Posts Tagged ‘ullin rigby’

So by now everyone knows that I am uber excited for the release of Tyler Perry’s film adaptation of the legendary play For Colored Girls Who Considered Suicide When The Rainbow Wasn’t Enuf.  Well, this week gave us a ton of late-breaking news concerning the film and it’s release.

Firstly, take a look at the first official photo of the beautiful cast.  In case, you need a refresher, Perry has assembled Anika Noni Rose, Kerry Washington, Janet Jackson, Kimberly Elise, Phylicia Rashad, Loretta Devine, Tessa Thompson and Thandie Newton for this powerful ensemble film and the photo shows all of these stunning women.  Don’t forget that Whoopi Goldberg, Macy Gray, Hill Harper and Richard Lawson (among others) are a part of the film as well.

Secondly, Perry has rescheduled the film’s release.  These days, most films get pushed back for various reasons but this film has been pushed UP from an original early 2011 release to November 5, 2010.  You know what that means?  The film is entering the Academy Awards derby and is now officially an awards contender, marking Perry’s first release to garner any sort of awards buzz.

All we’re waiting for now is a trailer for this highly anticipated film and, with the release just around the corner, it looks like that will be appearing shortly. Is it just me or can you not contain your excitement for this release?  I’ve loved the play forever and I hope that Perry does the powerful and emotional stories great justice.  This is definitely a “win” for African American film-making.

Trump – This Week’s Winners

Ace – Will Packer.  Packer, who took the time out to speak to XI about the making of Takers, celebrated this week when his ensemble heist project was declared the winner at this past weekend’s box office raking in over $20 million.  With congratulatory Tweets running rampant, Packer ended the summer movie season on a mega high.  Can’t wait to see where this guy goes next.

King- Kanye & Jay-Z.  The dynamic duo announced they’ll do a collaborative EP, making hip hop fans salivate everywhere.  Kanye is doing his best to generate interest in his next solo disc which is due before the end of the year, and teaming with the Greatest Rapper Alive is only adding to the deafening buzz.

Queen – Terry McMillan.  The talented, award-winning author is set to release the sequel to her highly debated and widely loved hit novel Waiting to Exhale.  Entitled Getting to Happy, it catches up with the foursome (Bernadine, Savannah, Robin and Gloria) fifteen years after the original.  Buzz is heavy for this and some are saying it could help aid the resurrection of the book genre, especially in the wake of the end of Oprah’s Book Club.  Glad to see McMillan ushering in a new era of black fiction.

Jack – Marc Lamont Hill. The noted cultural anthropologist has scored a syndicated hosting job, headlining Our World with Black Enterprise.  A great job in the right direction for a rising star who deserves every accolade thrown his way.  Good job!

10 – Paula Patton.  The Precious and Just Wright star just landed another big “get” – she’ll play the female lead in the next installment of Mission: Impossible 4. Talk about defying stereotypes…and to make matters even further color-blind, Patton beat out 2 other actresses for the coveted role…and they weren’t even black!

(Honorary) 9- Mary J. Blige & Jazmine Sullivan.  The soul singers will come together for a tour of the United States throughout the month of October.  I bet you cash money this will be the buzziest R&B concert of the fall.

Trick – This Week’s Losers

4 – T.I.  Despite co-starring in Takers, the just released from prison newlywed found himself back on the wrong side of the law when he and his wife Tiny were pulled over and found in possession of a controlled substance. This was after a LA police officer smelled marijuana coming from the car while the couple was at a red light.  They were both arrested and are out on bail now.  To make matters worse, word broke this week that his “comeback” album (aka the first one since his stint in prison) has been delayed until the end of the year.  C’mon T.I., you’ve got to get this stuff together…

3 – Mekhi Phifer.  The former film star, whose career seems to be in free fall, got another bad blow this week when Fox announced it was dropping him from the show Lie to Me.   Phifer, who at one point was really scoring some good roles, has to be shaking his head over this recent setback.

2 - Summer vacation.  Yep, it’s officially over…it’s Labor Day weekend.  No more white, no more cookouts, no more beach trips…just plain old, NO MORE!

Joker - The War in Iraq.  Mr. President said you’re over…so take that!

Academy and Grammy Award-winning superstar Jamie Foxx is headed back to his sketch comedy roots.  Foxx originally rose to fame as an original cast member of Fox’s sketch show In Living Color (his Wanda character has to rank as one of the most popular skits of all time).

He’ll be returning to the Fox Network for a new show that he’s working on alongside fellow comedian Affion Crockett.  Both comedians are expected to star and serve as executive producers for the show that will debut sometime during the 2010-11 television season (most likely a spring mid-season replacement show).  According to Foxx, the show will feature “a fresh take on pop culture, including spoofs of commercials, TV shows, movie trailers, music videos and celebrities with a diverse cast of comedians.”

The show’s tentative title is The Jamie Foxx Project, and Fox has ordered 12 episodes already.  It’s not to be confused with another pilot that Foxx was working on for the Fox Network, but that project has since been scratched.

I’m excited to see Jamie returning to his roots as a television star!  The man knows real comedy and I’m sure he’s going to assemble a great cast to make this show one of the funniest since In Living Color.  I just hope we can get a Wanda reprisal…just like he did for the BET Awards!

With the Emmys now handed out, there’s a new fall television upon us and it’s looking to be one of the grandest ones in a very long time.  Instead of boring you with the entire crop of new shows, I’ve personally selected 5 new shows that scream Must Watch! and 5 returning shows that deserve to retain (or gain) your loyalty.  The networks are doing their best to ratchet up their quotients of new and original programming but these are the standouts that are guaranteed to deliver laughs, tears, thrills and water-cooler buzz this September.

New Shows

Nikita (The CW)

I may be telling my age but I remember back in the late 90’s when USA Network had a show called La Femme Nikita that starred Australian actress Peta Wilson.  It was risque, sexed-up and action-packed, set to a killer soundtrack.  Well, the CW has remade that show (which itself was a remake), tailor making it for its core teenage audience.  This version stars Maggie Q (of Live Free or Die Hard fame) as a woman who escapes the clutches of her prisoners, only to be trained to become an assassin and spy.  Nikita realizes she’s been brainwashed when her fiancee is brutally murdered and she vows revenge on the people (called the “Division”) who trained her.  Maggie Q continues the legacy of a sexy, sultry Nikita and the ads for the show have led some parental groups to spit blasphemous venom.  The show looks like a great, fun tale of revenge and adventure and Ms. Q is quite the looker.  It premieres on Thursday September 9 at 9PM.  Unfortunately, it goes directly up against one of my returning show picks Grey’s Anatomy. 

The Event (NBC)

The fact that Blair Underwood is the President of the United States made me take notice of this new thriller from NBC.  But don’t get it twisted – this man is no Obama.  He’s seeking the truth behind a carefully and intricately plotted chain of events that lead up to the titular “Event.”  The show follows a man (played by Jason Ritter, son of the late John Ritter of Three’s Companyfame) whose lost his fiancee (are you sensing a fall TV trend here?) and in the process of tracking her disappearance, uncovers the biggest conspiracy in U.S. history.  This is no “ordinary” conspiracy.  NBC describes it as “a cover up which changes the very core of mankind as a whole, whose implications are life changing.”  Yeah, with a tag line like that…I’m definitely in!  The Event premieres on Monday, September 20 at 9PM.

Mike & Molly (CBS)

Okay first let me say that this traditional sitcom from CBS should not be classified as “the one about the two big people.”  Mike & Molly follows the couple who meet at a weight loss support group and begin a relationship.  Well, at first Molly isn’t interested but we get to see Mike court her.  Its pedigree is legendary: executive producer James Burrows is at the helm, and he’s the force behind iconic shows like Frasier, Will & Grace and Laverne & Shirley.  The previews have been hilarious.  It’s simply a show about two ordinary, single people…and I must admit I’m a little tired of the whole “I can’t find a date” whines coming from perfect looking stars who have the perfect hair, skin and waist size.  The sitcom joins CBS’ thriving Monday comedy lineup on Monday September 20 at 9:30PM.

My Generation (ABC)

I love satires, shows that poke fun at different genres.  My Generationis one of those.  It’s a “mockumentary” which follows a group of high school friends in Austin, Texas and shows them 10 years after their graduation.  There are some stereotypical folks in this group, like the Nerd, the Beauty Queen and the Jock.  However, what makes this show different is that it’s told in flashback and present day, intermingled with straight to the TV screen commentary from the characters.  Standout actor is Mehcad Brooks (who seems to be everywhere these days.  You’ll recognize him from Just Wright, True Blood and Desperate Housewives.)  The show premieres on Thursday September 23 at 8PM. 

Undercovers (NBC)

Boris Kodjoe (Brown Sugar andTV’s Soul Food) and Gugu Mbatha-Raw (Dr. Who, Bonekickers) play a retired CIA couple who now run a small, catering business in Los Angeles.  However, the pair return to the CIA when one of their close friends goes missing on an assignment gone awry.  The pair are reluctant initially but eventually re-immerse themselves in the life of espionage, disguises and combat that was once second nature to them.  The show screams a TV version of the wildly popular Mr. & Mrs. Smith and I am so happy to see an African American couple headlining this show.  To make matters even better, color is not even addressed in the show, indicating a positive sign that TV may finally be ready to make shows about PEOPLE and not just about specific races.  The show debuts on NBC on Wednesday, September 22 at 8PM.

Returning Shows

The Apprentice (NBC)

The world’s greatest job interview returns, this time in its traditional format and not with celebrities.  As an added twist, the show’s contestants have all been hit by the country’s economic recession – all 14 of them have lost their jobs as a result of it.  NBC is promising “more Donald Trump” in this edition, indicating that the creator and mastermind behind the hit will be more hands-on than previous seasons; in addition, the show is seeking to give these qualified folk another shot at “redemption and success.”  The prize?  A job at the Trump Organization, complete with a 6 figure salary.  The show has its two hour premiere on Thursday September 23 at 9PM.

90210 (The CW)

The show finally hit its stride in season 2 last year, becoming the cult favorite we all knew it could.  This season looks to delve deeper into the characters and the first major storyline will showcase tennis heartthrob Teddy being involved with…another guy!  Yep, and this time it’s real (unlike Adrianna’s flirtation with lesbianism last season).  In addition, look for some shocking twists – it is the gang’s senior year, so we’ll definitely hear talk of college and jobs, as well as witness a couple downfalls.  90210 returns on a new night – Monday September 13 at 8PM.

Grey’s Anatomy (ABC)

The venerable hit show seemed to rediscover its mojo last year after sinking into nothingness the previous season.  The premiere will take place weeks after the hospital massacre, showcasing how some of our favorites are dealing with the aftermath of the homicidal maniac.  Executive producer Shonda Rhimes promises “closure” for Alex and Izzie, but doesn’t confirm or deny whether Katherine Heigl will pop back up as Izzie.  There will also be a wedding very early in the season.  The candidates – Callie & Arizona, Cristina & Owen and Alex and Lexie.  Either way, the wedding will look to figure prominently into this season’s stories.  In addition, look for Derek (Patrick Dempsey) to step down as Chief, reeling from his shooting.  The show returns on Thursday, September 23 at 9PM.

Glee (Fox)

Fox’s freshman standout musical series is back…and with a vengeance.  Britney Spears will be the guest in the season’s second episode and the network has been keeping the entire episode veiled in silence.  Show star Lea Michele hinted that she had a number with Spears at the Emmy awards and many are already raving that the episode is one of the show’s best ones yet.  Other possible guest stars are being kept underwraps.  I usually don’t dig musical TV shows but this one just continues to grow on me – its funny, touching, moving and insane ALL AT THE SAME TIME!  It returns to Fox on Tuesday September 21, at 8PM.

Undercover Boss (CBS)

This show premiered after the Super Bowl last year and immediately became a ratings smash.  I’ve watched reruns all summer long and have found myself captivated by how CEO’s can slide right on into their companies and watch how their employees either succeed or fail in their respective positions.  CBS promises more heartwarming stories this season and more bigtime companies being profiled.  The hit series returns on Sunday, September 26 at 10PM.

So there are my ten to watch this fall!  Make sure you tune in and give these shows a try…I bet you’ll be addicted!

Check out the previews for each Top Ten TV picks only on XI TV!

Icons trail-blaze pathways without ever really stopping to get their accolades; they work feverishly to create quality products, fueled by a burning desire to accomplish their most lavish goals.  They’re dedicated to delivering, focused on perfection and not intimidated by the challenges that life may create along the way.  There are invisible walls that exist, envisioned to keep the dreamers out of the success arena…but when your vision is built on a foundation of talent, belief and commitment, that wall is nothing more than a fairy tale, a myth, non-existent.

Shelly Garrett has entertained audiences for a quarter of a century with his plays, most notably his mega successful Beauty Shop.  The play continues to travel across the nation, bringing laughter to audiences and providing our community with a positive, care-free activity that promotes the arts.  Known as “The Godfather of Black Theatre”, he is a firm believer in producing quality work; something that he can be proud of years from now and his legacy is one that illustrates his desire to do this.  With Beauty Shop making a pit stop in Richmond, Virginia, Garrett took the time out to chat with me about the origins of his success, the challenges he’s faced and how he unwinds in the midst of a wildly successful career.

XI: What motivates you?

In life, my wife motivates me.  entertaining America motivates me.  It is important to give America quality entertainment, especially during these times.  People deserve to get something that is worth their money.  I have to produce quality writing and a quality show.

XI: What brought you into the field of theater?

I was in Los Angeles, acting, doing television.  I wanted to be behind the scenes.  I was doing a stage play at the time and I felt that it could have been better.  I spoke to the director about it and he didn’t agree.  He fired me and told me to go ahead and write my own play That was in 1987, and after that happened, I wrote Beauty Shop.

XI: What has been your proudest accomplishment?

Being in the business for so long.  This past April made 25 years in the business.  I’m just proud to be here, still doing this.  Also, I’m proud about starting the touring of African American stage plays.  We had Broadway but we never had a tour of our plays.  And Beauty Shop started the whole trend of touring around the country.

XI: There was an ABC sitcom called New Attitudes, that featured characters based on Beauty Shop.  Are you interested in seeing more of your plays go to TV or film?

Well I’ve had 3 movies based on Beauty Shop already   I’m not interested in having the shows go to TV or the movies if it’s not done right.  When New Attitudes came about, I didn’t have time to do the TV show because of the touring so I was a consultant on the show and I read every script.  I told them that the show had to be funny, and when I read the scripts they never were.  The show was cancelled after 9 episodes.

XI: Is their racism in the world of entertainment?

Absolutely.  It’s not as bad as it used to be, though.  I remember in 1990 when we were booked at the Fox Theater in Atlanta and one of the elevator operators called one of the cast members the “N” word.  I told the production people that I wanted her out, especially since we were paying her for our two week, sold out engagement there.  And I told them if she was not fired, we were not performing.  We had booked 8 shows a week for 2 weeks and all the shows were sold out.  They didn’t want to get rid of her, but they did.  They had to.  Another incident happened when we were touring in Jackson, Mississippi.  They were flying the Confederate flag right in front of the theater where we were performing.  I told them we couldn’t perform while that flag was up.  They resisted and I told them that we were leaving – that was the first time ever that the flag had been taken down.  Racism is definitely in the industry, it’s just not as bad as it used to be.  At the time, we were something they had never seen before.   We were going into their house but they had to respect that our shows were sold out.  They just had to.

XI: What do you do to unwind?

My wife and I will do a lot together.  She’s the executive producer for all of my shows.  We just got back from Disney World for my birthday.  That relaxes me…when I can step away from the theaters, the promoters, the phone calls.  We’ll be celebrating our first wedding anniversary on September 5 .

XI: How do you feel about the future of black theater?

It will be prosperous, if it’s done right.  A lot of people are just throwing up shows for the money.  If you’re serious about the craft and put all of your energy into your work, the money will come.  But if you’re not serious, it will hurt the future of other shows.  People will always remember the last thing that they saw, and if it was bad, they won’t bother when a new play comes to town.

XI: What advice do you have for aspiring playwrights?

Believe in yourself first, before you believe in your project.  Stick with it and don’t give up.  It will happen.  Expect criticism.  Don’t give up, that’s the main thing.  Good things come to those who wait.

This entertainment giant continues to leave a lasting legacy on the fields of theater and his quality entertainment has resonated with generations.  For more information on upcoming show dates and auditions for his stage productions, please visit his website.

The evolution of music is something that has intrigued listeners and music personnel for decades.  What exactly triggers a new sound?  When is the right time for a new artist to attempt crossover status?  How can you determine whose “in” and whose “out”?  What everyone can agree on is that evolution is a natural cycle and there are many instances when a new sound, a new artist can define a generation, ultimately turning the music world on its head.

CR is no stranger to the music game.  Unlike many of today’s successes, who specialize in one specific area – vocals, CR is a master of almost every aspect associated with music.  He’s an established vocalist, songwriter, sound engineer and music producer; throw in the fact that he started his career DJ-ing and you have a powerful force of nature streaking through the often one-dimensional music arena. 

CR took the time out of his hectic schedule to chat with XI about his upcoming album, his career aspirations and his thoughts on music’s ever changing sound.

XI: What are you listening to right now?

Right now, I’m listening to a new single that I’m mixing and mastering.  Besides my own stuff, J. Dilla, Drake, Kanye, Timbaland.  I’m listening to some of my favorites like James Brown.  I’ll occasionally put in a Boyz II Men or Jodeci CD.  I usually don’t go outside of my favorites.

XI: You’ve worked with a lot of big names in the industry.  Who else would you like to collaborate with?

I’d definitely like to do a song with Kanye West.  Will.I.Am and T-Pain, of course.

XI: Do you ever feel the need to conform to what’s hot on the radio, like AutoTune?

It’s best to find the balance in things.  It’s good to not be for or against something in music.  Always find a compromise, find a medium, a gray area where both worlds can co-exist.  I choose to make a song this way or that way based on where I want it to go, what I want it to sound like.  It’s always best to be better than my competition; not copying what they do but finding a hybrid between both worlds.

XI: What is the message in your music?  How do you want people to feel when they listen to your music?

I want them to think a little but also to relax and enjoy the ride.  Escape your own feelings and feel what you’re listening to.  Let the sad songs make you feel sad and the happy songs make you feel happy.  The songs are more than just about the words…its about the feeling.

XI: You’re currently working with T-Pain’s brother on your new album.  How is your sound evolving on this new CD?

Oh my gosh!  I see in my future a Grammy.  It’s like that.  This is some next level stuff.  This is a new thing that’s going to take over and just sweep the times.  It’s really great stuff.

XI: You’ve worked in a lot of different areas of music – songwriting, production, singing, deejaying.  What has been your proudest accomplishment to date?

I would have to say being an engineer.  I’m a nerd behind the boards and I just love creating good music.  I’d say vocals too….definitely mastering engineering and vocals.

XI: On the day after Michael Jackson’s birthday, what do you think his legacy is?  What is your favorite MJ song?

My favorite song has to be “Ben.”  I loved Michael Jackson better when you could see the smile in his face, when it was real.  Back in the day, his music just felt better. , he seemed to become a little more tense.  I loved when you could feel his energy, you literally felt the energy coming from the vinyl.  I felt good because he felt good.

XI: What advice would you give for up and coming artists?

Practice makes perfect.  The more time you put into anything, the better you will become.  The more energy you put into it, the more you’ll reap the benefit from it.  Put your time into your music, do your research, read up on your info, learn how to meet people, how to speak to people, how to make a great radio mix.  You have to make the time.

XI: Describe your music in one word.

Energy.  Everything is energy.

CR is definitely one to watch and listen to.  His music speaks directly to the soul, but its music you can groove to;  you can bob your head, snap your fingers and tap your feet.  He’s real – and that’s something that cannot be manufactured, duplicated or destroyed.

Make sure you stay on the check-in with XI for more information about his  next CD and check him on Twitter and Facbeook!

The world was literally shaken last year when the news media confirmed the death of Grammy-winning, music icon, Michael Jackson.  This was literally a moment that transcended time and caused everyone to sit back and evaluate their own lives, as publications, media outlets and Internet blogs were awash in MJ coverage.  Devoted fans reminisced about their favorite Michael moments, adorning themselves in attire that was reflective of the King’s ever evolving fashion sense – the military jacket, the Afro, the sequined glove.

There were MJ celebrations at clubs, dedication hours on radio stations, magazine covers upon magazine covers.  We watched his funeral, some in tears, as we saw celebrities – past and present – pay tribute the man they loved.  Not the FIGURE, not the ICON, but the MAN.  We cried when we saw his children, surrounded by the infamous Jackson family members.  And who couldn’t hold it together when Paris took the microphone and got choked up?  We  watched the personal stories of Latoya and Janet (albeit separately) who shared with news personnel how they felt about their brother…and how they felt about the doctor whose been accused of slowly killing him.  There was the battle over his estate, the question of who would get what and most importantly, where would the three children go? 

There was the ascension of his Greatest Hits album to #1 status, being the top selling album in the United States for weeks after his death.  The American Music Awards showered him with praise…and trophies.  BET and MTV aired special tributes during their annual awards ceremonies…and Chris Brown won the hearts of a nation, garnering forgiveness for not being able to complete a song by one of his own idols, who too had been miscast as a terrible person.

But now, all we really have is what introduced us to MJ in the first place – his music.  The music that defined a generation, transcended nationality and skin color, warmed hearts, addressed taboo topics and made us dance.  The music that is played at weddings, funerals, graduations, and rallies.  The music that we can’t help but remember whenever we see a performance from Ne-Yo, a dance by Usher or a video by Lady Gaga.  His presence is ever felt whenever we thumb through “Best of All Times” lists, his image forever emblazoned in minds when the “Thriller” video plays at Halloween and his voice forever present whenever we turn on the radio.

MJ was the closest thing we had to music royalty…and for that, today, XI Magazine remembers the legend, the icon, the trailblazer, the hard worker, the dancer, the singer, the father, the brother, the son, the award winner, the songwriter, the producer, the moviestar, the influence, the force, the MAN….Michael Jackson.

Trump – This Week’s Winners

Ace – Usher & Chris Brown.  The pop sensations unofficially confirmed that they’ll be hitting venues nationwide as a part of a new, joint concert tour.  All I have to say is, CHA CHING….this thing is BANK!

King - Chelsea Handler.  The crazy star of E!’s Chelsea Latelyhas landed the plum gig of hosting this year’s MTV Video Music Awards, considered one of THE highest honors for any comedian. Congrats to her!  I can’t wait to see how she handles the fact that Kanye West is performing….after his incident last year.

Queen -  Rooney Mara.  The relatively unknown actress has scored THE go-to role female role of the moment – headlining the big screen, American adaptation of the highly successful The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo book.  This can either go two ways: she’s about to become the biggest female star in Hollywood or she’s going to be forever typecast as “that unknown who landed the major role.”  Sources indicate she’ll be the former. 

Jack – Ice Cube.  TBS ordered another NINETY episodes of his ratings smash Are We There Yet? sitcom.  Ice Cube has successfully brought films to the big screen and is now apparently about to become a TV mogul as well.

10 – Sherri Shepherd.  The View co-host has landed a gig as the new host of The Newlywed Game.  The sassy star will probably bring a whole new generation to this venerable game show and I can’t wait to see her use that charisma in the best possible way.  Look for it on The Game Show Network.

Trick – This Week’s Losers

5- Erykah Badu.  The neo soul sensation had to pay a hefty fine this week for her controversial “Window Seat” video where she ran naked through the famed Dealey Plaza.  In addition, Badu finds herself on probation for her actions as well.  Sometimes controversial does translate to criminal.

4- Laurence Fishburne.  The Academy Award nominee finds himself battling with his daughter about her porn career IN PUBLIC!  This kind of stuff does not usually happen to “our” folks so I’m puzzled as to why he’s addressing her through the media!

3- D.L. Hughley.  The former TV star and “King of Comedy” ended his morning New York radio talk show this week amidst an ongoing lawsuit regarding his lack of pay for the year long stint.  After his CNN talk show failed to capture an audience, Hughley may need to revert back to his stand up routine just to make it.

2- Tyra Banks.  The supermodel turned media maverick landed in hot water this week when photos leaked of a super slim contestant on this season’s cycle of America’s Next Top Model.  The contestant in question looked borderline anorexic and Tyra hurriedly issued a statement saying that her struggle with eating disorders will be discussed on the show and that ANTM welcomes models of all shapes and sizes.  Hmmm…this from the woman whose preaching “love yourself for who you are, curves and all?”  SMH.

  Joker - Fantasia.  Just hours after being released from a hospital due to her apparent overdose on pain medication, the songstress was seen out having a “private meeting” with her married boyfriend, the apparent cause of the suicide attempt.  I don’t know if this is publicity gone terribly wrong but ‘Tasia needs to get her act together quick, fast and in a hurry before her audience becomes completely disgusted with her.  If they aren’t already….

With all of the buzz about the Warner Brothers and Alcon Entertainment’s film Lottery Ticket, the star’s red carpet looks are the highlight of the premieres!  The film stars Bow Wow, Loretta Divine, Ice Cube, Mike Epps and many others.  But XI-Fly chick Naturi Naughton brings it in the film as well.  On the Ed Lover Showthis morning, she decribed her character as “the one who brings heart to the movie and is grounded…the around the way girl.” 

Naughton definitely gives off that ‘around the way girl’ vibe, but she has shown some definite range in her recent roles.  She’s done well in choosing characters that she can really bring to life; Lil Kim in Notorious and Denise Dupree in Fame.  So we at XI are sure that she will do the same with her role as Stacie opposite Bow Wow in Lottery Ticket!

To add to her talent as a singer and actress, Naturi’s got beauty and style.  For her Hollywood premiere, she teamed up with Soft Sheen Carson Dark & Lovely celebrity stylist Johnny Wrightfor a red haute look to grace the carpet with!  Johnny used Dark & Lovely’s relaxer and a host of other Dark & Lovely products to give her hair weightless shine, bounce and staying power to go along with that fierce dress and her killer smile.

These two definitely seemed to have had a great time prepping Naturi for her Lottery Ticketpremiere at the Mann Grauman Chinese Theatre in Hollywood.  You can watch the process and get styling tips from Johnny by clicking the Youtube vid below!  For a synopsis of the movie and to see the trailer, check out the August Movie Preview by our very own Ullin Rigby.  Also, make sure you go out and support the film in theaters this Friday, August 20th!

*Editor’s Note: Special thanks to Epic Media for the photos and video along with Michelle Pascal and Bratskeir & Company.

Most people discover music when they listen to the radio, watch a music video on TV or attend a concert; Joonie was not one of these people.

Born Calvin Gary, Jr. in Jacksonville, North Carolina, Joonie grew up around the sounds and vocals of true, genuine music – his mother was a singer and his father was a keyboardist.  Quite naturally, he ventured into the music arena, teaching himself how to play many instruments (including the piano and guitar) by the age of 12.  Possessing an unparalleled level of focus, determination and ambition, he’s been working tirelessly to bring his sound – one reminiscent of a time when AutoTune and synthesizers had not proliferated our eardrums and watered down our music tastes – to a mass audience.  Besides his singing and instrumental abilities, Joonie is also a songwriter; in fact, his original plan was just to write but after providing vocals on demos for his songs, he decided to become a full fledged performer.  He’s worked with some big names in the music industry, including Grammy nominated stars Angie Stone, Ruben Studdard and Mos Def.  In addition, Joonie toured with American Idol finalist Elliott Yamin, generating buzz across the nation for his own unique vocal stylings and heartfelt lyrics.

He released his debut album, Acoustic Love, on April 27, 2010.  The album, laced with tales about the highs and struggles of genuine relationships, is simply amazing.  His songwriting skills are definitely on full display as he crafts stories about emotion, unlike the sexy, raunchy, over the top lyrics currently getting mass radio play. Defying all odds, Joonie is an artist on the rise.  He took some time out to chat with XI about his thoughts on the music business, his work and why he almost quit the business. 

XI: What inspires your music?

My music’s inspired by different things depending on what I see or feel at that moment.  However, lately its been inspired by the desire and fantasy of having perfect love.

XI: Who are your musical influences?

Nat King Cole, D’Angelo, Lauryn Hill to name a few.

XI: What are you listening to right now?

I’ve been listening to Janelle Monae right now. Just came across her music last week and she’s one of the few artists who’s music takes me to another place.

 XI: Who are some people you would love to collaborate with?

I’d enjoy a collab with any artist who’s making solid music. I just enjoy creating.

XI: How do you want people to feel after they listen to your music?

I want people to feel as if they just walked out of a smoky closet into a huge breath of fresh air after hearing my music.

XI: In reading your bio, it was apparent that you rejected an image that your record label was trying to force upon you and subsequently, you lost a desire to do music.  What triggered your return to music, particularly to singing?

The spark that lit the fire of me wanting to stand openly as an artist again was touring the world as Music Director for American Idolfinalist Elliott Yamin. He, the band and his fans gave me so much love and encouragement and here I am now.

XI: Your debut album, Acoustic Love, really goes in depth regarding emotions and what it means to really be in a relationship. Was this inspired by your life experiences?

The album is definitely inspired by life experiences as well as fantasy. There is a such thing as true love, and “Acoustic Love” is an audio blueprint of how to obtain it, not just in relationships but even in yourself.

XI: What are you working on right now?

I’m always working on production and I’m working hard to get this great music to the masses. Make sure you all support, spread the word and check me out at www.jooniezone.com

XI: Describe your music in one word.

Water

I’m deeming this guy one to definitely keep an eye (and ear) on.  His music reminds me of Jill Scott’s ballads – the ones that make you feel while you’re listening to it.  Make sure you show this brother some love by visiting his webpage and spreading the word about his work!