A Disilgold insider reveals “one of the actresses in acclaimed filmmaker Rel Dowdell’s (www.reldowdell.com)
film, “Train Ride,” KaDee Strickland, has a key supporting role in the
new big film “American Gangster” with Denzel Washington and Russell
Crowe. Ms. Strickland plays Russell Crowe’s attorney in the film.
Check out Ms. Strickland’s bio below. “Train Ride” is prominently
featured on there; scroll down and you will see a still photo from the
film with Ms. Strickland in it as well as mention of the film in the
bio. Ms. Strickland was also in “The Grudge,” and other big films
after being seen in “Train Ride.” Check this out!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/KaDee_Strickland

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Tyra Banks invited Chris Brown on her show today, but for some reason the audience fan line was abruptly cut off leaving a dozen fans of Chris Brown standing outside and one who happened to be Nyaja, the founder of Disilgold Soul Literary Review Magazine’s (www.Disilgold.com) neice, and child of her oldest brother who just graduated highschool and loves Chris Brown. Nyaja, a talented dancer who can rival Ciara on the dance floor, burst out in tears when Chris Brown and Tyra Banks suddenly appeared and told the young fans of Chris Brown they could come inside. Nyaja poured out tears of joy. Chris Brown today is like Michael Jackson was to her mother’s generation. Tyra asked Nyaja, “Why are you crying?” and of course, it was because her dreams had come true. Not only did Tyra ask Nyaja her name on television to millions of fans of Tyra’s talk show who happens to be on the Forbes list as one of the highest paid tv talk show hosts, but Chris Brown gave her a heartwarming hug. Now how many girls in America will get a chance to hug my neice? Just kidding, get to hug Chris Brown. But if you ask me, Nyaja is not one to forget. It looks like her papa has to ward off the fellows, but Nyaja who is going to school for her Business Degree is all into her books. Nevertheless, she got a chance to  enjoy Chris Brown sing his number one hit songs, and I can’t thank Tyra enough for giving my neice a bigger graduation gift than any girl could ever dream of. Now that is a fairytale come true. Word has it, she had permission to attend the show because she completed highschool and just got accepted into college! Good girls get ahead in 2007! Stay tuned for photos of Nyaja soon on www.Disilgold.com. She’s taking over Disilgold when I grow up! And-wait until you see my nephew! They can out dance  their auntie.

Let’s go way back! Who is R. Kelly? The R. stands for Robert. He was part of a group called MGM that debuted on the Natalie Cole Show. The group dressed with parachute pants reminiscent of M. C. Hammer’s flamboyant style, but just a little bit more suave. They also, had sex appeal and became teenage heart throb sensations.

R. Kelly sported a fade like Bobby Brown and wore dark shades. His group won $100,000 grand and soon he went solo because he obviously had the most talent in the group. The song that put him on the map was “Bump & Grind.” Today’s artist is called ” total package talent” when they can write lyrics, produce, mix, arrange,  play instruments and arrange their own music. Very few artists can master this craft other than old school artists like  Patrice Rushen for you old heads, Prince and modern day artists like Alicia Keys. There are more, but these are the one’s you really know and I felt like paying homage. 

R. Kelly is considered a phenomenon and has upgraded to that of a musical genius due to the success of his back-to back -albums and latest “Trapped in the Closet” DVD series. He crossed over big time with this creation  which seemed like a book in motion on Dvd. 

All was going well for R. Kelly. His song, “I Believe I  Can Fly,” was one of the most influential inspirational ballads utilized by schools, events and organizations as a theme song. It marveled the song, “We are the World.” He added a real live gospel choir and won over an array of fans. This cross section of fans from R& B, soul, Christain and Hip Hop won over millions in album sales. R. Kelly had arrived.

 His song ” I Wish” became a national urban anthem. People really liked R. Kelly whose work became a staple as modern music you can count on people to play over and over for many years to come. R. Kelly is bad.

He began to sign talent to his label and cultivate a soundwave that became his signature. One of his proteges’ was the young Aliyah who seemed to hide behind his wings and the group Changing Faces. He also, helped produce “Sparkle”.  Sparkle and R. Kelly fell out, Changing Faces who had transferred labels to Big Beat Records over at Zomba disappeared, but everyone remembers their 2 staple hits, “Foolin’ Around” and “Stroke you Up!” Other girl groups would steal their shine very quickly with more than vocals, but dance talent and overall more personality like TLC and Destiny’s Child. Aaliyah was sort of protected for her young underage romance with R. Kelly, but this was never documented or confirmed. She tragically died in an airplane crash years later and her relationship with R. Kelly remained a mystery.  Why? This situation would have put R. Kelly in the category of pedaphile.

Perhaps, R. Kelly did not know his age , and his warped sense of time kept him attracted to young girls as opposed to women his age. R. Kelly is not the only man in America or star who has fallen in love with a minor or someone in the same industry. Some have even waited for their partners to mature to officially marry. Today, any man having relations with a minor is a criminal. In the past, age was not an issue until it was clearly understood that young women do not have the mental capacity to make decisions about sex  until they are of legal age. This debate is still an issue. Many women today will admit they had a relationship with an older man when they  underage and have never reported their ex-lovers, but that is another issue. Let’s move on.

R. Kelly went on to tour with Jay Z, but an altercation while performing lead him to walk off the show. Soon, a relative of  someone’s Uncle was spotted in a video tape with a grown man and this underage girl in a sexual act. The man bore a striking similarity to R. Kelly according the news when the issue was blasted all over the world. How the tapes wound up on the streets is a mystery, but charges were soon brought up against R. Kelly for  sexual relations with a minor. Rumors circulated that the women knew R. Kelly and willingly consented to sex, were never forced and presented themselves as if they were much older creating debate in the African American community over whether men should ask women regardless of their age for ID.

Regardless, the African American community seemed to forgive R. Kelly who portrayed himself as the victim and claimed he was not the man in the footage. Those who felt otherwise were soon brought on charges because technically no one should be watching sexual tapes with minors or pornography, but law officials on the case. Soon, folks got quiet and R. Kelly was back to performing.

Some folks will say the accusations against R. Kelly are a crime and unacceptable by the African American community, and especially if R. Kelly knew that the young girl was a minor.

This is why he is on trial. Unfortunately, the D.A. of the case has conveniently postponed his trial to have a baby while R. Kelly performs on tour with J. Holiday, Keyshia Cole, and Ne-yo. Recently, Keyshia Cole was reported as being unagreeable with the show line up. She decided she would not perform when she found out she was slated as an opening act, but resolved the issue obviously after Ne-yo was kicked off the tour.

Opening for any show is considered degrading for top artists who are booked as equal billing with all artists performing. She paid her dues, has accrued more record sales than most R&B female acts to date and her work falls in line with the prestige of Alicia Keys and Mary J Blige although her current album did not receive a favorable review from Disilgold Soul Magazine, and not because it’ s not a well recorded album with great lyrics, but we know Keyshia Coles has greater potential. That’s all. 

She is still hit potential for many more albums to come and is steadily cleaning up her image. She certainly should not have been slated as an eye candy opener. J. Holiday is a brand new artist with clearly one solid hit called BED that is not going anywhere and may be one of those singles folks will be listening to forever. He clearly should have been the opening act although folks have been buzzing that he has outstanding stage presence and is more like your singer who has been around for some time which is undoubtedly true, but respect is due in due order.

Next, should have been Keyshia Cole and just like her new song, “Shouldn’t Have Let You Go!” Than R. Kelly should have come out to get first screams and cheers as the heavily anticipated man of the hour we all love. R. Kelly has so many solid hits, he is gold.  Then R. Kelly could have passed on the baton to Ne-yo to showcase his string of hits and of course, R. Kelly would return for the encore and just bring the house down. Let’s just be realistic with what the audience is. It is perfectly okay to have an audience cheer for the newcomers more than the the King of R& B. There is something sentimental about letting your younger comrads shine and still be able to stand on your own. There is only one R. Kelly, one Ne-yo, one Keyshia Cole and one J. Holiday. Can’t we all get along?

 The situation between all campers got out of control because of simple egos which all of these stars have the right to own, but the bottom line is the tour is sponsored by R. Kelly. You got to have respect for the crooner. This is an opportunity of a life time. I don’t care how many award shows and events you attend, albums you put out and hits. There is nothing like performing for your fans on tour nationwide and if you’re lucky, worldwide. This opportunity comes few and far in between. Early problems with shows labels you a trouble maker and trust, all artists are replaceable. There is always a new crooner to surface that you never saw arriving.

 If R. Kelly booked you for a show, send the man some flowers, a token of appreciation, do some interviews paying homage to the man and certainly don’t engage in any negative interviews. Someone like me quickly falls out of love with petty artists and I don’t care how good they are. I have personally spoken to Ne-yo face-to-face and shared kudos on his image, music and style, but he is way tooooooo mouthy for me. Let’s come back down to earth and certainly don’t agree with interviewers that R. Kelly is jealous because you brought the house down. BE REAL! Of course young girls are going to scream because they are stupid and that’s what young girls do. I was there. I use to scream at all of the acts and then when I got a little older and attended future  concerts I was as calm as dead sitting right next to Sean “Diddy” Combs at a Janet Jackson concert. And trust, Diddy is someone you want to scream at. The man has style and is just bad! Age on a woman makes a big difference with screaming fans. R. Kelly has older fans. They are not going to scream at him, they are going to grind and groove to his music like folks use to do back in the day with the Temptations and all of those male groups like we all saw in that movie “The 5 Heartbeats!” Grown folks don’t scream like kids at concerts. Get it? but trust, folks are there to see R. Kelly and for those handful who just bought tickets exclusively for Ne-yo, will they rebuy those same tickets if Ne-yo headlines a tour on his own and no acts. Just a thought.

One thing about R. Kelly is that he never was that side whistling type. It’s all about his art. There is nothing worse than a mouthy singer. Be discreet. If you all had issues keep it to your self. Pitch a book deal or something and certainly don’t get on air and lie or bend the truth. Everyone is at fault with this situation from 1. the insurance issue which if you decline to perform without it than you just decline to perform without it to 2.  thinking you are going to be a no show in some states because of low music scans so you don’t want to risk getting booed. It happens to all artists. Be willing to face the good, the bad and the ugly, plus all your demons. Be honest. 3. having clashes with technical issues without seeing the bigger issue. R. Kelly is not about to get in any trouble with anyone’s entourage, be side bamboozled, set up, tempted or risk confrontation with any hot headed entourage folks trying to cop a lawsuit with lies like what happened before to R. Kelly. Understand you are going to be kept away or apart from one another for your own safety. This works out for the best and there is nothing wrong with dressing in one’s trailer. This eliminates any lies and accusations or even papparazi mishaps. This is business. All kind of stuff happens when folks are mixed on the set from people stealing your jewelry, spreading false rumors in collaboration with like folks with vested underhanded interest and disrespect toward artists who have it going on, so folks want to bring them down with their look, eyeball treatment and you name it.

You’d be surprised to know how unsavory some folks camp look to other artists. Who wants to deal with that kind of stress while performing. You could go out on stage and be burned by steam from a smoke machine, trampled by the crowd, fall on stage or overeact toward an overzelous fan and toss them back in the audience. It happens to the best of us when folks feel threatened.  You don’t know who to trust once things start going haywire and so you become defensive and it’s about survival until the tour is over.

Now I listened to 2 sets of interviews today. One with Tigger and Ne-yo and one with Ne-yo and  Wendy Williams whose personal feelings against R. Kelly made me wonder if  Ne-yo was telling the truth at all about the situation. After all, he’s afriend to the show, and for Wendy to shout down R. Kelly it must be because he isn’t a friend of the show.  Celebrities better be Wendy’s friend or she destroys you. If I were gullible I would return my ticket for a R. Kelly show, break his albums in pieces, return ones I can get my money back for and turn off the radio when I hear him, but come on… there are two sides of the story. I don’t think Wendy’s bullying is going to get R. Kelly on the show. And I think one of her phone callers is telling the truth about these new hot artists like Ne-yo and Keyshia demanding things like divas and dons, but got kicked to the side. I bet they hurt R. Kelly’s feelings. (GIGGLES).

It made me even more sympathetic toward to R. Kelly, but in all seriousness, I really don’t care who did what. This is all an embarassment and disgrace. J. Holiday didn’t deserve to be apart of this nonsense. For more articles visit www.Disilgold.com .

Disilgold Soul Magazine (www.Disilgold.com- Mike Tyson spent time in jail for rape, then had another brush with a crime and was thrown in the slammer again. The world called Robin Given’s, his former wife, a bitch for shouting out their business, but it was obvious that Tyson had some aggression issues.  Still the world admired the boxing champ who no one thought could eve lose a fight! When he bit off Holyfield’s ear during a fight it was even more obvious that Tyson needed anger management classes. Well, he recently was driving his car and almost slammed into an officer’s car. When checked, he was in possession of a narcotic and found to have the stuff in his system. He walked into court and apologized with a humble whisper and one line sentence, “I’m sorry…” before the judge gave a verdict and the result was only 1 day in jail and 360 hours of community service. So the question is, ” How do turkey farms get away with throwing and blugeoning fresh kill turkeys against brick walls, breaking their legs and slicing off of their necks while Michael Vick’s millions get stripped like no one in the NFL knew he was hosting dog fights from the beginning while Tyson gets a slap on the wrist for being soft spoken. Also, why is almost every celebrity in trouble these days? Lastly, will there be any heroes left when our children grow up? Oh no, now Barry Bonds has been stripped of his world medal for being snithed on by a former jail bird who is now released on good favor for spilling all facts? These folks need better management so they don’t get into trouble in the beginning! Being a celebrity ball player, football player or boxer requires the same discipline as any good ‘ole city job! Sports players are not above the law. This is why the Knick players are all rebelling against their coach Isiah Thomas and not performing to maximum potential. No one is going to respect a coach accused of calling a black woman a “Black bitch!” And the same way, no one is going to sympathize with these fallen heroes committing crimes and thinking they are above the law because they make millions. Throw Derek Jeter in the stew pot, too. Tax evasion tops all of these stories. AIN’T  ALL OF THIS A TRAVESTY!? For more stories, visit www.Disilgold.com .

(DISILGOLD SOUL MAGAZINE)- www.Disilgood.com (November 2007)When Oprah Winfrey’s research team found out that over 44% of the residents of Macon, Georgia tune in to the Oprah Show at 4pm daily, which accounts for the most viewers in any city worldwide, she decided to host her annual Favorite Things Show in the town of very grateful and loyal viewers who had no idea that they were walking away with top gifts like  Oprah’s favorite panini sandwich maker, which she admits she utilizes to make a rueben sandwich for Stedman every weekend, a $3000 valued LG refrigerator which stands for “Live Good” and built with a  HD Flat Screen LD monitor and compatible DVD, plus a year’s supply of Ciao Bella’s “Blood Orange Sorbet.” The ladies also received  a complete fashion line of her favorite duds and Best of Oprah Magazine Book Compilation which contains Oprah’s favorite articles in O! Magazine. The show was topped with Josh Grouben’s rendention of Hear the Angels from his forthcoming Noel, Noel, Noel CD. “Oprah gave him the biggest hug post show. I am sure her hug meant something in regard to the negativity she has been experiencing lately. I mean that hug could be felt through the tv. There’s something about Josh’s music! We’ll look into this later.” Next week Oprah goes on a reality tour in Macon for a Home Town Celebration where she’s giving away gifts to people in town of course, wrapped in Hallmark red paper where all proceeds will go to a Global Fund. So think RED folks when you shop for wrapping. I’m convinced Oprah is a real angel living on earth.  

The American Music Awards opened with a medley performance by Fergie, a former rapper of the HIP HOP SOUL group, ”Black Eyed Peas.” Her silver ”En Vogue” glitter glam mini-dress was simple and classy, but not impressive for a top singer. In other words, I don’t think the ladies were moved to go out and buy a silver mini dress. The idea of getting glammed up for award shows is to present the best you to fans, not what you are comfortable wearing.  Fergie didn’t show her personality tonight in that bland frock. Fergie’s act was followed by Will I Am, singing “I Am a Heartbreaker”. He is like the black version of George Michael complete with a dinner jacket, classic cornrows and tinted shades, but he’s in a suit! His duet with Nicole Scherzinger earned highpoints with  “You are My Baby” by the Diddy protege’ from the Pussy Cat Dolls who missed a high note that was very obvious, but she carried out the song anyway. Nicole chose a swing out silver mini dress and this is not the first time. That look is a little too mature for the young performers.

 Unfortunately, Jimmy Kemmil decided to do a “Soldier Boy” dance and even asked the Rascal Flatts to help him, but they just didn’t have the guts. He wound up pulling Kelly Fickler and Jordan Sparks from American Idol on stage who were good sports. Jimmy was very honest with the audience. As a member of the Writer’s Guild of America, he was forbidden to write any jokes for the show although he was booked to host it, but maybe this was not true. Regardless, his clever maneuver with a dance number scored a point and was probably good fate. He set off the show very nicely. 

Before he did his number, he topped off his outffit with a white sweatshirt hoody  and cap. I am glad he didn’t put on a gold chain and sag his pants because this would have been a disgrace. I just think it would have been better for Soldier Boy to perform his mega-selling hit and not be baffooned with his dance artistry which is not a joke in the hood, but an art form. Don’t try to make urban dance look like anyone can do it and certainly, if you are going to do the Soldier Boy, practice a little. Put a little Umph in it like the group Jagged Edge says in their new hit! I have to give credit to M’Nique who at least worked Beyonce’s dance moves for the BET Awards step for step.

Song artist Rihanna, who gave a villanous and sarcastic grin toward Brittney Spear’s performance at another award show, did it again. She is gaining a reputation for roasting artists and no one can do anything about it. She was just crowned Entertainer of the Year by the Prince of Monoco. WHAT???? Shortly after Jimmy, Kelly and Jordan’s warm up, the real Soldier Boy appeared and introduced the show.  Wow!  Glad he’s made a little cha-ching! He’s going to need it!

And-forgive me, I couldn’t see his eyes behind the Kanye West “Graduation” Shades so he may have missed his opportunity to make his mark. Artists should never cover their eyes on stage. 

Carrie Underwood presented the Breakthrough Artist of the Year Award which went to Daughtry. Christina Applegate from “Married With Children” for those of you who don’t remember the Bundy’s (a modern day Wilma and Fred Flinstone dysfunctional couple) presented Rascal Flatts with the the Best group band/ duo award.

  Avil Lavrigne performed her latest hit, “Baby”. She’s got this dark gothic dress code all of the time, but she did add a silver skirt with sneaker flats topped with black nails and a touch of red hairspray on her hair. Can we say, confused? You’re a star Avil. Own up to your success and stop pretending like you don’t know.

No matter what, she’s going to be Avil and retro.

Rascal Flatts performed, next. These guys are just a great wholesome group, simple, sound good, play all of  their instruments and sing good ballads worthy of wedding material.

Veteran host of American Idol, Ryan Seacrest introduced Maroon 5, one of the hottest pop groups of the year. Their soulful ecclectic sounds and European flavor has landed them no.1 on music charts.If you listen carefully, they sound like the relaxed version of Rod Stewart. Ashanti, dressed in an overwhelming yellow floor length strapless gown presented the SOUL R& B award to AKON who went through hell this year for throwing a person who jumped on the stage of one of his concerts back into the audience.

T- pain shared the honors with AKON. It was his first VMA. The VMA’s featured flashbacks of Patti La Belle, Kid Rock, Whitney Houston, Pat Benetar, Dick Clark and Boys II Men before having Jordan  introduce the Jonas Brothers who literally crashed through a glass screen on stage and I know the middle guy who fell didn’t do that on purpose and tripped, but he got up with such flair it looked like it was part of the act. This shaggy haired group reminds me of the Jackson 5′s minus 2 members on the rebound, but they have personality. They may have an edge like the Beatles too, but sorry , no one can replace the Beatles. These kids do have fashion savvy and are the number one teenage heart throb group of America. Don’t player hate!

I am shocked that the VMA’s allowed hundreds of fans to run to the stage in the cock pit. Someone could have been hurt. I am sure also, I saw a fan fall down and get trampled or maybe I was just seeing things. I will play replay later on!

Fabulous, who looked just like Soldier Boy with shades covering his eyes and a green jacket presented the Best Pop Rock  award with Taylor Swift to Justin Timberlake who beat out his producer, Timberland. How ironic. He did a live telecast to accept the wrong award.

 I was disappointed when Kid Rock got a chance to make light of his erroneous behavior at another award show and throw Jimmy Kimmel out of his seat. It seems like some artists get a tap on the wrist for starting riots. Okay, I will go easy on Kid Rock. He presented the Best Rap Album to Bone-Thugs & Harmony who I must say are a classy group. He also, shouted out Kanye West’s mom.

Pamela Anderson’s other beau who I won’t mention obviously wasn’t invited to this show to start any trouble.

 Kelly Fickler presented the Best Soundtracks Album Award to Highschool Music II which I am sure appealed to mostly teenagers.

Actor Taye Diggs blandly introduced Rihanna who did her Umbrella  duet with Neyo. She wore a 1920′s long tapered bronze gown and toga style headband and dark lipstick that looked too mature for a young girl. Neyo looked dapper with his tailor made suit and Charlie Chaplin hat. Okay,I get it, a modern day Marvin Gaye and Tammy Terrel number. Only one problem, there was no chemistry. They looked cold and obviously preturbed about something. I guess Rihanna didn’t appreciate the American Music Awards announcing a surprise performance by Beyonce’. 

Rihanna is every bit the star she’s made herself into, but I am still not sure about her vocal abilities and personality. I know when Beyonce’ was honored later on in the show as International Entertainer she clapped with that classic …oh I won’t say, but I know when someone is not being sincere. I wonder what’s going on?

  I am sure that Neyo will be around for a long time. We spoke briefly at Beyonce’s B-Day Bash and he seems like cool peoplem but I can’t help but think their duet song title,” I Hate that I Love You So” is true. Right after their performance the American Music Awards commentator once again announced, “Stay tuned for an unbelievable performance from Beyonce everyone will be talking about!” Well, I am not talking. She didn’t perform, she sang.

How disrespectful to give unequal weight to artists performing. Then they added a quick, “Stay tuned for Alicia Keys, too!” Oh my! Do they know that Alicia Keys may very well be one of the greatest all round female artists of all time? Even Beyonce will give props to Alicia.

Carrie Underwood won Best Country Album and Sugarland performed a country version of Irreplaceable. Now didn’t NeYo write that song and who sold second writes for a country version? I like it though, but it was kind of funny seeing a country fiddle make folk’s heads bob. Suddenly, Beyonce’ came out to do her R& B version infused with a country version. Okay, now I see how this song crossed over to become a number one hit. You go Beyonce. I get it now. I thought someone stole your song.

The signature A-line Dereon jacket worked well with the Dereon jeans minus all of those color frocks from the line. Now Dereon fashions is going to take off big! Okay, it’s already number one, but I only own a pair of  Dereon jeans and the jacket. Solange Jennings, Beyonce’s little sister along with Kirk Franklin and Life, presented the Best Adult Contemporary Artist Award to Daughtry. Now I understand the total picture. Beyonce gets the hype as long as she sings a country duet, but she negotiates that her sister gets  to be a stage presenter. What are they trying to do, get folks who are envious of Beyonce’ to shout her out more? The family thing is sooo taboo. This isn’t a charity case. Solange needs to step up her music career. Regardless, she looked great and the hair is finally right. Really!

If this isn’t the calmest, non-hippest award show ever, I don’t know what is, but I almost fell asleep. Luckily, Celine Dion came out and performed with some substance. The lady can sing! I love her music and anything she puts out. I can listen to Celine Dion’s music all day. When Lenny Kravitz came out to perform I was ecstatic. Romeo Blue still has it. You may remember him as the retro partner of Lisa Bonet from the Cosby Show. The marriage may not have lasted, but they did have a little love child named Zoe which was one of Lenny Kravitz greatest songs in my opinion next to, “It Ain’t Over!” and of course, “Are you Going to Come My Way!”

More funny flashback moments when Michael Jackson and Eddie Murphy came out years ago on the stage, and when Missy Elliot was questioned by Kimmel who hosted a prior show and asked why she was late. She candidly mentioned that someone stole her limo. Too funny! Where was Missy Elliot tonight?

The Prince of R& B, Chris Brown, did his Kiss Kiss song in a space suit and rocked it with that flair Usher once had. Sorry Usher, you taught this protege too well, and topped with T-Pain, Chris Brown stole the show! He did a dangerous neon number on the ceiling upside down. What happens  if one of those chords pop one day. And I don’t even see any padding below. I guess that element of danger makes the show more exciting. Chris Brown may be taking over. His songs  still remind me of popcorn for teenagers. Hope his songs mature throughout the years and why Usher still gets props. I polled the younglings and they all like Chris Brown right now so watch out folks.

 The Teen Mobile Text Award was issued to Carrie Underwood and I will tell you that this is major because the vote is decided by the fans.

 The performance of the night goes to no other than Alicia Keys and Mary J. Blige. I really can’t say who gave a better performance artist. Mary J. Blige was voted as the YOUnity Guild of America Best Entertainer of the Year 2006 before she took home all of those Grammys and Awards when her personal issues and attitude were of question and folks were saying her career was over. Think back! This is not the first time we’ve predicted major success. Remember John Legends first debut on AOL Voices when we did an e-blast and asked everyone to tune in? And we did it again with predicting Alicia Keys song that got off with shaky reviews at first would win back her fans. And so,  I will give Alicia Keys the cutting edge vote this year, but they are both GREAT!

Okay, I have been sorting business cards while writing this article and multi-tasking, but I am done. So if there are anymore follow-ups I’ll update later on! Forgive my cold unloving writing personality. I have to turn off the tube when Rihanna appears. That lady is cold. At least, Beyonce is personable. Let me leave Rihanna alone. For those of you reading this article who don’t know, when I review an award show I am speaking as the voice of the people and speaking the words of how folks from all walks of life my perceive an artist’s appearance like a mirror reflection. Trust,my reviews are helpful to artists who maybe have a team that doesn’t tell them where they are headed. The most important thing is to know where you are headed and stay level headed. I respect these artists I write about and if I could prove they were half as nice as what I perceive, I would lighten up, but for now… Rihanna seems to be very immature and nasty!

Thanks to Chris Brown’s performance and change of pace along with a Diamond Reflection flashback  moment featuring My Boo with Usher and Alicia Keys restored my confidence in the VMA’s. Before I go, I predict that Daughtry will sweep the VMA’s with the most awards. I like these clean cut guys.

I’m back! I got a call that Blair Underwood introduced Alicia Keys. I got a chance to see her performance, but no one mentioned Blair Underwood was coming out! Alicia played it safe tonight and stayed close to her piano before converting her song into a Caribbean jam  with Beenie Man and more top Carib artists which was too awesome! WOW! WOW! This is a first. Everyone at the VMA’s was standing with ovation. I don’t know, Alicia has really taken over and is bringing a new sound that is historical! She should keep it up! Her album, As I Am is in stores right now! I think it’s going to be the top grossing female album of the year!

Well, I hope I gave you a snapshot of the VMA’s as a viewer at home watching her flat screen tv just like you! This is much better than having to wait outside as media in the cold!

Okay,I was able to play back the VMA’s and I caught Blair Underwood. Now if I am not mistaken he had on that same burnt umber jacket as in his new show, “Dirty Lies & Secrets.” Will someone tell Blair to not plug his gear on his show at the VMA’s? I guarantee everyone is going out to get that jacket. What a smart advertising move. You will hear about Blair Underwood’s fashion savvy in tabloids guaranteed.

Usher was such a gentleman to shout our Kanye West for the passing of his mother, Dr. Donda West. He presented Beyonce’ with the International Award. She has sold 130 million albums worldwide, 23 #1 singles, has 5 solo grammy’s, 183 magazine covers including 1 more from DisilgoldSOUL Magazine taken at her B-Day Bash and the first photo of that grand day. I guess media shots don’t count, but we can’t deny along with Usher, “There’s only one Beyonce!” His humble presentation has earned highpoints and respect.  Besides, Disilgold Soul is more so of a literary publication. Beyonce’ got props for writing and co-writing some of her songs throughout the years. As far as Usher, it takes a big heart to give hommage to Kanye West and Beyonce’ while downplaying your own superstar success! I am glad the American Music Awards mentiond his new Usher fragrance which is the number one men’s fragrance in America! I am so happy he was rude to me at an awards event. I will never forget Usher and all is forgiven. I guess I looked like Chilli, his ex-girl that day. Aw shucks.

Now as far as hairstyles go and don’t get mad at me ladies. Queen Latifah is the Cover Girl winner! Next, Mary J. Blige! These ladies just stole Rihanna’s signature hairdo as well as a lot of other artists like Cheri Dennis (just plugging this new music diva). Why did Rihanna tie up her head at the American Music Awards and give her style away? Mary now owns the Posh hairdo and Latifah has taken the style with a bang flip that works!

Over all, the American Music Awards was a polished, calm and classic show. All Artists performed at their expected level, but there is always room for improvement. Visit www.Disilgold.com for more top news on the Daily Literary Dish.

by Heather Covington

Author of Tekila Nika www.Heather-Covington.com

In our report issued just hours after receiving word of Dr. Donda West from the closest resource to Dr. Donda West prior to her surgery, we researched and found false reports on media indicating she passed during surgery which is untrue, and therefore this rules out any anesthesia complications. According to several doctors, Dr. Donde West would have had immediate complications if anesthesia was the problem and unable to walk out of the office. Pretty much  you don’t wake up after anesthesia if there is a problem. Once you are up and about that is not an issue. A media resource indicated that Dr. Donde West died at the Dr.’s office and the doctor was drunk during the procedure which is also unfounded. In fact, the doctor’s DWI was from an incident months ago and had nothing to do with this report. We are glad we found out what actually happened, but will not reveal to the public out of respect for Kanye West and his family. We reported on Donda West as a literary figure in the African-American community who was well admired. We also, now know that the Dr. Donda West’s doctor has not been sued for 600,000 for each of dozens of cases as reported by a media resource, but 2 cases for a suit totaling less than 300,000 each. If African-American women are at risk undergoing any cosmetic procedures, than this situation must come to light soon so more victims won’t be at risk. I do know that when a women has any heart conditions there is a possibility of post swelling of organs and shock which means women may wish to stay overnight at the hospital rather than walk out of the hospital after a few hours after any procedures to receive monitoring. Kanye West has a counselor to deal with his emotions right now and I don’t think he could care less about the doctor or suing him. I think he is grieving over his mother more than anything and may become an advocate of woman promoting self-love in the  future. I listened to his old albums, and I must say he may be a better rapper than Jay Z. because his music makes you think. He can make a political statement and get folks to change. The world is watching Kanye very carefully. I think a greater man is going to surface during the aftermath people never knew. I see right through all of that cockiness. This man’s emotions can be felt without anyone even seeing him in the media. You just know what he’s thinking right now and folks better watch out! If he tranforms his emotions to paper, rap will never be the same! I bought another copy if his Graduation album as a collector’s item. I’m not saying Kanye West is the next Dr. Martin Luther King, but he is certainly Kanye West. For more news, visit www.Disilgold.com.

 by Heather Covington

Author of Debut novel Tekila Nika www.Heather-Covington.com

Derek Jeter recently purchased an apartment in New York. After 185 days of living in a New York estate, you are considered to be a resident and subject to NY state taxes.Owing back taxes is not the end of the world, but if you’ve been accepting off-the -book fees or cash for attending big events and never paid taxes, the government can make an estimate of how many events you attended and possibly received funds by auditing your planner. Every CEO is required to have a planner with dates and attendance to all events because of course you itemize all of your expenses as deductions. You don’t do this unless you can account for all expenses, but financial planners and accoutants looking for a big tip somehow hook up their celebrity clients who get into trouble later on. This is nothing new. Fred Fox and a well known R& B SOUL Crooner, Latin star and mega black movie mogul got caught. It doesn’t help when you have an accountant who doesn’t properly follow up on all of one’s expenses. The best thing for artists to do is handle their checks and business. It’s real simple. You plan a day to sit at your desk and catch up on weekly, monthly and annual expenses. It’s never too late to start. What’s sad about Derek Jeter is that auditors went back to the most lucrative time period of his career when he earned a huge contract and bought other estates. Derek owes millions now. Troubles like this can even cause advertisers to cancel endorsement deals. I am almost sure Derek has several endorsements. Folks may not realize that Derek Jeter is an African-American man, but of course the black community won’t come to his defense on this one. Can you guess why?

For more Literary Dish News, visit www.Disilgold.com.

According to a DLNA Questionnaire, Black Males are becoming increasingly dumbfounded about their own history. Most only know a handful of black male authors they’ve learned about in college like Langston Hughes, W.E.B Dubois, and James Baldwin, but have never bothered to pick a book from a modern day black male literary peer like Tavis Smiley, Haki madhubuti, Ishmael Reed, Walter Mosely, Michael Eric Dyson and Cornell West, Jr. What does this mean? Mostly black women are readers of urban books by black males that lure women who are attracted to book covers that vicariously portray the image they’d like to have or know the men want. It makes perfect sense to attract the female readers with the image factor just like your Black haircare mag. Most black female readers want to be that urban book cover girl that sells tens of thousands of books. Many have what it takes but wouldn’t be caught dead outside with some of those scanty outfits. Some books have women with virtually no clothes on, but surprisingly it’s the women who are buying books with depictions of the black woman as a naked clad bombshell. They rather read a book about romantic encounters than go out and mate with today’s black man because the male characters in books offer more intellect and even dialogue. Maybe the Black male should read more books and learn how to attract today’s black woman. Many black woman readers say that the men want that girl on the book covers of the books they are reading so their displaced self-esteem is trapped in a book. The Black male is losing out on real romance and everlasting relationships. So how can the black male woo the black woman away from reading about fulfilling relationships only instead of going after them. Well, according to the DLNA poll survey this past week, many black women find men who know their history and have substance to be very sexy and attractive. A man who goes to church to get down on his knees to thank God sometimes is even better, and if he can jump off of the pages of her book and offer the real mccoy with conversation and take an interest in a woman for more than her God-given assets, that’s a WINNER! Romance can surely return in 2008, but right now black relationships are stuck on the cover of these juicy erotic and romance books and that’s as far as it goes. The black male is literally selling out!

 The World Mourns the Untimely passing of Dr. Donde West, Mother of Hip Hop Artist Kanye West, a Beloved Educator and Subject of Several of the Music Moguls Songs

by Heather Covington

www.Heather-Covington.com

DisilgoldSOUL USA- (November 11, 2007) The world received sad news of the untimely passing of Kanye West’s beautiful, highly personable and beloved mother, Dr. Donde West.

Dr. Donde West was the Chairperson of Chicago State University and served as an English professor before retiring to help manage Kanye West’s career.

She wrote a poignant memoir called Raising Kanye that received critical acclaim. In our quest to search for credible information regarding Donde West’s passing, we were directed to ALLHIPHOP.com which did not report facts on how Dr. Donde West passed. However, a website called MediaTakeOut which is known to report information that has been contested, but highly admired by gossip fans, reported she may have had complications upon receiving anesthesia for a cosmetic procedure. If so, we can substantiate that drinking milk before any surgical procedure that requires anesthesia may cause sudden death as a result of shock reaction or multiple procedures at the same time. The mishap is rare, and other reported celebrities spouse or parents have been reported to lose their lives due to procedures as such like a wife of James Brown.

We have received word that Kanye West as well as fans are grieving tonight along with the mega-star. There is something abotu Kanye that is just likeable and adorable. It’s rare that folks like Hip Hop rappers with admiration.  Kanye West has marveled a highly successful career with charm and pure talent. His personality alone exudes his talent and he is a rapper who has redefined HIP HOP as an art form people of all ages and nationalities can enjoy.

His humorous antics and publicity stunts marvel Muhammad Ali and why fans have supported Kanye West from day one. His current song, “Stronger” may indeed be a test for the HIP HOP mogul to endure. We are sure he will need time to grieve even with a full tour ahead of him. Many artists who have lost their parents in the height of their tours have endured and went on to become even bigger entertainers. J. Lo had just performed live on stage and found out her father had passed a  week ago. 

It seems as if Kanye had prepared himself as featured in his song Dear Mama. It’s a point in an entertainer’s life that separate the “mice from the men” sort to speak. Kanye’s fans will look for him to be strong and proceed to take the throne as one of the greatest Hip hop artists of this era along with peers like Jay Z.  The world doesn’t stop to let entertainers grieve which is the irony of superstardom, but it will be up to Kanye to carry on his legacy through his mother’s spiritual strength. Rest in peace Dr. Donde West. You get an A+ in raising a son with a long lasting career. Kanye’s album sales have peeked and it looks like his fans are going to be there until he crosses the finish line through it all! However, most entertainers will admit, there is a feelingof emptiness when a parent has suddenly passed away. Some even look to their music to vent thus creating the best music of their careers. There is surely more to come from Kanye West. He’s going to continue to make his mother proud. We can already sense this even in sadness.

DisilgoldSOUL USA- (November 8, 2007) According to DLNA Survey Polls which generate randomly to members of the Disilgold Literary Network Association, 10 out of 10 people surveyed said they believe Alicia Keys  new album, “As I am,” will SELL OUT massively worldwide, and thanks to her performance at the VH1 Awards. Her performance clearly showed that she’s not only a real singer who can belt out lyrics to a live audience without lip synching, but she plays musical instruments, has got style and overall talent making her an all round bombshell ready to take over the music industry. If you saw the VMA’s you witnessed her music peers paying homage to her with amicable stares. It’s obvious that talent recognizes talent. Alicia Keys is an extraordinary writer, and many folks may not know she wrote a poetry book entitled Diary of Alicia Keys that went on to be a bestseller. One of her hits which was lent ot the soundtrack of Producer and Director Joe James “Arthur: The Celebration of Life” Documentary brought the audience to standing ovation when it premiered on the big screen of the Nauticus theater in Virginia. Disilgold was there to witness the audience’s kudos. She has even graced new movies grossing top box office draw. There is simply no telling what Alicia will accomplish next but so far, her achievements have been incredible. Alicia Keys, a true DisilgoldSOUL star! Get her album on November 13th and enjoy an album that will certainly be among your favorites this holiday and highly recommended by www.Disilgold.com.

DisilgoldSOUL USA- (November 7, 2007)- Black artists today are branching out in so many areas from film and music to clothing lines and even owning a self-named fragrance.

 When you read their biographies, you never see signs or mention of many artists saying they ever wanted to own a clothing line or fragrance, but for an artist to not seize the opportunities and blessings that come their way while they are hot, is like not answering to your calling.

However, consumers are not buying into the quick change artist so easily unless there is evidence of real talent in these diverse businesses they choose to represent, launch or own. Just some quick change artists to capitalize off of owning multi-franchises are Beyonce, P. Diddy, Usher, Celine Dion, Michael Jordan, J. Lo, Kelly, Iman, Brandy and Christina Aguilera to name a few. 

Maintaining one’s image is so important, because regardless how successful an artist is, if their personalities don’t register well to fans later on down the line, no one will be wanting to smell like you, wear you or own any gear with you on it! Fortunately, these artists have transcended time as first rate artists above the cut, and aren’t going anywhere anytime soon.

Jamie Foxx on the otherhand, is the guy no one thought could reach to such successful heights as a comedian, musician, singer, and actor. He clearly has mastered all of these areas, but it seems like media is already holding out its hands to tear down what may be one of the most talented all round celebs out there. Will Jamie Foxx be able to cross the threshold?

It’s a sheer travesty when media knocks down a talented individual with no merit, but at the rate these celebrities are engaging in major scandals, they may seal their own fate before they reach the top. I was appalled when TMZ.com evaded the talented man’s space upon entering his fancy ride which is better off not being televised. Why? The minute folks see a black man getting ahead, somehow the evil forces that be, work hard to destroy him.

 I would hope if Jamie Foxx gets a chance to read this article, that he certainly count his blessings, let the world know he’s a man of God, and pray openly for those who try to near him to harm him. It’s the only way for today’s media to be fed a conscious. Read Psalm 35 aloud, take out that bible and dismiss bad media’s negativity.  Someone besides all of those fallen heroes on a poster in Sylvia’s restaurant in Harlem has to rise to the top unscathed.

 Now they got Oprah’s school under fire on the account of someone’s actions which we all know she would never condone harm towards her students, but did you see how Oprah handled herself during a press conference?Now that lady is a Literary Diva.

 The situation is dismissed and she’ll get things in order. Another thing I don’t like is how gullible black media is when an investigation goes down. Don’t lie, you all thought Star Jones was the devil this week, right?

Well, if you research your facts, you are going to find out somethings about that situation with the planner of an expo which she did not attend due to breach of contract on the planner’s part. It’s plain and simple and doesn’t take a mathematician to find out. There are way too many opportunists and if I were Star Jones I would sue the hell out of this lady who has done this evil deed once before to someone else as reported in the New York Post.

It’s one thing to fight for your rights, but when you are trying to capitalize off of someone’s success because they are successful, that makes you a criminal. I guess talent comes with a heavy price.  Checkout the photo on www.Disilgold.com on DisilgoldSOUL Magazine and tell me if you can guess what Jamie Foxx is thinking.

Disilgold SOUL USA- (November 4, 2007) Producer Ridley Scott may have socred big at the box office week one for his groundbreaking hit movie, American Gangster, but critics have given some really tough reviews of one of the highest grossing films of the year that was so alarming, I had to carefully watch this movie two times to see where the movie went wrong. I have to say, I enjoyed American Gangster the first time, and enjoyed it even more the second time which leads me to conclude that these sour reviewers are just trying make their mark as agitators and condescending critics who think they can easily sway the public’s views, but not so fast.

According to our DLNA survey, every single person who said they saw the movie says the film holds equal weight to the Godfather, and the only problem with this 2 hour and thirty minute film was that it was too short, and folks wanted to see more of Denzel Washington’s stellar acting as opposed to Russell Crow. If you saw Denzel Washington in his prior movies like Glory and Training Day, it is clear that he is a multi-million dollar grossing machine who is as fine an actor as he was from the day he co-starred in a Spike Lee film called She’s Gotta to Have It!

Russell Crow plays as Detective Richie Roberts and Denzel Washington plays as Frank Lucas. His character is the notorious druglord of the 1970′s who continues the reign of Bumpy Johnson in Harlem who hired him as his right hand man and taught him everything he knew about life on the streets and running a drug trafficking business. However, Bumpy Johnson suddenly dies and now Frank is left to either succumb to intimidation and threats by local mafia and drug dealers who pass him off as a sidekick and demand 10% of his earnings.

Some dramatic twists occur as Frank Lucas recalls the advice of the late Bumpy Johnson, and faces a drug dealer named Tango in broad daylight and shoots and kills him at point blank range in broad daylight. This witty move immediately earns him the respect of the streets, and now he’s the most feared gangster in town and very powerful because he is able to acquire a street team to do his dirty work, collect his deeds and of course, get handsomely paid with drugs to make their own earnings, but of course, his cousin takes advantage of his generosity, dilutes his product with fillers and resales drugs in a very lethal form sure to kill folks with just several uses. He also, names Frank’s product Blue Magic which infringes on the value of his product leading him to threaten his own family member. Once word has it on the streets that Frank is having internal difficulty with his affiliates, someone places a drive by hit on his life which makes Frank paranoid and distrusting of local drug dealers, police and mafia who may all have a vested interest in killing him. However, he travels to Vietanm to retrieve the purest forms of drugs and smuggle them back into America within dead soldier’s coffins so he can win over local drug users with the purest product for less.

Now town junkies are glorifiying Frank Lucas who has shut down the cities traffic in areas where he’s disbursing free turkeys. He’s more powerful than the mafia, but his family life and marriage to his wife are in jeapardy as his house is ransacked and he is robbed of millions during a trip back to South Asia.

The story shifts to Russell Crow’s character who is ousted by his NYPD pals for finding and turning in  over $900,000 of marked funds which is taboo in the police force since this money could have been signle-handedly divided by the then corrupt Drug task force. Now he must pinpoint Frank Lucas as the ring leader of this undercover distribution of drugs into the country somehow, but his case against him is weak until his comrad is caught shooting a crackhead and agrees to communicate with Frank undercover with a tape device strapped to his chest until the drug operation is exposed, and so he won’t do time. The plan works, and Frank agrees to give up all of his dealings with police, mafia, drug dealers and users to tear down the biggest drug cartel in the history of the United States.

Ruby Dee who plays Denzel’s character’s mother in the movie gives an endearing performance as a mother who while grateful her son bought her house, takes the time to admonish him about his illegal dealings once her and her daughter in law are assaulted in the home and robbed.

There are peak moments in the movie such as when Denzel burns his Chinchilla mink purchased by his wife with of course, his money that causes jealousy and a quick brush with death among the mafia who believe he’s loaded and want even more than 10% of his earnings. He believes his fashionable attire is attracting the wrong attention.

Undoubtedly, there could be an American Gangster 2 now that Frank Lucas has been released from prison after a short 15 year sentence for cooperating with the police and naming everyone in the drug market.

The result leads to a major breakdown in the Drug Enforcement Task force of New York City giving new meaning to a shakedown.

Denzel Washington brings American Gangster to life with clarity and makes Frank Lucas look larger than life, but make no mistake about it, Denzel’s performance is larger than life and depicts the ugly grit and grime of street life that I believe characters played by TI and Common will think twice before pursuing.

 The flow of the movie was captivating and intriguing. Every character gave a stellar performance. American Gangster will be placed on the favorite list of diehard movie goers. You simply can’t write an urban book or create any gangster character from 15 years ago or more if they haven’t dealt with a Frank Lucas.

*****5 Stars! Disilgold SOUL Literary Review

www.Disilgold.com