MoonChyld’s Entertainment – TLC’s CrazySexyCool Story Comes To VH1

(l-r) Drew Sidora, KeKe Palmer and Lil’ Mama as the hottest selling female group TLC

KeKe Palmer, Drew Sidora & Naitia “Lil’ Mama” Kirkland took on the task of becoming the hottest selling R&B group in music history – TLC. Being Chilli, T-Boz and Left eye respectively for the VH1 original film would be something that takes talent to bring it and not disappoint. And when you have the two surviving members of the Grammy Award winning group as the executive producers of the biopic television movie that was 20 years in the making; you better bring it.

CrazySexyCool: The TLC Story presents an in-depth depiction of how 3 girls with the same dream were brought together through the brainchild of on Perri “Pebbles” Reid, then wife of Antonio “L.A.” Reid. Antonio & Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds created the record label LaFace which is currently a very bankable company with artists like Usher, Toni Braxton & Pink. In the beginning we see how Tionne (T-Boz) found out from a friend that Pebbles was in the market of creating a girl group for the LaFace label; she then brought Lisa (Left Eye) in on the venture and rest as the saying goes is history.

The movie was not one to be viewed as fluff but one of reaching a dream beyond imagination and showing the industry that not every spirit can be broken. One of the highlights of the film was the portrayal itself. This was not a compressed hour and a half film but a timeframe made for the big screen – 2 and a half hours.

I really enjoyed this movie and these showed that not only were they respectful to the women they were portraying they also were fans; the latter ensured that they weren’t going to do the girls injustice.

The movie – I’m very certain – brought back a lot of memories for those of us that were there from the beginning when we were in high school and new memories for those that joined the TLC ride over the years. It truly opened my eyes about what went down behind the scenes with the group and how no matter the trial or tribulation they were sisters to each other.

Some of the best moments believe it or not involved Lil’Mama as Left Eye; especially the moment when she found Andre with another woman – she showed that no matter how small she was she can pack a punch. Maybe now the naysayers can sit back and take note that the girl pulled it off. Drew Sidora showed us that T-Boz was apparently the strength of the group; the one who did her damnedest to keep things together and took nothing from anyone – period. Not to mention the girl can dance. KeKe Palmer presented how Chili was a dancer with a dream to make it big and had a big heart to match. Like Chili, she was the final piece of the puzzle to make the project work.

The film premiered on October 21 but has been in quite the heavy rotation since on VH1. But just in case you haven’t been able to catch it there are plenty of chances to do so. It’s also available on the VH1 app for the iPhone and iPad. The soundtrack for the film is going to be their new album titled 20 to celebrate 20 years in the business with a new song called Meant To Be which was co-written by singer/songwriter/producer Ne-Yo. It’s a great song that proves these girls still have the vibe to bring it in the studio.

After all these years the music of TLC has maintained it’s popularity.

That’s my opinion and everyone is entitled to one.

T. S. Jones

MoonChyld’s Entertainment – Boyz II Men: Here’s to 20 Years!!!

Here is another one of my favorite pieces for Throwback Thursday  from 2011. It’s about one of my most favorite music groups ever – Boyz II Men. As presented in the title it was to express the joy of having a successful 20 years in the industry and how they are still in the hearts or many. I hope you enjoy it and thanks so much for reading.

(L-R) Wanya Morris, Shawn Stockman, Nathan Morris & Michael McCray being honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2011

Nathan “Alex Vanderpool” Morris, Michael “Bass” McCray, Shawn “Slim” Stockman & Wanya “Squirt” Morris (no relation to Nathan) – four guys from the City of Brotherly Love transported their listeners to the heyday of Motown and reminded us all of the melodic rhythms of acappella harmonies. The summer of 1991 introduced everyone to the music style of Cooleyhighharmony and the fashions inspired by a soap opera character. Like many artists of their time and before, the road to musical legacy was a chance meeting. Theirs was with New Edition/BBD member Michael Bivins at a BBD concert. As the story goes they had to go in one at a time to sing for them and he was of course amazed at the quartet from Philly. After singing background for MC Brains & Another Bad Creation (ABC), they secured a deal with Motown Records and history was made.

As students at the Philadelphia High School of Creative & Performing Arts they honed the skills that would bring them catastrophic success. They were known then as Unique Attraction, a title that was created by Nathan and Marc Nelson who moved on to join the R&B group Az Yet and is now a songwriter and producer. McCray joined by chance, adding his baritone voice to their songs and taking Nelson’s place. After meeting Bivins he gave them a style based on a character from All My Children named Alfred Vanderpoole which was called Alex Vanderpool. Their debut album – Cooleyhighharmony went from #58 to #7 in the matter of a month on the Billboard 200 and brought Boyz II Men to the masses, putting Motown Records back on the map. While enjoying their newfound success as the opening act of MC Hammer’s 2 Legit 2 Quit tour in Chicago, their road manager and close friend Khalil Roundtree was murdered. After the devastating loss of someone who was there from the beginning, they dedicated their performance of the G. C. Cameron classic It’s So Hard To Say Goodbye To Yesterday from the 1970’s movie Cooley High to him; they continue the dedication to this day as it would become one of their signature songs. For some, this would have been a long journey to come back from but that wasn’t the case for Boyz II Men. They took strength in knowing Khalil had a lot of faith in them and was very supportive in their burgeoning careers.

1996, Los Angeles, California, USA — Boyz II Men

After the success of their debut album they made the traditional move in making a Christmas album – Christmas Interpretations – working with singer, songwriter and producer Brian McKnight. With these two albums and the presentation of voices, Boyz II Men gave the old feeling of how Motown was back in the day. This would prove positive by just one song recorded for a motion picture starring Eddie Murphy. In 1992, End of the Road was released as the breakout song for the motion soundtrack Boomerang. The song stayed at the #1 spot for 13 weeks, breaking a record held previously for 36 years by Elvis Presley’s Hound Dog/Don’t Be Cruel which was at #1 for 11 weeks. However, the status of the record wouldn’t last for long; Whitney Houston’s cover of the Dolly Parton hit I Will Always Love You from The Bodyguard soundtrack would beat it by one week, holding the spot for 14 weeks. As Boyz II Men continued to soar, 1994 would be the year that sent them into orbit.

II was released and broke another record with their first single I’ll Make Love To You remaining at #1 for 14 weeks tying with Whitney Houston’s I Will Always Love You; the very song that broke their previous record for End of the Road. With the other singles such as On Bended Knee, Water Runs Dry and Vibin’, this album showed that the Philadelphia sound never died. While at the height of the popularity of II, Boyz II Men collaborated with Grammy-winning singer Mariah Carey for her Daydream album with the single One Sweet Day breaking their own records holding the #1 spot for 16 weeks. With this accumulated body of work that would solidify their place in music history with albums like Evolution, NathanMichaelShawnWanya and Full Circle, the Boyz maintained their stability but there was more going on that we did not see.

Over time the group had disputes with their record label in regard to having more creative control over their music. Like many artists before them, they wanted to be known for more than their singing talents. They were able to utilize this with their record company Stonecreek and its first artist Uncle Sam. With Motown being bought out by Universal Music Group there was change in the scenery they were used to and this presented more changes within the group. Their final album with the label would be Full Circle in 2002; this would also be the last time we would see the group as a quartet. Mike’s use of the various canes he had was at first a part of his persona in the group which he would reveal in their documentary Then II Now it was to keep him from tripping; ultimately it would be of more use to him because of him having scoliosis. This condition would prevent him from participating in the dance routines during the tours after the II album.

With Full Circle being the last album recorded by all four members some wondered how they would continue on. They did what they did best, they kept the harmonies going – as a trio. Albums such as Throwback Vol. 1, Motown: A Journey Through Hitsville and Love showed how they’ve added their touch to songs we have grown to love over the years – I personally like Time After Time from the Love album. As they continue on as a trio, they are celebrating 20 years in the business with their latest album suitably named Twenty.

Twenty was an anticipating celebratory project where it was planned for Mike to reunite with the group in recording the album; unfortunately for the fans this didn’t materialize. Rumor has it Mike wanted more that what was offered to him; according to the trio’s statement on their website he was offered a significant amount considering he hasn’t actively been in the group for 9 years. One would wonder just how much was offered to him. The new album delivers new songs as well as their hits from the beginning. Their first single, More Than You’ll Ever Know, they team up with legendary singer and Gap Band frontman Charlie Wilson who co-wrote and produced the song. The end result was a harmonic masterpiece.

The second single, One Up For Love, presents a message of unity, hope and of course love; backed by an alternative rock vibe. For those who have followed their music it can be agreed that this is a genre that hasn’t closely been touched by this group. And judging by the finished product which is the song it shows they can tackle just about any genre if done the right way – they did it the right way. Just in time for the holiday season they are featured on Justin Bieber’s song Fa La La for his Christmas album Under the Mistletoe – check out the video here.

It is very certain that these young boys from the Philadelphia High School of Creative and Performing Arts reached their dream; and as men they continue that dream. Just as New Edition was their inspiration, Boyz II Men has and will continue to inspire groups to follow in their footsteps.

On January 5, 2011, Nathan, Shawn, Wanya & Michael joined the ranks of their idols like Michael Jackson and received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. They were joined by longtime collaborators Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis and Babyface. Their mentor Michael Bivins was also on hand for the celebrations. A long time coming, the quartet from Philly is very appreciative of this recognition and appreciation from their fans. Nathan told yahoo news recently “When you become artists it’s the furthest thing from your mind…you never think about whatever accolades may come further down the line.”

As always they enjoy what they do and are humble about the success they’ve achieved these past 20 years. It was a wonderful sight to see all four members together to share this momentous occasion – Happy Anniversary to Boyz II Men & Congrats fellas!!!

Nathan, Shawn & Wanya are continuing to keep the Philly sound strong and have no plans on quitting anytime soon.

Where are they now?

Nathan Morris – When he’s not harmonizing with the guys he continues to write and produce music. He has a photo studio in Philly called Behind the School Studios and became a proud father of son Nathan Morris Jr. in 1996.

Shawn Stockman – Shawn – a songwriter/producing in his own right – is currently one of the judges of NBC’s The Sing Off with Ben Folds & Sara Bareillis. He lives in Los Angeles with his wife and 2 sons.

Wanya Morris – Morris is also married with children. He has a record label – The Company Entertainment – and is working on solo album.

Michael McCary – Mike can be seen out an about in the Los Angeles social scene. He has a starring role in the yet to be released film the Mansfield 12.

 

 

MoonChyld’s Entertainment – No Jon, You Did Nothing Wrong

Here is another one of my articles for Throwback Thursday  that I am very proud of. It’s about…well the title and article speaks for itself. Thanks for reading and enjoy!!!

This version of Nick Fury was drawn in the likeness of Iconic actor Samuel L. Jackson by Brian Hitch for Marvel’s Ultimate Marvel comic books. He gave Marvel permission to use his image as the S.H.E.I.L.D. agent and it looks like it was a good move – he was cast in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as the agent who is also head of the Avengers Initiative.

 

There was an article in Entertainment Weekly about Iron Man and future movie projects for Marvel Studios (Issue #991, May 16, 2008). In this well written article by Adam B. Vary and Clark Collins, there was a sidebar piece about Samuel L. Jackson’s cameo as Nick Fury. According to the article, the Jackson inspired Fury is featured in an alternate Marvel universe series; it appeared to be a red flag for some hardcore comic fans. The question presented was how an alternate Nick Fury can talk to the actual Tony Stark from the original universe? To put it in simple terms – if done the right way it can be one of the best moves made by Marvel; turns out it was.

Jon Favreau, who directed the summer blockbuster and co-starred with Ben Affleck in Daredevil, said he didn’t think of that. “Maybe we should have used David Hasselhoff.”, he tells EW. If you saw the 1998 made for television movie starring the Baywatch star, then you know that Jackson was the much better choice because the movie wasn’t all that great. It’s safe to say the anticipation of seeing the scene after the credits wouldn’t have generated the buzz Jackson did. Everyone loves Sam; to see he and Robert together is surely something to look forward to. If nothing else, those of us that have witnessed the now legendary scene are already planning to see the sequel in April 2010; Hasselhoff wouldn’t make a convincing Fury by today’s standards. He wasn’t convincing period when played the part in ’98.

If you followed both Marvel and DC comics, you know that their big screen adaptations on some occasion or three did not follow character portrayal to a tee. Here are a few examples:

In 1989, Warner Bros. released Tim Burton’s Batman where Harvey Dent aka Two-Face was played by Billy Dee Williams. In the comic book series he’s white. That brings you to 1995, Batman Returns is released and Tommy Lee Jones takes the role of the DA turned twisted villain. In this year’s The Dark Knight, Aaron Eckhart plays the troubled Dent who was unable to control his dark side. As you can see, Harvey’s gone through some changes.

In 2003’s Daredevil, Michael Clarke Duncan of the upcoming summer film Kung Fo Panda is Hell’s Kitchen mob boss Kingpin when it is clear that Wilson Fisk is also a white man like DC’s Dent. Duncan cast as the Kingpin was a decision made by the studios; one factor being his physique matched that of the comic book character. Based on the rave reviews of his portrayal, this proves you don’t have to be completely accurate.

If there was a movie, or in this particular case a series of movies, where universes were woven together, it is definitely X-Men; there are so many storylines from the comics that are seen in the films and some not referenced. Take for instance Rogue meeting Wolverine in Canada. In the comic book world she’s Anna Marie; not Marie as told to Logan in the film. These characters didn’t meet until after Rogue joined the Brotherhood of Mutants with Mystique taking Rogue in as her daughter. It’s said that Mystique is also Nightcrawler’s mother but you’ve seen it wasn’t addressed.

Pyro’s true origin is that his name is St. John Allerdyce as opposed to just John in X2 and X-Men: The Last Stand. Another difference between the comic; in the movies he’s American. Pyro was originally part of the Brotherhood of Mutants and was part of the X-Men in the Ultimates universe.

This is to show that there is much room for imagination. Think of these and future comic book films in the way you look at comics. You’ll notice that every writer, artist and inker has put their own spin on some of your favorite characters over the years. Some have even revamped characters from the past with stories that are taking them to another level.

Iron Man did just that with Sam’s appearance as Fury, Favreau put his spin on the character. As a matter of fact, Sam’s Fury is currently part of the original Marvel universe. In The Mighty Avengers: Secret Invasion #13, the Jackson inspired Fury is featured in the story with a twist of a detail. You’ll have to get a copy at your local comic book store to see for yourself.

If that’s not enough for you, look at how moviegoers were and still willing to stay after the credits just to get a glimpse of Sam and Robert working the scene together. There will always be people who aren’t open-minded enough to accept such a move based on creativity. Fans and critics alike enjoy Sam’s work on screen because even if his time in the film is minimal, he makes it work. Remember the final scene with George Clooney in Out of Sight? The point has been proven.

Jon has done a great job with the movie from beginning to end; it made over $100 million opening weekend for a reason.

Jackson recently made a cameo appearance in the new addition to the Marvel Universe – Agents of S.H.E.I.L.D. on ABC

MoonChyld’s Entertainment – The Peanuts Gang – Where Are They Now?

In the spirit of Throwback Thursday I thought I would share a fun article I posted some time ago before I joined this site. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it.

Charlie Brown and his friends will always be a timeless classic.

For generations Charlie Brown, his sister Sally, their dog Snoopy and their friends have entertained us and continue on to this day. But I thought it would be fun to know what they could be doing today. So here’s my take on what Charlie and the Peanuts gang have grown to become.

Charlie Brown – Dr. Charles Brown, PhD became a successful motivational speaker and author. He has been married to Heather (The Little Red Haired Girl) for 22 years and they have 3 children. Linus is the godfather to his kids.

Sally Brown – Sally is a highly recommended matchmaker who has been in a long term relationship with her childhood crush Linus since college. She blogs about her success stories and gives advice to couples on how to keep the sparks going in their relationships.

Linus van Pelt – Linus van Pelt is a high-end fashion designer who not only sells his deigns to exclusive shops like Barneys New York and Bergdorf Goodman but he personally dresses the likes of Russell Simmons and Jennifer Lopez. He and Sally Brown have been in a long term relationship and are expecting their first child – a boy – who will be the new owner of Linus’s blanket.

Lucy van Pelt & Schroeder – Lucy is a psychiatrist and a super Type A neat freak; Schroeder is a classical & jazz composer and concert pianist. He and Lucy began dating after reuniting in Paris where Lucy was studying abroad for her Masters Degree and Linus was a student at the Conservatoire de Paris. They have only one daughter, Annabella, a 16 year old college sophomore at Vassar.

Peppermint Patty & Marcie – Peppermint Patty (Patricia Longfellow – nee’Reichardt) is a sports writer for the Los Angeles Times. She became the first woman to win the National Sportswriter of the Year award from the NSSA for her compelling article Venus & Serena – A Tennis Empire. Marcie, forever being the right hand girl, is Patty’s publicist; still calling her “sir.”

Franklin – Franklin Halliburton is a New York congressman who works closely with President Barack Obama. Before the Obama Administration, Franklin created an education program called Rise as a People. This program provides tutoring programs and academic scholarships for students with a GPA of 2.7 or higher.

Pig Pen – Pig Pen (Astor Jemison) is an environmental lawyer. He helped enforce the Purification Law. This law prevents large corporations from dumping toxins into small rural towns (think Erin Brockovich) and making it a thing of the past. His biggest case win to date was against the oil/gasoline company BP and the underwater oil spill they tried to salvage in 2010. He has a non profit law firm – Jemison & Associates – who solely handles environmental cases. He also lives in an eco-friendly home off the Atlantic Ocean with his college sweetheart Alysha, an organic food market owner.