Things that make me happy today... Amy Winehouse - Lioness: Hidden Treasures

Things that make me happy today... Amy Winehouse - Lioness: Hidden Treasures

Amy Winehouse was 27 years old when she passed on July 23rd 2011.  To be fully honest, I did not know Amy Winehouse music well. I liked her Back to Black album and loved the runaway hit Rehab, but I can't say she was on the top of my playlist much.  I think I might have been turned off by her public struggles with drugs and her image. Maybe I couldn't get around her being a "gimmick" a over produced misunderstood artist.  But, like I have often learned in life, sometimes people really aren't appreciated until they are no longer with us. So with that in mind... I found this new release - Lioness: Hidden Treasures and gave it a try.

This album is is filled with various recordings of new and old songs that were packaged and released to the public after her death.  This is not  polished long lost hits album really, but it still showcases Amy's talent and voice when she was just messing around in the studio. I like this album, and it made me stop and recognized that she was a unique talent of this generation.  Like Harry Connick Jr. was in the 80s/90s, but better than that Buble guy of today (not hating, just not a fan).

Track rundown...
1. Our Day Will Come: Reggae infused ska beat with great vocals. Great start!
2. Between the Cheats: Doo-wop style ballad.. different but nice song
3. Tears Dry: I really like this song. Won't be a hit really but classic.
4. Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow: Signature song of this album probably. She works it!
5. Like Smoke (Featuring Nas): Yes. That Nas makes appearance. And I like the collaboration. Different but it works.
6. Valerie: I think this could be a radio hit also. Catchy tune. Decent track.
7. The Girl from Ipanema: I like this take. Playful but more soulful. A possible radio hit... A little scatting. Nice.
8. Halftime: Wowser... She got a Eryka Badu sound going on this one. One of my favorites. Contemporary R&B slipped in on this album.
9. Wake Up Alone: Another okay track.
10. Best Friends, Right?: Okay track. Not my favorite.
11. Body & Soul (Duet with Tony Bennett): Already a radio hit. A really beautiful song. She completely matches (ahem...exceeds) Tony note for note.
12. A Song for You: Another decent track. Some may like the bluesy feel.

Pros
1. Amy's Voice is classic... soulful, powerful in a little frame. Impressive.
2. The music is classic. A good album for a drive or just relaxing on beach somewhere. 
3. Favorites: Halftime, Like Smoke, Girl from Ipanema, Our time Will Come


Cons
1. Amy got some crazy in her... and it made her a bit special. There is no real crazy on this album. Felt it was missing.
2. Other than the Nas track, it would be interesting to see other artist of different styles working with her.

Body & Soul - Tony Bennett and Amy Winehouse

Our Day Will Come - Amy Winehouse

Like Smoke (ft. Nas)

Lioness: Hidden Treasure Tribute Interview

One more thing... I found this touching tribute by Russell Brand that worth a read...

http://www.russellbrand.tv/2011/07/for-amy/


What other young artist passed near the peak of the career you wish could have created more art?

S.F. Guru

Things that make me happy this week... Matisyahu @ Festivals of Lights

Things that make me happy this week... Matisyahu @ Festivals of Lights

What do you get when when you mix reggae, rock, hip hop and traditional Judaism? The beautifully soulful musical artistry of Matisyahu.

Matisyahu is a musician that defies classification.  He is simply an artist that shows music really has no bounds.  My first introduction to this artist was on a NYC TV show where I saw this reggae artist diving into a crowd and he was dressed in a traditional hassidic outfit. First I thought this was a gimmick, but after listening to his album, Light, I realize his skills were legit.  He is known for his hits "King without a Crown' and "One Day" both making it to the top of rock and reggae charts.  But he has many influences in  his music style. Matisyahu musical range include beatboxing, rapping, Jazz styled scat singing, and Judaism Hazzan style of prayer singing.

This past week he played four concerts in NYC for the Festival of Lights at the Williamsburg Music and Webster Halls.  On Thursday night, Webster Hall was packed with adoring fans singing many of his hits and crowd diving from the stage.  As a giant disco driedel hangs from the ceiling, Matisyahu dances, beatbox, and sing most of his hits from his various albums.

Webster Hall - Festival of Light - Youth

One Day

Time of your song

King without a crown

Concert Pros

1. Great band and performance by Matisyahu

2. Disco Driedel... pretty cool actually.

3. Yiddish Lil Wayne guy that came to rap.

Cons

1. No beard on Matisyahu which is a signature look for him. Good music anyways.

2. Venue was okay. Good for this type of concert but a bit warm.

Check out Matisyahu music if you want something a little different this holiday season.

Albums - Light, Live at Stubbs I & II, Youth, Shake of the dust 

Or catch a live show... he is always touring all around the world.

S.F Guru

Things that make me happy - A Midnight in Paris

Things that make me happy - A Midnight in Paris, a movie out on video this month.

Earlier this year A Midnight in Paris was in theaters and was one of the best  independent films of the year. Directed by Woody Allen and starring Owen Wilson and host of celebrities in guest roles, this movies highlights Paris in its hey day in a artistically beautiful and fantastical way.

The premise is a modern day writer played cleverly by Wilson, finds a way to go back to Paris in the early twenty century and meets many of this century most famous and noted artists, writers, and creative talents.  Each of these historical figures are played by a different celebrity actor and they give Wilson advice on life and his writing.  Back in the present, Wilson tries to patch together his life with his girlfriend Inez (played by Rachel McAdams) while vacationing in Paris with her family.

I would have to say the star of this movie really is Paris. Or at least what it represents in the mind of many  people -- A place for creative inspiration and romance.  Woody Allen has a gift for featuring cities in his movies. In the early days it was mostly New York, but more recently his focus is spanning an array of global cities. Most notably, Barcelona in Vicky Christina Barcelona or London in Match Point, and now A Midnight in Paris.  The movie is witty, a bit pretentious, and some may call it intellectually snobbish.  But it also just might spark an intellectual curiosity about some of the great artist and thinkers of this past decade (Josephine Baker, Cole Porter, Ernest Hemingway, Gertrude Stein to name a few.) I know I picked up a few more books and took a few more trips to museums after seeing this movie (Salvador Dali, Pablo Picasso, Edgar Degas). But for Woody Allen fans, you will love this movie.... great dialogue, witty humor, and great performances from the actors.  For all others. Depends on your taste, but I think those with and open mind and don't mind a little fantasy mixed with your history lesson, give it a shot. This movie will probably get some Oscar buzz.

Pros
1. Woody Allen movie. There is a reason people keeps giving him money to make more. They are usually pretty good.
2. He is not in this movie. For those that are not fan of his neurotic acting.
3. Owen Wilson. Perfect casting. So innocently funny.
4. The guest actors. So many and they certainly seem to be trying to out do each other... in a good way.
5. The city. Paris. Makes me want to take a trip back there... in time.


Cons
1. Woody Allen movies have its own pace. Dialogue is king in his movies and this one is no different.
2. He is not in this movie. For those that ARE fans of his neurotic acting.

So what's your favorite Woody Allen movie?

S.F. Guru

Things that make me happy... Beats, Rhymes & Life: The Travels of A Tribe Called Quest

Things that make me happy... The documentary called Beats, Rhymes & Life: The Travels of A Tribe Called Quest

It was 1985. Four young men (QTip, Phife, Ali Shaheed, and Jarobi) helped to create a pivot point in the history of hip hop.  Hip hop music morphed into a sound that move past the "battle" or "intellectually immature" rap of that time into music that extended a long history of story telling by incorporating truly improvisational artistry.  The documentary, Beats, Rhymes & Life: The Travels of A Tribe called Quest, produced by filmmaker Michael Rapaport, is now available on video. It chronicles the the history of one of the best rap groups of all time and takes you behind the scenes of the members of the group as they discuss their music, relationships, and the influences that help them create their unique and original sound copied by many of the best producers and beat makers today.

I look at any documentary film in three ways, quality, subject, and impact. The first is the quality of the work. As a person who watches many documentaries, I think this one is one of the best of the year. In a previous blog, I mentioned several others that came out in 2011 both in theaters and on cable. This one tops them all. The interviews are not "soft" where people appear to have an agenda and are telling you what they think you want to hear. The discussion are honest, real, and sometime a bit awkward as they talk about the good and bad times over their 25+ year relationship.  You almost get the feeling that they need to tell this story just to get it off of their chest. Post production there are stories on the internet and twitter about conflicts Q-tip and others have about the portrayal in the film.  This is kinda a good sign that they really got to some real truths in the documentary.

The second way a film stands out is the subject matter.  Look. If you are a true fan of hip hop and more specifically a dedicated fan of the "Native Tongues" then the music alone will please you (if you don't know about Native Tongues... treat yourself to a great Christmas gift and check out the artists). But if you take into account the all the artist featured in this film and the history lesson, then this film will definitely surpass your expectations.

The last way I judge a film is the feelings that it invokes.  For documentaries sometimes they just help increase a person knowledge on a subject. Maybe a few Aha!! moments about a subject that you are not familiar with or perhaps some deeply hidden insights from expert in a field. But best triggers an emotion. And this one... for me... brings out nostalgia. I remember putting on my dashiki even when I didn't quite know what the hell it was just because I saw artist like Tribe and Dela Soul wearing one.  It also fused my love for jazz (yes even at a early age I knew I loved me some Jazz music) with the music of my generation, hip hop.  A Tribe Called Quest produced music that was fun yet insightful, discussing afro-centric topics that until that time was not covered in most type of popular music.  And more importantly Tribe is part of the soundtrack of my and many of my generation lives. For this truly makes me happy.

Pros:
1. Well done documentary... not a propaganda vehicle and they certainly were pitching anything in this video. Real Talk... the way it should be.
2. The music. The soundtrack speaks for its self.
3. Features lots of artist talking about the impact of the music.

Cons:
1. Not enough performance footage although filmed during a tour. Lots of musical documentaries, like Madonna's truth or dare manages to feature lots of performance videos.
2. The group still has lots of tension. Not much of the group chatting together... Its a little sad that you can see the Beastie Boys still doing interviews together and Tribe struggling to work through their issues. At time is painful to watch. Can't we all just get along?
3. Jealousy, hurt, miscommunication and health issues.  Lots of love between the group and they just can't figure out how manage the relationship over the years.

Beats, Rhymes & Life Trailer

The Scenario

Bonita Applebum

What's your favorite A Tribe Called Quest song?

S.F. Guru

Things that make me happy today... The Descendants

Things that make me happy today... The Descendants

The Descendants stars George Clooney as a older father of a two daughters dealing with a family crisis. In this role George Clooney plays it as straight as he can as a everyday man.  I can see why there will be some Oscar buzz for this movie. Lots of good performances and it deals with touching yet difficult situations in a very human way.  This drama has funny moments and dramatic moments that will make you think about what is really important in life. The movie is set in Hawaii and shows off the island and its life in interesting and unique way. It makes you want to visit Hawaii if you haven't before.  I can't describe the movie any more without spoiling for many, but I know that it is a good film and the story is about reconnecting with family.

The Pros
1. Great performances and great cast. Especially the older daughter (Shailene Woodley) and the father (Robert Forster).  Clooney is definitely grown into a good character actor much like his role in Up in the Air.
2. Love the scenery of Hawaii
3. Love the fact the movie makes you think about how valuable life is and what is important.

The Cons
1. This movie has slow moments but the story is strong enough that you don't notice
2. This movie may not be classic but its a good story but will not be a movie that people remember for years to come.
3. The story line about the descendants is not that strong but it does anchor the movie in a weird way.

S.F. Guru

Things that make me happy... Eric Roberson - Mr. Nice Guy

Things that make me happy... Eric Roberson - Mr. Nice Guy

Eric Roberson's new album Mr. Nice Guy might be quietly one of best albums of the year. Featuring a range of R&B sounds, Mr. Nice Guy has something for all R&B lovers, from urban hiphop fans to classic soul lovers.  There really are no bad songs on this album so you can play the whole thing and don't worry about having to skipping any songs. For those that don't know, Roberson has been around for a while and this is his sixth album. If you like this album go and find some of his early work and might have another favorite artist to add to your favorite playlists.

So... what is so good about this album? Start with the track Summertime Anthem. Listen to this song and you will nod your head and remember those summertime block party anthems where you roller skated around on the hot asphalt. This song literally will put a smile on your face. And wait!! Chubb Rock rocks out on this joint for you old school hip hop heads. The whole album is a joy. Eric Roberson is one of those artists that may not be on everyone minds, but I dare you to listen and see if this album doesn't find a place in your heart as things that make you happy in 2011.

1. Mister Nice Guy - Fun upbeat tune that will has catchy hook that will definitely make you smile.
2. Strangers - Great beat
3. Summertime Anthem - One of my favorite tracks
4. Come with Me - Another strong song. Catch
5. Picture Perfect - This song is a minor hit already. Some airplay. Smooth neosoul sound.
6. Fall - Ballad.. Jazzy, good dinner type music.
7. Shake her Hand - Classic R&B tune again. Old school style
8. The Magician - Another favorite... Weaves in the sound of magic show in an soulful sound. Artistry at work.
9. Love's Withdrawal - Jazzy ballet with some spoken word weaved in.
10. How Would I Feel? - More Jazzy feel with good vocals
11. Talking Reckless - Okay track... but still fun to listen
12. At The Same Time - Another favorite..  Great slow jam.
13. Male Ego - A little more hip hop flavor on this jam
14. Try Love - A fun that brings back memories. Reminds me of Do The Right Thing actually.
15. All for Me - Another big ballad. Decent song.

Pros
1. Lots of styles of R&B on this album
2. No weak songs really. Strong album overall
3. Great album for a car ride, background dinner music, or even getting people moving on a dance floor.

Cons
1. The fact that I haven't been following Roberson closer all these years.
2. This is a grown people album... children just won't understand.

Favorite tracks
Summer Anthem
Mister Nice Guy
The Magician
At the same time

Picture Perfect

Summertime Anthem

Hope you give Roberson a listen... And yes. I do love the album cover featuring a smiley face. How cool is that.

S.F. Guru

Things that make me happy this week... Drake - Take Care

Things that make me happy this week... Drake - Take Care

Drake newest album "Take Care", the follow up album from his wildly successful debut album "Thank Me Later", is filled with several hit tracks, some duds, and a bunch of other tunes that are pretty decent if you are a fan of Drake.  Welcome to Drake therapy!! I hope this talented guy is saving on therapist bills.

Aubrey Drake Graham with his huge fan base (over 20 million friends on Facebook) went platinum in the first week.  Based on this I am pretty sure every Drake fan knows about and have heard this new album. But for those that have kept there musical heads in the sands here goes...

I like this album overall maybe in time it might be better than Thank Me Later which I liked a lot too. This could be easily 5 hit album (maybe even 7) which matches his last album and is at Kanye, Beyonce levels. It is consistent with his past musical style and his production team's sound. But be warned this is not a upbeat album. I might describe it as melancholy and a bit emo. But that is what makes Drake different.  Drake's mellow sound is very distinct from most rappers now a days and he has a knack for singing that is not common for a rapper.  He uses his gifts in this album effectively to mix up hard hitting rap and soft moody ballads. This is a good listening album for a car drive.  It has lots of artistry with the mix of songs and mood throughout the album. Just don't drive off the road listening to a moody self absorbed lyrics.  For a guy on the top of the rap world he seems pretty sad and down. Count your blessing Drake... but keep making good music.

1. Over my Dead Body - Not the most uplifting song but good beat and decent song. Don't know if this is a hit song, but with Drake you never know what will pop.
2. Shot for Me - This starts with Drake the singer. A okay ballad. Not a hit though.
3. Headlines - A hit already. If you haven't heard this... get a life. Good jam.
4. Crew Love - A soft ballad again. Okay song. Nothing special but above average still
5. Take Care - One of my favorite tunes. Rihanna helps out with some nice vocals and the the beat is catchy. But my favorite thing is Drake does a decent job singing and rapping on this song. This will be a big hit.
6. Marvin's Room - Another early hit. Love this Drake baseline in this song. More singer/rapper mix on this one.
7. Buried Alive Interlude - Not sure what he was trying to do here. A throw in track... a good beat again.
8. Underground Kings - Okay track to me, but will be a favorite to many.
9. We'll be fine - Not my favorite. A bit of dud. A hardcore edgy attempt
10. Make me Proud - Nikki is on this one. Not bad collaboration. A minor hit already...
11. Lord Knows - Clear your throat on this one, ahem, Rick Ross. But a decent listening track. Could be a hit.
12. Camera / Good ones go interlude - I don't get this long 7+ min track. The first song Camera is awful, the 2nd part is decent song. Nice and slow joint. But why combine? Argh
13. Doing it Wrong - More singing Drake... Okay track might be a hit on the radio. Slow haunting sound.. very emo.
14. The Real Her - Another slow jam. This one Drake does an interesting thing using his the singing as the melody in the song over a strong beat. Pretty cool I think.
15. Look what you've done - This song reminds me of an uptown Harlem poetry slam. Melody in the back with poet dropping his words.  This is a favorite for overall musical composition.
16. Hyfr (Hell Yeah Fucking Right) - Okay track. Don't think it will be a hit, but with Lil Wayne on this track you never know.
17. Practice - Okay track. More singing only okay this time for me.
18. The Ride - Not a fan of this track. But a bit of a throw back sound.

Pros
-The music on this album is great. Lots of memorable beats. Has emo feel over a hip hop beat.
-Lots of lyrical content - Drake the story teller at work.
-Decent collaborations with Nikki, Weezy, and Rihanna, Rick Ross, and

Cons
-A bit melancholy
-Not sure how many club hits are on this album
-No really surprise "Wow" tunes. all are decent, but I can't find one that I think will become a classic

Favorite tracks
Headlines
Marvin's Room
Make Me Proud
Take Care
Over My Dead Body

On this album you get your money's worth. 18 tracks!! Multiple hit songs and another huge success or Drake.

What's your favorite song on the album? Why?

SF Guru

Things that make me happy... Stick Fly - The Play

Things that make me happy... Stick Fly - The Play

Kenny Leon, the talented director of plays like Fences, Mountaintop, and A Raisin in the Sun, is on directing is latest broadway play, Stick Fly. I am quickly becoming a loyal fan of his work because he tells stories that covers topics that I care about and tells these stories that anyone living in modern times can relate. Stick Fly stars Dule Hill (West Wing, Psych), Mekhi Phifer (ER, 8 mile), Ruben Santiago Hudson (Seven Guitars, Jelly's Last Jam, Lackawanna Blues), Tracie Thoms (Rent, The Exonerated "The Devil Wears Prada"), Condola Rashad (Ruined, "The Good Wife") and Rosie Benton (Temporal Powers).

This talented group of actors display great chemistry on stage as they depict a weekend family gathering in the family home in Martha's Vineyard.  The story revolves around the family dynamics of a well to do family as they face modern issues of race, expectation, responsibility, and love.  The play is witty, and fast moving with quick dialogue and great soundtrack created by Alicia Keys who happens to be the producer of the this play as well.

In the past plays catering to a black audience typically were filled with over the top chitlen-type clownish characters.  This play respects the intelligence of the audience and delivers humor with clever lines and nuanced performances by the actors.  All the while evoking real emotions as the family members deal with complicated issues that creates a tension that anyone would recognized if you ever were the guest at a significant other family gathering for the first time... in Martha's Vineyard. 

Pros:
Actors - Great casts with great performances.
Music - R&B inspired music by Alicia Keys
The script - Tight writing and good plot that keeps the audience engaged.

Cons
None... really but its a play and not a musical for those expecting singing and dancing
There is tension throughout the play. There are no real obvious villians or heroes, just people trying there best to live their lives.
There is a slight depictions of "man bashing" in parts of the play, but tastefully done.  Women are called on there "ish" a little, but the men take the brunt.

All in all, another great play to see with your girlfriends and homeys which can lead to healthy discussion in dinner and drinks afterwards.

Alicia Keys - Producer & Composer

Kenny Leon - Director

Lydia Diamon - Playwright

Dule Hill

Tracie Thoms

Ruben Santiago-Hudson

Rosie Benton

Mekhi Phifer

So who knows what a Stick Fly is? Check the play out and find out...

SF Guru

Things that make me happy... Steve Jobs' Apple Bite Graphic

Things that make me happy... Steve Jobs' Apple Bite Graphic

A young Hong Kong design student, named Jonathan Mak, came up with this simple but powerful redesigned logo for Apple. What makes this image impactful is that incorporates the Apple signature brand but the negative image of Jobs profile shows the gap that is left with his lost.  I don't know if I seen a graphic that captures the thought behind the image so accurately.

First the image overall is somber and forbearing but still has the Apple logo front and clear. Second, Jobs looking down to capture the sense of loss to the company and the world.  It appears to show his own sadness about what will happen to Apple without him.  Third, the negative image imprint that replaces the bite shows that the loss of the famous and prophetic leader. And lastly, the profile of the head in the image shows him as a leading "brain" behind the company innovative success. So many ways to view one image and all have elements of truth.

What make me happy is that this work of art is already a classic and a beautiful tribute to the man that changed the world at least 4 times. Changed computing, music, movies, and, the phone. Not bad for one lifetimes worth of work.

S.F. Guru

Things that make me happy... Greatest Father & Daughter Dance Ever!!

Things that make me happy today... Greatest Father& Daughter Dance Medley Ever!!

Father & Daugther Wedding Dance Medley

 

So what's happen in online media today... This has got to be the best Father & Daughter Wedding Dance Medley I've ever seen. Period!! Make sure you watch the entire thing. This medley of songs. Amazing!! And the daughter... beautifully and very happy. And the Father... on his game!!

Kudos to this family!! And way to represent for you baby girl dad...

S.F. Guru

Things that make me happy this week... Goapele

Things that make me happy this week... Goapele new Album "Break of Dawn"

Goapele pronounced (Gwa-pa-lay)

What makes Goapele stand out besides her name? This woman can sing with the best of them and has that classic soulful sound of the R&B artist of yesterday. But don't be mistaken, her music is contemporary in a neo-soul sort of way. But her Oakland roots shine through her music. Funk, Jazz, hip hop, and R&B fused together into her latest offering, "Break of Dawn".  Maybe its what you would get if mixed two parts Sade, one part D'Angelo and splash of EnVogue vocal styling. This musical cocktail is refreshing, yet familiar-- making you want to sit down with your favorite drink after a long day, kick back, and press play on your sound system and relax.

I just got to see her perform live for the first time at BB Kings in NYC for her album release party.  She has a much larger following than I thought since many have not heard of her yet. You might of heard of her big hit "Closer" from her "Change it All" album. (A good addition to anyone music library by the way.) She featured many tracks from her new album


Break of Dawn Songs
1. Play. First song released. Has a definite Sade feel to it. Strong first tune. It will get some play.
2. Tears on my pillow. Slow down ballet with a light hip hop feel of a Jahiem or D'Angelo type beat. I think this could be a hit...
3. Undertow. Sweet sexy song. Dreaming vocals and ethereal sounds... floating on clouds feel. Another one with good potential.
4. Break of Dawn. Title track is not that strong to me. Not bad. Just doesn't stand out.
5. Hush. A nice lullaby sounding song. Another soulful song but probably won't be a big hit... but I could see a nice video from this one.
6. Money. This is an okay throwback funk song. Not a big fan. This might get skipped on my playlist a bunch.
7. Pieces. Another sleepy ballet. I like the sound but doesn't stand out to me.
8. Right There. A little bit more hip hop beat with this joint. This song could use a strong remix and a 8 bars from a top rapper (Drake, Common, Weezy, or maybe Beenie man). I like this song just needs a little push to be great and top billboard hit. Think weaker version of Motivation by Kelly Rowland.
9. Milk & Money. Another strong song. This is a cool joint to play while hosting a nice cocktail tune. Classic Neosoul sound.

Pros
1. Album got soul and a mix of R&B sounds. There is about 2-3 potential hits on this album. More than her last because she is a rising star.
2. Favorite songs... Undertow, Tears on my Pillow, Right There (one of these might become a classic)
3. Strong vocals. This girl has got a powerful voice in a small frame.

Cons
1. No real upbeat club type song. Although she made had a "house" remix of closer from her last album. She should include on to get more radio play. At least one tune.
2. Some songs are not that strong. They will be forgettable.

She is an independent artist and not with a major label so she isn't going to get the marketing to get her music wide play without a grassroots hit. Think Adele... type growth.

But I like her as an artist and hope more people check out independent artist like this. Support if you can when she and other talented artist visits your town. If she was was on American idol she would definitely win and be a big star. But I bet she wouldn't want to give up creative control of her sound.

Check out info on the artist and her new album.
http://goapele.com/home/

Play Video - Break of Dawn Album

Love me Right Video - Previous Album

Closer Video (Previous Album)

What is your favorite songs on this album?

S.F Guru

Things that make me happy... HBO documentary: Sing your Song

Harry Belafonte, singer, actor, activist, statesman...

Things that make me happy this week... Sing Your Song, an HBO documentary featuring the life and times of Harry Belafonte.

I first saw Sing Your Song at the TriBeCa Film festival and was fascinated to learn more about the living legend known as Harry Belafonte. This documentary tells the story of his life which began as a young singer, next transitioned into acting on stage and screen, then transcended into activist for poor and oppressed people around the world.

My first memories of Harry Belafonte was on the Muppet Show in the late 1970s. I remember my father telling me that this man was born in NY and had some family from Jamaica. I was certainly too young to know about all of the film, theater, TV work he did in the past. And boy was I surprised to find out that he was an even bigger singer and recording artist.  His 1956 Calypso album was at the time the first LP (long play for those youngins out there) album to sell over 1 million copies. On this album he made famous "The Banana Boat Song" with the iconic "Day-O" chant similar to an old folk chant from the Caribbean.  Belafonte broke many barriers in his years as an entertainer including guest hosting The Tonight Show many times, winning an Tony, an Emmy, a Grammy lifetime achievement award, along with many other honors in his prolific career.

Harry made an equal contribution to the world with his work as an activist and humanitarian. His work in raising awareness of the injustice in South Africa during Apartheid, and his work during the US Civil right movement are just a few highlights of his work to help the oppressed and disenfranchised. Today he continues to work in the street with youth to get them more politically active and to end gang violence.

Sing your Song is a personal telling of his story that gives the audience a glimpse of history through the lens of his eyes.  You might also get appreciation of what one man with a platform can do when willing to rise to the challenge.  Makes you wonder where are those black leaders in entertainment today?  God knows we have way more with his type of popularity today. Makes you go hmmmmm...

Best part of the film
-The history lesson from his perspective
-Honest discussion about his personal life... even his failings
-Good stories about his work in Civil Rights movement
-A few lesson for the next generations..

Cons
-Not a big focus on his career as an entertainer and the struggles of being a black entertainer although it does get a decent mention
Who is your top 5 triple threat entertainers of all time? Harry would have to be one of mine. He has the stats and accomplishments that are hard to beat.

S.F Guru

Things that make me happy this week... Movie: 50/50

Things that makes me happy this week... Movie: 50/50

I just went to see the latest Seth Rogen (Knocked up, Funny People, and Pineapple Express) and Joseph Gorden-Levitt movie 50/50 currently in theater. And so begins Oscar season for movies. This romantic dramedy (yes a bit romance, a bit comedy, and a bit drama) spectacularly pulls off the major feat of making a movie about cancer funny. Loosely based on a true story of movie screenwriter Will Reiser. Gorden-Levitt star quality is rising rapidly with a series of hits and critically acclaimed movies like 500 Days of Summer, and Inception. If you like 500 days, you'll like will probably 50/50. They both have similar styles and sensibilities.

What I liked best:
1. Music Soundtrack for movie. Not only does the movie feature great songs, they fit the scenes perfectly. I would grab that album for chill listening. Also check out 500 days of summer sound track. Another solid soundtrack.
2. Performances. The stars not only nail their roles, all are charming and extremely likable. Big ups to Anna Kendrick (Up in the air, Twilight series) for another strong performance.
3. This is a funny movie. There a good laughs in this movie. Not many movies do that well anymore especially when it comes to tough topic about cancer.
4. The length... The told a complete story in under 2 hours. A sign of good movie making in my book.

What didn't work for me:
1. Surprising Angelica Houston, as the mom, didn't stand out in this movie for me. Not sure why.
2. Headgear... Like sunglasses indoors. Not a good look.
3. Cancer really sucks. Especially when you've lost someone close. But the story is not about Cancer. Its about people and how they deal with adversity.

For anyone that had to deal with cancer personally or with a family or friend, this movie puts a realistic yet funny face on dealing with illness. And for those fortunate enough not to have that particular experience, there is a valuable lesson on life in this movie... and lots of unexpected things to make you stop and think... How I would I react to that... better yet, Am I strong enough to cope.

For a nice interview with writer and star check out NPR's Fresh Air

NPR 50/50 Interview w/ Will Reiser and Joseph Gorden-Levitt

Think this will get nominated for Oscar? What categories?

S.F. Guru

Things that make me happy... BET Hip Hop Awards Cyphers

Things that make me happy... BET Hip Hop Award Cyphers - 2011 edition (now airing on BET)

Okay sure it is annoying that each year they make up new categories that make very little sense. But the show is still worth a watch.

Is hip hop dead? Nah! For 2 hours once a year BET feature veterans and new rappers on best segment of any award show on TV... The Cypher.  From the DJ in the background to the street feel of the set, this reminds me of raps hey day. Yo MTV Rap style...

So for the real hip hop lovers... check out the rhyme.

Eminem Group (Would have to be the master of this... Consistently great flows every year)

Ludacris and Busta Group (My favorite... Busta gave a full dissertation on this one).

Estelle Group

Chris Brown Group (Chris Breezy letting of some steam)

Rick Ross Group

BOB Group

Most Rapper Representing: Atlanta. But what is always fun to see is the diversity of sounds, flows and people in these cyphers, women, latino, french, even a disable rapper... BET is reaching out.

Which was your favorite?
What was the best verse?

S.F. Guru

Things that make me happy... HBO Documentary - The Latino List

Things that make me happy... HBO Documentary - The Latino List

I remember when I was growing up that Sept/Oct was Hispanic Heritage Month.  February (the shortest month - hmmm what's up with that) was Black history and always featured specials on TV about black heritage. March was Woman History and did the same with women history and issues. Likewise, the beginning of fall was time to learn and focus on Latino culture. Growing up in a vibrant Hispanic neighborhood might have peaked my interest in Latin culture and started my lifelong love of Latin inspired cultures. So with that in that in mind, I was so pleased to watch another installment of one of my favorite HBO documentary series... The Latino List. This documentary is the latest project of Timothy Greenfield-Sanders who gave us the Black List Vol 1-3 (if you haven't seen check it out netflix and youtube), and the tastefully produced Thinking XXX (a portrait of stars of adult films that was also featured on HBO). 

Like his previous works, Greenfield feature profiles of several prominent Latinos as they discuss various topics from a Latino perspective.  They explore everything from the meaning of being Latino in the 21st century to lessons learned growing up Latino in America.  The people come from different professions and backgrounds but all have insightful tidbits of wisdom on their lives as Latinos. 

What I like the most about this documentary it gives many a glimpse of the life's, struggles, and hopes of people.  We see the similarities that we all share and some subtle differences that make us interesting and better Americans.  There are teachers, writers, actors, politicians and yes... even an astronaut. But most of all this documentary is meant to inspire all of us, but especially young people to see people who look like them that have succeeded in some aspect of life.  Maybe the Latino List II may feature our first Latino president... its just a matter of time.

People featured:
Gloria Estefen
Emilio Estefen
America Ferrera
Sandra Cisneros
Jose Moreno Hernandez
Consuelo Castillo Kickbusch
John Leguizamo
Eva Longoria
Robert Menendez
Armando Christian Perez
Juan Antonio "Chi-Chi" Rodriquez
Anthony D. Romero
Eddie "Piolin" Sotelo
Justice Sonia Sotomayor
Julie Stav
Dr Marta Moreno Vega

If you like Latino List you should check out the exhibit at Brooklyn Museum of Art that features 25 large photographs of the accomplished Latino people featured in the film until December 11th 2011.  There is also an IPhone app that has stories of people on the street (in Spanish) speaking about people that inspire them.
Most impressive interviews
America Ferrera
Justice Sonia Sotomayor

S.F. Guru

Things that make me happy this week... The play Mountaintop

Things that make me happy this week... Mountaintop the Play

Mountaintop, now playing on Broadway for a limited time, is a play about a re-imagined day before Martin Luther King was assassinated in Memphis. The play stars Samuel Jackson as MLK near the end of his journey and Angela Bassett as an unusual visitor on a mission.  This play portrays MLK as a man. Not the legend or great civil rights leader... but a man weary of the burden on his shoulder and fully aware of his role in the movement. This is not the typical portrayal of MLK, but Jackson does a great job bring his unique talents to make MLK human... an every man's man.  Bassett matches the stature of the iconic Jackson as a southern chamber maid who was fated to meet MLK on April 2nd 1968, the day before his assassination.  The two superstars revisits the Ike and Tina chemistry on stage that gain them critical acclaim in the 1993 film, "Whats Love Got to Do with It".

A few short facts
-No intermission, go to bathroom first.
-No other supporting actors. Just these two on stage... why dilute a good thing.
-Its a stageplay not a musical. But it keeps your attention. Good writing (thank the playwright Katori Hall from London)

For more info visit the The Mountaintop Play Website below
http://www.themountaintopplay.com/

I really enjoyed the play for several reasons.
1. These actors rarely do stage work now a days so seeing these two masters of the craft doing live is a true joy.
2. Some of the creative minds behind last year's hit Fences, starring Denzel Washingtion, are part of the creative team of  Mountaintop.  Kenny Leon (director) and Branford Marsalis (Original Music) both lend there considerable talents to this play.
3. Its funny and poignant throughout. And by the end you can see that actor Samuel L Jackson disappear and he really transforms into the essence of Dr. King.

There really weren't many negatives but you should warn that this stars Samuel L Jackson and he is known for his signature way with a four letter word or two... and Mrs. Bassett can certainly hold her own in this respect as well. And there are times that you cringe... and times that you have a guilty laugh or two. But in the end of this journey it all comes together to tell and wonderful story about the realization of ones destiny.

This play serves as a reminder of an legendary figure in US (and the world) that help move our nation along its journey to that distant Mountaintop.

Seeing these two made me wonder, what other famous movie actor would you like to see return to Broadway in a play?

S.F Guru

Things that make me happy today... Flip the Bird Video

Things that make me happy today... Flip the bird, Down with the Thrasher -- Up with the Cornish Chicken!!

I had no idea of the travesty that was going on in Georgia.  I found this online campaign and had no choice but to post this as a reminder to all that they have a voice in the political process.  You may think that this issue is... for the birds (had to do it), but its the power of the idea that counts. Now if this can be done for birds, just imagine...

I've never heard of a bird called good for nothing and lazy for just flying around.  I love this video!! I'm almost hoping this makes it to the next political debate in GA.  Only in GA... Only in GA.

Best quote... "If nothing else the chicken will get a little respect"

For more information
http://flipthebirds.com/

Georgia on my mind...
S.F. Guru

Things that make me happy... A Vintage Murder

Things that make me happy... A Vintage Murder... with a few good people. (Murder Mystery gone wild)

Okay. Maybe I am a little crazy. Who would invite a bunch people over... only to have them solve a the murder of St. John Sedgwick-Smythe. Yes. I did it.  Why not. Pump people full of rum punch and watch people try to figure out who did it. Way too funny. With a great cast of people in hand... the estate of Chateau de Reims (aka my place) in the lush wine country of France (aka CT) was buzzing with intrigue.

With food and drinks set the evening started off with some introductions. Six suspects all with hidden agendas.

After introductions and some food then people started to search for the murderer...

At the end... Everyone was a suspect. Everyone was accused. And the murderer was revealed.

I must thank all of the "actors" for doing a great job of playing their role. 

Best accent... Desiree (french... I think :-))
Best dramatic performance... Lotte (You got my vote for an Oscar)
The women you don't want to piss off ever... Rose (how many murder weapons to you have?)
The most confusing... Seymour (Seymour never sounded so... feminine?)
Most in need of a straight jacket... Ives (Get help... The mind is a terrible thing to waste)
The one with the loudest "inside voice"... Henry (A direct question... what is that?)

I told y'all there would be video on this one... smh.

Good times, Good peeps, Good fun.

Until the next time...

S.F. Guru