The Empire of Babble-On

4th Grade Me

2013-03-01T17:33:00.002-06:00

I recently ran across a journal that I kept in Ms. Blume's 4th grade English class. Ms. Blume taught at Ressie Jeffries Intermediate School in Front Royal, VA. I have very fond memories of her, and now wonder if she was any kin to children's author, Judy Blume.

The journal, bound in a faded orange cover with a hand-sketched picture of my father centered under my name, handwritten in cursive, is chocked full of little surprises. Of course, I would hope that I'd changed in many ways since 4th grade, but the best moments in this time capsule are the discoveries of the ways that I'd remained the same.

I'd like to share excerpts from this journal. All of the grammatical errors, misspellings, and word omissions will be preserved. Though good at spelling--and didn't mind letting you know this--my grammar was evidently very challenged--even moreso than it is now. (I had no idea how much until revisiting this journal.)

On September 10, 1984--only 4 months after the death of my paternal grandmother--the opening entry explored my feelings:

My name is James. My grandmother died in May or June. The reason why I know this is my mom told me and I started to cry because I loved her very much. And now I still miss her. I still have another grandmother. At her funeral was a very sad funeral.

September 11, 1984, my idea of nerd fun made an appearance:

I like to play outside at night. Sometimes we play Hide & Seek. It is fun playing at night. I like playing on a hill at night. Last night nobody was outside but I still played. Yesterday we was playing Batman and I was the Riddler.

September 18, 1984, I just wanted to list my favorite movies:

. . . E.T., Annie, The Toy, Jungle Book, Savvanah Smiles, Breakin', Rocky III, Snow White, A Man from Snowy River, Gremlins, Cujo, The Sword in the Stone, Stir Crazy, Brer Rabbit, Superman III, Footloose, Purple Rain, Beat Street

Who even remembers Savannah Smiles? Well, just in case you don't. . .

Nothing beat Saturday morning cartoons in the 80s! Sept. 20, 1984, I talk about a couple of my favorites:

My favorite cartoon to watch on Saturdays are Muppet Babies and Saturday Supercade. On Muppet Babies last week the Muppets was making to much noise that a officer kept calling because he was trying to sleep. On Saturday Supercade they showed Kangaroo, on Kangaroo these monkeys' were trying to escape from the zoo.

Then there was my brother--Sept. 21, 1984:

I got a brother he's 4 years old, his name is T. J. he thinks he's tough. My little brother will sometimes wrestle you but he's a shy boy.

Sept. 25, 1984, I tried to articulate my plans for the future. I knew I wanted to do something that I would enjoy:

I like being silly to make people laugh. Sometimes they don't laugh but I still try. I think when I grow-up I will be a clown but not in a circus, I'm going to do it at a hospital to cheer patients up. I'll think they'll like it. And sometimes I even might go places like a clown and give candy to children. And I will have a lot of friends. I might even be rich. I'll call myself Mr. Clown Around. I will go to other states and do it too.

I LOVED CARTOONS! This is from Sept. 26, 1984:

I like looking at cartoons when I get home from school. I look at Fat Albert when I get home. My mom likes looking at Fat Albert too. I can just name a few Cosby Kids.

Sept. 27, 1984. . . stop bullying:

I want to take karate. My mom keeps saying she will let me take it but she doesn't. The only reason I'm taking karate is because big kids sometimes pick on me. I hope I take black belt, but when you begin you have a white belt.

I did end up taking Shorin-Ryu for a couple of years with Mr. Drago in Front Royal. I think his son is now an actor. I quit when I was only one belt away from BLACK.

*****

At the age of 9, I didn't quite grasp the concept of hard work. If I did, I probably would've been more appreciative of my father. All I knew was that he was "boring." Oct. 2, 1984:

"Whenever I'm bored I get angry. Yesterday I was bored, I didn't do anything yesterday. I hate staying with dad all alone because he does is sleep all day when he comes home.

Pops knows I loved him! This was a man who commuted from Front Royal to Northern Virginia every day to work construction for 12+ hours.

*****

In 1984 Front Royal, Kmart was like the mall. Oct. 5, 1984:

I like to go home on Fridays because they're fun. The things I do on Fridays is play go places get out of school for a couple days. I like when we go to K-mart. And today is the day for all of it. I hope tonight we go bowling.

That weekend, I did get to bowl for the first time. Oct. 8, 1984:

Last night my mom, dad, brother, and best friend went bowling. My total score was 56 my moms total score was 61 my dads total score was 112 my friends total score was 80. This was my first time I ever bowled and it was fun.

On Oct. 9th, 1984, I must have been feeling boastful:

I know how to spell a word with 34 letters in it, it is called supercalifragilisticexpialidocious. I can spell the most longest words. In 2nd grade when we done spelling b's me and my friend would be the last ones up.

Once again, on Oct. 10, 1984, I didn't seem to mind patting myself on the back:

I like to act silly because it makes some people laugh. But sometimes they just call me names because I become a little over-loaded. I am a little artist as some people say. One-time I drew Bigfoot going over two cars, and oneimte I drew Q-bert at Q-park and it looked good.

Ah, the 80s . . .

October 1984 must've been National Bragging Month. Oct. 23, 1984:

I am a good a good jumper and I'm trying not to brag. One day a was running and my brothers bigwheel was in my way so I jumped over it and landed on my feet. I can almost jump over my fence.

On Nov. 1, 1984, I must've been answering questions posed by Ms. Blume:

1. If I could fly (free) to any place in the world I'd go to California.
2. The reason I'd go to California is to meet movie stars.
3. One thing I'd like to bring back is Latoya Jackson.

Now when we think of Latoya, we think of this:

However, I still have a crush on 1984 Latoya Jackson!

And she was talented too:

Okay, maybe there was a reason why she did Playboy.

*****

Nov. 5, 1984, I described an incident that occurred on the previous night in "The Village:"

Last night it was this man running crazy on my street, and he said he had a gun so mom called the police. Before the police got there the man kept banging on cars and cursing at children, and say he's going to kill somebody. When the police arrived they started looking for him, and never found him.

I hope they found him eventually!

On Nov. 7, 1984, I simply stated:

Last night R. Reagan won the election 202 to 3.

Maybe that was the score by the time I went to bed. LOL!

*****

I was so shy. No surprise why I didn't like to tell people my close-kept "secret." Nov. 9, 1984:

I'm finally giving away my secret that I had since last year, but I know how to breakdance. The reason why I haven't told some people is because I'm shy. The person who taught me is my best friend Cory who is 11 years-old.

Wow! Nov. 14, 1984:

If I could go back back in time I would like to meet Robert E. Lee because I would like to be in the war.

I'm completely judging 4th Grade Me right now.

Dec. 4, 1984, I listed what I wanted for Christmas:

This year I want a big tape recorder, Bigfoot, a Commodore 64, and some transformers. The Commodore 64 is The one I want most.

Jan. 2, 1985:

The thing I received for Christmas I liked most was my Purple Rain tape.

My parents, however, still regret that purchase to this day.

On Jan. 22, 1985, we had to rate the 10 most important characterstics found in a friend:

1. helpful
2. understanding
3. truthful
4. polite
5. forgiving
6. smart
7. cheerful
8. creative
9. clean
10. athletic

On Jan. 23, 1985--10 days after turning 10--I responded to 3 questions:

1. If I could have any talent I wanted I would choose comedy because I like to be funny.
2. If I had all of the money I wanted I would want it to be 1-cent because a penny save is a penny earn.
3. If I could make one wish for the world it would be to be a famous comedian because I like being funny.

Never quite got over that wish. . .

Fast forward to April 10, 1985:

One person I admire much is Mr. T because he's tough. When I pretend to be this person I say, "I pity the fool's who mess with me because I'm Mr. T." I feel like fighting.

On May 8, 1985, I mused on the upcoming release of New Coke:

On this date in 1886 Coke was sold for the first time. Coke is planning to change their recipe. I think it's a good idea. I hope they stop putting the coca leaf in it. It would probably be better tasting. I wonder if it will have a substitute for the leaf. I don't want them to spoil my drink.

Coke Is It!

The final entry that I'm going to post is from May 30, 1985. I'm still curious as to how this would taste:

On this date in 1848 William Young of Baltimore patented the first ice cream freezer. . . I'm going to invent Hot Dog Sherbet with a hot dog bun on top.

Welcome to the mid-80s as I remembered it. Thanks for reading this little journey. I hope that it brought back some memories for those who were born before '84. For the young'uns, the 80s were REAL. Don't make me post He-Man cartoons from Youtube. . .

2011: Completely Ruined

2011-12-30T02:41:00.000-06:00

I know that Color Me Badd comes to mind for me, as well as many of you, when reflecting on 2011. I am not ashamed to admit that this was one of the songs I liked off of their debut album, which was released 20 YEARS AGO. The title very obviously states what I am attempting to do with this blog entry.

Every year I do these entries to try and gain some perspective on the past year's highs and lows, and how these events may potentially catapult me--gently--into the following year.

I entered into 2011 crazy about my then-girlfriend, a full PS3 addiction, fiending for the next acting project, and praying for my younger cousin, Larry, who was blessed to survive a horrific crash last December. I can honestly say all of those things were elevated in some way--touched and blessed.

January brought a fresh short film project, called "The Favor," written by Anthony Greene, directed by Demetrius Parker, and co-starring John Moriarity. A ten-minute comedic riff on the N-word. I could not be happier with a project. I had a blast and it was shot in around 5 hours. Below is the full film. (Warning: Wields offensive language in a hilarious manner!)

The Favor from Anthony Greene on Vimeo.

"The Favor" was later accepted into the World Music & Independent Film Festival, where both John and I received nominations for "Best Actor in a Short Film." The festival took place in August, in DC.

Toward the end of January, I finally received word from Dan, the casting director, at Arena Stage, regarding a November audition and call back for Lynn Nottage's "Ruined," being directed by Charles Randolph-Wright. The saints had gone marching in, and I was in that number--HALLELUJAH! That news made me soar. God knows He was just showin' off! I was in shock for weeks.

Around the same time, I received news of being cast in Nubia Filmworks' next feature film project, "Nocturnal Agony," and it seemed like they were aiming to shoot around the same time frame as "Ruined" was aiming to rehearse. I still had a couple of months before either project and I'd already started to worry about a potential conflict. So I prayed, because I did not want to have to give up either. #Selfish

So then comes March. I'd been scheming and plotting one of my biggest decisions to date--to marry, or not to marry. Sonal and I had been together at that point for a year and a half, and I thought that just wasn't long enough. I wanted her around for LIFE! (Sounds like a prison sentence. I'm a bit of a glutton for punishment.) I called upon our mutual friend, Tuyet, to do some investigative work to find out ring information, etc. Then I took the intelligence and went out and made a purchase.

Finally on the night of March 18th, I completed a short staged reading of Edward Albee's "Fam & Yam" at Arena Stage, directed by Dr. Angelisa Gillyard, and featuring the incomparable Craig Wallace. The reading was at 10:30pm. Sonal came to support, though she was barely hanging on to consciousness. (We'd just seen Salman Rushdie speak at the Kennedy Center earlier that evening). Afterwards, we went back to her place. I knew I had to be quick as she was fading away for the night. So there was no big creative stroke of genius. I just grabbed the ring, shook her awake and asked her to to be my wife.

Instead of a simple "yes" or "no bamma, get out of my face," she groggily replied, "Let me see that thing--" referring to the ring--lifted her hand into the air and placed it on her ring finger. After giving it a once-over, she stated matter-of-factly, "We're already married."

And with that, it was done.

Not a lot of room for sentiment in this relationship. . . and for that, I love her.

(Sidenote: As of today, December 30, 2011, we are still unable to pinpoint an exact date or location for the wedding, but I made a resolution for 2012 that we will have one or the other. . . and with a bit of luck, BOTH.)

Less than a week after the proposal, rehearsals began for "Ruined." The first days of rehearsals for me were spent just getting my eyes adjusted to seeing so many Black people together in one cast--and Larry Redmond, the wonderfully talented, token, non-Black actor in the cast. The cast included 20+ actors, at the mercy of the masterful hands of Charles Randolph-Wright.

From beginning to the end, the production was a DREAM job. We got along swimmingly. We also made it a point to laugh as much as humanly possible, because "Ruined" is a tale heavy with human atrocities, and we could not let the darkness overtake us. We still had to live outside of that world.

"Ruined" (Arena Stage)

As the end of the run neared, I think we all felt a collective sadness. We knew we had just experienced something so amazing that just doesn't come with every production. I know I wanted to hold on to that feeling forever.

I'm certain many of my colleagues from that production have gone on to do many great works since then. I have not been on stage since then, but will return to my "sweet spot," Imagination Stage, in a couple of weeks, for "P. Nokio," a brainchild from fellow "Ruined" alumnus, Psalmayene 24.

Fortunately, I was able to work out the "Nocturnal Agony" shoot with "Ruined" rehearsals. I didn't have nearly as much to tackle with "Nocturnal" as I did with "Too Saved." I also got to work with my dear friend, Deidra, and her daughter, Kathryn, who plays my daughter in the film. I had a chance to meet Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs and Vernee' Watson on the set. It was very cool! Below is the trailer:

The weekend after the closing of "Ruined," I booked it to Brooklyn, NY. My MAIN man, Will Mason, and his long time girlfriend, Lydia, were finally making it official with OPERATION: MATRIMONY. It was a fantastic evening. Mason and I go back to 1993. We entered VCU's theatre program at the same time, hit it off, and have been boys ever since. He has a wonderful family. His parents and sisters are my Richmond family. I love my sister-in-law, Lydia, and all the kids. It was great seeing all of them, and even got to see our homeboy, Cedric, from VCU. Hadn't seen him since 1999, when we sat out on his balcony in the Fan district in Richmond and analyzed Eminem's first album.

Will and Lydia on their wedding day (June 2011)

The week after NY, I was on a plane with Sonal, heading to Michigan, to her parents' home. My 2nd time there, and this time I had the honor of meeting her older sister and her niece and nephew, whom she absolutely worships. After meeting them, I can understand why. Her nephew and I quickly bonded over a game of Modern Warfare on his Nintendo DS. I was a complete sucker by the end of Day One in Michigan, when they started calling me "Uncle JJ."

Then came August. Sonal and I packed our bags and took a road trip down to Hilton Head Island, in South Carolina. My friend, Gena, was marrying her man, Anthony. It was a beachfront wedding, complete with live singing from Gena, her son, John, and others. I got to see some of my ATLiens: Auntie and KK. It was a great weekend. A much needed getaway.

And before the summer completely got away from us, Sonal and I managed 2 trips to Assateague Island: 1 for just a day, and 1 for an overnight stay where we ended up sleeping in the car. Assateague is famous for its wild ponies who are able to roam about among the citizens. As a result, you better have a strong nose, because the air is rich with horse chocolate. #HorsheyKisses

"The Henchman's War"

The only acting project that I've taken on since "Ruined," has been the film, "The Henchman's War," written/directed/produced by Anthony Greene ("The Favor"). I've shot most of my scenes, and had a great time working with some amazing actors, at an amazing home out in Ashburn, VA. I really look forward to the final product. I hear there are some great fight scenes, none of which I got to participate in.

*snaps finger in disappointment*

For the past few years, I've been dealing with an internal struggle. Feeling as if my auditioning ability was slowly giving way to self-consciousness and lack of confidence, I finally decided at the end of this past summer to take a step to counteract that feeling. I contacted legendary acting teacher, Vera Katz, who taught at Howard University for several years. I have many colleagues who have taken her on for private coaching. I decided to follow in their foot steps.

I first met with her in early September, at her home, and within the first minutes knew that I was in the right place. She dealt just the right dosage of honesty and love. Raw honesty, which is exactly what I've longed for. She called me out (and still does) on my old habits and challenges my weaknesses.

Outside of her acting guidance, she has allowed me to use her autographed copy of Isaiah Washington's autobiography, "A Man from Another Land." We also went to see a show at Adventure Theatre together. She is an absolute gem. I just wish I didn't wait so long to call on her. . . but all things in time.

About a month ago, I happened upon the Rolling Stone magazine article, "100 Greatest Guitarists." I didn't realize it at the time how big of an effect that it would have on me. Having not grown up a fan of rock music, I've only dipped my toes in its waters within the last decade, enough to grow a genuine love for it. This article unleashed an intense curiosity. With Youtube by my side, I began to listen to many of the guitarists mentioned, only to find myself fiending for more. To this day, I am still listening to and downloading songs from artists in that article. Some of my favorites: Rolling Stones, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Howlin' Wolf, Allman Bros. Band, Rory Gallagher, and Buddy Guy. I'd already been fans of many others: Nirvana, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Prince, Hendrix, Santana, Clapton, Joni, Robert Johnson, etc. Of course, the order of the list could be argued till the end of time, but the list has been priceless to me.

In 2010, I was re-introduced to the world of gaming. This year I've continued walking that line of addiction. I can't help it if they be puttin' they foot in these games! (Grammically incorrect for effect.) My love for the RPG has continued to grow as I took on the thirteenth installment of Final Fantasy--my first introduction to the series. I easily sank 150+ hours into completing the main quest and all of its side quests--1 of which nearly took a month (that frickin' Vercingetorix!!!) Then there was Dragon Age 2, for which I almost wet myself in anticipation. (TMI?) Not as good as the first.

The Vercingetorix (Final Fantasy XIII)

However, NOTHING--ab-so-lu-tely NOTHING could've prepared me for the best game ever. I went to Game Stop at the latter part of the summer, in search of a great RPG. I asked the sales associate what he would recommend. He said that a co-worker of his went completely nuts over Demon's Souls. I'd actually read a review of that one prior to the visit to Game Stop, so I went ahead and picked it up. Basically, everything that I'd read stated: "THIS GAME IS @#$#@#$ HARD!" I should've run.

After 2 days of attempting Demon's Souls, I resolved that I was going to return it. I was completely defeated. I was not getting anywhere and I did not want my breakdown to end up on Youtube. LOL! Then something happened. . . I gave it another try and I made a little progress, and it felt GREAT! So I took a deep breath and gave it another go. Slowly, more and more progress was being made. Yes, it was kicking my butt, but I would kick back. Ninety hours later, I completed my first playthrough. Then 45 hours after that, I completed my second playthrough, as a new character. Then 18 hours after that, I completed my third playthrough, as ANOTHER character!

I'd finally gotten the hang of it. It is truly my favorite game. I look forward to its sequel, Dark Souls, but for now, I need a break. So I have introduced myself to Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion--a new RPG for me, while also starting Castlevania: Lords of Shadow, Arkham City (YES!), and Call of Duty: Black Ops. After the Demon's Souls ordeal, all of these games feel like a vacation.

This year has been extremely memorable. A lot of great events took place. I am an extremely blessed man. I know this, and I accept it.

I double-dog dare 2012 to be better. . . for all of us.

Peace and love!!!

When They Reminisce Over You. . .

2011-11-04T04:28:00.004-05:00

I haven't had the urge to blog in a really long time, as documented by this blog, but I've been doing a lot of thinking lately. A few weeks ago, my father revealed that he's kept a cassette tape stored away for over 27 years which contained my late grandmother, Anna Johnson, revealing her final wishes. He never listened to it, so it remained forgotten for many years. He "unearthed" the cassette so that I could transfer its contents to CD.

As a footnote, my grandmother passed on May 23, 1984, when I was 9 years old. I was from the time that I can remember a "grandma's boy." Always at her apron strings. I would throw a tantrum whenever it was time to leave her house, because I wanted to stay with her. No regard for the fact my parents would have to drive 40 miles from Front Royal to Warrenton the next day to pick me up. I remember her Red Kool-Aid, her voice, her macaroni & cheese, her cigarettes, her blue furniture with the plastic covers. I remember how she wasn't much for saying "I love you" or signs of affection, but I have never felt more love from any living creature. I remember running into her house when visiting and hearing her say, "Who's that ugly thing comin' in here?" And me, tripping head over heels, grinning and replying, "Me, Grandma Nanny!"

Her loss in 1984 had an epic effect on me, and at the age of 9, I was forced to understand the power of death.

So, 27 years later, I sat in my room. It was a sunny Sunday afternoon in early August 2011. I'd just been given this cassette by my parents earlier that day, after I saw them at church. I set up all of the necessary equipment needed to transfer to CD, and I pressed "Play" on the cassette player. While on the cassette my father was doing most of the talking, the first word I heard my grandmother speak in 27 years, in response to a question my father asked on the cassette, was "Yes."

It was evidently a powerful "yes," because I began to gush, just like that 9 year old boy who lost his grandmother back in '84. I shamelessly gushed as the cassette rolled on, and she began to speak more. The characteristics of the voice that I remember sent waves of energy coursing through my being. It was amazing!

Unfortunately, the death of my grandmother only marked the beginning. Since then, I have been to the wakes and funerals of dozens of loved ones--family and friends--friends of the family and family of friends. I've heard friends say that they've never been to a funeral or that they've never lost a loved one, and it baffles me. To me, it almost seems unimaginable.

At times I feel that I obsess too much over death, and at other times my experience with it helps to keep me focused on loving and enjoying every moment that I have with everyone in my circle. I do not want to take anyone for granted.

I believe in giving people roses while they are alive to savor them. I've seen too many people live with regrets after a loved one passes. Perhaps there was some issue that may have been blown out of proportion, but now death has put the pettiness of the issue in perspective.

I often think about everyone over the years who has touched my life in some fashion, and I appreciate them, regardless how brief our encounter(s). Those who have passed have etched a piece of themselves into my soul. I want to offer up a part of this blog as a memorial to them. Wherever their soul may lie, I just want them to know that they are not forgotten, though I may not remember everyone's full name correctly. For that, I apologize.

_____________________________________________

FAMILY

Edna Walker - My great-grandmother (my mother's mother's mother) who passed only a year or so before my "Grandma Nanny," in the early 1980s. I didn't know her well, because she lived in NY, and was only brought down to VA in her final days. She was the first person I'd ever seen on their deathbed. From stories that my mother has shared, she was a very loving person who called Mom, "Dollbaby."

Anna Johnson - My father's mother. **see above**

Sissy Pollard - Older cousin on my father's side. She passed during the same time frame as my grandmother. She was also my Godmother along with her husband, Percy, my Godfather. I remember her passion for God and for praise and worship. My parents used to have a gospel band with her, Percy and the Sims family.

Catherine Minor - Great aunt on my father's side. She passed in the early 80s as well. I don't remember much about her, but I do remember watching the Flintstone's at her house when I was really young. #RandomMemories

Jake Minor - Great uncle on my father's side. Passed in the late 80s/early 90s. Always used to tease me and tell me, "I'm gon' bust you WIIIIIIIIIIDE open!" He was a trip!

Carroll "Piggy" Jenkins - Great uncle on my mother's side. Also known as "Sarge." He was a veteran, and kinda scared me as a kid, but never did any harm.

Joseph "Chick" Jenkins - Great uncle on my mother's side. He gave me the alto saxophone that I used throughout my years in Band from middle-to-high school. He passed during the early 90s. He also taught my father the construction trade, when my father was coming up. A lot of men on both sides of my family worked for him at some point in their lives. I really admired Uncle Chick. I still have that sax.

Bernard "Eppie" Grant - Cousin on my father's side. One of my many big cousins on my father's side. He was killed in his early 30s, in the late 1990s. It was a devastating loss and a wake up call to many of us.

Andrew "Gus" Minor - Great uncle on my father's side. Like Uncle Jake, Uncle Gus used to tease me a lot as a kid. I was actually very scared of Uncle Gus when I was a kid, but as I got older I realized he was harmless. You could always count on him to show his moves at every family reunion. He was a dancer. He passed in the late 90s.

Alice Cheatham - My great cousin (my mother's father's cousin). She was a towering woman who came to VA to live in the 90s from NY. Before then, I'd seen her when she'd visit my grandparents on occasion. I remember her as kind with a good sense of humor.

Myrtle Rowe(?) - Great aunt on my father's side. She reminded me so much of my late grandmother. I always loved to see her. She was a great cook and a legendary fisher, from what I hear. :)

Catherine "Fuzzy" Grant - My aunt (father's sister). She passed in 2000 to everyone's surprise. She was the first of my father's 5 sisters to pass. I really miss Aunt Fuzzy. I remember she was with us when my parents reluctantly took me with them to see "Stir Crazy" at the movies in 1980.

Aunt Fuzzy holding me. . . and that's my Dad.

William "Bill" Jenkins - My great uncle on my mother's side. It was tough hearing of Uncle Bill's passing in March 2003. I was living in Brooklyn at the time. I really admired Uncle Bill. He exemplified honor, courage, humility, workmanship, stewardship, and humor. My brother, TJ, and him had a really tight bond. He was a farmer and a cowboy. He owned horses for as long as I can remember. He lived next door to my maternal grandparents, so we always could see him, when we visited them. He and my grandfather were not only brothers, but best of friends. Really really miss Uncle Bill. If you've seen the film, "Secondhand Lions," then you've seen Uncle Bill. Michael Cain's character reminds me so much of him. As a kid, he used to confuse me, because he looked like a White man. Ha! R.I.P. Unc.

Arthur Jenkins - My grandfather (my mother's father). This is still a tough pill to swallow. I looked up to my grandfather tremendously. Like Uncle Bill, he exemplified so many honorable things. My father speaks of his horse-riding abilities back in the day, as legendary. I remember him as the grandfather who'd slip change into my hand, when I was a kid. The grandfather who was quiet and reserved. A deacon of the church. Stoic. The only time I ever saw him cry was at my ordination to become a deacon. He was so proud. Though he may not have fully understood my career choice, he'd always check in with me, in his quiet way: "So, Jay, how's that acting thing going?" He passed in October of 2004 from cancer. I was living in NY and trying to piece together enough money for weeks to get home to see him. I finally made it down to see him on a Friday. The next day, he passed. How I miss him.

Caroline Morton - Cousin on my father's side. Her passing came as a surprise to me and many of our family members. She passed in the summer of 2007. She hadn't even reached 50 yet, and from what I remembered of her, she was full of life and kindness. One of my older cousins that I loved as a kid. I did not see her as much in my adult life, but always had and will always have love for her and her family.

Edith Robinson - Aunt (father's sister). Her passing came right on the heels of Caroline's passing. I was in the final week of "The Unmentionables" at Woolly Mammoth, and really had to pull it together to finish it out. Aunt Edith is my father's oldest sister. Her death really hit him hard. It hit all of us hard, but I'd never seen my father in such a state of mourning. She was so full of life, as well. She was the traveller in the family. She burned up her passport, travelling the world. I always admired her for that. I loved her and her sense of humor so much. She was one of the few people that could curse my Dad out, and he'd be okay with it. LOL! I MISS YOU SO MUCH, AUNT EDITH! In her honor, her kids and grandkids started a charity group, Edith's Roses. Together we've walked to fight diabetes, walked for MADD, given out food at holidays, etc. That is her legacy.

Edith's Roses at a Walk for Diabetes in Manassas, VA.

Nikki Hunter - Cousin on my mother's side. She passed at the age of 38, last year. I remember her more from our childhood, because she used to roll with my Aunt Fay and Cousin "Dimps." It goes without saying that her death came as a surprise. She was a young mother and wife. If the size of her funeral was any testament to her life, then the world definitely lost an angel.

**UPDATE (11/4/11)

Bobby Williams - Cousin on my father's side, who passed last month. He was in his late 40s, so his death was a surprise. As many reminisced on Bobby, they spoke about his humor and his "craziness." He loved to have fun. He had a powerful homegoing service. I mostly remember him from family reunions and dinners. He will definitely be missed by many.

______________________________________

FRIENDS, ASSOCIATES, MENTORS, ETC.

Patricia Grant - Ms. Grant taught for many years at Warren County High School. One of the few African-American teachers and a very strong presence. I never had any of her classes, but having grown up with her 2 sons--Thomas and John--she'd always been a part of my young life. So when I arrived at the high school, she took me under her wing, always offering insight and advice. For that, I grew to love her tremendously. She passed a couple of years ago. The news deeply saddened generations who grew up under her influence.

Elder Isham Williams - I cannot recall when Elder Williams passed. I believe it may have been the late 80s/early 90s. He was the eldest preacher within our Baptist church--only a few years from making 100. He was full of wisdom, and one of the men who mentored my father,when my father first came into the ministry. I remember his humility and his humanity. He was loved by the people and rightly so. He also rubbed elbows with one of Hollywood's finest, Robert Duvall, also a Virginia resident. At the end of the film "The Apostle," there is a little shout out to Elder Williams. I will always remember his lively version of "I'll Fly Away." A wonderful man!

"Miss Maudie" Natt - My best friend's grandmother. Cory Hill and I became best of friends when we were about 5 or 6 years old. We lived across the street from each other. Every weekend, he would either sleep over at my house or I over his. For a time, his grandmother lived with him and his mother, Dorothy. As with most of Cory's family, she treated me as family. When we got into mischief, she scolded us. Etc. She passed in the late '80s, if I remember correctly. A big loss.

Robert "Bud" Hill - Cory's father. A Korean War veteran. He was an older man. The coolest cat on this side of the Mississippi. He always kept his vehicles pristine. I felt honored whenever I got to ride in one. He became a father figure in my life. I remember going to Wild World, trips to Richmond, and around the area, with him, Dorothy, and Cory. He passed in the early 90s, I believe.

"Uncle Homer" Natt - Cory's uncle. He passed in the earlier 2000s. He's to blame for several of my current loves/addictions: kung-fu cinema and movie theaters. While he lived with Cory and Dorothy, he shared a room with Cory. When I spent the night, we'd all watch WWF Wrestling and kung-fu films on Saturday mornings. Then on occasions, we'd walk or take a taxi down to the movie theater on Main St. I especially remember seeing "Rocky III" with him. That was my first "Rocky" movie!

Dr. Scott White, Sr. - I will always think of him as the moderator of 2nd National Ketoctan Baptist Association. One of Elder Isham Williams' contemporaries, he was one of the men that my father looked to for infinite spiritual wisdom. He had a wonderfully kind spirit and was a family man to the core. He has left one of the greatest gospel legacies to ever exist. The Scott White singers outnumber the Tribes of Israel. Their talent is immense. It all started with him and his wife. I came up in our church conference as a youth, when he was a moderator. I loved to hear him speak and sing, even as a kid who would've rather been outside playing. If I'm not mistaken, he passed in the late 90s.

Kenneth Daugherty - A legend of theatre! I had the fortune of being cast by him in Carlyle Brown's "Buffalo Hair," back in 2000. Produced by the African-Continuum Theatre Co., which he'd been instrumental in helping to bring into existence. He was a spitfire who demanded nothing less than your best. I was really saddened by his passing a few years later.

Douglas Brinklow - Doug was a classmate of mine from 4th - 7th grade. From what I understood, he took his own life. I never heard any official report. I do recall he and his sister were teased and bullied because of their perceived economic status. I always tried to be friendly to him. Though I didn't participate in the teasing/bullying, I didn't do anything to stop it. I don't know whatever happened to his sister or family, but I pray that they have peace.

Sis. Edna Kinney - She was the clerk of Shiloh Baptist Church, when my father first arrived as pastor, back in 1986. She was 1 of 3 members, at the time. A kind-hearted, elderly lady who handled the church business like a pro! She passed in the late 80s.

Sis. Robinetta Gardner - Shiloh's piano player. 1 of 3 Shiloh members,when Dad arrived as Pastor. She reminded me so much of my late grandmother. She was so alive and vivacious! She dressed to the "T," and could rock a piano. I loved her dearly. I miss hearing her sing, "In the Garden." Sometimes at church, I look over at the piano and envision her playing and singing. I fortunately still have footage of her. She passed in the mid-90s.

Sis. Sarah Gibert - The final of Dad's original 3 members. She just passed last year. She was a trooper who always wore a huge smile. Her face was so full of sunshine. She took on the clerk duties, after Sis. Kinney passed. For members of the local theatre community, legendary theatre actor, Lizan Mitchell, reminds me so much of her. Sis. Gibert stayed loyal to Shiloh to her final minutes. She is greatly missed.

Donna Dunmyer - My parents' neighbor for many many years. She used to babysit my brother, when we were kids. She underwent gastric bypass surgery back in the 90s, and so when my father was set to have the same surgery, he leaned on her for wisdom and friendship. She just passed within recent months. May she rest in peace. May her family have peace.

Tremayne Sawyers - A classmate of mine. Tremayne (a.k.a. "Punny") and I were buddies in 6th grade. He was a crazy cat. In class, we would be in tears from his clowning! As time went on, we went our separate paths. I last saw him a few years ago at a funeral in Front Royal. Then it was only a year or so later, when the town received the news of his death. Very shocking. Rest in Peace, Bro.

Linda Gaines - My friend, Nova's mother--Cory's mother-in-law. Her passing is relatively recent, as she went on home earlier this year. From Hagerstown, she spent the last several years living in Front Royal. She was always around for our "Dorothy Events," on 11th St. She was lively and fun. Had the nerve to have a Facebook page. LOL! May she rest in peace.

Coryell Hill - *sigh* In a couple of weeks, my godson, Jaquare Hill, will celebrate his 17th birthday. He and Coryell were born prematurely in Charlottesville, VA. Twins. Born to Nova and Cory. Jaquare and Coryell went through quite a few health struggles as preemies,but it seemed that Coryell was the stronger of the two. Unfortuately, he passed on from this world around New Year's 1995. Not even 2 months of age. He never got to come home from the hospital. I hope and pray I never have to view a coffin for an infant ever again. So thankful for bighead Jaquare!

Wayne "Waynie" Brooks, Jr. - One of my brother's classmates. My mother used to babysit "Waynie" when he was an infant/toddler. We used to get a kick out of how he used to pronounce "water." Sounded a lot like "loiter." He died around the age of 12, if I remember correctly. Drowned in the Shenandoah River, while playing with some associates. There was suspicion that foul play may have been involved. The story was even explored on an investigative program on the USA Network back in the early 90s. A very sad time.

Elder Wilmer Bryant - As Elder Williams and Dr. White mentioned before, Elder Bryant was a classic example of what a follower of God should be: humble, wise, kind, slow to speak, quick to listen. Well-known for singing, "Stay on the Rock," and his willingness to walk wherever to church. He didn't drive, and if he was unable to get a ride, he would walk to his destination. I even heard that he walked/hitch-hiked to Pennsylvania to church. I remember many times, him squeezing in the backseat with my brother and me. As I got older, I even picked him up on occasions or gave him a ride home. He travelled like a classic disciple of God. He had no shame and was one of the most genuine men of God that I'd ever known. He truly believed what he preached. He passed in the mid-2000s. He is missed very much. Legendary in my life.

Dr. T. J. Baltimore - The late pastor of People's Community Baptist Church in Silver Spring, MD. In my mind, he's one of the legends of our 2nd National Ketoctan Baptist Association. He succeeded Dr. White as moderator. He was a well-learned man, who championed education.

Vanessa - I cannot remember her last name right now, but she was my "desk neighbor" at my job for a couple of years. I'd see her when she arrived early in the mornings. Always said, "Good morning," then went about our days. Sometimes, we'd share a laugh. A couple of years ago, she was missing from my morning routine for some days, when we soon discovered that she'd passed. As I'm typing this now, I can look over and see her desk. Still empty. May she rest in peace.

Cynthia Vanderpool - The late wife of Michael Vanderpool, attorney and founder of Vanderpool, Frostick & Nishanian, in Manassas. When I came to VFN as a temp in 2005, she was warm and supportive. Acting as HR, she was enthusiastic about having me join them as a permanent employee, after temping for 1 week. After a month of "file clerking," she approached me about being promoted to post-closing. Later that year I did a show, called "Kingdom," with the African-Continuum Theatre Co. She was so excited. Not only did she come to support the show, Mr. Vanderpool, and 2 other assistants came. I don't think it was even 3 months later, when Mrs. Vanderpool passed. We were all devastated. She and Mr. Vanderpool were a wonderful couple. I will always remember her incredible spirit.

_________________________________________________________

I may have to return to this post and update it as time goes on. I know there are people that I'm forgetting. Blame my mind.

For everyone listed here, I just want to thank you for everything that we've shared, whether it was a "good morning" or infecting me with your love for movies, know that I appreciate it all. I just hope that I can be half the example.

To "Grandma Nanny," I'm too selfish to ever let you fully rest in peace. Thanks for tagging along over the years. :)

Love you,

"That Ugly Thing"

2010: The Year of the Amish Wizard

2010-12-28T05:24:00.000-06:00

I blinked. I just blinked. It was January 1, 2010, I was sitting around a table at Ben's Next Door on U St., in DC, with my girlfriend and a group of people. One of which was comedian, Sinbad. I just blinked, and BOOM, here I am staring 2011 in the face--its big, mysterious, veiled face.

Hello there, beautiful stranger.

I grew up watching Sinbad from Day 1 of his career. My parents and I would faithfully watch him slaughter other comedians in the early-to-mid-80s on "Star Search," week after week. As an impressionable child who was already under the Cosby influence and dreaming of a life as a comedian, Sinbad became one of those fuels that ignited my dream. As the years went on, I followed him on "A Different World," his various HBO comedy specials, his comedy cassettes, etc.

So last December, I was in a show at the Kennedy Center, called "Teddy Roosevelt and the Ghostly Mistletoe." I just remember a lot of snow had recently fallen. We were in our final days of performances, and an excited stage manager came backstage after a show and told us that Sinbad was in the audience with his family. I was SO GEEK'D. I'd been following him on Twitter, so when I went home, I tweeted him a "thank you for your support" tweet. He replied with an invitation to lunch--that Friday--January 1st--Ben's Next Door.

Sonal and I with Sinbad

I could not have thought of a better way to start off a new year! It felt like another instance of something coming full circle in life. If we pay attention, a lot of things come full circle in life, almost daily. . . but this was one of the bigger "full circle" things. Not only did I have a chance to entertain one of my comedic influences, but I got to sit down and break bread with the brotha. (Life is so cool like that!)
February rolled around, and I was unemployed in the acting field. I did the Equity Liaison Auditions like a good actor, that month, but nothing lay on the horizon. Fortunately, my good buddy, Stefan Latoure, hit me up with 2 film projects that he was casting: "When Life Gives You Shoestrings" and "Indigo Heart." Both were set to be directed by 2 female Howard alumnae.

On the day of the auditions, we had just endured the 2ND blizzard of the winter season. I was on the Metro which was being driven by somebody's grandmother that day, because it took FO'EVA (not "forever") to get to Metro Center. I was originally going to try to get to National Archives, but was running so behind, I decided to hoof it in the snow from Metro Center to Woolly Mammoth Theatre, where the film auditions were being held.

I walked in with only 5 minutes to spare. So NOT enough time to prepare as I like. I am anal about punctuality. I barely read through the first side, before I was called in to audition. Now, in my opinion, I completely flubbed the audition for both films. I was unfocused, not on my breath, blah blah blaaaah--patooey! I walked away feeling like I could've kicked a paraplegic parakeet.

Fortunately for me, though, Stefan had seen some of my previous work. I received an email days later, offering me roles in both films. What a relief!

Work!

(Actors love that word.)

Work!

I hadn't done any film since "Too Saved," at the end of 2006, so it would be good to return to the camera. Both films were shot within a couple of weeks, from the end of February to early March. We had to completely reshoot several scenes from "Indigo Heart," because of a bootleg cinematographer. They dropped him and hired Chad Cooper, the One-Man Band. Then a couple of days before the "Shoestrings" shoot, I was offered to upgrade to the male lead which I gladly accepted. (Then I realized there was no way I'd be fully memorized by the shoot date). I literally was on set memorizing each scene before we shot it.

Lynn Bandoria and I in "When Life Gives You Shoestrings"

All in all, both shoots were incredibly fun! These were the directors' first films, and both films have since gone on to several film festivals. Very proud of those 2 gems.

This was also the year of my crazy hair phase. After "Teddy Roosevelt" closed in January, I continued to let my little afro grow, but at the suggestion of my own mother, I stopped combing it. I just let it be, in all of its Morgan Freeman/Don King naturalness. I'm glad I did it, because for the few films that I did during that period, I think it added a little extra. . . quirk!

Add in the goatee, and I became what Sonal (the girlfriend) likes to refer to, as an "Amish wizard."

The Amish Wizard as Travis in "Indigo Heart"

June proved to be a great month. A 3rd film popped up in 2010, "The New N Word." This short was directed by "Too Saved" alumnus, Sowande Tichawonna--another Howard graduate.

Just like on January 1st, I found myself in another "full circle" moment. The film also starred Rain Pryor ("Head of the Class"), daughter of the one and ONLY Richard Pryor. As the son of a preacher, my parents forbade me to watch R-rated films as a child, but for some reason I remember seeing ALL of Richard Pryor's movies (save the stand-up concert films) at a young age. Even my sanctified parents could not resist the pull of Pryor. Beyond that, I was a fan of "Head of the Class." It filled my head with ideas of what high school would be like, much like how "A Different World" prepared me for college.

*smirk*

Anyway, I always digress. I got a chance to sit across from Rain and watch her work. We had a scene, one-on-one. It was the coolest. The best part of it was that it didn't take long to realize that her father did not have to be who he was. She alone was one of the coolest, most down-to-earth--hilarious--people I could've cared to work with.

To make matters even better, Erik Todd Dellums also stars in this film, as my best friend, Raymond. To just have a chance to sit in his presence and hear his stories of "Homicide," "The Doors," "The Wire," and Hollywood in general made it all worth it.

Pictured with Rain Pryor in "The New N Word."

This was yet another experience that made me want to high-five God. (YOU ARE THE DIVINE ENTITY!)

Sonal trying to intimidate a statue in downtown Detroit

On a personal note: at the end of June, I flew out to Michigan to meet Sonal's parents for the first time. The trip was spectacular! They have such a beautiful home in West Bloomfield, which is about 30 miles outside of Detroit. They are surrounded in nature and peace, so it made for such a nice get-away. For a few days, I got to experience Indian food and culture. Her father, a retired architect, showed me the Jain temple that he designed. I received a crash course in Jainism, as well. On the day of my return, my flight was cancelled by DELTA (still a bit salty), so I had to stay an extra day. I was actually happy to stay an extra day, because I really needed the vacation. Sonal and I even managed to get in some quality time with the city of Detroit.

The final week of July, I found myself engaged in an incredible opportunity at the Kennedy Center. Several local actors were asked to be a part of the MFA Playwrights workshop. Several playwriting students from various universities across the nation had their plays workshopped by directors and actors, and at the end of the week--staged readings! I was so enamored with the 2 pieces on which I got to work: "King Nigga" and "The Last Pair of Earlies." Plus I got the chance to work with an old hometown girl, from Winchester, whose father owns the Afro-Centric clothing store, Jordan's, that I frequented as a teen and youngER man.

Sis. Gloria Lomax and Sis. Betty Williams of the Scott White Family.

Each year, during the 3rd week in August, is my time to reunite with my church family--from Pennsylvania to Virginia. The 2nd National Ketoctan Baptist Association always convenes for a full week of worship and fellowship. This year, we were in Winchester. I was only able to make it from Friday through Sunday, but I have always always ALWAYS enjoyed attending, even when I was a kid who thought church was boring. There is just such a familial joy along with the praise and worship. So much so that I'm always left with a void on those final Sundays, as the week comes to an end, and we all must part our ways. I am thankful, though, that these days Facebook allows us to stay connected throughout the year, unlike in years past.

The very end of August began the rehearsal process for my one and only theatre production in 2010. . . BUNNICULA! Directed by Nick Olcott at Imagination Stage, this family-friendly romp featured the talents of MJ Casey and Tia Shearer, as the 2 main characters. I'd been wanting to work with MJ for years, so I was completely disappointed to find out he was such a jerk.

LOL! Jokes!

Seriously, love that guy! I really had a blast with the whole cast and crew. The coup de gras had to be Josh Sticklin attempting to Roger Rabbit backstage, while the show was going on. I had to flee through the backstage doors, before I burst into a fit of laughter which would've pissed MJ and Tia completely off, I'm sure.

Here's video of Josh attempting the Roger Rabbit, after our last show. (Fast forward until you get close to the end, before the 15 minute mark).

Somewhere around September, I decided to purchase a Playstation 3. I had not had a gaming console in over a decade, so I had plenty of time to convince myself, "Hey! If I get a PS3, I'll probably just play a game here and there, but mostly I'll use it to watch blu-ray dvds."

WRONG!!!!!

Let's just say that by this point I am fully able to admit that I have a problem. I'm exhibiting all signs of addiction. Some days I lock myself in my room and just play. . . all day.

It started with the first "God of War." Then came "God of War 2." Defeated those, so then I went on to defeat:

Bioshock
Assassin's Creed
Unchartered: Drake's Fortune
Batman: Arkham Asylum

One of the first games I purchased back in September was "Dragon Age: Origins," a role-playing game, featuring dragons, dwarves, elves, rogues and mages. Didn't take to it at first. Preferred all of the other games over it. Then a few weeks ago, something clicked, and I fell head-over-heels in love with the game. After playing it for 3 months, the seemingly infinite possibilities that your character is allowed suddenly struck a chord in my heart. Last week, I finally defeated the game with a Level 21 Human Mage, that I named "Tinsdale."

The day after, I was right back at it with a female Dwarf Rogue, named "Fera." She's now Level 10, but we are making our way back through Ferelden for a 2nd go-round.

Other games that I am currently enganged in:

Assassin's Creed II
Borderlands
God of War 3
Civil War: Secret Missions

Just ordered "Dragon Age: Awakening". I got it BAD.

Oh, I do watch blu-ray dvds too. I just watched "Kick Ass" last night, as I took a break in between games.

Recently, I asked for prayer for a cousin of mine, Larry Carter. He's a 21 year old father of one, with another only a couple of months away. A couple of weeks ago, he fell asleep at the wheel and was in a serious accident. Did quite a bit of damage to his spine, but he's alive. He's in INova Fairfax Hospital. I've gone up to see him on several occasions and he's making progress daily. His father, Larry, is sparing no expense to make sure that "Little Larry" receives the best care possible. We've always called him "Little Larry," but the irony of it, now, is that he stands at 6'6". Probably the tallest member of our family.

At this point, we do not know if he will be wheelchair bound or if he'll regain full function of his limbs. We just want God's will to be done. He seems to have a motivation to heal. So please continue to pray for him and for our family.

Looking back at 2010 has made me realize once again how truly blessed I am. I do what I love. I'm surrounded by the people and a God that I love. I just hope that I can continue to let people know how much they mean to me.

I took on a project back in February, called "Making History," which highlighted various members of the local theatre and film community--one per day. It ran on Facebook from February through September (with a break in April). I learned so much about the people in our community. If no one else was blessed, I sure was.

Also on Facebook, as I'm sure with many of you, came many surprises. Many old friends--some that I thought I'd never see again, re-emerged. For that, Facebook, thank you.

2011 holds some promise. I have 2 film projects lined up. One is a short, directed by Demetrius Parker, Sr., called "The Favor," a sharp comedy dealing with 2 best friends and race. The 2nd film project is a feature--the 2nd feature from Nubia Filmworks, "Nocturnal Agony," starring Deidra Lawan Starnes as the lead. The film will also feature many actors from Nubia's first film, "Too Saved," and actors, Vernee Watson-Johnson ("Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" and "Welcome Back, Kotter") and Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs ("Cooley High" and "Welcome Back, Kotter").

I'm itching for the next theatre project, so stay tuned for that.

I know in reflecting over the past year, I've forgotten something, so don't be surprised if there's a follow-up blog entry. . . or two. . . or three, maybe.

Peace and love in the New Year!

15 Years Ago. . .

2010-10-16T08:40:00.000-05:00

Rockin' my Million Man March t-shirt 2 years after the event

My Junior year at Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA. I was in rehearsals for Moliere's "The Misanthrope," directed by the late Dr. Kenneth Campbell, a towering, gray-haired, liberal Scotsman, that I grew to love and respect during my years at VCU. I'd been hearing for quite some time of the upcoming Million Man March that was to take place on October 16, 1995, on the Mall in Washington, DC, but being a good student/actor, I didn't want to miss a day of classes and rehearsal, so I'd resolved not to make an effort to attend.

However, it was about a week before the big event, and the VCU Chapter of the NAACP started advertising that a bus would be going from VCU to DC on that day. Students only had to pay $15. That thing marinated in my spirit for days! Could I afford to miss a day of classes and rehearsal? As the deadline approached to pay the $15, the answer became "yes." This was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

So I moseyed over to the NAACP office on campus and paid my money. Received my receipt, which I still keep in a scrapbook today.

I remember how nervous I was approaching Dr. Campbell and our stage manager in order to ask permission to miss a day of rehearsal. Dr. Campbell gave me his blessing. He said that he knew how important the event was, but when I returned I had to make sure I didn't fall behind.

The bus was going to depart around 3AM from the VCU Campus, on the morning of the 16th. So I made a real effort to go to bed by 8PM the night before. I think I tossed and turned mostly.

On the bus, I recognized a couple of classmates from Dr. W. Avon Drake's Civil Rights Movement course that we were taking that semester, Todd and Tee. Todd had some friends with him. We all basically formed our MMM group. On the bus, also, was a young beautiful brown-skinned freshman girl, named Felicia. She decided to go alone. We struck up conversation, so she joined in our group. She had a very quiet disposition about her, which I liked.

When the bus arrived in DC, the sun was just starting to reveal a few rays over the horizon. We walked close enough to the where the multi-faith prayers would be taking place at the start of the event. The night time was sluggishly making its exit, and the streets were PACKED. Brothers were everywhere, smiling, meeting, greeting:

"Hey brothers! Where you from? We just got in from Detroit!"

"God bless you, Brothers!"

"Peace be with you all!"

It was a beautiful mayhem.

Felicia and I stood, awaiting the opening prayers. I found out that she was the youngest of nine children, and that she was from Norfolk. Finally the prayers happened, and daytime started to take over. Our group decided to take a walk around this sea of people. We noticed that there weren't just Black men present, but women too--White men and women--Latino, Asian. . . and it was all love.

We were tired, hungry, and chilly, so we walked into the Air and Space Museum. We went into one of the auditoriums, just so that we could sit down--and catch a quick, warm nap. Then I think we just roamed about the Mall for the rest of the day, pausing to listen to certain speakers. While roaming we ran into August Moon, an outspoken, local Richmond cable-access celebrity, who gave us an enthusiastic greeting. And later, I ran into Mr. Frederick Jordan, who owns and runs a men's clothing store in Winchester, VA. He was the only Black business owner in the area, who catered to the community. When he first opened, I was in high school. I used to purchase all of my medallions and Afrocentric t-shirts from him. Plus he just always had uplifting conversation. I was very surprised and happy to run into him at this March.

(For those in the DC theatre community, if you saw "Eclipsed" at Woolly Mammoth Theatre, his daughter, Ayesha Ngaujah, was in that show.)

Finally, we had to board the bus around 6PM, just as Minister Louis Farrakhan--the mastermind behind the whole event--was about to take stage. I was sad about having to leave at that point, but we'd had a full day. I remember nothing after departing. I wasn't drunk or anything--probably just passed out.

Felicia and I went a few times over the next couple of years--even after I graduated, we went out a couple of times. Nothing serious ever came about, and we eventually lost touch, but she was a very sweet person.

As far as I was concerned, the March was a success. I know people were very skeptical and still to this day, I hear a lot of cynicism. There was no way one march could've solved the deep-seated issues of our community and country, but if only to gather hundreds of thousands together for a day of peace and love, then I'd say it was a success.

The spirit of that day still stays with me. Hard to believe it was 15 years ago.

Happy anniversary to my Brothers!

FINISH HIM!

2010-09-24T04:40:00.000-05:00

The LAST time I bought a gaming console was during freshman year of college. I remember going into a Kay Bee Toy Store at a mall in Richmond, VA--possibly Cloverleaf, but that cannot be verified at this time--and dropping over 100 bones for it, but walking away with a great sense of elation. Freshman and sophomore years were filled with many nights of Mortal Kombat 2 tourneys in my dorm room. Then I remember being hooked on Super Mario World. The ultimate addiction came during my Senior year, when my homeboy, Rashad, let me borrow the latest incarnation of the Legend of Zelda. I think I hibernated for a week in my dorm room. Even skipped some classes. I sometimes wonder now if my acting suffers today, because I missed some valuable lessons during that Zelda binge.

After defeating Zelda, things started to go downhill. I became bored with the SNES. Life was on the verge of turning a new page. "Real life" loomed on the outside of the dorm walls. Graduation drew near.

In 1997, I resolved to give up buying the latest greatest game consoles, because they would just continue to upgrade every year, and that was a habit I couldn't afford.

So I took up smoking.

No, I didn't.

I did watch as the game consoles evolved over the years. The controllers became more complex, developing more buttons than any one individual has fingers. The graphics went from Pong to Final Fantasy. When feeling brave, I'd even vie for an opportunity to lose at Madden (insert early 2000's) to a friend or little cousin.

Then came the PlayStation 3, in all of its sexiness--Blu-Ray DVD player, Netflix Streaming, Internets, Blu-Ray DV--I already said that. I resisted it for too long. Finally last week, it got the best of me. I have Target in Fair Lakes to thank for having 1 console left. I have always loved fantasy/adventure games, so I got the "God of War" Collection, which has the 1st 2 games. Then a couple of days ago, I stopped at Game Stop (appropriately named) in Vienna, and accidentally walked out with 2 more games on purpose--after paying, of course. "Mortal Kombat vs. DC Universe" and "Fight Night Round 3."

I've already been sucked into "God of War." I just played "MK vs. DCU" for the first time yesterday. I played FNR3 after I bought it.

I can feel my world shifting again.

When I sleep, I dream of "X, X, ^, O" combinations. R2+O. L1, L1, X.

If I disappear, just have my roommate check my room. I could very well be overdosing on the beautiful sound of "LIU KANG WINS!"

Pray for me, Church!

Let Grow and Let God

2010-09-06T21:24:00.000-05:00

As Mr. Primm in Lyle

I have finally let go of it all--my hair, not my past. I still need help with the latter. I started growing my hair a little over a year ago, when I was performing in Lyle the Crocodile at Imagination Stage. No real reason. Just because I could.

By the time Teddy Roosevelt and the Ghostly Mistletoe rolled around in December, I had a nice lil afro. I combed and groomed it daily. . . even talked to it to help it grow (don't judge!).

The thought to let it grow and NOT comb it actually came from my own mother. It was January, and Teddy was closed. I thought why not. Never did it before. It'd be a new venture.

So then began the growth--mentally, spiritually, and follicly. (Incorrect grammar intentional.) Theatre work wasn't pouring in, but film work started to pick back up. I managed to do 3 films from Feburary to June (When Life Gives You Shoestrings, Indigo Heart, and The New "N" Word), all the while managing to keep the ever-growing do. I'd resolved to keep the hair until a paying acting gig came along that required me to cut it.

Teddy Roosevelt and the Ghostly Mistletoe (Kennedy Center's Theatre for Young Audiences)

Alas, the day has come, in the form of Bunnicula. Full circle. Back at Imagination Stage, where the growth began, and now has ended.

No tears. No remorse. Just puppy-dog eyes:

My face mourns!

Remotely Controlled

2010-08-20T05:01:00.000-05:00

I am drowning in TV shows! At this moment I am binging on the small screen. Netflix has made it all too easy with that little "Add" button. Seems like there should be more steps involved--verifications, ID checks--something to make the process less efficient and more of a nuisance.

Argh!

As it is, I am currently in the middle of:

1.) Homicide - Seasons 1 & 2
2.) Arrested Development - Season 2

3.) Sanford & Son - Season 1

4.) X-Files - Season 1 (almost finished)

5.) Ghost Hunters International - current season

6.) Glee - Season 1 (Just got Disc 1)

7.) Dexter - Season 4 (Just got Disc 1) <---personal favorite

Praise the Lord that "Last Comic Standing" has wrapped this season. I need a hobby, but I think that's what actually led me to this point in the first place.

Almost positive that by the end of next week, there will be a new show to add to this list.

Maybe I should take up crack as a habit.

Remain Nameless

2010-08-07T06:24:00.000-05:00

Last evening, I had the pleasure of filling in for an actor who was unable to do an added performance for a show at the DC Black Theatre Festival. The play is called "Harlem 9/11," by Steve Langley. I was contacted and sent the script on Wednesday. No pressure, I could carry the script onstage with me. The director, my friend, Angelisa Gillyard, agreed to meet me at 3PM yesterday at the Atlas Performing Arts Center to go over all of my blocking, props, costume changes, etc. Curtain was at 8PM.

There was a show that was taking place at 6PM in the same space--a show that shall remain nameless. We knew this going in, no biggie.

So it was sometime after 5PM, and we were informed by Atlas staff that we had 20 more minutes in the space. We were a little over halfway through the script, working to get me up to speed.

No lie, about 10 minutes later, the doors of the theatre lab space burst open. The heavens parted! Lightning flashed across the Western Hemisphere! And in walked a lady--who shall remain nameless, because honestly I don't know her name. "I'm not trying to be a diva"--instant red flag--"but I need this space! I didn't get this space on time yesterday, and my characters were running all into each other! I apologize, but I need this space to focus," she railed as she trotted around the space.

?

? again.

*blink* *blink*

I was puzzled because I was the new guy. I was gauging Angelisa for a reaction, but she appeared to be counting down from 10. I wasn't going to move from the stage, until the director said to move. After a deep sigh, though, Angelisa told us to gather our things so that we could continue in the green room. (I do think I remember a moment of Angelisa going for her earrings to take them off, but then Jesus must've stepped into her heart).

Now, I didn't know who this lady was. If she were Patti Labelle, ReRe, Gladys Knight. . . or even Jasmine Guy, I would've bowed at her feet. Unless you are one of those names, however, then there is a way that your mother taught you to address people in situations like this. It's called "diplomacy." Angelisa is a VERY reasonable and approachable person. The drama queen could've simply slipped into the doors and pulled Angelisa to the side. She could've stated her case--politely--using some keywords like "please" and "appreciate." I guarantee she woud've received the same result, and no hard feelings.

As it was, when we got to the green room, the comedy of it all was revealed:

IT WAS A ONE-WOMAN SHOW!

How are your characters "running into each other"? Couldn't you have practiced in a bathroom stall? You're the only performer! Now you just sound crazy. Unnecessarily crazy.

Then I found out that on the previous evening, "Harlem 9/11's" tech rehearsal got extended significantly, because this lady was rather late. . . by an hour or two.

Yeah.

So the reason she didn't get into her space until late, and her characters were running into each other, was, of course. . .

. . . her own fault. :)

To that, I tip my hat and laugh.

(Remaining nameless)---->

Moving Nowhere

2010-07-21T04:24:00.004-05:00

Amidst all that is going on this week--Shakespeare audition, meeting, film screenings, haircut--I almost forgot that I have to move. Yes, I am moving from my apartment. The thing is, I'm only moving a few courtyards down. Still reppin' Mosby Landing, Vienna, VA, but my roommate just purchased a bigger unit, with 2.5 bathrooms, so he'll be renting the one where we currently reside.

The downside is that we're about 10 seconds further away from the main road--Rt. 123--so my commute to everywhere is going to increase by 10 seconds. In 6 car trips, that's a whole minute lost.

I've already claimed the half bathroom. I figure I can save time, by only taking a half shower. Brushing half my teeth. Using the bathroom, and washing only one hand.

My goal is to be completely moved out by Saturday afternoon, only because my roommate said the internet modem is going to be moved by then. I could stay in the current place until the end of the month, but who could survive a week without wi-fi?

Peace! Unity! Love! (...and having fun!)

2010-07-15T05:00:00.010-05:00

Saturday, I found myself--with girlfriend riding shotgun--at the Columbia Heights Youth Center in the newly gentrified Columbia Heights area of NW DC. We arrived around 4PM. The DC Hip Hop Theatre Festival was in town, and Words Beats & Life was hosting this year's "Freshest of All Time", a b-boy/b-girl battle, that took place from 2pm - 8pm.

Fortunately, I carried my Flip video cam to document this experience, because as I walked around in this wide open gym space, filled with people respecting the original form of hip-hop, it hit me--What other art form has managed to bridge cultural gaps so effectively?

The self-absorption of today's mainstream hip-hop artists (possibly an unfair generalization) would almost make one forget the origins of hip-hop, and the goals of peace, unity and love. Sounds like a bunch o' hippie crap, but listen to some old Afrika Bambaataa. (I love hippies, by the way).

With so many fake rap gangstas getting all of the attention these days, claiming Blood, Crip, Folks, etc., someone not schooled in the entirety of hip-hop would get the impression that it's all about division and violence.

Anyway, as I stood among the hundreds of people in that youth center on Saturday, for hours, I stood among a vast number of Asians, African-Americans, Latinos, and Whites--many from each culture VERY skilled in the art of b-boyin'. They just wanted to dance. I saw people dancing with each other, sans prejudice. Just the normal posturing, but that's just a part of the culture.

All of these people vibing together in one room, in a neighborhood still battling with its own identity among rebuilding and gentrification. In a neighborhood, that still is the home to the occasional murder. I know this, because I see it on the news--NBC 4, Fox 5, ABC 7, CBS 9.

Where were those reporters on Saturday? All of that love, unity and peace and one room, and not 1 news camera.

Well, I had my camera. Here are a few clips from what I saw that day:

HIP HISTORY DISC 8 (2009 – 2010. . .THEN BACK IN TIME)

2010-07-04T11:20:00.008-05:00

1. D.O.A. (Death of Autotune) – Jay-Z – The “god of rap” almost single-handedly shut down the auto-tune movement in hip-hop and r&b. Made famous in the 70s and 80s by Roger Troutman and ZAPP, auto-tune resurfaced in recent years, thanks to the efforts of producer, T-Pain. Highly criticized for its ability to make any talentless joe a hitmaker, auto-tune became a tool of controversy. I guess Jay was tired of its over-usage. Thus this single exploded onto the airwaves, right before he dropped his latest album, “Blueprint 3.”

2. House of Flying Daggers – Raekwon – this Wu-Tang heavy-hitter struck gold with his latest album, “Only Built 4 Cuban Linx II,” released on the same date as Jay-Z’s “Blueprint 3.” Much to everyone’s surprise, Raekwon started out-selling Jay-Z in online sales and downloads, plus this album brought Raekwon many accolades, which he lacked from a flurry of bad albums, released after the first “Only Built. . .” album. This song begins with Inspectah Deck, known for starting off a Wu song right. This track sort of brings that old Wu feeling back.

3. Medicine Ball – Eminem – After being on a hiatus for a few years, Eminem returned in 2009 with his album, “Relapse.” Though considered a miss by most critics and listeners, I was a fan. This song is an example of Em going to the extreme, however. In this song, I would say he even goes overboard, by heartlessly joking on the late Christopher Reeves. Love Em or Hate Em, he sure knows how to stir a big bowl of controversy.

4. Drop the World – Lil Wayne ft. Eminem – After so much success at his heels, Lil Wayne has been talking about putting out a rock album for a couple years. This is the first single from off that effort. While it still sounds very much grounded in the hip-hop world, there is an element of guitar and rebellious angst. And who better with which to team up than King Angst, Eminem. I dig the song, though, because I do feel, at times, like doing what they speak of in the hook.

5. I Wanna Rock – Snoop Dogg – Snoop outdoes himself with this hot single from his latest album. It’s a tribute to the Rob Base classic, “It Takes Two.” Snoop just smoothes it out with his West Coast vibe. The beat is hot. I definitely wanna rock right now.

6. I Wanna Rock Too – Skillz – The VA underground legend adds his own wit and lyricism to Snoop’s hit record. Just another testament to why his name is Skillz.

7. It’s That Wu-Sh*t – Method Man, Raekwon & Ghostface Killah – This album is barely a month old. Three of Wu Tang’s big wigs united recently to give hip-hop their version of the 3 Tenors. LOL! The world needs to always be reminded it’s about the Wu.

BONUS TRACKS
(These are tracks that I may have overlooked when initially combing through songs for this anthology. They span the decades.)

8. Paid In Full (7 Minutes of Madness – The Coldcut Remix) – Eric B. & Rakim – I would’ve kicked myself if I didn’t include this in the anthology. This song and this group are legendary! Rakim revolutionized rhyming with his complex rhyme scheme. Before him, rappers were only rhyming at the ends of their lines. He brought about the idea of rhyming inside of lines, and it just sounded so sweet, back in the late 80s. This is one of the only songs—other than “Electric Relaxation”—that I have memorized.

9. Blue Cheese – The UMCs – To be honest, I’m not an expert on the UMCs. I used to love this song, and it is considered a classic. They were one of the firsts to represent Staten Island, before the Wu-Tang, circa 1991.

10. Ya Gotz To Chill – EPMD –Just like Eric B. & Rakim, I would’ve been remiss, if I failed to put an EPMD track in this anthology. This head-nodding classic was made “re-famous” in the Ice Cube film, “Barbershop.” However, EPMD was a hard-hitting duo who came out swinging in the late 80s, only to break-up in the mid-90s. The hip-hop community was heartbroken, but they left the world with many hits, including this one.

11. The Gas Face – 3rd Bass – This duo scored a hit with this diss-laden track, where they get to let off some steam at different world figures and pop culture icons of the time. The “gas face” became a bit of a dance craze, without the dance. Hip hop heads will still bring it up on occasions, as a joke. You have to see the music video to get an idea of what a “gas face” looks like. LOL! This song also caused a bit of a beef between 3rd Bass and Vanilla Ice AND MC Hammer.

12. I’ll Take Her – Ill Al Skratch ft. Brian McKnight – This is a hip-hop/R&B collaboration classic! Ill Al Skratch were short-lived rap group in the 90s—a 2-hit wonder (possibly 1-hit, depending on who you talk to), but this single was their major homerun. R&B crooner, Brian McKnight’s vocals are the main attraction.

13. Sittin’ on Chrome – Masta Ace, Inc. – Back in the mid-to-late 90s, Masta Ace hit it big with this bass-heavy summer jam. I don’t think I’ll ever grow tired of this song. I love love love this track. Another song designed strictly for riding around in your vehicle.

14. Sobb Story – Leaders of the New School – Back in the early 90s, this trio popped up on the scene, young and energetic. The obvious stand-out though was the very young, Busta Rhymes, who is still putting out hits to this day. This song is a fun story-telling track of people and their sob stories.

15. Jump – Kris Kross – I couldn’t leave out the contributions of kids to hip-hop. “Jump” is definitely a classic hit from this little Atlanta duo, founded by Jermaine Dupri. If you haven’t heard this song, you definitely lived under a rock.

16. Get Money (Remix) – Jr. Mafia ft. Notorious B.I.G. – The remix is just as hot as the original, in my opinion. I love them both, and now you have them both. Just a great dance/club song that encourages us all to acquire financial gain.

17. Five Minutes of Funk – Whodini – This legendary hip-hop group put out this early classic in 1984. It’s pure hip-hop that evokes the b-boy/b-girl inside.

18. Burn Hollywood Burn –Public Enemy ft. Ice Cube and Big Daddy Kane – It gives me great pleasure to end this anthology with my favorite group of all-time, and their single that touched on an issue very close to me—the images of Blacks in Hollywood. A very poignant track with powerful lyrics. Really stirred my mind back in the day.

HIP HOP HISTORY DISC 7 (2002 – 2008)

2010-07-04T10:51:00.006-05:00

1. Grindin’ – The Clipse – In 2002, a new duo from VA hit the scene with this simple, yet super-infectious hip-hop beat, followed up by nasally street-laced lyrics. The Clipse, originally from NYC, lived most of their life in VA. Founded by super-producer, Pharrell Williams, these 2 are a solid rap duo. This song is classic, as far as I’m concerned. The beat is so hot!

2. 24s – T.I. – Another son of Atlanta, T.I. surfaced with an already solid underground following. He was known for his convincing street swagger and gun-talk. Fortunately, this single is mostly about rims. He and Ludacris had a brief battle, centering around who is the real “King of the South.” This song caught my attention, because the hook is catchy. It was T.I.’s introduction to the mainstream.

3. Pastor Skillz – Skillz – This track has had no commercial success, but Skillz shows his dedication to the legacy of original hip-hop with this humorous rap sketch, where he portrays a pastor chiding his congregation for being hypocrites. It’s very clever, and a lot of fun.

4. Jesus Walks – Kanye West –Herein enters Kanye West. . . and the world would never be the same. He made a song about Jesus Christ a pop/radio hit. Kanye does have a golden touch, regardless of how crass he can be. This song is hot!

5. Virgo – Nas ft. Ludacris and Doug E. Fresh – This is not a team that I would’ve thought up on my own, but I’m glad someone did. These 3 are linked by their zodiac sign. Thank God, because this track is crazy! Doug E. Fresh brings his legendary beat-boxing skills to support lyrical gods Nas and Ludacris. A track made in heaven.

6. Get Crunk – Lil Jon & The Eastside Boyz – Again the Southern hip-hop/rap movement always leaves me conflicted. I was not a fan of the whole “crunk” movement that arose in the late 90s/early 2000s, but eventually warmed up to select songs and artists. Lil Jon is one of the legends of crunk. This track is a good example of this testosterone-driven genre of rap. It’s raunchy and aggressive.

7. Take It Easy – The Fugees – The short-lived, but legendary group, the Fugees, teased the world in 2004, by reuniting with the promise of an upcoming album. All we got was this single. Just a glimmer of their former glory. Lauryn Hill, we still await your return to sanity.

8. Get By – Talib Kweli – Hip-hop purist and ½ of the super underground group, Black Star, Talib Kweli cooked up this uber-inspirational anthem in 2002. It’s the type of song that wakes you up in the morning and gets you motivated to make it through the next 24 hours. I absolutely love it!

9. Mind on the Road – Rev. Run – After years away from the microphone, the legendary MC and ½ of pioneering group, Run-DMC, returned solo to the mic to prove that he still “got it.” Now a minister, Rev. Run still manages to remind the world on this track WHOSE HOUSE this is.

10. Just Like Me – DMC ft. Sarah McLachlan – The other ½ of the legendary Run-DMC, after many health battles, decided to embark on a solo project around the same time as Rev. Run. Teaming up with my favorite female vocalist, Sarah, he managed to eek out this radio-friendly tune. His health issues affect his voice directly, and it sounds like a struggle to hear him rap. Good thing Sarah’s sweet vocals are there to back him up.

11. Won’t Do – J. Dilla – The late, great super-producer and former member of Slum Village dropped this album around the time of his ill-timed death. This is a nice track and a great way to remember him. Just some real hip-hop.

12. Sittin’ Sidewayz – Paul Wall – In 2005, Houston, TX started to explode onto the rap scene. Though I was (and in many ways still am) a reluctant customer, I did take a liking to Paul Wall—the South’s White rapping sensation. This song is just the right song to have turned up on your car stereo. It’s all about riding and showing off your vehicle. The beat and hook are mean…in a good way.

13. Cupid’s Chokehold – Gym Class Heroes – Listening to these guys makes me feel old. They are definitely for the high school/college crowd, but their yesteryear stylings make me long for the early 90s, when fun rap groups, like Pharcyde, roamed the Earth. This is a cute-ish story about a doting young boy.

14. Black Republican – Nas ft. Jay-Z – After the intense battle that occurred years prior to this song, no one would’ve ever imagined that this would even be possible. Nas’s and Jay-Z’s reconciliation was a monumental moment in hip-hop. This song is a testament to that. They’re 2 of the greatest to have ever done it.

15. The Rhythm The Rebel –Hueman Prophets – Whoa! These guys should sound familiar. It’s our boy, Baye, and his partner, Jabari, on this stripped-down-to-the-djembe track. It’s simple genius. These guys are students, and in turn teachers, of hip-hop in its purest form. The world needs to know their name.

16. The Heart Gently Weeps – Wu Tang Clan ft. Erykah Badu – My boys returned to collaborate on another album in 2007. The Wu had undergone a lot of inner turmoil over this past decade, including the death of the Ol’ Dirty Bastard, plus Ghostface Killah going rogue. They managed to put aside their differences to put out this album. This single features the outside-of-the-box singer, Erykah Badu. It’s a remake of a Beatles’ hit. Replace “Heart” with “Guitar,” though.

17. Paper Planes – M.I.A. – Another hit for a female rapper! This song has been huge over the past couple of years. After appearing in “Pineapple Express” and “Slumdog Millionaire,” it was also sampled by T.I. for his single, “Swagga Like Us,” and remixed over and over again. It’s a very cool song, I think. Plus it’s kinda hot to hear an English female rapping.

18. 88 – Cool Kids – These guys have been described as the new Beastie Boys. I don’t know about that, but their hipster-type attitude and heavy-thumping tracks are hard for me to pass up. They found each other on MySpace, where they first achieved buzz some years ago. I dig their style.

19. I’m Innocent – Murs – This guy created buzz a couple of years ago. He exemplifies the everyday brotha, like me. He’s not a thug. He won’t rob you. He is vulnerable to being human and having an opinion. He’s a West Coast rapper without all of the gun-talk. He sometimes uses his voice for fun, and sometimes he gets political. This is a good track by him. You also may want to google him, just to check out his crazy hair.

20. Move – Q-Tip – The legendary leader of the much-missed A Tribe Called Quest put out a wonderful, and much-anticipated solo album, “The Renaissance,” back in 2008. This was a nice, danceable track that re-introduced this legend to the world.

HIP HOP HISTORY DISC 6 (1994 – 2002)

2010-07-04T10:23:00.006-05:00

1. Flava in Your Ear (Remix) – Craig Mack – I had to go back a few years, from where the last disc left off, because there were a couple songs that I’d forgotten to include in the last disc. This classic is the best remix, in my humble opinion, ever! It features Biggie Smalls, Rampage, LL Cool J, and Busta Rhymes. It is pure FIRE!

2. Vocab (Refugees Hip Hop Remix) – The Fugees – Too many people don’t realize that the Fugees actually had an album out before they scored with their CLASSIC 2nd album, “The Score.” This was a chill little track that I was a big fan of back in 1994.

3. Runnin’ - Notorious B.I.G. & 2Pac – This posthumous pairing of the 2 earthly rivals was something I believe people needed to hear. This song was released in 1998 after both had been killed in 2 separate incidents only months apart, from 1996 – 1997. A sad reminder of 2 lives gone too soon.

4. Respiration – Black Star featuring Common – Black Star is comprised of Mos Def and Talib Kweli who are now solo artists, but still very close compadres. Mos has gone on to become a very prolific and skilled actor. Chicago’s own poet/MC, Common, could’ve very well been considered a 3rd member of Black Star. This song is probably the most lyrically poetic hip-hop song that I’ve ever heard. It’s beautiful urban poetry. I’m a HUGE fan!

5. Back That Azz Up – Juvenile – By 1998, this is what hip hop had come to. LOL! Juvenile was another New Orleans rapper who emerged from the underground with an already huge following. This song catapulted him to commercial success, because it was an instant hit for the clubs. I begrudglingly nodded my head to it, while brooding about the state of my hip-hop music. LOL!

6. Get At Me Dog – DMX – Nowadays is known moreso for his troubles than his music, but in 1998, this guy exploded on the scene!!! This song was pure testosterone and energy. I loved it! Before the world knew it, I was proclaiming that he was going to be the next big thing. He was the first rapper to ever put out 2 albums in 1 year.

7. Hate Me Now – Nas ft. Puff Daddy – This signifies the time when Nas was considered “falling off.” He’d started to become too “pop,” and strayed far away from his Illmatic days. This song was from Nas’s 3rd album, It Was Written. . ., which many hip-hop heads consider when Nas was at his lowest. The original video for this song sparked controversy, because there was originally an image of Puff Daddy hanging on the cross. The whole video’s theme is crucifixion, which naturally caused an uproar.

8. My Name Is – Eminem – And then there was Eminem. . . THE END. LOL! When I first heard this song, I was in my car, stuck in traffic on I-66 near Falls Church, headed into DC. I thought the song was CRAZY. Quirky and hilarious! I loved it. I was soon shocked to find out that the artist was White. That sparked an immense curiosity. . . and I’ve been a fan since! Eminem shook up the world! Dr. Dre’s biggest find since Snoop Dogg.

9. Thelonius – Slum Village ft. Common –This song has no real significance in the hip-hop world at large. However, it is one of my all-time FAVORITE tracks ever. When I first heard of Slum Village, I thought they were some new gangsta rappers, because of their name, but when I first heard their album, “Fantastic, Vol. 2,” I was fascinated. These Detroit rappers’ style is like they are making it up as they go. It’s mischievous, witty, creative and free. On this track, the super-producer, J. Dilla/Jay-Dee steps from behind the beat machines and actually rhymes, bringing up the rear. He slays his verse with masterful, tongue-twisting wordplay. I would often rewind his verse over and over again. These guys knew how to play with a beat, almost in jazz-like fashion. Unfortunately, after this album, J. Dilla left the group to pursue a solo career and continue as a super-producer. His beats are untouchable. Not much longer after leaving the group, Dilla, who suffered with lupus, succumbed to the disease in 2006. The death shocked the hip-hop world. Still to this day, people have to stop and pay respect to Dilla for his contributions. And as if that wasn’t a big enough blow, fellow Slum Village member, Baatin, passed in July 2009. Two members, 3T and Elzhi—who joined after J. Dilla left--still carry the torch today. “Thelonius” is a great tribute to what used to be though.

10. Stan – Eminem – This song is just genius! One of the best written rap songs ever. Eminem paints a clear story of a celebrity stalker, bouncing back and forth, in and out of character. An eerie story told by a troubled genius. The Dido sample is just the icing on the cake.

11. Take a Walk – Masta Ace – Ace is a legend, by all means. He first surfaced in the early 90s with the legendary juice crew, on the Marley Marl produced track, “The Symphony,” a definite hip-hop classic. Over the years, Ace continues to put out albums underground, and his consistency and skill never dulls. He is sharp lyrically, and one of the most underrated rappers alive. This song is off one of the best albums of all time, “Disposable Arts.” Ace paints a picture with this song, like only Ace can.

12. Saturday (Oooh! Oooh!) – Ludacris – Ludacris is one of the best—if not THE best—rapper to come out of the South. His lyrics are lively and witty, as is his personality and most of his songs. He’s a bucket o’ fun, as is exemplified in this song.

13. Takeover – Jay-Z – By the time this song came out, the buzz about the Jay-Z/Nas beef was already hitting the airwaves. Two of NYC’s top MCs were embroiled in a rap battle that walked a thin line between business and personal. Jay-Z comes out swinging at Nas on this track, as well as another Queens artist, Prodigy (of Mobb Deep). Jay refers in the song to “you know who did you know what with you know who.” This refers to an actual incident where Nas’s “baby mama” (not Kelis) performed sexual acts on Jay-Z, back in the 90s. This should’ve brought Nas to his knees. . .

14. Ether – Nas - . . . but it didn’t. “Ether” was Nas’s rebuttal to “Takeover,” and by all accounts, THIS song made Nas the ultimate winner in the Jay/Nas beef. If anything, the hip-hop world owes Jay thanks for putting fire back in Nas’s dwindling flame. His attacks on Nas awoke the dragon! This album, “Stillmatic,” is definitely Nas’s 2nd best album of all time.

15. Hot In Herre – Nelly – It was not until this single dropped that I was anywhere near willing to pay any respects to Nelly, who pioneered the St. Louis hip-hop scene. When he first dropped in 2000, I was nowhere near a fan. I did not like Nelly, at all. This single broke me down though. It’s a great party song—a classic party song, if you ask me. They could play this song at an outdoor dance, in Alaska, in January, and people would have to strip down. The song makes you believe you’re burning up!

16. Work It – Missy Elliott – Missy in her infinite creativity made a hit record by taking the hook for her song and reversing it. It was so weird, yet so genius. . . and it made a big hit for her. Still to this day, I have no idea what she’s really saying, but will still try to sing it like I know what she is saying.

HIP HOP HISTORY DISC 5 (1995 – 1998)

2010-07-04T10:01:00.007-05:00

1. I’ll Be There For You/You’re All I Need To Get By(Puff Daddy Mix) – Method Man & Mary J. Blige – This duo was a marriage made in Heaven! This song is so money, and was a huge hit for both parties involved. It is a combination of a track off Method Man’s “Tical” album, called “All I Need,” and the Marvin Gaye/Tammi Terrell hit, “You’re All I Need To Get By.” This song also was a Grammy winner for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group. Wu Tang wins again!

2. Get Money – Jr. Mafia ft. Notorious B.I.G. – Jr. Mafia was Biggie’s protégé’, a rap group that featured a young, hot female MC, by the name of Lil Kim. She eventually went solo and left Jr. Mafia in the dust. She was also Biggie’s infamous mistress, while he was married to R&B songstress, Faith Evans. This song was PURE GOLD when it was released. Definitely a club favorite! Still an anthem to this day.

3. Toss It Up – 2Pac – I picked this song, because it captures the essence of 2Pac, in all of his boisterous carelessness. It’s what sky-rocketed him to the top. He was bold and complex. This song showcases his gun-slinging lyricism.

4. Big Momma Thang – Lil Kim – This was Lil Kim’s club banger from her debut solo album. At this point, she and Jr. Mafia were still very much family, and they make a few guest spots on this album. I remember this being one of the songs that would bring everyone out to the dancefloor. Lil Kim brought a much needed femininity to hip-hop, even though she was very explicit at times.

5. Camay – Ghostface Killah – Another solo album from another Wu Tang member. Ghostface through time has come out on top, beating Method Man in being the most prolific member of the Wu. Ghost has nearly 10 solo albums and shows no signs of quitting. “Camay” is one of my Wu favorites. A relatively softer side of Wu. It has a great groove. I’m a HUGE fan!

6. What They Do – The Roots – Ahhh. . . the Roots. The group who introduced true musicianship to the hip hop game. The first real hip-hop band who bucked the trends and forged their own path, which has landed them in the lane of longevity. This particular song is a comment on how rappers were lacking creativity and innovation and how that led to cookie-cutter trends in their music videos. The video for this single is an awesome parody of the music video trends of the mid-90s.

7. Can’t Knock the Hustle – Jay-Z – In the era of classic albums, arose Jay-Z—the one and only. This was one of his biggest singles from his debut album, “Reasonable Doubt,” a recognized classic in the vein of Nas’s “Illmatic” and Biggie’s “Ready to Die.” This single features the Queen of Hip Hop Soul, Mary J. Blige. This was the beginning of probably the biggest rapper of all time. Jay is a monster, and I mean that in a positive way.

8. 2 of AmeriKKKa’s Most Wanted – 2Pac ft. Snoop Dogg – By this point, 2Pac had joined Death Row Records, the infamous record company headed up by Suge Knight and Dr. Dre which featured prominent West Coast artists. The pairing of Snoop and 2Pac was great in that they are antithetical, style-wise. Snoop’s laidback flow playing off of 2Pac’s aggressively didactic flow made for a West Coast classic. “Ain’t nothin’ but a gangsta party!”

9. The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly) – Missy Elliott – Meanwhile back in Virginia surfaced a quirky female MC, named Missy “Misdemeanor” Elliott whose whole style defied the laws of gravity. Her pairing with super-producer, Timbaland, set a trend that changed the face of hip-hop to this day. They changed the whole sound with their anti-rhythmic beats. Changed the way people had to dance.

10. Step Into A World (Rapture’s Delight) – KRS-One – This is probably the hottest track KRS-One has ever laid down, as far as I’m concerned. Sampling the Blondie classic, KRS easily made one of his best classics to date. A dance-inducing field day that pays tribute to the original days of hip-hop.

11. Coolie High – Camp Lo – Bursting out of relative obscurity came another quirky act, hailing from the Bronx, NY, the home of hip-hop. This duo laced every track with enough 70s allusions to make you think you’d been transported back in time. It was never easy to make sense of their songs, but this first single and this first album is definitely considered a classic to this date. Smooth grooves and a plethora of Blaxpoitation imagery just work well together.

12. Put Your Hands Where My Eyes Can See – Busta Rhymes – When Leaders of the New School emerged in 1991, it was obvious who the star of the rap trio was. Busta Rhymes broke out and went solo in 1994. This single is from his 2nd album. Probably one of his biggest early hits. He’s one of the fortunate artists who still continues to churn out hits to this day. This is one of my personal favorites of his. A great party record, brimming with energy.

13. Who You Wit II – Jay-Z – From his 2nd CD, came this hot single from the self-proclaimed “God of Rap.” It showcases Jay’s boss-like confidence and arrogance that has made him who he is.

14. Triumph – Wu Tang Clan – My group reunited to release their 2nd studio album in 1997. This was their first single from that effort. A definite classic. Probably one of the most popular opening rap verses of any rap song ever. Inspectah Deck, one of the more underrated MCs in the group, sets off this track with “I bomb atomically/Socrates, philosophies and hypotheses. . .” Say this line around any hip-hop head and it’s bound to warrant a response. Personal story, I was watching this music video at a friend’s house in Richmond in 1997, when I got the news of Princess Di’s death.

15. Twinz (Deep Cover 98) - Big Pun – Another potential legend whose life ended too soon. Big Pun was discovered by rap veteran, Fat Joe (a rapper that I’ve never been a fan of). Pun, a whoppingly obese MC whose flow would make any hip-hop listener’s jaw drop. Before Big Pun, no Latino rapper had ever gone platinum. This song features Fat Joe, and is a remake of the Dre/Snoop duet, “Deep Cover,” that brought light to Snoop. This track contains one of the GREATEST word plays that any rapper has ever spit. A line that still sends chills up my spine, it’s so delicious. Big Pun, during his verse, when the beat drops out, spits: “Dead in the middle of Little Italy. . .” You’ll have to listen to the rest of the tongue twister. He was an AMAZING MC who passed after reaching over 600 lbs in the late 90s, a time when we were losing too many greats.

16. Make ‘Em Say Ugh – Master P – Oh boy. . . Master P who hails from New Orleans was the first rapper who put the Big Easy on the hip-hop map. However, his emergence signified, TO ME, when hip-hop began its denouement. I HATED his music when he first emerged and was only warmed up to it, while at a club. Still then, it was only the beat. Hip Hop had gained a Southern accent and it was devastating at the time. This was probably one of his biggest hits. It featured several of his No Limit recording artists, including the larger-than-life Mystikal whose rapid-fire delivery skyrocketed him to the forefront of this label. Today, I can appreciate some of P’s early singles, including this one.

17. Hard Knock Life (Ghetto Anthem) – Jay-Z – This song was pure Jay-Z genius. Whereas the hip-hop community understood his genius up to this point, this crossover chart-topper brought Jay-Z to the attention of the world. Who would’ve ever thought that an “Annie” sample would make for a hip-hop classic? Pure genius! This single came from Jay’s 3rd album (he put out 1 album per year since 1996 for 7 straight years—give or take a year).

HIP HOP HISTORY DISC 4 (1994 – 1995)

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1. Method Man – Wu Tang Clan – From the Wu Tang Clan emerged Method Man. He was the obvious leading persona of the group, with a deadly flow and charisma to match. This song is ALL him, and instantly established him as the go-to guy for the Wu, as he started making guest appearances on everybody’s songs and remixes in the mid-90s. . . like Lil Wayne today.

WARNING: The beginning of this track starts with a grotesque game they play, called “Torture.” Don’t listen to it around kids or parents. LOL!

2. Electric Relaxation – A Tribe Called Quest – Definitely in my Top 5 favorite hip hop songs of all time. It is a breath of fresh air, amidst all of the gangsta talk of this period in time. Phife and Q-Tip just rhyme and dote over some cute honeys. It is simple and catchy. One of 2 hip hop songs to which I know all of the lyrics. LOL!

3. The World Is Yours – Nas – My favorite solo rapper! This song is off of his first album, Illmatic, which is considered by many to be THE best hip hop album of all time. This song is an inspiration. One of my motivators, when I was in college.

4. Juicy –Notorious B.I.G. – 1994 was a major year for hip-hop! First Nas, then Biggie comes onto the scene and drops his debut album—another classic (Ready to Die). “Juicy” was his first single. It was an instant smash hit. The song is a danceable autobiography of Biggie’s rags-to-riches come-up. A fitting celebration! Unfortunately, Biggie later grew in fame because of his beef with 2Pac, which resulted in the death of both artists.

5. Mass Appeal – Gang Starr –Wow! Little did I know that in the middle of this project, another hip-hop legend would pass on from this Earth. Guru, the voice of Gang Starr, passed on April 19, 2010, from a battle with a cancer. He is undoubtedly a legend, being credited with starting the hip-hop/jazz fusion movement that began in the early 90s. He was a wise and talented soul whose contributions are endless. His former DJ, Premier, and him did not end on the best terms, but in their hayday, they were unstoppable. Premier is still considered to be the hottest hip-hop beat-maker/producer ever. His beats are steeped in the essence of real hip-hop. This song is 1 of my favorites from the Gang Starr repertoire. The beat is the best. R.I.P. GURU!

6. Fat Cats, Bigga Fish – The Coup – Though this song is not considered a classic by the mainstream, I think it is pure genius. The Coup is an outspoken West Coast group whose lyrics often reflect the common people versus the government. This song is an extensive story, full of details, wit, and profundity. The story follows a young, common street hustler who makes a couple quick hustles on the street, including charming a fast-food cashier into some free food. While enjoying his food, his cousin emerges from a building, dressed as in a tux. His cousin informs him that he is working as a waiter at a party taking place inside the building, full of very rich, important people. The young hustler gets the idea to trade clothes with the cousin, to get inside disguised as a waiter so he can pickpocket some of these rich people. Well, he gets inside and starts to listen to the conversations between these powerful politicians and businessmen, and their intentions to knock down projects, and gentrify, etc. The realization comes to the hustler that he is actually the one that has been getting hustled all along. It’s a really cool song. Not a lot of people probably even think about this song anymore, but it definitely left an impression on me.

7. Bring the Pain – Method Man – Wasn’t long after the Wu Tang album dropped that Method Man dropped the first of the Wu solo projects. Though I am a fan of this album, Tical, many thought it was considerably lackluster. No one can deny that this song is great! The best Method Man song of all time, and his first single.

8. Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik – Outkast – This is the group that put Atlanta on the hip-hop map! These 2 guys are definitely legends nowadays. This song was their 2nd single from their first album. Besides having a great title, the song is very catchy with its sing-songy hook that could very well get stuck in your head for a full day.

9. Git Up, Git Out – Outkast – From the same album came this little gem—a wake-up call to the people, as it were.

10. Regulate – Warren G. & Nate Dogg – From the West Coast came Dr. Dre’s little step-brother, Warren, who followed in Dre’s footsteps with the beat-making and rhyming combination under his belt. As what was becoming characteristic of the West Coast style, Warren’s rhyming took on a very mellow tone, even while rhyming about the most criminal activities. This song pairs Warren with the Death Row vocalist, Nate Dogg, who brought “gangsta” to R&B. This song was a major hit for both involved. It is from the “Above the Rim” soundtrack, a film which featured 2Pac.

11. So Whatcha Gone Do Now? – Public Enemy – My favorites re-emerged in 1994 with one of their final “good” albums, Muse Sick N Hour Mess Age. This song held the rap community accountable for the direction that it had chosen. In a market beginning to be saturated by fake gangsters and thugs who rapped, Chuck D had to pull off the belt and deliver some punishment.

12. MVP – Big L – Unfortunately, Big L passed before ever achieving his full potential. He was shot in 1999, before the release of his 2nd album. However, he is one of the most skilled –and scariest—lyricists that has ever existed. There was a darkness to his existence and it came out in many of his songs. This song is probably one of his safer tracks. It was his first single, and an introduction to the world. In his early years in the rap game, he often appeared with Jay-Z at his side. His skill often left Jay-Z in his shadow.

13. MCs Act Like They Don’t Know – KRS-One – The legend that Paige loves to hate. LOL! KRS is the self-appointed teacher and torch-bearer of hip-hop. A profound mind and lyricist himself, he has been churning out mind-blowers since the late 80s, when he was with the rap group, Boogie Down Productions. He is also a skilled battle MC who has ended several careers and had some legendary battles. This song was one of this singles from his first solo album. It’s a classic hit which stays true to the boastful roots of hip-hop.

14. Ice Cream – Raekwon – Ah, another solo album from a Wu-Tang heavy-hitter! This time Raekwon delivers an undisputed CLASSIC! “Only Built for Cuban Linx” once again let the world know that the Wu Tang Clan was nothing to @#$# with! This time the members took on Italian mafia aliases, and set a trend among all of their peers. This song was pure bliss! A celebration of beautiful women with a hot beat that made the club turnover on its side whenever it was played. People were CRAZY for this song. Still one of the best hip hop dance tracks to date, in my opinion. This song also introduced a new member of the Wu, Cappadonna, who rips this track, but soon after lost steam.

15. The Nod Factor – Skillz – I HAD to show love to the kid who put VA on the map! Originally called “Mad Skillz,” Skillz lives up to his name to the fullest. He is a super-lyricist who has also made his money from ghost-writing for many of hip-hop’s heavy-hitters. This song was his first studio single. As with his entire album, it is full of witty punchlines—it’s what he’s really good at. I was at school in Richmond when this album dropped, so I’d often see Skillz. Richmond is his home town. The city was ablaze during 1995! We were so proud of him and his accomplishments. He still manages to maintain a moderate level of fame in hip-hop with his annual “Rap Up,” where he recaps the year in hilarious rhymes. Plus, he has put out a couple mixtapes and another studio album. Much love to Skillz!

16. Uknowhowedu – Bahamadia – In a male dominated musical genre, came this Philly female with the sultry smooth flow. Her lyrics are tops as well as her flow. She is a heavyhitter who has never quite reached her full glory. Very underrated! This song may be considered to slow for the modern day rap listener, but it was a club banger back in 1995.

17. 4th Chamber – GZA/Genius – Yet ANOTHER solo project from a member of Wu-Tang! The GZA (pronounced “Jizza) did not come with the charisma of fellow Wu members, Method Man or Ghostface, but his lyrics are dense and intelligent. Mind candy. This particular song is a collaboration with fellow Wu members, from GZA’s debut album, “Liquid Swordz,” yet another undisputed CLASSIC!

HIP HOP HISTORY DISC 3 (1989 – 1993)

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1. Me So Horny – 2 Live Crew – The raunchy Miami boys returned with their 3rd—and most controversial—album, “As Nasty As They Wanna Be,” which landed them in the national spotlight, and in the courtroom. A huge “Freedom of Speech” battle ensued, wherein they found unlikely allies, like PBS political satirist, Mark Russell (who wrote the lyrics for the “Teddy Roosevelt” plays at the Kennedy Center). This single was HOT! I hid this cassette from my parents in a shoebox, but this album definitely provided extra curricular education to my friends and me. LOL!

2. Jackin’ for Beats – Ice Cube – Nowadays most people probably know Ice Cube moreso for his filmwork than his rhymes, but back in the late 80s and early 90s, NOBODY was searing the conscience of AmeriKKKa, like Cube. This is why his alliance with Public Enemy was so perfect. As an original member of N.W.A., Cube wrote a lot of the lyrics for these godfathers of gangsta rap who outlined life on the streets of L.A. with detail and rawness. Cube soon broke away from N.W.A. and went solo. His first album, “AmeriKKKa’s Most Wanted,” walked a thin line from preachy-Public-Enemy prowess to raw, uncut gangsterism. This song is unique because Cube takes the act of “jackin’” (which is basically slang for “robbing”) and turns it on his rap peers. He takes the hottest beats from that era and rhymes over a hot medley. Definite classic!

3. Bonita Applebum – A Tribe Called Quest – No rap group is more beloved by the world than Tribe. This is the 2nd single from their first album, where Q-Tip rhymes about—what else?—a hot honey that he’s been peepin’. A definite welcomed break from the emerging gangsta rap of the day. A simple, head-bobbin’ classic.

4. The Choice Is Yours – Black Sheep – Another dancefloor classic! This still will turn out any party or club at any time! “You can get wit’ this. . . or you can get wit’ that.” It’s just that simple. Black Sheep, along with De La Soul, Jungle Brothers, A Tribe Called Quest, and others formed the crew, called Native Tongue, which provided hip-hop heads an alternative to the mainstream.

5. Brenda’s Got a Baby – 2Pac – Prior to this single, 2Pac emerged with the group, Digital Underground, in a song, called “Same Song.” You would’ve never been able to calculate from his verse on that song that he would one day become one of the biggest thug rappers of all time. This single from his first album showed the 2Pac with the huge heart. The story in this song is a heart-wrenching story of a young teen mother on the outs. This track features Jodeci who would soon become R&B superstars not too long after this song.

6. Alwayz Into Somethin’ – NWA – The rap group that America loved to hate! These guys rode onto the scene with the middle fingers WAY up in the air. Dr. Dre, Eazy-E (R.I.P.), Ice Cube, MC Ren, and DJ Yella had no shame in sharing the stories of growing up on the darkside of Los Angeles. They said exactly what was on their mind, and that scared the mainstream, yet the mainstream couldn’t get enough.

7. Scenario – A Tribe Called Quest – One of the best rap collaborations to date! A rap classic, guaranteed to rouse any hip-hop head to his/her feet. Also featured are other members of Native Tongue, Leaders of the New School (which featured a very young Busta Rhymes), and De La Soul. Full of energy and positive vibes!

8. How I Could Just Kill A Man – Cypress Hill – As gangsta rap branched out, Cypress Hill entered the scene with their brand of gun-talk. The lead, B. Real, has a nasally-voice that was catchy and kind of eery, especially when talking about murder and guns. I couldn’t front. Though I never led a gangster life, this Latin rap group had me hooked!

9. Time 4 Sum Aksion – Redman – Now enters one of the best (and underrated) rappers of all time. Redman is the rapper’s rapper. His lyrics and wordplay cannot be touched. His rhymes are chocked full of punchlines, and charisma. This song is a headbanger! Sampling B. Real’s voice from Cypress Hill, looped over and over again, this song definitely got the attention of the hip-hop community when it dropped in the early 90s.

10. They Want EFX – Das EFX – Woow! When these 2 guys dropped this single back in the early 90s, people were like, “WTF?!” Their quick, tongue-twisting rhymes made the world pay attention. I was a fan instantly! Their rhymes never really had a through-line or story, especially on this album, but they alluded to a lot of popular TV catch-phrases and pop culture. They were discovered by legendary rap duo, EPMD, at a contest at Virginia State University, in Petersburg, VA, so it gave my home-state a little shine.

11. Passin’ Me By – The Pharcyde – C-L-A-S-S-I-C! Nobody can argue that this song is one of the best ever. The Pharcyde dropped one of the funniest albums, which featured this as their premiere single, back in 1994. This song has a great hook for those of us who cannot sing. The worse you sound, the better the hook sounds. LOL! Plus, these guys’ flows were RIDICULOUS. They ride the beats like pros.

12. Pocket Full of Stones – UGK – Honestly, I wasn’t crazy about these Houston, TX boys back when this song dropped, but they were featured on one of my favorite soundtracks (“Menace II Society”). It wasn’t until years later, that I realized that these 2 were pioneers. They, along with Scarface, put Houston on the hip-hop map. They’re style was so drastically different—so laidback and country, during a time when NYC aggression ruled hip-hop. UGK member, Pimp C, just passed a couple years ago, due to overdosing on that Purple Drank/Sizzurp. REST IN PEACE, PIMP C!

13. Nuthin’ But A “G” Thang – Dr. Dre ft. Snoop Dogg – When Dr. Dre presented Snoop in the song, “Deep Cover,” that he did for the movie by the same name, it shook up the world like Muhammad Ali. LOL! Who was this tall, lanky guy who rhymes like he just woke up? During the era of NYC Aggression, Snoop brought the same lyrics and charisma, but he didn’t have to raise his voice. This song dropped and set the summer on fire! It was obvious that Dre and Snoop was a marriage made in heaven.

14. Hip Hop Hooray – Naughty By Nature – This was certainly not Naughty’s first hit single, but could arguably be their best anthem. These guys were HOT in the early 90s. In rap, you are fortunate if you can drop at least 1 anthem. These guys dropped a few, including their first single, “O.P.P.” “Hip Hop Hooray” is a celebration of all that we love about Hip Hop. They were one of my favorite groups back in the day. Treach, like Das EFX, had a crazy, rapidfire flow. Try to keep up.

15. Rebirth of Slick (Cool Like Dat) – Digable Planets – Ah, an anthem for us non-gangsta types emerged like a diamond-in-the-rough. Digable brought forth the jazz/hip-hop fusion with this cool-like-Miles hit! It definitely lives up to its name.

16. Slam – Onyx – The complete antithesis to Digable Planets, Onyx came onto the rap scene like a natural disaster. They ushered in the era of “grimy,” grovelly-voiced, loud, rock-like hip hop, that had brothas in mosh pits and getting rowdy, like they were at a Megadeath concert. “Slam” was their biggest hit. A hardcore classic!

17. U.N.I.T.Y. – Queen Latifah – Before she was lighting up the big and small screens with her acting ability, the Queen was bringing an air of respect to the ladies of hip-hop. She stepped on the scene demanding to be respected, and people listened. This was not her first hit, but it may have been her biggest. A very positive message. By this time, her protégé’, Naughty By Nature, was a well-established hip hop group. You can definitely hear the similarities in their styles.

18. Can It Be All So Simple – Wu Tang Clan – I do not know what my life would have been like, if the Wu never happened. I may have been a dental assistant or a baker. Who knows? Outside of my favorite hip hop group of all time, Public Enemy, lies the Wu—my 2nd favorite hip hop group of all time. NO group has ever done what the Wu did in 1993! 9 MCs shook up the world with their kung-fu-theatre-infused music and lyrics. Just like kung-fu, each one came with their own different style and technique. Their first album is a CLASSIC! This particular song only features 2 of the members, Raekwon and Ghostface Killah. It is one of the more laidback tracks on the album, however, it talks about all of the details of a life growing up in poverty, barely getting by, when the streets came calling. At the end of the song, there is an interview where they introduce all of the members, and give a little blurb about their function and style within the group. Every member of the Wu has gone on to do several solo albums, but they reunite every few years to do a group album. I am a WU fan for life!!!

HIP HOP HISTORY DISC 2 (1984 – 1989)

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1. Fat Boys – The Fat Boys – Another commercial success story. Originally known as the Disco Three, the Fat Boys eventually realized that naming themselves the obvious may work in their favor. This song was their introduction to the world at large. The group contained the Human Beatbox (a.k.a. Buffy) who passed in 1995 from natural causes.

2. Roxanne – UTFO – This was the song that launched a thousand rap battles. UTFO was a fun rap group that emerged with energy, style, and personality, in the mid-80s. This song, about a fictitious girl from “around the way,” named Roxanne, spurned several responses from female MCs, claiming to be the “real” Roxanne. At first, the battles were between UTFO and the Roxannes, but then the battles turned into Roxanne-on-Roxanne battles. CLASSIC hip-hop moments!

3. I’m Bad – LL Cool J - LL continued forging his signature on the rap game in this harder-than-hard attack on any sucka who dared to try him. It’s a lyrical slaughter from beginning-to-end. A personal favorite.

4. I Need Love – LL Cool J - In a stroke of genius, LL did a complete 180-degree turn, compromising his uber-macho image for hip-hop’s first love ballad. . . and probably its best. This Jekyll-Hyde image has been LL’s driving force behind his prolonged success, and also the driving force behind his naysayers.

5. Paul Revere – Beastie Boys – Before these guys, White rappers were non-existent. These Brooklyn kids had just the right swag to pull it off and gain instant success. Well-deserved, because these guys found a way to stay true to hip-hop, yet all-the-while forming their own image, fusing rock with hip-hop. They are an absolute romp! This song is my favorite of theirs, simply because of that bassline.

6. Walk This Way – Run DMC ft. Aerosmith – This song basically made it official: RUN DMC were the godfathers of hip-rock. The first collaboration between a rock group (Aerosmith) and a rap group (Run DMC). It was a megahit, bringing hip-hop further into the mainstream. Also causing hip-hop purists to grow more and more nervous.

7. Ain’t No Half-Steppin’ – Big Daddy Kane – BDK is the guy other guys want to be. Smooth and suave, Kane could woo the ladies, but his street edge and hard lyrics could shut down the hardest MC on the mic. His career teeter-tottered like LL’s, because he came on the scene known for his raw lyrics, but soon started to become pegged as a lady’s man with his smoother tracks. This track was his introduction to the world. An incredible song with incredible lyrics and wordplay.

8. Children’s Story – Slick Rick – After parting ways with Doug E. Fresh—amicably—Slick Rick took his storytelling skills and went solo. “Children’s Story” is a great story, which could be considered “gangsta rap,” if the story did not come across like a children’s story. This song is best heard while watching the music video. It’s a keystone caper, put to a hot beat and lyrics. This is a certified CLASSIC!

9. Black Steel in the Hour of Chaos – Public Enemy - In the late 80s, Public Enemy erupted on the scene with their 2nd album, “It Takes A Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back,” a blatant spit-in-the-face to the status quo. P.E. pioneered the conscious era of hip-hop, when rap took on the government, White oppression, American History, and Black apathy. This song is all about Chuck D giving the prison system and the government a big middle finger. This song changed my life! Public Enemy grew to be one of my all-time favorite rap groups ever.

10. Do Wah Diddy – 2 Live Crew – While Public Enemy was using their freedom of speech to say whatever they pleased to “The Man,” 2 Live Crew—who reigned from Miami, FL—was keeping hip-hop light and fun, in the tradition of humorous stories. However, they used their freedom of speech to spice up their vulgarity-laced lyrics. This song was cleaned up for their music video, however, it is a fun take on an American pop classic. This version is DIRTY, so play with caution.

11. Fight the Power – Public Enemy – Wow! How do I describe this masterpiece? Chuck D pulls no punches with this song. Before this song, I’d never heard anyone take on the Elvis legacy, nor John Wayne. It was exciting! This song is a riot-starter—a call to arms. It helped me to find my power and voice. A very special song. Also recently voted by VH1 as the #1 Hip Hop Video of All Time!

12. Cha Cha Cha –MC Lyte – Lyte was the first solo female MC to come onto the scene with the same braggadociousness of her male predecessors. This song was not her first single, but it’s one of her best, to me. In this song, her style is smooth, yet the lyrics go hard, establishing her as a force with which to be reckoned.

13. I Got the Knack – Everlast – Many people don’t know that the front man for House of Pain (“Jump Around”) was actually a solo artist in 1989, who rolled with Ice-T and the Rhyme Syndicate. Everlast would later be known for his gruff, grovelly voice, but when he was a solo artist, his voice was mild, and at times almost timid. This single from his first album has a thumping beat that’s easily danceable. Representin’ for the White rappers!

14. Funkin’ Lesson – X Clan – On the heels of Public Enemy’s Black Power message came X Clan with their Af-romantic messages. Dressed from head-to-toe in Afro-centric garb, and carrying walking sticks, their image sometimes walked a fine line between Africa and the pimps in Blaxploitation flicks of the 70s. However, the extremely articulate Brother J had a very intelligent flow and often had great poetry within his lyrics. Professor X acted as sort of the all-wise leader who never “rapped,” but was never short on words. He died in 2005 from spinal meningitis. In 1995, long-time member, Sugar Shaft, died from complications due to AIDS.

15. U Can’t Touch This – MC Hammer – Hammer received A LOT of heat from the hip-hop community during this time for “selling out” and going WAAAY mainstream, but this song is a hyped-up classic! I think most were jealous of his success. Many today are chasing his success still. His lyrics were remedial, but his energy and personality could not be touched.

16. Steppin’ to the A.M. – 3rd Bass – A true-to-form, White hip-hop group that surfaced with the blessings of the rap community at large. This was their first single. They achieved mediocre success, but garnered a lot of respect. Later beefed with MC Hammer and Vanilla Ice.

HIP HOP HISTORY: DISC 1 (1979 – 1984)

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Back in October, while performing "Zomo the Rabbit," in NYC at the Hip Hop Theatre Festival, actress, Jjana Valentiner, asked a couple of us if we'd be willing to make a hip-hop CD for her--a compilation outlining the history--because though she was a part of a DOPE hip-hop show (for the kids), she really did not know much about it.

I'd forgotten to do it, honestly, over the next few months, but when I saw her back in April, she reminded me. So I started brainstorming on what songs I wanted to add to this ONE CD that would give a full overview of hip-hop.

I couldn't do it.

So I said FORGET JUST 1 CD! As a result, I ended up making her an 8-disc anthology, outlining hip-hop from 1979 - 2010. Then I felt the need to type up a study-guide type of document that subjectively lists the reason(s) why I chose each and every song. Some include facts. Most include opinions.

I invite any one who reads these to correct or add anything to what I've said. I don't claim to be a hip-hop expert. Just an avid geek, since the beginning. . .

1. Rapper’s Delight – Sugar Hill Gang – Of course, this is the start of it all, so I had to include it. There is an extended version of this song as well, which is over 9 minutes long.

2. Apache – Sugar Hill Gang - This song still kills at any party or dance. Classic dance track with a crazy beat! As a fan of the video game, SIMS, I was elated to see the dance included on SIMS 2.

3. M.C. Battle – Busy Bee – Busy Bee is an oooold school MC, featured in the 1st hip-hop feature film, “Wild Style,” where this song is featured, as well. He later went on to battle Kool Moe Dee, in one of the earliest M.C. battles on record. Kool Moe Dee crushed him, for the record. I just saw “Wild Style” for the first time about 5 years ago. While it’s a very low-budget film, it does capture the essence of hip-hop: the dj, the graffiti artists, the breakin’, and the mc.

4. Down By Law – Fab 5 Freddy – Another song from the “Wild Style” soundtrack. Fab 5 Freddy was involved in the making of the film. He was one of the original hip-hop producers, before Diddy and Kanye were on the scene. He is not any of the rappers that you hear on this song. Other artists since then have re-made this song. It’s a CLASSIC! A way for all the MCs in a crew to sell themselves. . . almost like speed-dating.

5. Beat Street –Grandmaster Melle Mel – From the “Beat Street” soundtrack. MY first hip-hop film. One that I still love immensely. Just like “Wild Style,” it displays all of the elements of hip-hop, but with a better story. This particular song by Melle Mel was 1 of the first times that an MC used his rhyme skills to comment on society, as opposed to just making a party record for people to dance to. The lyrics are full of brutal images, and almost feel like a news segment. Melle Mel has such an assertive cadence to his rhyming and a conviction in his tone. It’s a moving track.

6. Breakers’ Revenge – Arthur Baker – An intense hip-hop instrumental, where the DJ gets to show off, and the dancers can go crazy! Also from “Beat Street.” Great workout music.

7. US Girls – US Girls – Here come the female MCs putting their stake in the rap game. Lisa Lee, Sha Rock, and Debbie D came on the scene to let the men know that they could “boogie too.” This song is also from “Beat Street.”

8. Reckless – Ice T – From the “Breakin’” Soundtrack. This is our first introduction to Ice-T, credited as the first MC to put the West Coast on the map. Of course later he went on to become an actor, pimp, etc., but this is the first time the East Coast got a peek at this legend. This is a very true-to-form hip-hop track, where Ice-T as the MC is using his rhymes to highlight his DJ. The DJ was originally the front man in hip-hop, but as the popularity of the MCs began to rise, the DJ fell to the background. “Breakin’” is another classic, but it was mainstream Hollywood’s attempt to introduce hip-hop to a broader audience, so there is a lot of fluff, and lacks the edge of “Wild Style” and “Beat Street."

9. Planet Rock – Afrika Bambaataa & The Soul Sonic Force – CLASSIC hip-hop dance track! Full of energy. Great workout track, as well. Afrika Bambaataa is also founder of the Hip-Hop movement, called Zulu Nation, which still exists today, which highlighted the positivity of hip-hop, as a means to overcome the adversity that many faced in the inner city.

10. Slice - World Class Wreckin’ Cru (ft. Dr. Dre) – Before his days with N.W.A. or founding super-talents, like Snoop Dogg and Eminem, Dr. Dre was a part of this West Coast hip-hop pioneering group. This track is also very true-to-form, fundamental hip-hop. “Slice” refers to “cutting” or “scratching”—that sound the DJ makes on the turntable, when he/she spins the records.

11. Hey DJ – The World’s Famous Supreme Team – This is a song that I recently re-discovered. One of those buried treasures that was a hit in the mid-80s, but has since fell off the radar. I still think it’s great.

12. Force MD’s Meet the Fat Boys – Force MDs and the Fat Boys – Force MDs was one of the first hybrid rap/r&b groups to surface with great success. This song is a novelty. A fun take on the Gilligan’s Island theme song. There’s nothing “gangsta” about it. . . just good fun.

13. Rock the Bells – LL Cool J – in 1985, a young 16 year old from Queens exploded on the rap scene. Little did the world know that he would grow to be THE most prolific rapper in history, having survived the decades with albums spread out over 25 years. This is a great party song, with a hard beat and hard lyrics.

14. King of Rock – Run DMC – Run DMC burst into the scene a year or so before this song with a rock/rap fusion, called “Rock Box.” “King of Rock,” however, is what pushed them into the spotlight. With this rock/rap fusion, they were well on their way to being the first mainstream hip-hop act—a necessary step in taking hip-hop beyond its “fad” phase.

15. The Show – Doug E. Fresh & Slick Rick – THE QUINTESSENTIAL HIP-HOP PARTY SONG! You can play this song at any party, and it will garner an upheaval of excitement. With this song you have the partnering of beatboxing virtuoso, Doug E. Fresh, and storytelling legend, Slick Rick, with his stand-apart English accent. The lyrics are catchy and fun. The beat is insane.

16. Push It – Salt-N-Pepa – Here comes hip hop’s female dynamic duo. They came on the scene, letting Run DMC know that they were not the only ones who could win the hearts of the American mainstream. They put out hit after hit, well into the 90s. This song’s tongue-in-cheek ambiguity is what “pushed it” to the top of the charts, plus it’s a great dance track.

17. Big Mouth – Whodini – The legendary Whodini had quite a few hits during this era. This particular track is a fun and catchy way of telling people to shut up. For me, the video left a big impression with the images of Felix the Cat.

en Yahoo! Video

Street Communion

2010-07-02T04:55:00.004-05:00

His tongue beats his toothless gums
As he makes a joyful noise
For the cold faces of people
Who pass by

He sings words unheard
In a verse with no rhythm
Sometimes people will throw
Nickels and dimes
But applause they never give him,
Except for the little Black girl
With the warm face
Who also gave tears
As her parents dragged her off
Though she stomped and kicked concrete
With her feet

His thick voice and odor
Fill Richmond city blocks
Like Philip Morris smog

A little cardboard sign
Sits next to him as
His confidant used to do.

A little cardboard sign
That reads
I SING 4 THE ANGELS

--J. J. Johnson (24)

*written in 1999

Met the Parents

2010-07-01T05:01:00.011-05:00

Okay, so no reason to be nervous. The parents were great. Absolutely incomparable hosts! They picked me up from Detroit Wayne County airport on Saturday morning around 9:30. Sonal's mother greeted me with a big hug--the father, a hand shake. Then, we proceeded North, approximately 30 miles to West Bloomfield, where they proceeded to stuff me with goodies.

And that was my entire weekend. . . getting stuffed with "mmm mmm" goodness. Home-made Indian food, mango, french toast. Spoiled, I was. They are a beautiful family, with a beautiful home.

On the first day, once Sonal returned home, we ventured to Dodge #4 Park, where we all sat under a weeping willow by the lake. The weather was amazingly mild and sunny. I took a lot of photos. Sonal and I took a walk by the lake. It was a like a scene plucked from a poem.

Sunday, Sonal and I ventured into the city of Detroit, where we hung out in Greektown. Ate lunch at Pizza Papalis. Some dope deep-dish Chicago style deliciousity! The walk by the river was nice. Saw Canada across the river. Two shady cats approached us, trying to act like they were making small talk about the statue next to the river, depicting slaves awaiting to cross to their freedom. They were beating around the bush for too long, so we jetted up the riverside.

There was a tornado warning in the area, and it'd started to rain quite a bit. So after walking around the depressingly empty downtown area, we took a drive up Jefferson Ave. Drove through all of the manifestations of Grosse Point. Before heading back homeward, we drove along 8 MILE:

Lose yourself in the music
The moment you own it
You never let it go. . .

Monday morning, got prepared to leave. Packed my bags and said my goodbyes to Sonal's mother. Sonal and her father took me to the airport. I said my goodbyes, took a deep sigh, and walked into DTW, only to find out. . .

. . . MY FLIGHT WAS CANCELLED!

I called Sonal. . . and called Sonal. . . and called Sonal. To no avail. Her phone lay dormant on the floor of her purse, vibrating, while Sonal drove back to West Bloomfield. I waited at the airport for 3 hours, before finally deciding to take a taxi back to West Bloomfied. Delta had been so kind to re-book me for a flight the NEXT day, with no consideration that many of us have lives to live. So I called out from my job for that evening, and resigned to staying in Michigan one more day.

So, 30 miles later and $65 shorter, the taxi drops me off at Sonal's parents. Her father answers the door, understandably surprised. He took me upstairs. That's when I found out that Sonal had driven home and passed OUT. LOL! She was fast asleep. She was surprised to see me, I'm sure. It was very cute.

The extra day with Sonal and her family was just as sweet. Her mother had been at the office all day, and as everything happens in 3's, the look on her face when she came home and saw me was no surprise. . . to me. We all went out to eat that evening. Then Sonal and I watched television and laptopped. Later on, some family friends visited, so I was able to meet some more people.

The next day, it was deja vu all over again, but this time my flight wasn't cancelled. I arrived back at BWI right around noon.

I had a magnificent time in Michigan. Among what I mentioned above, I also had a chance to visit the Jain Temple that Sonal's father designed. Plus get a further education on the religion itself.

There were no polygraph tests, or cats that flushed the toilet. Just a nice, compact getaway with a whole lot of food and love. . . and Delta drama.

Celebrity Sightings

2010-06-25T01:37:00.004-05:00

I jacked the following list from my MySpace blog. I posted this list back in May of '06. It's a list of all of the celebrity sightings that I had while working security in Manhattan from '03 - '04. That's where most of the sightings happened. There were others, as well.

While in New York, I worked as a security guard to "pay the bills." I mostly worked at the high-end retail stores on 5th Ave. and Madison Ave. I hated every inch of the job, but the highlights would come when a celebrity would come into the store/boutique. In order to sate the deep-seated geek within, I comprised a list of all of the celebs that I saw during my days in New York. Everytime I saw one, I'd come home and add it to my list.

Just wanted to share the list from 2003 - 2004, which has the name and location:

1. Greg Kinnear (Prada @ 57th & Madison Ave.--P57) - He was my first celeb sighting. It took me about 5 minutes to convince myself it was him. I finally concluded it was him when the people with him started talking about his "upcoming film with Matt Damon."

2. Susan Lucci (2 sightings: Bergdorf Goodman and while doing security for the NY Women in Film & TV Gala)

3. Katie Holmes (Bergdorf Goodman--BG--couldn't believe how tall she is)

4. Clive Davis (P57) - He walked by mostly every morning, because J Records was right up the street.

5. Al Sharpton (P57) - Saw him a lot. He stayed at the 4 Seasons Hotel next door to Prada a lot.

6. Sigourney Weaver (P57)

7. CL Smooth (P5 - Prada on 5th Ave.)

8. Chad from The Neptunes (2x @ P57)

9. Owen Wilson (PMad - Prada @ 69th & Madison Ave.)

10. Renee' Zellweger (P57) - The sweetest celeb I've ever met.

11. Mariska Hargitay (2x @ P57 and BG Men's Store)

12. Nick Lachey (walking along 5th Ave., picking his nose--not a good look)

13. Renee Syler from CBS Early Show (walking into CBS)

14. Matt Lauer (2x @ P57)- He was pretty cool!

15. Donald Sutherland (Saks)

16. Foxy Brown (2x @ P57 and BG) - she has a BAD rep with security guards!

17. Julie Chen from CBS Early Show (P57)

18. Daisy Fuentes (PMad)

19. Mario Lopez (BG)

20. Dan Marino (2x @ Zegna)

21. Frank Gifford (Zegna)

22. Hillary Clinton (Zegna) -- I about fainted when I saw Secret Service roll out of 3 different vehicles in the rain, open an umbrella, and here comes Hillary stepping out of a minivan, and rush towards the door. I immediately opened the door and welcomed her. She was real nice.

23. Robin Williams (BG) - gotta be 4'11"!!!

24. Dre3000 from Outkast (walking up 5th Ave.)--brotha was looking real content with life!

25. Diana Ross (BG)--looked a bit rough

26. DJ Clue (P57) - he was trying to holla at the cashier there. She was a groupie, straight up. Not a good look.

27. Michael Ealy (movie theatre @ 86th & Lexington going to see "ELF") I was taking my ex-girl to see MYSTIC RIVER. He was with a slim Asian model looking girl.

28. Russell Simmons (Loew's Theatre @ 42nd St. & 8th Ave.) He was coming from seeing SPIDERMAN 2.

29. Wendell Pierce from THE WIRE - he was with Russell Simmons and the rest of the WIRE cast.

30. Jerry Springer (5th Ave.)

31. Slick Rick (5th Ave.)

32. Nick Ashford from Ashford & Simpson(2x @ BG Men's Store & Prada Soho)

33. Posdanus from De La Soul (BG Men)

34. Irv Gotti (BG)

35. Ashanti - with Irv Gotti

36. Rosanna Arquette (Miu Miu)

37. Eve (Butter Restaurant)--Looking GREAT!

38. Bernadette Peters (Madison Ave. in front of J. Mendel)

39. mUMs the Schemer (Prada Soho)

40. Mena Suvari (BG)

41. Oprah Winfrey (I was at BG Men's, looking across the street at the BG Women's store as she exited with 2 bodyguards--she was looking like a billion dollars that day!)

42. Barbara Walters (NYWomen in Film & TV Gala)

43. Sandra Bernhardt (NYWomen in Film & TV Gala)

44. Emmanuel Lewis (5th Ave.)

45. Lil Kim (BG) -- looking rough as hell, dressed down.

46. Janet Jackson (BG) - she has to be 3'11". She literally walked right under my chin, and I didn't notice her until my boy punched me in my chest and said, "Do you realize who just walked by you?"

47. DAVE CHAPPELLE! -- went to a live taping of his show. Sat in the audience. Free from 106 & Park was there that night, as well as Charlie Murphy.

48. Julianne Moore (Prada Soho)

49. BEYONCE' (BG) - she may have been my last sighting before moving back to Virginia. It was a few days before Christmas, and she was in the store shopping with an entourage, including a laaarge brotha who looked to be about 6'10". I ASSUMED that he was the bodyguard. Not too long after seeing her in the store, I made my way back to the security base to get my coat, preparing to leave. On my way out of the employee exit, she and her entourage were standing right in the doorway. I had to excuse myself and squeeze past her to get out. I HAVE NOT BATHED SINCE.

Meet the Parents

2010-06-23T21:14:00.012-05:00

Early Saturday morning, I fly out of BWI, heading to Detroit. This is my first time in Michigan, so I am excited. I'm a huge fan of many of the hip-hop artists that hail from "The D:" Eminem, Slum Village, J. Dilla, Proof, Baatin (R.I.P.). However, I'm not going to spit some hot 16's over a Black Milk track. I'm not going to attempt to resurrect the Motown era, or even to appear in a Michael Moore documentary.

My girlfriend, Sonal, hails from West Bloomfield. I am going to meet her parents. Sonal's already driven out there today and will not be returning until the weekend of July 4th. I am only able to go out for a weekend. . . and I'm flying. Forget taking the Kia.

Because I will not be renting a vehicle, I will immediately have to relinquish all of my control issues. (Pray for me, Church!)

Sonal met my parents, brother, and many other relatives during this past Easter. She passed with flying colors. I've met several of her cousins who live in this area, and have enjoyed all of their company. However, since booking this flight, I can't help but feel like Ben Stiller. After all, I am a big fan. When nervous though, I can go from coherent-to-absent-minded in just under 5 seconds.

I've been meditating. Constantly repeating to myself:

Think before speaking

This will help to suppress symptoms of "foot-in-mouth" disease.

I'm sure everything will go swimmingly (one of my favorite words), but new adventures always cause some level of anxiety.

My anxiety could also have something to do with this:

These kids work for the welcoming committee?

I think I'll be spending most of my time in the 'burbs. . . hopefully it's a bit "warmer" there.

Through His Smile (A poem based on an actual event)

2010-06-23T04:40:00.003-05:00

The soles of my sneakers
Crunched gravel. I had
A rhythm. I was in
Locomotion.

My backpack
Was taking a piggyback.

Cartoons
And nachos on my mind--
School milk on my bladder.

A cloudless sky lit my path home,
Through the only neighborhood
I had ever known:

The yellow townhouses
On grass mountains.
The chain-link fences,
Shady brick homes.

Nothing new;

Another seventh-grade afternoon.

Not even the rumble
Behind me
Could have warned me of the approaching truck--

I refused to be alarmed--

But I never expected
To see a beige truck roll by,
At thirty miles per hour,
Yet in slow motion,

Or a bearded white face
Hang out of the window
And shout, "Nigger!"
Through his smile.

That never happened
On other seventh-grade afternoons.

The truck disappeared into the greying distance.

The brick homes
And yellow townhouses
Seemed to stare
As I walked on.

The gravel didn't crunch right
The rest of the way.

When I walked into my home,
Questions contorted my face.

Questions
Neither cartoons
Nor nachos
Could answer.

--J. J. Johnson (22)

Written in 1997, for a poetry class at VCU.

Runaway

2010-06-22T05:13:00.004-05:00

silver rivers
golden night
the pulse of the moon
stills the breath
of a man

who runs on puffed feet
and shredded sneakers

the linen of his clothes
a flaming orange
that seems to scream out
in the night
louder than bloodhounds

his black mossy hands
guide him thru waters
and over borders

though the haunt of sirens
hangs upon his back

--J. J. Johnson (25)

Monday 2/21/00