Links

These are some great links covering people and subjects that, for one reason or another, are meaningful to me.  As time goes on, more links will be added as inspiration hits me.

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JAMES HARRIS III (JIMMY JAM) & TERRY LEWIS

www.flytetyme.com      Jam & Lewis have got to be my favorite producing team and are responsible for creating Janet's sound as well as many others like SOS Band, Alexander O'Neal, Cherrelle, Cheryl Lynn, and more.  They got their most important and first break in a band Prince created and put together called, "The Time".  I would venture to say that if it wasn't for Prince and his kickstarting of The Time, there wouldn't be a 'Jam & Lewis' as we know them today.  In alot of ways, I enjoy Jam & Lewis' production style better than Prince's due to the fact that they have been far more consistent over the years when it comes to creating smooth, funky and soulful jams without coming across like they're trying too hard to be different.  They took the "Minneapolis Sound" invented by Prince and ran with it, creating an incredible musical legacy all their own.  Not only do they define the word "cool" in the way the look and act, but they've taken and applied those elements to their music, creating some of the most funky, soulful and smooth jams ever!

 

Prince's "Official" Album Releases

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Prince 12" Singles (by no means complete)

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(Some) Prince Related Artists

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www.prince.org    It's all about Prince, my favorite musician/artist.  I've been following his music for 20 years plus.  As you can see from all the CD covers above, Prince has been one of the most prolific artists EVER.  And, to think he's got over 1000 fully produced yet unreleased songs in his private vaults at Paisley Park Studios.  To all the nay-sayers out there who think Prince is a has been and ain't all that, when you listen to ALL of the above releases, then you can have a negative opinion.  Until then, keep all that nonsense to yourself because you aren't enlightened enough about his music to make an opinion.   

And, yes, Prince is still highly active in music to this day.  He just doesn't pander to major record labels anymore.  It's a double edged sword because while Prince has complete freedom to record and release what he wants, when he wants, he doesn't have the distribution, marketing, and advertising MUSCLE that a major label like Warner Bros. Records offered.  Plus, because of his name change and back (to get out of his CONtract) he alienated alot of radio, media and industry peoples.  This means that, for the most part, radio doesn't play his NEW music and major publications don't report on him like they used to which adds up to the majority of the public at large not knowing (or caring) about his new releases on his own label.  Prince.org is NOT his official site but is more complete because it deals not only with Prince but is much more objective and has updated news on anyone that worked with Prince as well.  His "official" site www.npgmusicclub.com is very cool but takes a membership to get full access.

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SHEILA E.     LYNN MABRY

ELEVATE HOPE FOUNDATION

www.elevatehope.org   This organization (formerly called 'Lil' Angel Bunny Foundation") headed by Lynn Mabry and Sheila E. is all about helping kids and is the only "charity" I support.  I would rather give any "tithe" to Elevate Hope Foundation than to ANY church as their money will go towards ONE goal...the helping of hurt children.  As their mission statement reads in part...

"Elevate Hope Foundation (EHF) is dedicated to be a viable vehicle that will provide abused, abandoned and severely emotionally disturbed children an alternative method of recreational and education therapy through music and the arts and funding special services and programs that assist the needs of these children using these fundamental methods." 

Having gone to The 1st Annual Family Jamm! in late 2003 at the LA Forum, I was moved by all the love, generosity and emotional honesty.  To think that the dozens of musicians and crew donated their time was way cool and almost unthinkable in this day and age.  Sheila, Lynn and their Foundation are are doing an amazing job of helping to heal hurt children through the power of love and music.

 

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www.doylebramhall2nd.com      For me, Doyle Bramhall II is the most complete incarnation of a "Guitar God" that I have ever witnessed in my life!  I know that sounds like quite a lofty statement, but a definitive statement it is.  And yes, I've taken into consideration all the legends and greats before him including Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Eric Clapton, David Gilmour, Eddie Van Halen, Joe Satriani, Steve Vai, Frank Zappa, Prince, Jimmy Page, Carlos Santana  and all other guitarists that I've had the pleasure of witnessing. 

No one else has ever matched the completeness of Doyle for me.  By that, I mean he has taken the elements of soul, blues, rock, passion, method, intricacy, style, personality, sensuality, originality, grace, talent, sexuality, genius, charm, openness, respect and all with an unmatched sense of cool.  Containing aspects of all ingredients all other guitarists before him had separately been gifted with, Doyle combines all of it into his craft in ways that no other guitarist has ever come close in achieving.  If there actually is a "guitar God" in a heavenly sense, Doyle would be Him!

Doyle Bramhall II moved me beyond words from the moment I saw him.  The most spectacular experience I had in witnessing the depth of Doyle's talent came when I saw ex-Pink Floyd Roger Water's most recent tour.  Doyle stepped most beautifully into David Gilmour's shoes and took the vocals and guitar elements to a higher level that left me stunned...and all with his guitar turned backwards and strung in reverse!!!! 

And even with all that, I really dig how Doyle didn't stop just at the technical, going much further into a unique way of playing (and stringing the electric guitar and I can't get over how he's presented a most complete sense of style, presence and ability and all with elements of the cool and sensual. 

For me, his appearance alone was enough to make him the "poster boy" for guitar players and the guitar "God".   His clothing, jewelry, hairstyle and manner is nothing short of sheer genius.  On top of that, he gives off a confidence, beauty and class that even guitar legends have never attained.

If all that weren't enough, Doyle married Susannah Melvoin, a woman who I've respected and listened to ever since her stint as lead vocalist in the short lived Princely group "The Family".  For me, their union is nothing short of cool perfection.

Doyle Bramhall II is my favorite guitarist and I doubt if any will come along in my lifetime to dethrone him.  Highly underrated but completely deserving, this native Texan makes is seem that he is why the guitar was created.    

 

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Paddy Boom    Ana Matronic   Jake Shears   Babydaddy   Del Marquis

are

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www.scissorsisters.com   A fantastic talent and one of the BEST live acts...period!  To be very honest, Scissor Sisters are my favorite band at the moment and, pretty much of all time.  A completely original band that mixes dance, funk, disco, retro, pop, modern & classic rock...all into of the most incredibly inventive and musical grooves EVER!  Fresh onto the scene but overflowing with a talent, worldliness and tight outfit (no pun intended) that world weary bands don't have, these five members and their band are unforgettable in every sense of the word and nothing short of a Godsend!!!!

For exclusive photos by Marc Loren of Scissor Sisters @ Spaceland in Los Angeles from 7/7/2004, click HERE!

For exclusive photos by Marc Loren of Scissor Sisters @ Avalon in Hollywood from 7/9/2004, click HERE!

For exclusive killer stills from Scissor Sisters' videos, click HERE!

 

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B&W Photography: Lisa Gordon  Color Photography by: Kelly Davidson

THE DRESDEN DOLLS

www.dresdendolls.com      This band never ceases to keep me hypnotized by their complete originality.  Part cabaret, rock opera & all powerful, everything about this group is mesmerizing and deeply moving.   Led by Amanda and Brian, The Dresden Dolls are nothing short of pure genius!  If I had to explain what they're about, I'd say, "Tori Amos meets A Clockwork Orange".  I picture Amanda to be what Tori Amos' great-grandmother could have been had she been a cabaret lounge pianist/vocalist in late 19th century Germany. 

Having found The Dresden Dolls' self-titled CD by accident at Tower Sunset on a listening post, I was transfixed by their artwork, packaging, lyrics, overall image, music and Amanda's gut wrenching, emotional and all powerful voice.  As I stood there, for what seemed an eternity, listening to song after song, I was left speechless and in many ways still am. 

Their website is an absolute must to see and is my favorite site on the net.  The dollhouse approach mixed with late 19th/early 20th century imagery is stunning and brilliant!  Even though I am just beginning to learn about this band and have yet to see them live (but will June 24th @ The Viper Room), I am a complete and total devotee.  Their mix of style, mood, goth, silent film, dollhouse, mime, make-up, clothing, photography, artwork, voice and music is nothing short of beautiful and unbelievable in its completeness of thought, class and absolute originality.  Much more than mere "Dolls"...they are "Angels" and I feel blessed to have found them.

 

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Ladies and Gentlemen...I give you FISCHERSPOONER!

www.fischerspooner.com     One day in the recent past, the heavens opened up and Fischerspooner fell to earth.  A completely unique creation, they are a most special music and performance group.  The above images are of the singer/front man Casey Spooner and others in the group.  They are the most original and inspiring music act I've seen outside of Scissor Sisters and The Dresden Dolls.  I never thought a group like this was possible.  They mix art, dance, music, experimentation, a sense of humour and lipsyncing, taking it all to unimaginable heights and their originality, energy, passion and potential is unbelievable and stunning to say the least!!  Life changing!

 

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ABBY TRAVIS

www.abbytravis.com     Having discovered this badass bassist/singer extrordinaire at local LA monthly "Club Makeup", I was drawn into her world when I discovered her website.  Full of passion, class, style, sensuality, rock solid musicianship, retro vamp n' chic looks, multi-layered voice, and a musical legacy that makes her far more than just another local musician, I am taken by her talent and show "Mata Hari".  Enthralling, mesmerizing and enrapturing, this is a woman that deserves attention and respect!

Abby has a monthly night (every third Wednesday) @ Tangier in Los Feliz.  Called "Mata Hari", this must see experience is an elemental mix of club, cabaret, glam, concert, cool vibe and a night that is best described as fierce!

 

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www.anchorlifecoaching.com     Dewey Sanders has been a good friend of mine since 1980 and is quite special.  A one in a million friend, father, husband, minister, life coach and human being, Dewey's optimistism, honesty, sense of humor, compassion and incredible gift of helping others has inspired me in the reaching of my potential and dreams. 

In the new millennium, Dewey fulfilled a long time goal to start 'Anchor Life Coaching' to focus on the POSITIVE aspects of helping others.  Anchor Life Coaching "is a dynamic process to help you live your dreams!"  Honest, open and truthful, it's all about the relationship between client and coach and one that focuses on the positive aspects of the future and getting on the right path to personal goals and aspirations.  It's about fulfillment, balance and making your dreams a reality!

In July 2004, Dr. Sanders completed an incredible and breathtaking journey that was a fulfillment of a goal/dream and one that helped to raise $250,000 for 'SIGNALS', a teen drug prevention program.  Titled 'Coast to Coast for Kids', Dewey walked across the entire country for the cause.  In February 2004, he began his walk in Virginia Beach and continued until arriving in San Francisco (over 3000 miles) on July 4th 2004!

Forget the US Army...the REAL "Army of One" has a name and it's Admiral Dewey Sanders, Ph.D.  I, along with many others, met up with him at The Golden Gate Bridge on July 4th and joined him in his final walk across the bridge and down to the ocean.  From the Atlantic to the Pacific.  Unbelievable and inspiring!

 

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CHRIS STEIN

www.blondie.net/chris_stein.shtml      Guitarist, songwriter and founding member of the band, 'Blondie', Chris' page is full of insight, opinion and thought provoking beauty.  From the very first time, I was extremely inspired by his words and thoughts on modern day life in the 21st century.  Whether the subject is political, religious, corporate, music, or creative in nature, Chris expresses himself with honesty, truth, and an insight that is nothing short of genius.  It isn't all about escapism and being happy go lucky, it's about facing the realities of the world in word and thought, both positive and negative.   Facing the music is what Chris does best, in more ways than one.

 

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SHITTING GLITTER

"I got you on the list not looking for some love, just a fist."

- taken from SG's song 'Slut Buffet'

www.shittingglitter.com   Yes!   Their name is exactly as it reads.  Rumour is...They came up with their most original name when a pet walked up to spilt glitter on the floor and someone said something to the effect of, "Oh, you better not let it lick that up or they'll be shitting glitter!"   The rest is history! 

A local Los Angeles band that, like Fischerspooner, Human League & Scissor Sisters, have not only an equally original name but similar passion for the art and craft of music and performing, even if it is on a local level!  The three of them: Devin, Amy & Brandon are not only good friends (with Devin and Brandon being brothers) but a talented lot that have great potential!  Not just your average band, 'Shitting Glitter' definitely think outside the box of normal musical conventions with their unique and razor sharp sound & vision.

With synth elements similar to "The Human League", guitar qualities not unlike those of Elliot Easton in "The Cars" and vocals full of honesty and originality, they come off fearless in their approach and all with incredible passion and untapped potential.

 

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The Goddess...Monica Bellucci

www.monicabelluccifan.com  The most phenomenal Italian Ms. Bellucci is very proud of her femininity, power and beauty.  An incredible actress and a fiery, gorgeous spirit, this stunningly beautiful woman, who became a mother a year ago, is not only my favorite actress but woman as well.  She is so completely sexy and self-confident in her womanhood, that she should be a textbook example of how every woman on this planet should strive to be.  I could write more, but words not only escape me but wouldn't do her justice for she is utter perfection in every way.  To get only a fraction of insight into Ms. Bellucci and her talent, check out the 2003 film 'Tears of The Sun' starring Bruce Willis.   Monica brings incomparable strength and power to her character.  She also played Mary Magdalene in 'The Passion of The Christ'.  Be on the lookout for 'The Brothers Grimm'.  A proud mother and strong woman, Ms. Bellucci inspires.  So much so that she invaded my dreams recently afterwhich I awoke with a renewed sense of energy.  A phenomenal woman in every definition of the word.

 

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'Texas' singer SHARLEEN SPITERI

www.texas.uk.com    Sharleen Spiteri and her band Texas are highly underrated in America.  Unique and full of class, sensuality, power and lyrical genius.   The songs Texas have written over the years have been incredibly uplifting and intelligent.  The above picture with "Texas Paris" in red is the band's DVD with both live concert & music video collection and is a must have!   Unfortunately, due to the unbelieving music execs and powers that be at the music labels in America, their DVD was only released in Europe.  Here in the US, whether it's MTV, corporate radio or the record industry, the consistency they exhibit in disrespecting incredible artists and musicians (past & present) reveals their lack of integrity and passion for all things music.

 

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LILI HAYDN

www.lilihaydn.com    It was beyond my imagination that such a beautiful and passionate violinist could exist, but exist she does and most wondrously I might add.  Lili is nothing short of breathtaking and is a rare talent that has taken the violin to new levels of musical expression with breathtaking confidence, power and sensuality.

 

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www.viperroom.com    One of my favorite clubs in Hollywood and the best place for catching concerts and dancing the night away.  I've seen the best performances there:  Neurotic Outsiders (w/Steve Jones, Duff McKagen, Matt Sorum, John Taylor), Nina Hagen, That Dog, Billy Idol, Iggy Pop, Slash, Bay City Rollers (YES, that plaid wearing group from the 70's), The Sounds, Nan Vernon, Gene Loves Jezebel, The Pussycat Dolls (cabaret type troupe of beautiful women) and many more.  If you're looking for one of the coolest place in modern day Los Angeles/Hollywood for dancing, drinking, night life, or concerts, The Viper Room is the place!

 

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HARMONY GULLETTE

www.home.earthlink.net/~harmonystarsky     Harmony is my niece and an up and coming singer/songwriter/guitarist.   Based in Ohio, she has great potential and talent.  Her musical style is, in simple terms, acoustic guitar based pop but is so much more.  Harmony has performed her songs countless times in public concerts and is on tour throughout 2004. 

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The sky's the limit with her.  A rare combination of beauty, honesty, sincerity, intelligence, talent and humor, she's an original and has a bright future as a singer and songwriter.  Take Jewel, Tori Amos and Nancy Wilson (of Heart), put them into a blender and out will come a beautilicious milkshake called Harmony!

 

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www.tivolstudios.com   Completely original and utterly beautiful, the one of a kind creations by artist Jane Tivol are perfect examples of 'fused glass art' and are exhibited and/or sold in places such as The Getty Museum and Fred Segal!  Having met Jane only once, I was taken by her honesty, candor and talent and completely recommend her artistry.

 

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TERRY BOZZIO

www.terrybozzio.com    To me, this is the best drummer on the planet.  A teen prodigy, Terry started playing drums for the legendary Frank Zappa as a teenager and helped take Zappa's music to the next level.  Bozzio is incredibly fast while at the same time remaining incredibly accurate but all while having the complete ability to improvise and go with the flow of the song and energy.  While in Zappa's entourage, Terry met Warren Cuccurullo (guitar) and Patrick O'Hearn (bass) and after they all left Zappa, they formed the 80's new wave / rock group 'Missing Persons' along with Chuck Wild (keyboards) and Terry's wife (at the time) Dale Bozzio (she also sang on some of Zappa's songs). 

For all the nay-sayers who dismiss the new wave era as trivial, hearing 'Missing Persons' EP and three albums 'Spring Session M', 'Rhyme and Reason' and 'Color in Your Life' is an absolute must.  No other band from the time sounds like them...not even close.  After 'Missing Persons' disbanded, Terry did session work for countless other artists on their albums.  Through the years, he has also put out numerous solo CDs and videos and has collaborated with other top notch and well respected musicians on CDs and videos, all of which are available on his web site.  In the world of the 'layman' and the mediocre radio & MTV, Terry Bozzio is virtually unknown and extremely underrated.  But, in the world of music, musicians and people in the know, Terry is among the best, brightest, passionate, most intelligent and spiritual drummers in the world. 

There is absolutely no one like Terry Bozzio who has taken drumming to the next level by always furthering the uses of the instrument.  I saw him in Austin in 2002 with Patrick O'Hearn (on bass and reunited with Terry from Missing Persons/Zappa days) and Alex Machacek (an incredible guitar prodigy from Europe) and his performing left me speechless.

 

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BRANDON LEE   &   SHANNON LEE

www.bruceandbrandon.info      There is no actual "official" web site for Brandon Lee or Shannon Lee Keasler, siblings and children of legendary martial artist Bruce Lee.  But, the above address is one of the best on the net.  To go right to Shannon's pages, I've got three of interest:  

www.bruceandbrandon.info/shannonfrm.html

www.colba.net/~xtlee/shannon_lee.html

www.bleejunfan.demon.co.uk/shannon2.htm

Brandon and Shannon have indirectly made an impact on my life.  I first discovered Brandon a few years before 'The Crow', his final film and was taken with his charisma, looks, talent and positive spirit.  I had been an admirer of his father Bruce Lee ever since the time as a boy when my brother took me to see 'Enter The Dragon'.  To me, there was NO equal to Bruce Lee and there hasn't been ever since.  Bruce had a combination of looks, charm, incredible talent both as a martial artist and actor, as well as a strong, balanced and grounded soul.

He had already passed away when I saw 'Enter The Dragon' and, as a teenager, I remember reading an autobiography on his life.  I sought out and watched all his other films:   'Fists of Fury', 'Chinese Connection', 'Return of the Dragon' and 'Faces of Death'.  Unbelievably awe inspiring to say the least! 

I had known Bruce had a son and daughter but never thought they would follow in his footsteps of martial arts and entertainment.  I grew to admire and respect Brandon first since he began his career before sister Shannon.  It wasn't until I saw the film 'Rapid Fire' that I really saw Brandon's true potential and I was left speechless.  I made sure to spread the word on this amazing talent.  It was one thing for Brandon to follow his father into martial arts and film but another entirely that he turned out to have equal talent and potential.  Brandon was an inspiration and made me hopeful for the future of martial arts films and his family.

When he died, I was devastated, angry and confused.  I knew the world, his family, the martial arts community and Hollywood would miss an incredible son, brother, friend, teacher and talent.   My interest in martial arts films diminished the day he died.  It wasn't until I saw an episode of 'Martial Law' that I was reawakened. 

I had heard Bruce's daughter/Brandon's sister Shannon was going to be on the show and when I tuned in, I was stunned at the performance I saw.  Like Brandon and Bruce before her, she had the looks, charm, personality and talent and was captivating to watch.  Knowing that she was following in Brandon and Bruce's footsteps made me very proud for her and mother Linda Lee as well as the Lee legacy.  She isn't a carbon copy of her brother and father but her own person.  Her own woman. 

Most recently, I heard about 'The Shannon Lee Project' which was to be a television pilot/show with her as the lead.  A weekly action/martial arts crime show in a similar vein to 'Martial Law'.   Unfortunately, due to reasons I'm still figuring out, Warner Brothers "backpedaled" on the idea which to me is like the "Margaret Cho/Bruce Lee Syndrome". 

Comedian Margaret Cho went through a huge ordeal when she was getting her sitcom off the ground.  To the network, she was too large and too 'Asian' for them which was ludicrous since her size and ethnicity were not only who she was as a woman and comedian but an integral part of her character and the show.

Bruce Lee had a similar network ordeal which was just as disgusting and racist.  He had been a HUGE part of the appeal and strength of TV show 'The Green Hornet' playing sidekick Kato.   His presence, charm, comedic timing and martial arts ability were pure genius.  Even with the public's embrace of his character, when it came to casting the weekly series, 'Kung Fu', the network brass "backpedaled" on the idea of Bruce Lee for the lead role of 'Caine' due to their concern that America wasn't ready for an Asian leading man on television.   The character of 'Kung Fu' was of Asian descent!!!  The network chose 100% Caucasian actor David Carradine.  No offense to Mr. Carradine, a great actor who brought 'Caine' to life.  The problem is how the network handled the situation.  Their negativity, racism, fear and false promises left a lasting impression on the Lee family.  For Shannon to go through a similar experience decades later is unacceptable.  

If I didn't know who Shannon was and found out she was Bruce Lee's daughter, as a viewer, I would definitely tune in to her show.  The fact that Shannon is not a "master" in the martial arts wouldn't matter.  Knowing that her father was Bruce and brother Brandon would be enough for me.   I know that she would be able to back her stuff up and I would be smart enough to understand she is her own person and not a carbon copy of Bruce or Brandon. 

While we're on the subject of so called 'masters' and tournament / award winners and if we want to look at things the way the almighty networks do, I wasn't impressed when I first tuned in to the now defunct show 'Martial Law' mainly because of the silly Arsenio Hall sidekick character as well as the lead Sammo Hung.  If you want to judge things on the surface like the networks do, I wasn't impressed with Sammo due to his "look".  What a contradiction in terms and of stereotypes.  Here's a so called 'master' who looks like he lives on a diet of McDonald's, yet uses his incredibly gifted skills in martial arts on the bad guys.  It took me awhile to get past Sammo's physical attributes.   For Shannon to be getting "backpedaled" on makes me realize the networks, whether they be CBS or Warner Brothers Television, don't really know what they're talking about.  At the end of the day, my loyalty, respect, admiration and love go to Shannon and the Lee family.

 

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www.thephillipdemarscancerfund.com

Phillip DeMars is quite a unique and gifted 19 year old and has unlimited potential that may never fully blossom.  Cancer (Stage IV Malignant Fibrous Histiocytoma, a rare form of soft tissue sarcoma) became a reality for him in 2005 and after trying chemotherapy, he's decided (with the blessing and support of his mother) to pursue alternative methods and therapies of healing and medicines outside of the traditional methods of chemo and radiation.  Modern medicine doesn't have all the answers and if losing limbs, chemotherapy and radiation is the best they can offer to combat cancers of the body, then it's the responsibility of each human being to find out what other methods are available in the world.  That's Phillip's goal and to help him in his life saving quest, please visit his website and if possible donate (or spread the word) to his cause...his belief...his life.

 

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www.jackiebeat.net    Whether going it solo or with her band "Dirty Sanchez" it's all about being fierce!  Jackie Beat is the BEST drag personality on planet Earth.  Nothing short of a comic genius with a powerhouse singing voice to die for!  She IS the E in entertainment!

 

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HUMAN LEAGUE

www.league-online.com   One of the best synth bands and vocalists (Philip Oakey) in the pop/dance world.  This band has stood the test of time and has put out, and continues to do so, unforgettable songs and live shows.  This is an amazing web site full of all things Human League, one of the BEST bands still around from the early 80's.  They're NOT an 80's group...They're a GROUP.

 

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www.playbill.com      The most important type of acting is for the stage and live theatre and Playbill is an amazing site full of the latest and best news on all things theatrical.  Having read an amazing review of Arthur Miller's revival of "After The Fall" in a July 2004 edition of LA Times, I went straight to Playbill.com to find out about this dramatic play starring two of my favorite actors at the moment, Carla Gugino and Peter Krause.  I found out more than I hoped for and when it comes to getting info on theatrical productions, this is the site to go to. 

www.billboard.com      The best source for the latest on all things music including major label, musician, artist and chart action news.

www.lexiconmagazine.com       The most comprehensive source for info on music & artists who rose to success in the 80's.  The site includes incredibly insightful interviews and up to date news on the artists and groups of yesterday and their current activities.  Many of the groups that began in the 80's are still alive and well and producing great music.  Lexicon Magazine pays attention to the artists of "yesteryear" and has brought these neglected artists up to the millennium and beyond.  The problem I find is most of the public can't forget and forgive the musicians from the 80's and many dismiss them, which to me is completely unfair and narrow minded.

 

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www.hollywoodreporter.com   Among the best sources for in depth entertainment industry news.  I've spent many a day in La La Land reading this daily magazine and still do.  It's one of the best ways to stay abreast of what's going on.

 

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www.variety.com      Another prime source for entertainment news.  This magazine has a long history of providing lots of news on all things entertainment.

 

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Compact Invitations for MAKEUP!

www.clubmakeup.net   this used to be the best monthly club in Los Angeles until it closed it's doors mid 2002.  The club does come back for special occasions (Halloween, New Years) and their web site is still alive.  When it was in full force, the night was complete with house band and surprise celebrity guests.  Everybody from The Cult to Leif Garrett has performed on the Makeup stage.  I was their official videographer in 2001.  Trust me when I say that LA Club Life is not as exciting since Makeup took a hiatus.

 

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RUN RUN RUN

www.runrunrun.tv   This is a local Los Angeles band that even with elements of 60's, 70's, psychedelic, and pop like songs is all rock n' roll.  I met singer Xander through his 'Makeup' band of which he's the musical director.  A great talent, he and his fellow 'Run Run Run' bandmates are taking the town by storm with their original rock assault.

 

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The original Fab 5...DURAN DURAN...Back together!

www.duranduran.com       2003 marked the return after over 15 years of the original 5 members (Simon LeBon, Nick Rhodes, John Taylor, Andy Taylor, Roger Taylor) with a brand new album and tour to come by 2004.   This site gives all the latest info.  Trust me, this reunion is gonna be HUGE.  Hopefully, today's oblivious radio and TV won't dismiss them as just another "80's" group.  They've already done a handful of dates, one of which I went to in July 2003 and they are better than ever.  An amazing show!  

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www.perfectbeat.com    The best place for finding dance music, both domestic and import.  Owner Jeff and the rest of the guys are way cool and always there to help.  You can order either on-line or at their store in WeHo.  Whether it's the most common, rarest or a white label masterpiece, Perfect Beat's the place to find it.    

 

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  AHMET               DWEEZIL             DIVA               MOON

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FRANK ZAPPA

www.zappa.com    Where to go to find out the latest on all things Frank, Moon, Ahmet, Dweezil, Diva and Gail.  Frank's music, compositions and writings are one of a kind.  He's had the best musicians in the world back him up and it shows in his music which, if you can look past the eccentricity of it all, is pure genius.  Moon Unit:  From her song "Valley Girl" (with father Frank) to her vocals on Dweezil's "Let's Talk About It" to her acting roles in film/TV to her writings, she is one beautiful, funny and talented woman.  Ahmet:  A zany, wacky and  hilarious singer, actor and comedian who not only fronted the group "Z" (with brother Dweezil) but hosted the now deceased USA show "Happy Hour".  He's also appeared in numerous films (including a hilarious appearance in 'Children of the Corn 5'). 

Dweezil is an underrated Guitar God who has been playing since he was a child.  From his handful of solo albums/CDs to his acting roles in film (for example, 'Pretty in Pink') to his design of an exclusive amplifier made in collaboration with Peavey called "Wiggy", this guy rules!  Diva is the youngest of the family and is a one of a kind hat designer.  You can see and purchase them on the family site and they are a definite fashion statement in the highest sense of the word.  Gail is the wife of Frank and she's full of life, humor and wisdom.  Even though Frank has passed on, his music and legacy live on both in the works he left behind and through the continuing talents of his family. 

One thing I'm excited about and patiently waiting on is a 75 minute long guitar instrumental masterminded by Dweezil.  The cool thing about the instrumental is that the BEST guitarists in the biz have done solos for the song.  FYI: Latter 2003 and beyond, look for a residency by Ahmet Zappa at The Viper Room!!  I saw Ahmet Zappa perform with his band at The Viper Room in September 2003 and they rocked!  His voice is one of the strongest with lots of control and power!  The show is a mix of rock and roll and comedy!  Definitely one of a kind and proud of it!

 

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Mayte Garcia

www.mayte.com    My favorite dancer of all time and an incredible inspiration.  Jaw dropping and mind numbing to behold, if you look up the word 'dancer' in the dictionary, Mayte's picture will be there as THE definition of dancer.   Getting her first big break on the retro TV show 'That's Incredible' where she performed as a very young belly dancer, she caught the attention of many.  She later met Prince in Europe while he was on tour and they began a lengthy relationship which led to marriage.  Even though their union is no more, in the time she was with him, she danced not only in his band but in their creation...The NPG Dance Company.   She also put out an album of material, most of which was co-written with Prince.  It was during her tenure as a member of Prince's band, NPG that she got my total love, respect and attention.  Prince and Mayte were a double threat and a duo to behold on the stage.  They were truly a team that will never be matched.  

Aside from all of that, Mayte is just an incredibly beautiful and powerful dancer and woman and I've never seen any other that comes close in comparison.   As you can tell from the above pictures of Mayte, she is quite the vision and a very underrated and largely unknown dancer, performer, singer, actress and woman! 

 

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