Tag: blackvoices

  • Tyler Perry: Responding to Spike Lee’s ‘Coonery’ Criticism

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    Tyler Perry: Responds to Spike Lee

    With eight consistent films under his belt, Tyler Perry has overcome the odds of not only his upbringing but also setting the bar as one of Hollywood’s most relentless and profitable directors. As his dear friend and mentor, Oprah Winfrey recently stated, “Do not play him small, because he is not some lucky rich negro!” This and much more was all discussed on tonight’s episode of the long-running newsmagazine show ’60 Minutes,’ where the critically acclaimed director-actor discussed an array of topics including being abused by his father, Emmitt, as a child to firing back at Spike Lee‘s controversial comments comparing Perry’s body of work to “coonery and buffoonery.”

    Check out a video clip of Tyler Perry’s reaction to Spike Lee below.

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    Six Degrees of Tyler Perry
    Six Degrees of Tyler Perry
    In just four years, Tyler Perry has become the toast of Hollywood. Could you name another director black or white who can boast of having released six feature movie projects within a three year period? Nope. Check out Six Degrees of Tyler Perry.
    WireImage for TV Guide / Everett / FilmMagic
    BlackVoices.com

    Six Degrees of Tyler Perry

      Six Degrees of Tyler Perry
      In just three years, Tyler Perry has become the toast of Hollywood. Could you name another director black or white who can boast of having released six feature movie projects within a three year period? Nope. Not only did the New Orleans native write all of the storylines for the films, he starred in four. Combined, five of the films have grossed upwards of $250 million worldwide, some within budgets below $6 million. And with the major money train also comes associating with some of the biggest names in and out of the entertainment business. BlackVoices.com takes an introspective look at how a former homeless man turned chit’lin circuit theater czar has connections to the likes of Michael Jackson, Denzel Washington, Whitney Houston and Will Smith, to name a few. Check out Six Degrees of Tyler Perry.

      Tyler Perry
      The best-selling playwright turned Hollywood hot-shot (real name: Emmitt R. Perry, Jr.) was born Sept. 14, 1969 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

      Ray Nagin
      Another New Orleans native, Ray Nagin, Jr. was elected into the office of Mayor of the Crescent City on March 6, 2002.

      Labelle
      Known as the music capitol of the Gulf Coast, New Orleans was also the setting for ‘Lady Marmalade,’ a hit song from 1970s glam-soul trio Labelle, comprised of Patti LaBelle, Nona Hendryx and Sara Dash.

      Lenny Kravitz
      Modern day rock & roll demigod Lenny Kravitz is one of the top-notch talents chosen to produce Labelle’s long-awaited reunion album, ‘Back to Now,’ due out later this year via Verve Records.

      Lisa Bonet
      ‘The Cosby Show’ and ‘A Different World’ star Lisa Bonet eloped with Lenny Kravitz in November 1987. Their daughter Zoe Isaballe Kravitz was born the next year. The couple separated in 1991.

      Gary Dourdan
      ‘C.S.I.’ actor Gary Dourdan played Cree Summer‘s character’s love interest Shazza Zulu on the NBC sitcom ‘A Different World,’ which was originally developed as a spin-off vehicle for Lisa Bonet. The Philadelphia native appeared on 13 episodes from 1991 to 1992.

      Janet Jackson
      Gary Dourdan also played the love interest of Janet Jackson in the music video for her chart-topping ballad, ‘Again,’ in 1993.

      Tyler Perry
      Janet Jackson starred in the lead role of Tyler Perry‘s box office smash, ‘Why Did I Get Married?’ The twice divorced pop star won an NAACP Image Award for her performance.

      Ruben Cannon
      One of the most respected executives in Hollywood, Ruben Cannon has served as a casting director of film and TV projects dating all the way back to 1977. He co-executive produced Tyler Perry‘s ‘Why Did I Get Married?’

     

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  • Hip Hop Honors 2009: Celebrating Def Jam Records’ Movers & Shakers

    What started out as enterprising inspiration in a New York University dorm room 25 years ago is now home of the greatest names in the history of hip-hop, rap and R&B; Def Jam Recordings.

    A treasure trove of artists from LL Cool J and The Beastie Boys to Rihanna and Kanye West, and dozens more, have all help make the record company the most durable brand in hip hop.

    And the 2009 VH1 Hip Hop Honors celebrates it all during a glitzy affair set to air on Oct. 13 at 9 p.m.

    But as should be known, there’s a lot of people on the back end who played a major part.

    And not just Russell Simmons, either.

    Blackvoices.com pays homage to the 25 movers and shakers who helped shape Def Jam Recordings over the past 25 years.

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    Def Jam’s Movers & Shakers
    25 People Who Helped Shape Def Jam Records
    Celebrating the 25th anniversary of hip hop’s most durable brand should not be taken lightly. Blackvoices.com pays homage to the 25 people out-front and behind-the-scenes who made a difference.
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    Mariah Through The Years

      Mariah Through The Years:
      For Mariah Carey, having more number one songs than any solo artist in America has been a credit to the company that this five-time Grammy winner has kept since making her music debut in 1990. From people behind the scenes like L.A. Reid and Jermaine Dupri to some of her past loves like Tommy Mottola, Derek Jeter and now husband Nick Cannon, each man has played a significant role in inspiring the music that has made this 39 year-old singer/songwriter famous. Blackvoices.com takes a look at the men who have inspired Mariah Carey over the years.

      Tommy Mottola – Husband
      No one is more responsible for Mariah Carey’s success than former Columbia Records head Tommy Mottola. After receiving Carey’s demo from artist Brenda K. Starr, for whom Carey sang backup, he signed her on the spot. While recording her 1990 debut, the two became romantically involved and tied the knot in a lavish ceremony in 1993. Just three short years later, they split, and a divorce was finalized in 1998.

      Luther Vandross – Musical Collaborator
      The five-octave singer was fortunate enough to be one of the few entertainers to record a duet with the late Luther Vandross. Their cover of Lionel Richie and Diana Ross‘s ‘Endless Love’ became Vandross’ biggest pop hit. It was the second single released from his ‘Songs’ album and was also included on two Carey albums: ‘Greatest Hits’ in 2001 and ‘The Ballads’ in 2008.

      Trey Lorenz – Backup Singer
      In 1992, Carey performed an MTV ‘Unplugged’ special to show nonbelievers that she was not a studio singer. Her cover of the Jackson 5‘s ‘I’ll Be There’ with her longtime backup singer Trey Lorenz was later released as a single and became a number-one hit in the United States. Lorenz was able to score a record deal from the duet, and Carey co-produced his debut. On July 7 of this year, the two performed the song at the Michael Jackson memorial, which was held at the Los Angeles Staples Center.

      Jermaine Dupri – Producer
      It’s not a well-known fact that Jermaine Dupri has been working with Carey for nearly 15 years. In 1995, Carey worked with the So So Def Records founder on ‘Always Be My Baby,’ from her ‘Daydream’ album. It became the most successful record on U.S. radio that year. And though these two worked on several remixes together over the years, their magic came a decade later when J.D. produced four songs on ‘The Emancipation of Mimi,’ Carey’s 10th studio album and most successful to date.

      ODB – Musical Collaborator
      Since rapping ‘Me and Mariah go back like babies and pacifiers,’ Ol’ Dirty Bastard, the late Wu Tang Clan MC, helped solidify Carey in the world of hip-hop and R&B. The 1995 remix to ‘Fantasy’ became a number-one hit. The friendship between Carey and ODB lasted throughout the years. The songstress even met the rapper upon his release from jail in 2003.

      Mase – Musical Collaborator
      ‘Honey’ was Carey’s 12th number-one song. Before turning his life over to God and becoming a minster, Bad Boy rapper Mase appeared on the popular remix of the record, alongside the Lox and Diddy. The song, which also had its own video, was featured on Carey’s 2003 remix compilations, aptly titled ‘The Remixes.’

      Derek Jeter – Alleged Beau
      Shortly after divorcing husband Tommy Mottola in 1998, the five-time Grammy award winner met New York Yankee shortstop Derek Jeter at a Fresh Air Fund gala in New York. The couple connected over their interracial parents – black fathers and Irish mothers. The public romance ended short of the one-year mark. In an interview with Parade magazine, Carey said “It was the wrong time. …Our two worlds were just too much for that moment.”

      Eminem – Alleged Beau
      From ‘Clown’ to ‘Obsessed,’ Carey has documented her disdain for Detroit MC Eminem in her music. The ‘Glitter’ actress denies they ever slept together, but Slim Shady has consistently rapped that the two were intimate. The rapper, whose real name is Marshall Mathers, sent threats to Carey via the 2009 diss track ‘The Warning,’ which was directed at both Carey and her husband, Nick Cannon.

      Nick Cannon – Husband
      Nick Cannon, 28, dated singer-actress Christina Milian and was even engaged to Victoria’s Secret model Selita Eubanks for five months before becoming Carey’s second husband. In 2005, he convinced the Teen Choice Awards to let him present Carey’s award for ‘The Emancipation of Mimi.’ Two years passed, and the couple was reunited in 2007. Their whirlwind romance resulted in a quickie wedding in 2008 at Carey’s Bahamian estate, Windermere.

     

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  • Kim Zolciak: ‘Real Housewives’ Star Talks About Her Past Working in Strip Club

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    'Real Housewives' star talks about being a stripper.Being a stripper may have been part of Nene Leakes‘ history, but ‘Real Housewives of Atlanta’ star Kim Zolciak is clear she has never been a part of that lifestyle.

    “I’m honest about the fact that I’m dating a married man, [If I’d been] a stripper, why wouldn’t I tell you?” the aspiring singer charged to Life & Style magazine.

    That doesn’t mean she hasn’t worked at a strip club, though. Zolciak admits having “served as a waitress” at Cheetah, a downtown Atlanta strip club.

    The mother of two has always said that her mystery boyfriend “Big Poppa” (rumored to be Atlanta-based real estate mogul Lee Najjar) has afforded her a lifestyle in which she does not have to work.

    Zolciak tells the tabloid that the father of her two daughters, Brielle, 12 and Ariana, 7, has given her “no child support and no alimony.”

    Before her role in the hit Bravo reality television series, the blonde bombshell said she was actually working as a nurse.

    In last week’s episode of ‘Housewives,’ she discussed reconciling with Big Poppa, who is said to make an appearance later this season.

    Now, Zolciak is focused on a new wig line and a budding singing career, thanks to co-star Kandi Burruss‘ assistance in reworking her song ‘Tardy for the Party.’ The single has reached the top 10 dance charts on iTunes, and Bravo just released a video montage set to the track on its Web site.

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    Real Deal On Real Housewives of Atlanta
    Real Deal On ‘Real Housewives of Atlanta’
    The second season of the Bravo network reality series ‘The Real Housewives of Atlanta’ is a hit. BlackVoices.com invites you to take an inside look at the major players of the series that has become the latest guilty pleasure for millions of TV viewers.
    Bravo
    BlackVoices.com

    Mel B Pictures

      In this photo provided by Kraft Foods, Spice Girl “Mel B” poses for a photo wearing a T-shirt she designed based on the classic pink ribbon used for breast cancer awareness, after a fashion show and launch of “Pose for the Cure” web site to help Kraft Foods raise money for the ‘Susan G. Komen for the Cure’ fight against breast cancer in New York, Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2008. The shirt is for sale on the web site and the net proceeds will benefit the foundation. (AP Photo/Kraft Foods, Ray Stubblebine) **NO SALES**

      AP

      In this photo provided by Kraft Foods, Spice Girl “Mel B” poses for a photo wearing a T-shirt she designed based on the classic pink ribbon used for breast cancer awareness, after a fashion show and launch of “Pose for the Cure” web site to help Kraft Foods raise money for the ‘Susan G. Komen for the Cure’ fight against breast cancer in New York, Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2008. The shirt is for sale on the web site and the net proceeds will benefit the foundation. (AP Photo/Kraft Foods, Ray Stubblebine) **NO SALES**

      AP

      In this undated image released by Oxfam Tuesday Sept. 23, 2008, British singer Mel B participates in the ‘In My Name’ global campaign calling for action against poverty and demanding world leaders keep their promises on millennium development goals. (AP Photo/Oxfam, HO) ** NO SALES **

      AP

      In this photo provided by Kraft Foods, Spice Girl Mel B, left, serves as the emcee at a fashion show and launch of “Pose for the Cure” web site to help Kraft Foods raise money for the ‘Susan G. Komen for the Cure’ fight against breast cancer in New York, Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2008. Mel B wears a T-shirt she designed based on the classic pink ribbon used for breast cancer awareness. The shirt is for sale on the web site and the net proceeds will benefit the foundation. The woman at right is unidentified. (AP Photo/Kraft Foods, Ray Stubblebine) **NO SALES**

      AP

      NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 09: TV personality and designer Khloe Kardashian and Olympic-level swimmer and model Amanda Beard (R) pose backstage at the Mel B With Ultimo Spring 2009 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Metropolitan Pavilion on September 9, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images )

      Getty Images

      NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 09: Ultimo Scottish designer lingerie brand founder Michelle Mone (L) and pop singer Melanie Brown pose backstage at the Mel B With Ultimo Spring 2009 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Metropolitan Pavilion on September 9, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images )

      Getty Images

      NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 09: Pop singer Melanie Brown poses backstage at the Mel B With Ultimo Spring 2009 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Metropolitan Pavilion on September 9, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images )

      Getty Images

      NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 09: Pop singer Melanie Brown and Olympic-level swimmer and model Amanda Beard (R) pose backstage at the Mel B With Ultimo Spring 2009 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Metropolitan Pavilion on September 9, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images )

      Getty Images

      NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 09: Pop singer Melanie Brown and singer Aubrey O’Day (R) poses backstage at the Mel B With Ultimo Spring 2009 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Metropolitan Pavilion on September 9, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images )

      Getty Images

      NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 09: Pop singer Melanie Brown, Olympic-level swimmer and model Amanda Beard, singer Aubrey O’Day and TV personality and designer Khloe Kardashian pose backstage at the Mel B With Ultimo Spring 2009 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Metropolitan Pavilion on September 9, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images )

      Getty Images

     

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  • Kim Zolciak: Real Story About ‘Tardy for the Party’ Legal Drama

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    Real Houswives of Atlanta Music Drama Kim Zolciak Kandi Burruss Tardy for the Party

    Just when it seemed like ‘The Real Housewives of Atlanta’ star Kim Zolciak‘s pop star ambitions would have to be put on hold, things have now been smoothed out for the single mom.

    On the latest season of the hit Bravo series ‘Real Housewives of Atlanta,’ new cast member Kandi Burruss of Xscape fame helped re-work Zolciak’s song ‘Tardy for the Party.’ During the first season, the blond vixen played cast-mate Nene Leakes a snippet of a country song called ‘Tardy for the Party,’ which the outspoken funny-woman encouraged her to record. She even shared studio time with superproducer Dallas Austin, which didn’t yield any results. This season, she seemed to have better fate with Burruss, the Grammy Award-winning songwriter of songs recorded by Destiny’s Child, TLC and Whitney Houston.

    Burruss wrote the track for free, but, according to RadarOnline.com, the soReal Housewives ofng’s producer, Don Vito filed a lawsuit against Zolciak for non-payment for the music to the song.

    At the time of its removal last week, the track was a Top 10 single on iTunes.

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    Real Deal On Real Housewives of Atlanta
    Real Deal On ‘Real Housewives of Atlanta’
    The second season of the Bravo network reality series ‘The Real Housewives of Atlanta’ is a hit. BlackVoices.com invites you to take an inside look at the major players of the series that has become the latest guilty pleasure for millions of TV viewers.
    Bravo
    BlackVoices.com

    Mel B Pictures

      In this photo provided by Kraft Foods, Spice Girl “Mel B” poses for a photo wearing a T-shirt she designed based on the classic pink ribbon used for breast cancer awareness, after a fashion show and launch of “Pose for the Cure” web site to help Kraft Foods raise money for the ‘Susan G. Komen for the Cure’ fight against breast cancer in New York, Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2008. The shirt is for sale on the web site and the net proceeds will benefit the foundation. (AP Photo/Kraft Foods, Ray Stubblebine) **NO SALES**

      AP

      In this photo provided by Kraft Foods, Spice Girl “Mel B” poses for a photo wearing a T-shirt she designed based on the classic pink ribbon used for breast cancer awareness, after a fashion show and launch of “Pose for the Cure” web site to help Kraft Foods raise money for the ‘Susan G. Komen for the Cure’ fight against breast cancer in New York, Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2008. The shirt is for sale on the web site and the net proceeds will benefit the foundation. (AP Photo/Kraft Foods, Ray Stubblebine) **NO SALES**

      AP

      In this undated image released by Oxfam Tuesday Sept. 23, 2008, British singer Mel B participates in the ‘In My Name’ global campaign calling for action against poverty and demanding world leaders keep their promises on millennium development goals. (AP Photo/Oxfam, HO) ** NO SALES **

      AP

      In this photo provided by Kraft Foods, Spice Girl Mel B, left, serves as the emcee at a fashion show and launch of “Pose for the Cure” web site to help Kraft Foods raise money for the ‘Susan G. Komen for the Cure’ fight against breast cancer in New York, Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2008. Mel B wears a T-shirt she designed based on the classic pink ribbon used for breast cancer awareness. The shirt is for sale on the web site and the net proceeds will benefit the foundation. The woman at right is unidentified. (AP Photo/Kraft Foods, Ray Stubblebine) **NO SALES**

      AP

      NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 09: TV personality and designer Khloe Kardashian and Olympic-level swimmer and model Amanda Beard (R) pose backstage at the Mel B With Ultimo Spring 2009 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Metropolitan Pavilion on September 9, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images )

      Getty Images

      NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 09: Ultimo Scottish designer lingerie brand founder Michelle Mone (L) and pop singer Melanie Brown pose backstage at the Mel B With Ultimo Spring 2009 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Metropolitan Pavilion on September 9, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images )

      Getty Images

      NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 09: Pop singer Melanie Brown poses backstage at the Mel B With Ultimo Spring 2009 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Metropolitan Pavilion on September 9, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images )

      Getty Images

      NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 09: Pop singer Melanie Brown and Olympic-level swimmer and model Amanda Beard (R) pose backstage at the Mel B With Ultimo Spring 2009 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Metropolitan Pavilion on September 9, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images )

      Getty Images

      NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 09: Pop singer Melanie Brown and singer Aubrey O’Day (R) poses backstage at the Mel B With Ultimo Spring 2009 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Metropolitan Pavilion on September 9, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images )

      Getty Images

      NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 09: Pop singer Melanie Brown, Olympic-level swimmer and model Amanda Beard, singer Aubrey O’Day and TV personality and designer Khloe Kardashian pose backstage at the Mel B With Ultimo Spring 2009 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Metropolitan Pavilion on September 9, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images )

      Getty Images

    Now, everything seems right back on track. Late last week, Burruss appeared on ‘The Wendy Williams Show’ explaining that everything has been settled and everything has been ‘worked out.’ The song is now available on digitally again.

    “There almost was a lawsuit,” Burruss revealed.’ “Kim wrote the original version with an older guy and she had an agreement to pay Don Vito for the music and didn’t pay him when she said. She was going to pay him because she has so much going on, she had every intention to pay him. I think that the communication wasn’t right, but they worked it out.”

    Bravo has since released a compilation of footage from ‘The Real Housewives of Atlanta’ set to the dance track. (See below)

    There’s still no word on whether or not Zolciak is recording a full album or if the single was just for show, but next week’s episode is said to capture her back in the studio.

     

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  • Karen Hunter: Celebrating the Legacy of E. Lynn Harris

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    In July, the death of E. Lynn Harris rocked the literary world. But some of today’s most popular Black authors are gearing up to celebrate the life of the ‘Invisible Life’ author in a big way.

    Sept. 25 has been deemed ‘E. Lynn Harris Day,’ where friends, colleagues and noted authors will gather to read excerpts from his latest novel, ‘Mama Dearest,’ and share some of their fondest memories of the best-selling author. See a list of participating locations, authors and contact information E. Lynn Harrisbelow.

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    Remembering The Books of E. Lynn Harris
    Since bursting onto the scene in the early 1990s with his seminal tome ‘Invisible Life,’ best-selling author E. Lynn Harris steadily wrote page-turner after page-turner. In 2008 he shared his thoughts about each of them with Black Voices.
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    BlackVoices.com

    E Lynn Harris Tomes

      Invisible Life
      E. Lynn Says: “The saga begins”
      Released in 1991, ‘Invisible Life’ marks Harris’ debut as an novelist through this coming of age story. Law school, girlfriends, and career choices were all part of Raymond Tyler’s life, but there were other issues for him to confront.

      Barnes and Noble

      Just As I Am
      E. Lynn Says: “Avoid sophomore jinks.”
      Released in 1995, ‘Just As I Am’ picks up where ‘Invisible Life’ left off. In this vivid portrait of contemporary black life, with all its pressures and the complications of bisexuality, AIDS, and racism, Harris confirms a faith in the power of love — love of all kinds — to thrill and to heal, which will warm the hearts of readers everywhere.

      Barnes and Noble

      And This Too Shall Pass
      E. Lynn Says:“The country takes notice.”
      Released in 1997, Harris takes us into the locker rooms and newsrooms of Chicago, where four lives are about to intersect in romance and scandal. All of these characters face the challenge of keeping the faith – in themselves and in God – while Harris’s heartfelt storytelling reveals how the love of family can help one to face the terrible legacy of long-held secrets.

      Barnes and Noble

      If This World Were Mine
      E. Lynn Says: “A tribute to the fabulous friends I have.”
      Released in 1998, four close friends from the Hampton Institute share their personal diaries each month at a gathering filled with humor, gossip, and affirmation. But after five years, the once-strong bonds of friendship are weakening, and the group must handle challenges of work, lost love, and a stranger in their midst: gray-eyed John Basil Henderson, a former NFL star whose past has begun to haunt him.

      Barnes and Noble

      Abide With Me
      E. Lynn Says: “I believe In Love.”
      Released in 2000, Harris reintroduces his readers to the beloved characters of Nicole Springer and Raymond Tyler, Jr. Nicole has recently settled in order to pursue her dream of returning to the Broadway stage, and Seattle, where a late-night phone call from a U.S. Senator is about to change Raymond’s life dramatically.

      Barnes and Noble

      Not A Day Goes By
      E. Lynn Says: “A diva helps me to explode. Miss number one by a whisper.”
      Released in 2008, this thrilling novel marks the return of Yancey Braxton and John Basil Henderson. This time around Yancy is desperately searching for an audition on Broadway but ends up falling into Basil’s arms. The couple’s romance leads to their wedding that will be full of suspense.

      Barnes and Noble

      Any Way The Wind Blows
      E. Lynn Says: “Going to the river again.”
      Released in 2002, Broadway diva Yancey Braxton makes a comeback to the social scene as a recording star. In addition to stepping back into the lime light, Braxton has forgiven ex-fiancé John Basil Henderson. As Braxton’s celebrity continues to rise she fears that her past may comeback to haunt her.

      Barnes and Noble

      A Love of My Own
      E. Lynn Says:“How rich black people can some time act.”
      Released in 2003, Editor-In-Chief of ‘Bling Bling’ magazine, Zola Norwood, find herself in a compromising position with media mogul Davis McClinton on a New York bound flight. One position is landing a position as his editor-in-chief. The other is landing the married man in her bed.

      Barnes and Noble

      What Becomes of the Brokenhearted
      E. Lynn Says: “I knew you when.”
      Released in 2004, Harris opens up on how writing saved his life in this touching memoir. Not to mention his relationship with his abusive father, his 1990 suicide attempt, and his first gay relationship. The novelist stated, “The lessons I have learned are not limited to race, gender, or sexual orientation. Anyone can learn from my journey.”

      Barnes and Noble

      I Say A Little Prayer
      E. Lynn Says: “God Loves Me Too”
      Released in 2006, Chauncey Greer, a successful greeting card company owner, makes his return to a singing career that had launched as a teen. Upon his return, Chauncey is caught in the middle of a protest over homophobia in church — which is when Greer’s former singing partner/lover makes an unexpected appearance.

      Barnes and Noble

    Earlier this week, Eric Jermone Dickey, RM Johnson, Tina McElroy Ansa, Clarence Nero, Tracie Howard and Laura Gilmore gathered at Outwrite Books in Atlanta, where Harris lived and often began his tours.

    Earlier this year, Harris signed on for a three-book deal with Karen Hunter Publishing, which released ‘Mama Dearest’ this week. Journalist-turned-author Karen Hunter launched her Pocket Books/Simon & Schuster imprint two years ago. At the time, the Pulitzer Prize-winning scribe had no plans to enlist Harris as one of her writers – that is until he called her in January for business advice. With his editor gone from Random House, the 54 year-old was itching to make a change.

    What Hunter, who has penned New York Times best sellers for the likes of Karrine Steffans, LL Cool J and Wendy Williams, said she remembers most is the Detroit native’s giving spirit.

    “It was ironic that he called me out of the blue,” the former New York Daily News columnist told BV Newswire yesterday. “He got my number from one of my other authors, and after I listened to what he was going through, I was in a position to help him. The next week, we put together a contract and were able to buy ‘Mama Dearest.’”

    ‘Mama Dearest’ ended up being his final tome. It features the return of one of Harris’ most popular characters, Yancey Harrington Braxton, and ventures away from the taboo theme of down-low gay black men that has been consistent throughout his novels. Instead, he tells the story of a mother and daughter.

    Harris remains the first and only Black author to date to have 10 back-to-back New York Times best-selling novels. Yet, his stories have not translated to the big screen like the works of other black novelists such as Terry McMillan (‘Waiting to Exhale’) or even Toni Morrison (‘Beloved’). “He talked to me about what he was going to do in L.A. with the movie, but he was disheartened he didn’t have the big movies like Terry, who is like his contemporary in terms of writing style,” Hunter revealed. “He wanted to see his books translated to the big screen.”

    She noted, “It’s a weird thing with us. The gay issue and the stigma within the black community is still a tough one to overcome. I can’t name a blockbuster successful movie that had a gay love scene with men.”

    Shortly before his death, Harris was said to have taken meetings to discuss a possible movie based on one of his novels, in addition to working to develop a play based on his debut, ‘Invisible Life,’ with Ashford & Simpson.

    Ultimately, Hunter, who is busy penning Janet Jackson‘s autobiography and her own book, called ‘Niggardly,’ wants the tour to remind people of what a special person Harris was. Though she only knew him for a short time, she said the way he lived his life truly touched her.

    “From a writing standpoint, he broke down many barriers, and I think his biggest legacy will be bringing authors together,” she said. “This tour came about because I was getting so many phone calls [from people saying] ‘What can I do?’ Everybody has an E. Lynn story of generosity and giving and reaching back.”

    “His death is not to be in vain,” Hunter added. “And we have to keep that mission of bringing people together alive, and I think watching all of these great authors take time out, and they are stopping their own [book] tours, to pay tribute to him is something we can definitely continue.”

    E. Lynn Harris Day Celebrations Across the USA

    BALTIMORE
    Barnes & Noble @ 7 p.m.
    1819 Reisterstown Rd.
    Phone: 410-415-5758
    Hosted by: Tracie Howard

    BIRMINGHAM, ALA
    Books-A-Million @ 7 p.m.
    140 Wildwood Pkwy
    Phone: 205-942-4220
    Hosted by: Brandon Harris

    CLEVELAND
    Joseph Beth @ 7 p.m.
    Legacy Village
    24519 Cedar Rd.
    Phone: 216- 912-1975
    Hosted by: Lolita Files

    CHICAGO
    Borders @ 7 p.m.
    2210 W. 95th St.
    Phone: 773-445-5471
    Hosted by: Yolanda Jo

    DALLAS
    Barnes & Noble @ 7 p.m.
    7700 West Northwest Hwy
    Phone: 214-739-1124
    Hosted by: Mary B. Morrison

    DETROIT
    Borders @ 7 p.m.
    5601 Mercury Drive
    Dearborn, MI 48126
    Phone: 313-271-4441
    Hosted by: Terrance Dean

    HOUSTON
    Barnes & Noble @ 7 p.m.
    7626 Westheimer
    Phone: 713-783-6016
    Hosted by: ReShonda Tate Billingsley

    JACKSONVILLE, FLA
    Books-A-Million @ 7 p.m.
    25A 1910 Wells Rd.
    Orange Park, FL
    Phone: 904-215-2300
    Hosted by: Tina McElroy Ansa

    LITTLE ROCK, AK
    Presented by Pyramid Books
    The Mosaic Templars Cultural Center @ 6:30 p.m.
    500 West Ninth St.
    Phone: 501-372-5824
    Hosted by: Celia Anderson and Rhonda Holmes

    LIVINGSTON, N.J.
    Barnes & Noble @ 7 p.m.
    Livingston Mall
    112 Eisenhower Pkwy
    Phone: 973-758-1310
    Hosted by: Karen Hunter and Dr. LaJoyce Brookshire

    LOS ANGELES
    ESO Won Books @ 7 p.m.
    4311 Degnan Blvd.
    Phone: 323-290-1048
    Hosted by: Tananarive Due and Eric Jerome Dickey

    NEW ORLEANS
    Afro-American Book Stop @ 5:30 p.m.
    7056 Read Blvd.
    Phone: 504-243-2436
    Hosted by: Clarence Nero and Ms. Dupre

    NEW YORK
    Borders @ 7 p.m.
    10 Columbus Circle
    Phone: 212- 823-9775
    Hosted by: Erika Kendrick and Sean Lewis

    PHILADELPHIA
    Borders 21 @ 12:30 p.m.
    1 S. Broad, Suite 100
    Phone: 215-568-7400
    Hosted by: Brenda L. Thomas

    SAVANNAH, GA
    Barnes & Noble @ 7 p.m.
    7804 Abercorn Ext.
    Phone: 912-353-7757
    Hosted by: Dr. Bertice Berry

    WASHINGTON, D.C.
    Borders @ 7 p.m.
    931 Capital Centre Blvd.
    Largo, MD 20744
    Phone: 301-499-2173
    Hosted by: Victoria Christopher Murray and Kimberla Lawson Roby

     

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  • Nene Leakes: Up, Close & Personal With ‘Real Housewives’ Star

    Filed under: ,

    ‘The Real Housewives of Atlanta’ star Nene Leakes paid a visit to BlackVoices.com recently and, as can be expected, she set the record straight about who she is, what she does and how she makes it happen.

    Her debut literary tome, ‘Never Make the Same Mistake Twice,’ was recently released by Simon & Schuster, and the second season of her reality show is making ratings history, week over week, for the Bravo network.

    She’s on a winning streak … and this is the perfect time to get up, close and personal with reality TV’s latest

    villainess. Check out our exclusive video interview below.

    http://xml.channel.aol.com/xmlpublisher/fetch.v2.xml?option=expand_relative_urls&dataUrlNodes=uiConfig,feedConfig,entry&id=728030&pid=728029&uts=1253669009
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    Real Deal On Real Housewives of Atlanta
    Real Deal On ‘Real Housewives of Atlanta’
    The second season of the Bravo network reality series ‘The Real Housewives of Atlanta’ is a hit. BlackVoices.com invites you to take an inside look at the major players of the series that has become the latest guilty pleasure for millions of TV viewers.
    Bravo
    BlackVoices.com

    Mel B Pictures

      In this photo provided by Kraft Foods, Spice Girl “Mel B” poses for a photo wearing a T-shirt she designed based on the classic pink ribbon used for breast cancer awareness, after a fashion show and launch of “Pose for the Cure” web site to help Kraft Foods raise money for the ‘Susan G. Komen for the Cure’ fight against breast cancer in New York, Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2008. The shirt is for sale on the web site and the net proceeds will benefit the foundation. (AP Photo/Kraft Foods, Ray Stubblebine) **NO SALES**

      AP

      In this photo provided by Kraft Foods, Spice Girl “Mel B” poses for a photo wearing a T-shirt she designed based on the classic pink ribbon used for breast cancer awareness, after a fashion show and launch of “Pose for the Cure” web site to help Kraft Foods raise money for the ‘Susan G. Komen for the Cure’ fight against breast cancer in New York, Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2008. The shirt is for sale on the web site and the net proceeds will benefit the foundation. (AP Photo/Kraft Foods, Ray Stubblebine) **NO SALES**

      AP

      In this undated image released by Oxfam Tuesday Sept. 23, 2008, British singer Mel B participates in the ‘In My Name’ global campaign calling for action against poverty and demanding world leaders keep their promises on millennium development goals. (AP Photo/Oxfam, HO) ** NO SALES **

      AP

      In this photo provided by Kraft Foods, Spice Girl Mel B, left, serves as the emcee at a fashion show and launch of “Pose for the Cure” web site to help Kraft Foods raise money for the ‘Susan G. Komen for the Cure’ fight against breast cancer in New York, Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2008. Mel B wears a T-shirt she designed based on the classic pink ribbon used for breast cancer awareness. The shirt is for sale on the web site and the net proceeds will benefit the foundation. The woman at right is unidentified. (AP Photo/Kraft Foods, Ray Stubblebine) **NO SALES**

      AP

      NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 09: TV personality and designer Khloe Kardashian and Olympic-level swimmer and model Amanda Beard (R) pose backstage at the Mel B With Ultimo Spring 2009 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Metropolitan Pavilion on September 9, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images )

      Getty Images

      NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 09: Ultimo Scottish designer lingerie brand founder Michelle Mone (L) and pop singer Melanie Brown pose backstage at the Mel B With Ultimo Spring 2009 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Metropolitan Pavilion on September 9, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images )

      Getty Images

      NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 09: Pop singer Melanie Brown poses backstage at the Mel B With Ultimo Spring 2009 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Metropolitan Pavilion on September 9, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images )

      Getty Images

      NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 09: Pop singer Melanie Brown and Olympic-level swimmer and model Amanda Beard (R) pose backstage at the Mel B With Ultimo Spring 2009 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Metropolitan Pavilion on September 9, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images )

      Getty Images

      NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 09: Pop singer Melanie Brown and singer Aubrey O’Day (R) poses backstage at the Mel B With Ultimo Spring 2009 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Metropolitan Pavilion on September 9, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images )

      Getty Images

      NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 09: Pop singer Melanie Brown, Olympic-level swimmer and model Amanda Beard, singer Aubrey O’Day and TV personality and designer Khloe Kardashian pose backstage at the Mel B With Ultimo Spring 2009 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Metropolitan Pavilion on September 9, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images )

      Getty Images

     

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