in Guernica, for instance, Picasso was painting the disruption of the small town of Guernica in Spain. Very powerful. I wanted to see if I could do that in jewelry, which was really strange, I have to say.    I had been playing for at least a year with the idea of trying to do a piece inspired by the expression “the tainted fruit of the poisoned tree.” That's an obtuse way of approaching a piece of jewelry, but I thought of it in terms of the bottom of the tree, the poisoned tree, was our ex-president. At the top, there were elements that represented his monstrous children. You see my politics right there. It's a beautiful piece. If you know the substance behind it, it will mean more to you, but you don't have to. I wanted each piece to be beautiful. Now, my idea of beauty can be unlike a lot of people's, but I think an artist has to know his guidelines for what he wants to be beautiful. There's nothing wrong with the term “ugly” if it has an aesthetic purpose. I did this entire series on that idea.   Sharon: Does quarantine mean something besides—   William: No.   Sharon: Do people ever choose your pieces because of the political message?   William: In this last group, the Quarantine Pieces, there were 10. The first two I sold were to a collector who appreciated very much the political leanings behind it. You don't have to know. If I had someone come in that I knew was a staunch Republican, I wouldn't tell them what the motivation was. Well, maybe I would, and then I'd tell them they weren't special enough to own one of my pieces.   Sharon: I was asking about quarantine, and you said you didn't mean more. Let me ask you this. You taught for more than 20 or 25 years at Florida, right?   William: I taught for 21 years at Florida. Before that, I taught for three years at Kent State. Before that, I taught for three years in a Cleveland high school.    Sharon: So, it's 30.   William: Yes. I came to the conclusion not too long after I started teaching in college that a lot of people were there and didn't really know what they were doing. They were able to get tenure simply by hanging on long enough. But in teaching at a high school, it forced me to be very exact about what I wanted them to do, and yet allow them to have a lot of leeway to do anything original and outside the box. I consider those three years in high school to have been very important to me as a college instructor. I guess it worked, because at the end of my 21 years at Florida State, I was named a distinguished professor. So, I guess my teaching methods paid off.   Sharon: Do you think you can impart your ideas? It sounds like you imparted them to high school students, but can you teach your ideas?   William: No, I don't want to teach my ideas. I want to teach a subject matter or a format in terms of a specific media. Maybe it's a drawing problem. I remember early on in my first year of teaching, I came across a group of toadstools in the yard that were starting to shrivel. I picked up enough to give each table triple toadstools. I simply put them on a piece of white paper on the table, and I said, “This is your inspiration. Now, what do you do with it? And it has to be in pencil.” That was how I handled that situation. If a student's work starts to look like mine, they were not a successful student and I was not a successful instructor.    I have always urged students to find their own voice. A lot of people can't do that. They have mastered a technique, but if the technique leaves you cold when it's finished, then it's not very successful. I want some kind of emotional connection with whatever they feel when they're creating or painting or making a piece of jewelry. I want to see that they have made a connection to what they are deep, deep down and have it come out in their work.    When I taught at Florida State, I was a very popular teacher. Students who were in engineering or communications or theatre would take my course and then decide they wanted it to be their major. I would tell them their father was paying far too much money for them to go to college to major in something that was going to be totally useless to them when they were out of college. I considered that a very important part of my teaching, because I didn't want people getting bogged down. I didn't need high numbers of students. As long as I knew they were taking it as an elective, I was fine with it. If said they wanted to major in it, I had to make sure I foresaw that they would have it in them to do well.   Sharon: When did you decide you could part ways and make a living from this?   William: That was a rather difficult thing to determine. It was a goal, but I didn't know if I would ever get to it. In 1995, I had been represented for a few years by an outstanding New York gallery, Peter Joseph Gallery. He handled high-end, handmade furniture. It wasn't anything you would find in a furniture store; it was artist furniture, and he decided he wanted to add me to his group. I was the lone jeweler within the group of artists in his gallery, and it was a gallery that only represented a small number of people. I think when I was in it, there were only 11 or 12 artists he represented. He was able to sell my work very well.    I always wanted to be able to just throw in the towel and see if I could do it on my own. In the spring of 1995, when I found out I was being named distinguished research professor, there were two other gentlemen in meteorology who were also named. I was always upset at how low my salary was in comparison to a lot of other people. In Florida, every library had to have a book of what every professor made and what they taught in terms of their load. The gentlemen in meteorology were making three times what I was making.    I spoke with my then-wife and said, “It's time to take a chance and see if I could do it by myself.” I prepared myself the next day with a folder that had a resignation letter in it. I went to the vice president who was in charge of everything and said, “There's a disparity of treatment with the three of us.” They were all making three times as much money as I was, and I at least wanted to be brought up closer to what I should have been paid considering what my title suggested. When I told the vice president that, he said, “Bill, you know you have the weakest team in the college. I can't depend on your department to bring any enhancement of reputation,” and I said, “Well, in that case, I resign.” He looked at me quizzically, and I pulled out my letter and said, “Here it is,” and I signed it and gave it to him.    It was the only way I could do it. Then I was forced to go home and get a studio and do things I knew could sell enough to keep us at the same level we had been at when I had a university job. I should say the one cog in the wheel I was able to overcome—and people don't necessarily know this about me, but in 1990, both of my retinas detached. I had to have emergency surgery. After several surgeries, my right eye was fairly stabilized. I don't have much peripheral vision, but it was stabilized. My left eye, I'm totally blind. I'm halfway towards Beethoven, who wrote his last symphony without being able to hear the music. My one eye serves me well enough, obviously, to continue making rather intricate work.   Sharon: How come your jewelry is so different? It's certainly not mainstream. It's gorgeous, but it's not mainstream. What would you say makes it so different?   William: I'm just special. It's the format I've already described. I don't want to make jewelry that's like anybody else's. I definitely don't want to fall into categorization.   Sharon: Have you thought about doing production, more than one?   William: I tried it once and it was a total failure. My daughter had a boyfriend who knew someone who was the vice president of one of those TV networks where you could call and buy things. Carl said, “Bill, come up with a group of pieces, and I'll see that so-and-so is able to see them so you can become part of the team.” I worked and worked and worked, and they weren't me, and I didn't think they were vanilla enough for the home shopping network to carry. So, that was the end of that. I knew it wasn't within my set of talents to do that. You asked how it is—   Sharon: I can't remember what I asked. Do you see people on the street, let's say two women, or a man and a woman who wears a brooch and says, “Oh, that's a William Harper. You must know him,” or “I know who that is”?   William: My funniest story about that is when my ex-wife and I were in Venice. It was a foggy morning, and we sat down in a café to have some cappuccino or hot chocolate or something like that. I had to turn my head because I don't have any sight in the left eye, but from my left I saw a couple coming. They were chattering away, and then I could tell the gentleman was trying to describe to the woman the piece of very large, spectacular jewelry my wife was wearing. They passed close enough so I would hear it. They thought they were insulting me. The gentleman said, “You see that piece of jewelry? There's a man in the United States named William Harper, much, much better than that.” I didn't correct him. I thought it was a story I could hold onto the rest of my life. Actually, it was a compliment.    Sharon: It is. Why do you say your work is fearless? I would say it is fearless, but why would you say that?   William: The word I was trying to think of before was branding. I'm not a brand.   Sharon: Right, you're not a brand.    William: But anyone who sees one of my works, if they're remotely familiar with the field, they will know it's mine. Many ladies tell me that they were wearing a piece of my jewelry and a stranger would come up to them and say, “Excuse me. That's a beautiful piece of jewelry. Is it a William Harper?” Or maybe they didn't even know who it was, and the wearer would say, “Yes, it's Harper. Isn't it beautiful?” That's happened a number of times. I love when a lady reports that back to me.    Sharon: Is it fearless?   William: It's not your everyday piece of jewelry that a lady's going to wear. It is more potent than that. I also hope—although I can't force it, obviously—when someone owns a piece of mine that they dress accordingly, where the outfit they have is secondary to the piece of jewelry. I have seen my jewelry on the lapels of a Chanel jacket, and that combination doesn't help either one of us.   Sharon: I can see why that doesn't work. When you're deciding how to do something, are you thinking about how you can be different or fearless, or how the piece can be different?    William: I don't worry about that. I have enough confidence in my creative ability to know that it will come out strange enough. Even within the art jewelry movement, my work is fairly in the category of not being a decorative pin, let's say, that has no life to it, that's put on somebody's sweater. That kind of work becomes an adornment to the costume the lady is wearing. I want my work, as I said, to be strong enough that the lady is going to have to sublimate what she would like to wear and get clothes that are very plain.    For instance, the red blouse you have on would be a perfect foil for one of my pieces in navy blue or black. In a way, she is becoming like the wall that holds a beautiful painting. It's the same way. Her body is the presentational element for my piece of jewelry to really perform.   Sharon: What have you been doing in terms of your jewelry since the restrictions lifted?   William: When I finished the tenth piece in the Quarantine Series, which was March 22, 2020, I had worked until 2:00 in the morning. I was very happy with what I had done. I had just finished the piece absolutely and I went to bed. The next morning, I woke and could not move anything in my body. I thought I had had a stroke, but after several days in the hospital, I was diagnosed with a very rare affliction. It's an auto-immune disease called Guillain-Barre syndrome It's not fatal, but it's a menace because you lose almost everything, like walking. I couldn't sign my own name, for instance. I had to go through a long process of physical therapy. I'm 95% functional, but I don't feel that I'm ready to take a chance with a torch or deal with anything where I could hurt myself or, god forbid, burn down the apartment. The entire building would shake.    So, I tried to keep away from that, but in the process, I knew I had to do something. My husband and some close friends said, “Bill, you love to paint. You love to draw. You love collages.” So, I have spent the time since then doing very intricate collage drawings that became very, very colorful. They're all 24x30, I believe, and they're really very beautiful. About a month ago, I was giving a lecture at Yale, and when I showed these slides and drawing collages to the head of the department, he said, “I can see they're absolutely you. They look just like something you would have done without looking like your jewelry.” That was the highest compliment he could give me. I really have enjoyed doing it. I think making those saved my mental health because I've had something to do.    It's still hard for me to go to a museum because I can't stand long enough to walk around, and I refuse to go in a wheelchair. I don't want to do that. So, I've been restricted to what I can do in terms of being ambulatory. For instance, it was just this week that I finally, with the aid of my husband—who's also a Bill, incidentally—to start using public transportation. Until then I had used car services, which over a month's time, when you can't do anything else and you have to go to doctors and physical therapy and stuff like that, becomes disgustingly expensive. I knew I didn't want to keep doing that. It was eating into my savings. So, I thought, “O.K., Bill, it's time to start using public transportation.” I've used it three times without any problem, but my husband is with me. I have trouble going up and down steps sometimes, so he wants to make sure I don't trip and fall and get mangled by all the other troops coming out of the train that just want to get wherever they're going to.    Sharon: But you give lectures still?   William: Oh, yeah, for a long time. Colleges, art schools, universities with art departments. We're not really in session, so there wasn't any lecture to give—   Sharon: I keep forgetting, yes.   William: —when all those things are shut down. The lecture at Yale—and that's a pretty good place to start—was the first time I had done that for years.   Sharon: Wow! I want to say thank you very much because I learned a lot about you today.   William: Thank you, Sharon. It's been lovely to be here with you.   Sharon: We will have photos posted on the website. Please head to TheJewelryJourney.com to check them out.   Thank you again for listening. Please leave us a rating and review so we can help others start their own jewelry journey.

Today I speak with Gonzalo Bacigalupe about his project the Quarantine Series. Gonzalo Bacigalupe, EdD, MPH, is professor of Counseling Psychology at the University of Massachusetts Boston. He is principal investigator of the Mediated Technologies for DRD at the National Research Center for Integrated Disaster Risk Management (CIGIDEN), and adjunct professor at the Catholic University of Chile School of Engineering. His research with colleagues in Chile, Mexico, Portugal, Spain, Turkey, and the USA, focuses on the impact of emerging media adoption on families, the role of patient online communities, the use of emerging media to build community resilience for disaster risk reduction, and family health. Bacigalupe has published and presented on research addressing the role of emerging digital technologies and vulnerable populations including transnational families and couples, political and family violence, family health and disparities (celiac disease, chronic pain, and medication strategies and literacy), e-health, and social technologies. He is presently studying the role of digital volunteers and the use of drones to strengthen disaster risk reduction among vulnerable communities in Chile.

DJs are the most important part of music and we're always delighted when we get to talk to one who has done a lot for the culture. Since Charlie MaSheen's "Quarantine Series" talk with the legendary DJ Chubby Chub, we haven't had the chance to sit with a DJ but we got lucky enough to fit into the schedule of one of the most in demand names in our scene, DJ Papadon! If you listen to the radio, you might've heard his name on Boston's top Hip-Hop station on Friday nights. If you go to certain venues within Boston and surrounding areas, then you've heard Papadon controlling the vibes with the hottest new music. If you're a fan of MA's own BIA then you've definitely seen his name as her DJ at a show or one of their residencies. We've even been lucky enough and had the opportunity of having DJ Papadon spinning at our 1st official Rap Cypher at Le Trap Couture! Needless to say, Pap has gotten around in many circles when it comes to music and this might be one of our best interviews yet with one of Boston's biggest personalities! Join Charlie MaSheen, Shanelle Shanté, & KASH as they host DJ Papadon and talk about his career in rap, being BIA's tour DJ, Boston's music scene and SO MUCH MORE!!! CHECK OUT ALL OF OUR CONTENT: http://www.linktr.ee/CWTFBradio

As a songwriter,he has written many songs recorded by Caetano Veloso, Gal Costa, Gilberto Gil, Milton Nascimento, Marcos Valle, Carlinhos Brown,Maria Bethania,Vinicius Cantuaria, Nana Caymmi, Luiz Melodia, Daniela Mercury, Clara Moreno, Ney Matogrosso, Bossacucanova, Antonio Chainho, Ana Carolina, Samantha James, among others. Celso has fourteen critically acclaimed solo albums: "Minha cara"( 1986 ), "O som do sim" ( 1993 ),"Sorte" ( 1994), "Paradiso" ( 1997 ) and "Juventude/Slow motion Bossa Nova" (which has 3 times Latin Grammy nomination in 2002), "Natural"( 2002 - released by Ziriguiboom / Crammed discs ) , "Rive Gauche Rio", ( 2005 - Nominated by The Sunday Times as one of the best 10 albuns of the year ), "Polaroides" ( 2006 ) ,"Feriado" ( 2007 ) , "Celso Fonseca Ao Vivo", ( 2008 - Live CD and DVD with special guests as Gilberto Gil and Ana Carolina), "Pagina Central" ,with Marcos Valle ( 2009 - Original songs written with Brazilian songwriter/ legend Marcos Valle ), "Celso Fonseca ,voz e violao" , ( 2010 - CD and DVD with solo performance covers of classic Brazilian and International songs ), "No meu filme" ( 2011), and "Like Nice", ( 2015 ) (four times nominated for the Latin Grammy 2016 ). Celso Fonseca has been touring the world with his band, playing a lot of concerts in Europe, US and Japan. Also he was the second Brazilian artist to be on "Later with Jools" the acclaimed music show on BBC. In 2014 and 2016 he performed in Moscow together with Marcos Valle at Tchaikowsky Hall with the Moscow Philharmonia Orchestra, playing his originals and a couple of Brazilian classics. The artist has collaborated with some international artists like the Italian songwriter/legend, Toni Renis, with the Uruguayan Oscar winner, Jorge Drexler, the Italian singer Chiara Civello and the American singer/songwriter Samantha James. Celso has written recently a song for his new album "Turning Point" with Erika Ender, one of the songwriters from the mega worldwide hit: "Despacito".

Charles Wright had a desire to form a solid soul band that would take the drive of R&B and push it to the limits. With an amazing cast of musicians, Charles formed the Watts 103rd Street Rhythm Band, which recorded a string of hit songs including the classic “Express Yourself.” Charles took pride in writing the song and the classic bass riff, played by his longtime friend Melvin Dunlap. Over his long and incredible career, Charles covered early Doo Wop era all the way into the funk and soul sound of the 1970s. What has always remained with him is his passion for the music!

The entertainment pioneer and vocalist extraordinaire; MELBA MOORE joins us again for more positive vibrations. In this episode, Julie, Wendi and I surprise Melba with a special guest, the House/Dance Producer Terry Hunter. Terry is also one of the producers and songwriters for Melba's new smash, International single; "Just Doin' Me". Watch and fall in love with Queen Melba even more.

Happy New Year, folks. The year known as 2020 has been strangely long and it seems everyone has been challenged in one way or the other. So let's start 2021 on the front foot and talk about something uplifting... How about an Iowa guy working to climb the professional soccer ladder achieving some deserved success? Brandon Fricke, of Dallas Center-Grimes, has always been driven and put his focus on hard work and application over all else. After a successful youth career saw him have the opportunity to play in the U.S. Soccer Development Academy with Sporting Kansas City, he caught on at Butler University in Indianapolis where he truly established himself as a potential professional prospect. Injury setbacks with impeccably poor timing have sent Fricke on a bit of a globe-trotting adventure. After being drafted 83rd by the Colorado Rapids in 2015, he has featured as a commanding defender in Sweden, North Carolina, Michigan and now finally in South Carolina, all the while finding time to feature for his hometown team, the Des Moines Menace. Now, in his inaugural USL League One season he helped Greenville Triumph SC to the league championship, simultaneously earning plaudits in the league's best eleven and  top defender of 2020. We talk about his journey and all the good stuff in between, like playing left back!

We have a special holiday delivery today! We hop on the ol' Zoom to chat with Bill Koeppen, who currently coaches for Sporting Omaha in Nebraska, but we mostly have a broad discussion about Koeppen's life and of course, soccer. A self-described truth seeker, Cruyffian and music aficionado, Koeppen is the type of coach that can change your life. He's demanding, intense and principled and he strives to push his players to the next level. This has to do with his background first as a player at Davis & Elkins College in West Virginia, but probably more to do with his 25-plus years of coaching experience, including assistant coaching stints at Creighton University and Drake University, plus running both the men's and women's program for MacMurray College in Illinois. During his time in Iowa, he also coached for several local clubs including the West Des Moines Soccer Club, Iowa United, Vision Soccer Academy and the Des Moines Menace. In talking about his experiences, Koeppen is reflective and thoughtful - and naturally, a little controversial. 

Today we welcome Justin Vorster, aka boettie, to the studio to talk soccer. Vorster, the nomad, has lived all over the world and has experienced the game in an unique way - growing up and being introduced to the game in Malawi and then living and playing in South Africa (during and post-apartheid) throughout his 20s. Once his playing career came to a close due to injury, Vorster found his way stateside where he coached at various levels in youth programs, college and into the professional game, mostly within the state of Iowa. Justin holds his USSF 'A' License and currently coaches with the Vision Soccer Academy and FC United. He has previously been the Technical Director at Johnston-Urbandale Soccer Club and Assistant Technical Director at West Des Moines Soccer Club. Outside of the youth game, he has also served as an Assistant Coach at Drake University, Head Coach at AIB College, and Head Coach for the Des Moines Menace Women's Professional team. Ol' boet loves a good chat, so sit back, relax, and enjoy the stories! 

Brown currently serves as Professor of Practice and Director for the Center for Drug Discovery for Rare and Underserved Diseases at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia and Fellow at the National Academy of Inventors (FNAI). His distinguished career has led to his international recognition as a leader in drug discovery and development research. “We are excited to have Dr. Brown join our Board, bringing his unique talents, expertise and perspectives to FARE and the 32 million Americans living with potentially life-threatening food allergies,” said David G. Bunning, chairman of the Board of Directors for FARE. “Dr. Brown's passion for medicine is clear, and we know this passion will aid us in our mission to find a cure for food allergies and improve the lives of all those affected.” Dr. Brown is a recipient of the 2015 Percy Julian Award by the National Organization of Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers for significant contributions in pure and/or applied research in science and has served as a scientific reviewer of grants and programs for the National Institutes of Health (NIH), National Cancer Institute (NCI) Cancer Center Support Grants, Department of Defense (DOD) and the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). Brown previously served as Deputy Director for Drug Discovery & Development at the Inova Schar Cancer Institute and Director of the Inova Schar Cancer Center for Drug Discovery at Inova Center for Personalized Health in Fairfax, Virginia. In addition to his role on FARE's Board of Directors, Brown will also serve as a co-chair of FARE's Voice of the Patient Roundtable: Diversity, Equity & Inclusion. The Roundtable, which is set to be scheduled this fall, is co-chaired by Michael Frazier, FARE Board of National Ambassadors and Advocacy Advisory Committee member, and seeks to bring thought leaders together to find consensus on how patient advocacy organizations can advance diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in the work that they do. Following the event, FARE will publish a blueprint outlining actionable steps to address DEI in food allergy education and research. “In identifying leaders who can play a key role in moving food allergy science and advocacy forward, Dr. Brown stood out as a seasoned professional who has a track record for developing trust in the community and with grateful patients and in maintaining multi-investigator collaborations in academia and industry, locally, nationally and internationally,” said Lisa Gable, chief executive officer for FARE. “We are thrilled to have him join our board and look forward to all we will be able to do together.”

Twenty years ago, the People confirmed that Patricia J. Titus was the "Right Choice for Justice," and elected her as Judge of the Superior Court of California for the County of Los Angeles. With Exodus 18:21 as her foundation, Judge Titus' campaign was set apart from its inception. Because of her character, integrity, professional ability and legacy of community involvement, her candidacy garnered endorsements from a broad cross section of national, state, and local elected officials, pastors, community leaders, judges and attorneys. Since February, 2009, Judge Titus has been assigned to the Inglewood Superior Court where she hears requests for domestic violence and civil harassment restraining orders and presides over the Drug Court. In honor of her 20th year as a judge and as a community service, she has published the book, “F.R.I.E.N.D.S. for LIFE: 7 Keys to Supporting Loved Ones Experiencing Domestic Violence.” Using the word “friends” as an acronym, Judge Titus educates, enlightens and empowers the reader by providing an easy-to-follow guide on how to support the people experiencing domestic abuse in their lives. Judge Titus served as the Judicial Advisor for the California Legislative Black Caucus' Black History exhibit which was on display in the Capitol Rotunda in Sacramento, in San Francisco in the Great Hall of the California Judicial Council and here, in Los Angeles, at the California African American Museum. The exhibit, entitled “And Justice for All,” acknowledged and celebrated the 70th anniversary of the appointment of the first African American Superior Court judge to preside over a California courtroom as well as commemorated the 50th anniversary of the appointment of the first African American Appellate Court justice. Judge Titus has also participated in the Superior Court's “Adoption Day” where she finalized the adoption of over 40 children into loving homes and she has administered the oath of office to numerous public officials and civic leaders. Prior to her election, she enjoyed a 15-year career as a criminal prosecutor with the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office. A top-level felony trial attorney, she established a reputation for excellence in trial and received national media acclaim when she convicted a prominent Ladera Heights businessman of the domestic violence drowning murder of Michael Jackson's former sister-in-law, Delores “Dee Dee” Jackson, who was the former wife of Tito Jackson of the Jackson 5. In the trial of this case, she worked with the Trial Support Department of the DA's Office to draw a female autopsy figure so that the victim's 58 blunt force traumatic injuries could be accurately detailed. The female autopsy form remains in use to date. Prior to her trial, all victims had been depicted using a male autopsy figure. Her successful prosecution of this case was profiled on Court TV and is highlighted in the book, “For the People,” which chronicles the history of high-profile prosecutions in the Los Angeles County District Attorney's office from 1850-2000. While in the DA's office, Judge Titus wrote the first draft of legislation now known as “The Safely Surrendered Baby Law (S.B. 1368).” Under this legislation, within 72-hours of birth, a mother may surrender her newborn child confidentially at an emergency room or fire station without fear of prosecution for child endangerment or abandonment. Judge Titus is a charter and life member of the Association of African American California Judicial Officers, the California Association of Black Lawyers, Black Women Lawyers Association of Los Angeles, Inc., and the John M. Langston Bar Association. She is a member of the American Bar Association Judicial Council, California Judges Association, National Bar Association Judicial Council and the National Association of Women Judges. Judge Titus is a past president of Black Women Lawyers of Los Angeles, Inc., a former trustee of the Los Angeles County Bar Association, and a former board member of the National Bar Association, California Women Lawyers, John M. Langston Bar Association, Multicultural Bar Alliance, and Women Lawyers Association of Los Angeles. Judge Titus was born and raised in Los Angeles. She received her bachelor's degree from Stanford University and juris doctorate from the UCLA School of Law. Judge Titus is a member of the Harbor Area Chapter (CA) of The Links, Incorporated and the Los Angeles Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. She is also a Registered Parliamentarian and a member of the National Association of Parliamentarians and a member of Toastmasters International with the designation of Distinguished Toastmaster. In her free time, Judge Titus enjoys exercising, shopping, traveling and Happy Planning.

Junior Giscombe cut his teeth as a backing vocalist with Linx before enjoying success as a solo artist with Mama Used To Say, a 1982 hit on both sides of the Atlantic. His third album, Acquired Taste, was helmed by top producer Arif Mardin. He made the British Top 10 again in 1987, this time alongside Kim Wilde on Another Step (Closer To You). A prolific writer, Junior has penned songs for Maxi Priest, Amy Stewart and Ruby Turner, and collaborated with Thin Lizzy's Phil Lynott. A reggae reboot of his best known material, featuring duets with the likes of Luciano and Stephen Marley, is released later this year.

Selimah Nemoy is a storyteller, journalist, and author of SINCE I LOST MY BABY: A MEMOIR OF TEMPTATIONS, TROUBLE & TRUTH (OG Press, June 2020). Born in Los Angeles, her coming-of-age journey was shaped by soul music in the 1960s, then by the turbulent, multicultural 1970s in the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Area. It was in Oakland that she fell in love with African dance.Selimah served with the (President Bill Clinton) White House Press Corps in 1994, and as the English editor for both an Italian-American and a Japanese-American newspaper. Her play, THE DADDIES, was performed at the Buriel Clay Theatre in San Francisco's Western Addition, and her short story, GOODBYE, received first place at the Santa Barbara Writers' Conference.

Jeremy Winston is an innovative leader that helps individuals share their passions and talents with the global community.  He is the founder of The Jeremy Winston Chorale, LLC and Assistant Professor of Music and Chorus Director at Central State University (CSU) in Ohio.   He is a visionary with emphasis in orchestral and choral composing, choral directing, orchestral conducting, collegiate education, classical singing, and leadership training. Passionate about music, Jeremy discovers talent in often­ignored areas of the country and shapes it for national and international stages.  Performances with The Jeremy Winston Chorale and CSU Chorus include: ● The White House for President Barack Obama and The First Lady Michelle Obama (2012, 2013, 2015, 2016). ● Gold Medal Champion for World Choir Games:  A Choral Competition ● Guest Conductor for Czech National Symphony Orchestra (2016, 2015, 2014) ● Critically acclaimed European tour of Hamburg, Durbach, Frankfurt (Germany), and Strassbourg, France. ● Viral (over 4 million views) YouTube & Facebook Video of flash mob singing Oh, Happy Day in Hamburg, Germany. ● Guest Conductor for EAFIT Symphony Orchestra in Medellin, Colombia (2015). ● Two inaugural performances of Wynton Marsalis' works including All Rise with Los Angeles Symphony Orchestra and Mass with Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra. Before entering education as a full­time instructor, Jeremy served as the Ray Charles Distinguished Chair of Sacred and Choral Music at Wilberforce University where he lead the growth and curriculum development of the program to be the leading major at the institution. Jeremy's arrangements and compositions have been performed by many leading musicians and musical groups including Grammy­winning group Take6, The Czech National Symphony Orchestra, The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, Wintley Phipps, and numerous high school, collegiate, and professional ensembles. In addition to being a professional musician, Jeremy is husband, father of three girls, a squash player, and a cook.

Make no mistake: You know and love the voice—and it belongs to Chris Willis. At once soulful and gritty, Willis' voice has fueled numerous dance and top 40 pop hits, including the 2007 charttopper, “Love Is Gone,” which dominated charts around the world, and “Everytime We Touch,” a Top 10 European smash earlier this year. In a world of sound-alike dance divas, Willis is that rare male vocalist doing dance music successfully. But the man does more than sing. He's an accomplished producer and stellar songwriter.

Raised in California, Kim and Kandy have always been interested in music. They began singing in church around the age of five, gospel tunes were a niche for them. Performing in their church's youth group was always a thrill for them and is what really sparked their passion with singing. They began performing and touring with various gospel artists like Shirley Caesar and Andrae Crouch. In 1989, they decided to group up with their sister Krystal Johnson to form The Johnson Sisters. They were able to perform with many prestigious artists like Michael Jackson, Ray Charles, R. Kelly, The Isley Brothers, Earth, Wind and Fire and many others. In 2004, The Johnson Sisters were nominated for a Grammy for their Dreamworks recording “Busted”. The Johnson Sisters also had many important appearances on shows like Oprah Winfrey Show, Soul Train, General Hospital, BET 106th & Park, Ally McBeal Show and more. Now, Kim and Kandy have decided to take a new approach and launch a singing career with one another. They have a soulful-country vibe that can't be replicated, really drawing the people into their unique sound. Currently, they are working on writing and recording a new album to share with the world soon.

The passage of time has seen Cameo maintain an outstanding presence through the years with their signature style and unique sound, even as the music business has continually changed. They have been sampled and covered by multiple artists over the years, and Tomi is co-writer of some of Cameo's hugest hits including Single Life, Back and Forth, Talking Out the Side of Your Neck, She's Strange, Candy, and monster world-wide hit (also nominated for a Grammy) Word Up. Cameo's Artistry is played on the radio to this day, and is a quintessential cultural shout-out on the now widely used phrase ‘word up', which is still a part of New York Hip-Hop culture's vernacular expressions. Cameo has truly been part of the backbone of Black music history in America, and Tomi graciously shared with us the groups' origins and his own amazing experiences with Cameo, and in the music business.

It was a true honor to welcome my father Pastor Victor Brooks Sr. to The Victor Brooks Show for Father's Day. Dad shared memories of growing up in Baltimore Md, his college and professional life, his career as a minister, pioneering the foster care program of Youthville USA in Memphis, Tennessee and continuing the efforts in South Central Los Angeles. Pastor Brooks's life journey has truly been dedicated to the civil rights of others, family and the importance of taking his ministry to the streets, not only in the pulpit. He talks of his times with Martin Luther King, Muhammad Ali, Nina Simone and others as a partnership for equality and change for so many.

A true Chicago native. Charles McCoy is affectionately and professionally known as Mr. Charles... Hairstylist To The Stars. His work has been seen in fashion magazines, music videos, album covers and he is a sought after stylist that is in high demand at video shoots and award shows like the Oscar Awards, Emmy Awards, Grammy Awards, Image Awards, and Soul Train Awards. This Master "Sizzor Wizard" learned the ropes from watching his esteemed Mother ... a true Chicago socialite...as a kid, who owned one of the most respected Hair Salons in Chicago. Mr. Charles grew up in an upper middle class environment. His mother and father were black business owners and Chicago movers and shakers. Mr. Charles and his family... eventually moved to Los Angeles where they set up a number of successful Hair Salons... which immediately attracted celebrities and top clients. Mr. Charles served our country in the Coast Guard, he has developed his own line of hair products and he takes pride in his grandchildren... that carry the smooth "good looking" McCoy Trademark. Tremendously Mr. Charles is also a cancer survivor. In 2019... Mr. Charles was hospitalized... undergoing, several extensive operations... At which... during those procedures... he flat lined 4 times. Doctors call him a "Walking Miracle" because somehow only by God's grace he survived all 4 of the flat lines. Mr. Charles' personal life journey has been full of ups and downs, crazy turn arounds and most of all GAME CHANGES.Today he is busy working on a captivating book... that will display his life's journey... as well as describe his INCREDIBLE experience with death... detailing what he saw and felt when he flat lined... The Chicago native is also creating a brand new social media platform, which will feature his hair techniques and spotlight celebrity clients. Mr. Charles' personal life journey has been full of ups and downs, crazy turn arounds and most of all GAME CHANGES. Mr. Charles... continues to inspire and guide young people who hope to work in Hollywood. He has kept his Mother's legacy alive by carrying the family torch upholding the McCoy name as a GOAT in the hair industry. Mr. Charles... has more than 30 years under his belt..as a hairstylist trendsetter... and as he reflects on his life journey he makes one thing clear. He is thankful to STILL BE ALIVE... and when it comes to The journey of MR CHARLES... The Best Is Yet To Come.

Dr H. Jean Wright ll is a highly experienced, professionally trained Clinical and Forensic Psychologist in the city of Philadelphia, PA. The seasoned psychologist of more than seventeen years currently serves as an administrator for the city and Adjunct Professor, Temple University Department of Psychology. Dr. Wright leads the city's cross-system collaboration initiative, working with criminal justice stakeholders within the adult criminal justice system to enhance the delivery of behavioral health services for people in recovery involved in the justice system. With the assistance of a dynamic team, Dr. Wright was able to usher in a more cohesive relationship between the Department of Behavioral Health and Justice Partners. As a result, the lines of communication improved, as well as the efficiency, and provided a wide range of opportunities for citizens returning from incarceration. Prior to his current responsibilities; Dr. Wright served as Associate Director of Clinical Management for the city's non-profit managed care organization, where he had the awesome responsibility of overseeing clinical care managers and staff stationed at Family Court. Dr. Wright also served as Clinical Director of the Juvenile Justice initiative, within the Philadelphia Behavioral Health System and Program Director for city's Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) initiative, which is one of Philadelphia's signature public health education initiatives. Before coming to Philadelphia; Dr. Wright served as a clinical and forensic psychologist in the State of Ohio's Rehabilitation and Correction System, maintained a caseload in private practice, and adjunct professor at Wilberforce University, the oldest historically black college in the United States. Dr. Wright has actively participated on several boards including The Mayor's Task Force on Reintegration, The Mayor's Advisory Task Force on Gaming, The Philadelphia Board of Mental Health and Mental Retardation, The American Bar Association Barriers Project, and Youthville USA, Inc. Board of Directors, where he was Clinical Director of Therapeutic Foster Care Group Homes, in Raleigh, NC. Currently, he is a member of the American Psychological Association serving on Division 41, American Psychology-Law and Society Continuing Education committee, as well as a member of Division 36, Society for Psychology of Religion and Spirituality. Using his extensive knowledge from years of experience, Dr. Wright has contributed to psychological research and literature with several papers and articles focusing on people of color and the effects of depression and anxiety. He has written several articles published in journals, educational newsletters, and faith-based magazines, including The Education Highway, Healthy Horizons, The Pacific Press, and The Lake Union Herald, where his contribution focused on the connection between psychology, faith, and spirituality. Dr. Wright recently completed a book: Find Strength In Your Struggle: Discover The Miracle In You, which highlights his concept of “spiritual depression” and how it impacts the spiritual core of people from all walks of life. He also spends considerable time conducting seminars, workshops, and trainings on a variety of topics related to behavioral health and wellness, public health education, and trauma-informed care, for a diverse group of clientele, including law enforcement, rehabilitation and correction, academic institutions, Judicial Appointees, faith-based organizations, and community service agencies providing behavioral health resources and support to people in recovery in the Common Wealth of Pennsylvania and throughout the United States.

It is truly and honor to welcome a television and entertainment Icon, the legendary Marla Gibbs. Star of the Jeffersons and 227, Marla Gibbs also talks about her upbringing in Chicago and her move to Los Angeles. Marla gives us an insight into her passion to give back to her community and opening her music dinner club, Marla's Memory Lane. Ms., Gibbs reminds us all that "It's never to late to live your dreams.

Singer/bassist/guitarist/songwriter Janice Marie Johnson, as a founding member of A Taste of Honey, sang lead on the million-selling hits "Boogie Oogie Oogie" and a cover of Kyu Sakamoto's 1963 gold hit "Sukiyaki." The group won the 1978 Grammy for Best New Artist. The number one R&B/pop "Boogie Oogie Oogie" was used in a national TV ad campaign by fast food chain Burger King during summer 1999. The track has also been sampled by hip-hop and rap groups MC Lyte, Mac 10, and others. Johnson also sang background vocals on Lionel Richie's ten-million-selling LP Can't Slow Down. Capitol Records released as a part of their Double Shot series a two-album single CD that included the group's debut album, A Taste of Honey (includes a 12" remix of "Boogie Oogie Oogie") and Twice As Sweet (includes "Sukiyaki") in January 2000. The Los Angeles native, whose father was a musician, started playing music as a small child. Growing up, Johnson sang in L.A.-area jazz clubs, opening for Miles Davis, among others. While attending college she began playing bass. About 1971, Johnson met keyboardist Percy Kibble while auditioning for a vacation cruise gig with Princess Cruises lines, and the two started a band using the title of one of their favorite songs, "A Taste of Honey," as the band's moniker. Adding guitarist Hazel Payne and drummer Donald Johnson, they began playing Southern California bars and military bases in the U.S. and abroad. After meeting with producers Fonce Mizell (formerly of the Motown songwriting/arranging/producing collective The Corporation that had hits with the Jackson 5's "I Want You Back," "ABC," and "The Love You Save") and his brother Larry Mizell who had success with LTD ("Love Ballad"), the group was signed to Capitol Records by Larkin Arnold after meeting him after a performance at the wedding of Smokey Robinson's bass player. While playing before a staring, apathetic audience during a gig at an airbase in San Bernardino, CA, Johnson improvised these lyrics: "If you're thinking that you're too cool to boogie/we've got news for you/everyone here tonight must boogie/and you are no exception to the rule." The infamous bass solo intro on "Boogie Oogie Oogie" came about when Johnson was warming up before the recording session unaware that she was being recorded. The single "Boogie Oogie Oogie" b/w "World Spin" sold more than two million copies, and topped Billboard's charts at number one R&B/pop for three weeks in fall 1978. After the huge success of "Boogie Oogie Oogie," Johnson detested the group being labeled as a "disco group," but that would change later in a big way. The follow-up single, the slinky funky "Do It Good" b/w "I Love You" went to number 13 R&B in summer 1979. The A Taste of Honey album went platinum, going to number six pop in summer 1978. A Taste of Honey was a favorite in Japan long before signing with Capitol, having traveled there to play military bases and entering the Yamaha Song Festival. One of Johnson's favorite records was Kyu Sakamoto's "Sukiyaki." After hearing Linda Ronstadt's version of Smokey's "Oo Baby Baby," Johnson decided that the group (now Johnson and Payne) should do a remake of a classic song. Contacting her Japanese subpublisher who in turn contacted the original writers, Rokusuke EI and Hachidai Nakamura, to get permission to redo the song with English lyrics. After employing two translators, one of which came up with lyrics that were close to the bittersweet theme of the original song title, which translated into English as "I Look Up When I Walk (To Keep the Tears From Falling)," Johnson decided to add her own original lyrics to the song.

The Q&A: Quarantine Series Episode 37- Robyn Smith speaks to us on conscious communication, healthy relationships and boundaries.

We've had some pretty accomplished guests in our podcast tenure, but only a few professional players, so needless to say, this is an exciting episode. Katie Naughton of the Houston Dash joins us to discuss a wide breadth of topics, including her recent time spent in Des Moines. More importantly though, we'll hear about the 2020 NWSL Challenge Cup, living in the bubble and of course, the big celebration after their historic tournament win. Katie has midwest roots, having  grown up near Chicago and playing her college ball at Notre Dame. After being drafted by her hometown Chicago Red Stars, she's kept an arduous schedule, trying her best to play year-round in multiple leagues in an effort to continue her development. She has a cool story and one that we doubt ends any time soon for the young centerback with USWNT hopes. 

The Q&A: Quarantine Series, Episode 36- Kari Greene Massage Therapist & Owner of Spirals of Life Wellness Center in Humboldt County, Califonia speaks to us on a various range of topics from on Mircodosing Medicinal Mushrooms and Cannabis, Cancer recovery, Health and Wellness.

Singer and actress Freda Charcelia Payne was born September 19, 1942, in Detroit, Michigan, to Frederick and Charsilee Payne. Payne attended Palmer Elementary School and Crossman Elementary School; she also modeled and took ballet and Afro-Cuban dance. In 1956, while at Hutchins Middle School, Payne appeared on the nationally televised Ted Mack's The Original Amateur Hour; singing jingles, she was featured on WJR radio's Make Way for Youth, in addition to many other local television and radio shows. Payne's mother spurned a contract from the then unknown Barry Gordy. When she graduated from Central High School in 1959, Payne began touring with Pearl Bailey's musical review and sang with the Duke Ellington Band. Payne's first album was After the Lights Go Down for ABC's Impulse Records in 1962. Moving to New York City in 1963, Payne made appearances on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson, The Merv Griffin Show and The Dick Cavette Show. In 1964, Payne joined the Four Tops, Billy Eckstine, and Nipsey Russell on the Quincy Jones Tour. Payne was understudy for Leslie Uggams in Broadway's Hallelujah Baby! in 1967; she also performed in the Equity Theatre production of Lost in the Stars. Stardom for Payne began when she signed with Invictus Records, a label run by her old Detroit friends Brian Holland, Edward Holland, Jr., and Lamont Dozier (formerly of Motown) in 1969. Payne's smash single Band of Gold, released in 1970, was ranked #1 in the United Kingdom and #3 in the United States; it was her first gold record. Payne's other hits included Deeper and Deeper, You Brought Me Joy, and the anti-war, Bring the Boys Home. As her star kept rising, Payne began appearing in television specials and touring the United Kingdom, Germany, and Japan. Although she left Invictus in 1973, date Payne continued recording, pressing twenty-one albums, including several remakes of Band of Gold. In 1974, Payne made the cover of Jet magazine after she was dubbed a Dame of Malta, by the Knights of Malta and the Sovereign Military, and Hospital Order of St. John of Jerusalem by the Prince of Rumania. Payne hosted Today's Black Woman, a talk show, in 1980 and 1981, before joining the cast of Duke Ellington's Sophisticated Ladies in 1982. Payne also starred in productions of Ain't Misbehavin' with Della Reese, The Blues in the Night, Jellies Last Jam with Gregory Hines and Savion Glover in the 1990s. Payne's film appearances include: Private Obsession in 1995; Sprung in 1997; Ragdoll in 1999; The Nutty Professor II: The Klumps in 2000; and Fire and Ice in 2001. Returning to her jazz roots, Payne later toured with Darlene Love in a critically acclaimed revue entitled Love and Payne. 

The name, "Play", comes from his original MC name, "Playboy", which originated with a group called "Quicksilver and the Super Lovers",[1] which featured producer Hurby Luv Bug. It was with this group that he met Christopher "Kid" Reid, who was using the name "Kid Coolout" with a group called The Turnout Brothers. In time, all of the members of their respective groups moved on, and decided that they could work together as a duo. By shortening their nicknames, it would lead to the start of the group Kid 'n Play. With Kid, Play recorded three successful albums and starred in four hip-hop based comedy films: House Party, House Party 2, Class Act, and House Party 3. After the duo split in 1995, Play became a born-again Christian and focused on Christian hip hop. Today, Play is the founder and CEO of HP4 Digital, a pre- and post-production multimedia company for film, digital media, and theater. In 2010, Play starred as an undercover DEA agent in the independent film, The Return, which is currently in post-production and whose trailer can be seen on youtube.com.[2][3] Play was also a judge for the 8th annual Independent Music Awards to support independent artists.[4] [5] Personal life Martin, who is also the cousin of Martin Lawrence and Hurby "Luv Bug" Azor, was born in Queens, New York. He is a graduate of the High School of Art and Design, in New York City. Martin has a son, Skyler Martin, with ex-wife Shari Headley (an actress best known for her role in the 1988 comedy Coming To America starring Eddie Murphy). The couple married in May 1993 and divorced in June 1995. Martin also has a child with his ex-girlfriend Janae Yvonne Jackson, named Vannessa Martin-Jackson, born in the 80's. Martin now resides in Durham, North Carolina, and was a hip hop teacher at North Carolina Central University until budget cuts forced the school to let him go in 2009. Upon learning of the firing, students began a petition for Martin to be given back the position, along with 9th Wonder. Martin also likes to devote time to the non-profit group Campaign 4 Change.

One of R&B music's most beloved and consistently popular vocal groups, The Whispers, began their legendary and timeless career in 1963. Twin brothers Walter and Wallace Scott joined with friends Nicholas Caldwell, Marcus Hutson, and Gordy Harmon to form a local singing group. They perfected their tight harmonies on the street corners in the Watts section of Los Angeles and in nightclubs in the in the San Francisco/Oakland Bay Area. They began singing together as "the Eden trio" created by Nicholas Caldwell and Marcus Hutson. Later, they were renamed "The Whispers" by Lou Bedell of Dore Records. The group recorded nine singles for the Dore label between 1964 and 1967. Their fame grew in the Bay Area while performing in a series of what was known as "The Battle of the Bands" where they competed against other local acts for their fans appreciation and affection. In 1969 they released "The Time Will Come" for a small L.A. based label Soul Clock Records, and subsequently recorded their first Top 10 R&B hit, "Seems Like I Gotta Do Wrong," in 1970 when the group switched to Janus Records. By 1971 Gordy Harmon decided to leave the group and was replaced by Leaveil Degree who had previously sung with "The Friends of Distinction". The Whispers produced a string of hits over the next two decades and emerged as the leading romantic singers of their generation, racking up one gold album after another and charting numerous R&B hits throughout the seventies and eighties. The Whispers were the first artists featured on the newly formed Soul Train label (co- owned by the TV show's creator and host Don Cornelius and entrepreneur Dick Griffey). They gained national attention with their seventies albums, "One For The Money", "Open Up Your Love", and "Headlights" producing two singles that graced Billboard's Top 20 R&B Charts: "(Let's Go) All the Way" and "(Olivia) Lost and Turned Out". Their first platinum album "The Whispers" (1980) highlighted "A Song For Donny," a song written by Carrie Lucas in memory of Donny Hathaway, and their biggest hit "And The Beat Goes On." It was their most successful selling album (double platinum). The neoclassic "Lady," written by group member Nicholas Caldwell, is still a favorite at concerts. 1987's "Just Gets Better with Time", went platinum. It featured the R&B number 1 and US Top 10 pop entry "Rock Steady", a collaboration with Kenneth "Babyface" Edmonds. Their vocal style harkens back to a more genteel era of crooning, preferring soft pillow talk and songs that speak to heartfelt emotions. They are arguably the most celebrated R&B balladeers of their generation and still make women swoon with their silky yet forceful tenors of twins Walter and Scotty. In the 1990s, The Whispers joined the Capitol Records family releasing more favorites. Expanding their creative horizons, brothers Walter and Scotty cut "My Brothers Keeper", a critically acclaimed duet album in 1993, scoring another R&B hit with a cover of the Intruders' "I Wanna Know Your Name." "Toast to the Ladies" released in 1995 featured a collection of love songs dedicated to women all overthe world. In 1997 the group moved to Interscope Records where they featured the works of Babyface once again with their album, "Songbook, Vol. 1: The Songs of Babyface". Marcus stopped performing with the group in 1989 due to ill health, and in 2000, when he passed on, the Whispers vowed never to replace him. In the new millennium the group still performs around the world to thousands of loyal fans. The group has not made any personnel changes and still consists of Walter Scott, Wallace Scott, Nicholas Caldwell, and Leaveil Degree. They have taken Las Vegas by storm, selling out in various casinos and hotels, and they have a tremendous following on the West and East coasts, particularly in the San Francisco Bay Area, Southern California, New Jersey, New York, Philadelphia, Washington DC, St. Louis, Indiana, and Chicago. On September 23, 2003, The Whispers' four decades of accomplishments were acknowledged when Charlie Thomas of the Drifters inducted them into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame. On June 12, 2005, The San Francisco Chapter of the Grammy Awards presented the Whispers with the prestigious Governors Award, the highest honor bestowed by an Academy Chapter. They continue to perform to sell-out crowds all over the world, and their popularity continues to grow among youth whose parents "raised" them on the Whispers' music. They are one of only a few "old School" groups that can boast of having over 40 years in the industry with a worldwide fan base, maintaining their vocal dominance and original members. CAREER HIGHLIGHTS: Four Decades of Pop and R & B Favorites, Seven Gold Albums, Two Platinum Albums, 12 Top Twenty Singles, 40 Charted Hits Since 1970, American Music Award Nominees, Soul Train Award Nominees, Grammy Award Nominees 2003 Vocal Group Hall of Fame Inductees, 2005 Regional Grammy Governors Award, 2002 NAACP Image AwardSHOW LESS2 Comments

Eddie Levert, Sr. is one of the founders and lead singers of the legendary R&B group, The O'Jays. Known for his raspy voice and sexy moves, Eddie has a range that takes him from alto to second tenor. His style is full of emotion and deep passion. To add to his resume, Levert has written and produced many hits as well as mentoring his very successful sons Gerald and Sean who also became major forces in the music industry. With a career that spans over 50 years, Eddie Levert has done and seen enough to write many books, one of which him and his late son Gerald have already completed ('I Got Your Back' pub. 2008). To understand Eddie Levert, you can start with the journey of the O'Jays and keep going because there is much more. Eddie Levert was born June 16, 1942 in Bessemer, Alabama. At the age of 6 Eddie moved to Canton, Ohio where he attended church regularly and joined the church choir and began his musical journey. As Eddie continued singing into his teenage years he became a recognized voice in the church choir, sang in school plays and performed regularly on a gospel radio show. By the time he reached high school, young Eddie Levert knew that singing was what he wanted to do, teaming up with classmates Walter Williams, William Powell, Bobby Massey and Bill Isles to form a group called the Triumps. The Triumps played locally in Canton opening for different acts, playing sock hops and just about everything that came up. Their big break came when The Triumphs traveled to Cinncinatti to canvas King Records. King Records President Sid Nathan, immediately impressed, changed their name to The Mascots and signed them to his label. The Mascots' popularity grew as their songs could be heard with increased frequency on Cleveland radio stations. In 1969, The O'Jays signed with Philadelphia International Records where they released hit after hit and were propelled to stardom. The O'Jays later signed with EMI-Manhattan Records and Levert and Williams began co-writing and producing their own tracks. Their EMI debut album, “Let Me Touch You”, went to number three R&B and boasted "Lovin' You," the number one R&B hit from the summer 1987. In 1984, Eddie saw a proud moments as his sons Gerald and Sean, both still in high school, announced that they wanted to follow their dad's footsteps and make their way in the music industry. Eddie, using his influence, introduced his young sons around the industry while warning them that dad could help open the doors but it was themselves that would have to make it! And make it they did, as they teamed up with good friend Marc Gordon recording under the group name LeVert with four of their seven albums going platinum. In 1992 Eddie and son Gerald recorded "Baby Hold On to Me" which hit #1 R&B and #37 Pop on the charts. In 1995 Eddie and son Gerald recorded "Father & Son" Album with "Already Missing You" hit #7 R&B and #75 Pop on the charts. The album began the very successful 'Father and Son" tour that continues for years to come. In 1996 Eddie and son Gerald recorded "Wind Beneath My Wings" which hit #30 on the R&B charts. In 1998 The O'Jays receive the Rhythm & Blues Foundation's Pioneer Award presented by Eddie Levert's son Gerald at a ceremony in New York. In 2006, upon returning from a very successful South African tour with sons Gerald and Sean, tragedy struck as Eddie's son Gerald unexpectingly lost his life due to interactions between his prescribed medications. In 2007 Eddie and son Gerald's album recorded in 2006, "Something To Talk About" was released followed by the publication of the highly anticipated book "I Got Your Back" co-authored by Eddie and son Gerald. In 2008 tragedy struck again as Eddie's son Sean became a fatality of being denied needed prescription medication by government officials in Ohio. Later that year, while still trying to cope with the lost of both sons, Eddie and his late son Gerald are presented with "Best Duo or Group" Image Award. In 2009, The O'Jays were awarded BET's ‘Lifetime Achievement Award' and Eddie Levert was awarded the “Heroes and Legends Pacesetter Award”. On January 29, 2011 The O'Jays received the “Trumpet Lifetime Achievement Award”. Throughout Eddie Levert's career, the O'Jays have contributed 10 Gold Albums with 9 going Platinum and 10 #1 hits. Currently, Mr. Levert is actively performing and touring the world with the O'Jays well as performing as a solo artist currently touring with Johhny Gill, Keith Sweat and others.. In the Winter of 2011, Eddie Levert, Sr. completed his debut solo CD, “Eddie Levert: I Still Have It”, due to be released Spring of 2012. Mr. Levert is currently busy in the studio working on his next major project; the much anticipated release of the latest O'Jays CD. Throughout Eddie Levert's career, the O'Jays have contributed 10 Gold. Eddie Levert currently resides in Las Vegas, NV with his wife Raquel and daughter Ryan.

this one was random cause erick wasn't able to make it. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

I am so pleased to include this incredible episode, with the legendary Freda Payne. Freda shares her memories of growing up in Detroit and starting her iconic journey through the entertainment industry. Singer and actress Freda Charcelia Payne was born September 19, 1942, in Detroit, Michigan, to Frederick and Charsilee Payne. Payne attended Palmer Elementary School and Crossman Elementary School; she also modeled and took ballet and Afro-Cuban dance. In 1956, while at Hutchins Middle School, Payne appeared on the nationally televised Ted Mack's The Original Amateur Hour; singing jingles, she was featured on WJR radio's Make Way for Youth, in addition to many other local television and radio shows. Payne's mother spurned a contract from the then unknown Barry Gordy. When she graduated from Central High School in 1959, Payne began touring with Pearl Bailey's musical review and sang with the Duke Ellington Band. Payne's first album was After the Lights Go Down for ABC's Impulse Records in 1962. Moving to New York City in 1963, Payne made appearances on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson, The Merv Griffin Show and The Dick Cavette Show. In 1964, Payne joined the Four Tops, Billy Eckstine, and Nipsey Russell on the Quincy Jones Tour. Payne was understudy for Leslie Uggams in Broadway's Hallelujah Baby! in 1967; she also performed in the Equity Theatre production of Lost in the Stars. Stardom for Payne began when she signed with Invictus Records, a label run by her old Detroit friends Brian Holland, Edward Holland, Jr., and Lamont Dozier (formerly of Motown) in 1969. Payne's smash single Band of Gold, released in 1970, was ranked #1 in the United Kingdom and #3 in the United States; it was her first gold record. Payne's other hits included Deeper and Deeper, You Brought Me Joy, and the anti-war, Bring the Boys Home. As her star kept rising, Payne began appearing in television specials and touring the United Kingdom, Germany, and Japan. Although she left Invictus in 1973, date Payne continued recording, pressing twenty-one albums, including several remakes of Band of Gold. In 1974, Payne made the cover of Jet magazine after she was dubbed a Dame of Malta, by the Knights of Malta and the Sovereign Military, and Hospital Order of St. John of Jerusalem by the Prince of Rumania. Payne hosted Today's Black Woman, a talk show, in 1980 and 1981, before joining the cast of Duke Ellington's Sophisticated Ladies in 1982. Payne also starred in productions of Ain't Misbehavin' with Della Reese, The Blues in the Night, Jellies Last Jam with Gregory Hines and Savion Glover in the 1990s. Payne's film appearances include: Private Obsession in 1995; Sprung in 1997; Ragdoll in 1999; The Nutty Professor II: The Klumps in 2000; and Fire and Ice in 2001. Returning to her jazz roots, Payne later toured with Darlene Love in a critically acclaimed revue entitled Love and Payne.

The Q&A: Quarantine Series, Episode 35- Lele Dubios. In 1999, Lelehnia sustained a spinal cord injury. After seeing western medicines were not helping her she began to implement the alternative healing tools her mother taught her, Plant medicine, and spiritual wellness. She now uses those tools to be a successful mother, build her own beauty and wellness line, as well as volunteers her time as a county commissioner. Lelehnia is a well-respected national leader in cannabis and inspiring other to build with integrity.

It doesn't seem that the pandemic plans to subside anytime soon, and neither will our Quarantine Interview Series, but our interview with Casey Mann of the Nebraska State Soccer Association rounds out our "executive director series" within the series. Not only do we run Casey through the gamut of youth soccer questions, but we also have a chance to talk about his journey through the ranks as a player and coach before he put on his "suit and tie" as an administrator. Similar to our other interviewees, Casey's pathway brought him through the Des Moines community, although in his version, as a stud goalkeeper for Grand View University and the early Des Moines Menace squads. He eventually transitioned into a coaching role where he spent time on the staff for both the University of Arizona and Arizona State University women's programs. Mann returned to Des Moines in 2005 as the head coach of the Menace, leading them to their one and only PDL National Championship. Youth soccer then came calling throughout the community before he eventually left us to take on his current role leading the Nebraska Soccer Association.

Sorry. There is no other way to say it. We said that we would post regularly, but we just didn't complete that task. There is no excuse. But we are trying. We need the support of each and every one of you guys to keep going strong. So please, share this podcast, and one day, if you do, maybe we can be proud, because of you. Thank you. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

In addition to his influence on Blake Siberz, Joe Burger's coaching journey has taken him all over the midwest and, in circuitous fashion, he now finds himself back where it all started in Kansas. As the newly appointed Executive Director of the Kansas Soccer Association, Joe has found himself at an interesting juncture of youth soccer and a global pandemic. Not only do we discuss his role as a statewide leader and administrator, but we have a chance to reflect on his path and how it brought him to this point. From playing at Baker University to coaching stints at Minnesota United FC, Bradley University and the South Dakota School of Mines, and of course, his time at Drake University among the Des Moines soccer community.   

We have our first special guest on the show raymack (ig @tallfreshmack1) talking about his experience as a essential worker and more. Raymack Contact Info: ig: @tallfreshmack1 The Premiere Boyz Podcast Hosts Contact info: Ken Aka MrGentleman Contact info: Instagram: @ken_mrgentleman Podcast IG: @mrgentlemanlifestylepodcast Email: kenypgent@gmail.com All My Social Media : https://linktr.ee/ken_mrgentleman MrGentleman Lifestyle Podcast (Every Sundays): https://linktr.ee/mrgentlemanlifestylepodcast Merch Store: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/mrgentlemanlifestyle?ref_id=11668 Aaron "King Talk" Sands Contact info: Ig: @aaronsandspremiere Business Ig Page: @shotbysands King Talk with Aaron Sands (Every Fridays) : https://linktr.ee/aaronsandspremiere "The Star" Roddy Rod Contact Info: Ig: @thestarroddyrod Website: https://linktr.ee/Thestarroddyrod The Premiere Boyz Podcast Info: ig: @thepremiereboyzpodcast Other Platforms: https://linktr.ee/Thepremiereboyzpodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCj85IVjTMw1yrkxzmkI8jBQ I Dont Own The Right To THE MUSIC --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thepremiereboyzpodcast/message

On this episode we talking about verzuz and who we wanna see on verzuz. The Premiere Boyz Podcast Hosts Contact info: Ken Aka MrGentleman Contact info: Instagram: @ken_mrgentleman Podcast IG: @mrgentlemanlifestylepodcast Email: kenypgent@gmail.com All My Social Media : https://linktr.ee/ken_mrgentleman MrGentleman Lifestyle Podcast (Every Sundays): https://linktr.ee/mrgentlemanlifestylepodcast Merch Store: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/mrgentlemanlifestyle?ref_id=11668 Aaron "King Talk" Sands Contact info: Ig: @aaronsandspremiere Business Ig Page: @shotbysands King Talk with Aaron Sands (Every Fridays) : https://linktr.ee/aaronsandspremiere "The Star" Roddy Rod Contact Info: Ig: @thestarroddyrod Website: https://linktr.ee/Thestarroddyrod The Premiere Boyz Podcast Info: ig: @thepremiereboyzpodcast Other Platforms: https://linktr.ee/Thepremiereboyzpodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCj85IVjTMw1yrkxzmkI8jBQ I Dont Own The Right To THE MUSIC --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thepremiereboyzpodcast/message

With all the of the challenges of the pandemic, soccer in Iowa has basically ground to a halt. Tasked with guiding us through it? Dan Cataldi, the Executive Director of the Iowa Soccer Association. We'll discuss how Iowa Soccer Association has handled this difficult situation, but as we tend to do, we'll also touch on several other topics. Naturally, we learn about his soccer journey - one that led him down the path as a player, then as a referee and ultimately, into the administration and business side of the game. We touch on everything from Iowa's soccer calendar to large-scale indoor facilities, from referee development to expanding access to the game, plus we'll find out who the loudest player he's ever refereed (hint: it's not Matt Nickell).

This should be episode 6 overall, for clarification. We talked about SpaceX and its future. Thank you for joining us today! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

We will take about events and occurrences in our world during Quarantine. On side note, this should be Episode 5 overall, we said Episode 6. Thank you for listening! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Who should be the next Knicks Head Coach? Mo & Nafi debate their picks, who are you siding with? Also thoughts on the Knicks new Front Office and the continuation of the NBA Season. 3 min - NBA Re-Start Thoughts 13 min - New adds to the Knicks FO 18 min - Debate on who should be the next Knicks HC - Thibs, Atkinson, Miller, or someone else? FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM

Thoughts on Walt Perin and Frank Zanin as new members of the Knicks Front Office; Takeaways after the last episode of The Last Dance; Jordan undoubtedly the GOAT? Where does LeBron stand in the conversation? Just how bad were the Bulls after 1998? All answered and more on this Quarantine Series edition of the Knick-ish Show! FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM

The Quarantine Series continues with discussions on COVID-19, The Last Dance, LeBron v Jordan, and even Ramadan! Hear the discussion between these non-expert kids from Queens as they try to make some sense in what's going on in the world, and their main takeaways from #TheLastDance. Check it out

From Avengers, to Black AF, to politics, and ofcourse NBA Basketball (including Scott Perry's deal and Chris Paul rumors) Mo & Nafi are back to discuss all of the above and then some in another edition of the Quarantine Series of the Knick-ish Show. Check it out, and follow us on IG, Twitter, and Youtube! (NSFWFH) FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM

As soccer-less life continues, we're still finding ways to talk soccer. Our good friend and stud soccer player, Sam Holmes, joins us today to discuss his  soccer journey, what its like to be coached by your father and of course, his Paralympic National Team exploits. Sam's soccer travels have taken him all over the country, not to mention the world, but he'll also touch on playing for the Roosevelt Roughriders, Des Moines Wanderers FC and which Holmes he would select in backyard 2v2 battle royale! Anyone you want to hear during our Quarantine Interview series? Slide into our DMs with suggestions!!

Netflix, Kobe, 2k, Knicks, and plenty of venting on this special Quarantine Series edition of the Knick-ish Show, the OG Duo Mo & Nafi reunite to help you get through this time. Check it out! (NSFWFH) FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM

Today's episode is the show's second monthly installment of nothing but outtakes! The boys showcase the fact that they're FAR from perfect, and that's further highlighted by their argument regarding the handling and labeling of the Quarantine Series. However, the episode is certainly not as heavy as that may feel, with tons of laughs to be had at the hands of their many blunders and miscues.

Day 2 of the Quarantine Series features a fantastic interview with Mike Schiavo (better known as Mikey), an incredibly talented musician based in Los Angeles. The boys dive into Mikey's roots and how he's developed as an artist through the years, as well as his inspiration for some of his projects. They discuss his time on The Voice (Season 10) and his biggest takeaways from that experience. Mikey then provides a first-hand account on how the coronavirus is affecting not only him personally, but the music industry as a whole.

Simply an introduction to the newest series to help get everyone through this quarantine with a little extra laughter! One episode a day for the next two weeks! (Or more if the quarantine keeps us out of work for longer)