One of the surest signs that summer is nearing its end is the presentation of one of metro Detroit’s favorite events. The 30th Annual Detroit International Jazz Festival will take place Friday through Monday (Labor Day), Sept. 4-7.
Prince was a favorite of mine from 1979 through 1987 when, unlike now, he made outstanding albums. He recently appeared on one of the late night talk shows. In conservative attire, he came across as mature (he just turned 51) and mellowed.
The passion and perseverance that has motivated those with a vested interest to succeed in America’s film industry now can flourish in the heady climate of opportunity that visiting Hollywood film crews are offering to Southeastern Michigan right now.
When the subject of Motown Record Corp. comes up, what people think of are the hundreds of major hit records, and rightfully so. However, it was not “all hits all the time” (to borrow a radio station slogan).
First of all, what exactly is a “supermodel”? We all know who the supermodels are. One’s interest in fashion could be nil, but the names of the select few are still familiar. The media — electronic and print — makes sure of that.
Ten-year-old Kwesi Boakye is an up-and-coming child star. From his major role in Tyler Perry’s new film, “I Can Do Bad All By Myself,” to Ray Romano’s new TNT sitcom, “Men of a Certain Age,” Kwesi is adding prominent roles to his already impressive acting resumé.
Within the realms of hip-hop music, references made to smoking (both legal and illegal substances) are legion.The connection to such activities has been associated with hip-hop culture since its inception during the late ‘70s and early ‘80s when many urban communities in America were besieged with ubiquitous crime and a then burgeoning crack epidemic.
We are so used to seeing and hearing Louis Farrakhan as the powerful, eloquent, charismatic and, yes, sometimes racist Nation of Islam leader that it is somewhat difficult to realize that he has other skills.
While searching for an article dating all the way back to 1971 (when I was 5 years old…smile!) for a friend/reader, it dawned on me just long I have had privilege of writing a column.
Detroit hip hop artist and activist Khary WAE Fraizer has a lot on his plate nowadays. In addition to being the President of the Detroit chapter of the Hip Hop Congress, a busy community advocate and performing with his band General Population, he is also plays a key role in organizing the first annual Long Summer Nights music festival to be held in Detroit on August 22.
