RIP Teena Marie

I am so upset right now. This is crazy. She was only 54...

Patti Labelle in Fela!

OMG I can't wait to see Fela! again starring Patti Labelle.
After seeing Lillias White in the role of Fela's mother, I couldn't imagine Patti Labelle in the role.
But this video has me convinced. She affects the Nigerian accent and everything.
Check it out. OMG. She's awesome. Can't wait.

This Is It

I never got around to submitting a post when Michael Jackson unexpectedly passed away in June. It was the last week of school and I was running around getting ready for summer school doing a million things just like I usually do that time of year. As a dancer, I have always been in awe of MJ. A music video vanguard, MJ created choreography/movement imagery that is indelible and causes you to do the steps in your head when you hear a particular song. This Is It is a reminder of his sheer brilliance in style, technique and execution. I thoroughly enjoyed the documentary which captured rehearsal performances for what would have been a 50 date concert in London. Undoubtedly, the show would have been awesome.



The film genuinely documents MJ's good health, unwavering talent and incredible work ethic before his untimely demise. His rehearsals were better and more entertaining than some artists' live performances before an audience. There were more live vocals than I would have predicted. In fact, there were no vocal tracks. The highlight / most memorable moment for me was Billie Jean. It was sick. Awesome. A testament to what an artist should be. All in all, it was great to get a glimpse into MJ's creative process as he and the wonderfully talented dancers, singers and musicians ran through the set list in conjunction with Kenny Ortega's direction.



So before the year is out, I will put forth my best effort to work with some students to mount a proper tribute to MJ on the Bildersee stage.

I am so late...

...but Chrisette Michele's album I Am is sick from beginning to end!

Finally...

...Prince releases music that is true to the sound that made him famous. For diehard fans like me, this is a very big deal. Despite our loyalty, the past 5 or so years of Prince music has been a little too experimental and wavered too far from the brilliance and genius that is Prince....that mojo that everyone aspires to but will never achieve. Did I mention that I saw the Musicology Tour show three times during the summer of 1994 when I became an AP? These two albums (released together!!!) are a breath of fresh purple air...well done, Prince!