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Meagan Good

The Unborn Interview

 with Kam Williams

Born in Panorama City, California to Tyra Doyle and Leon Good on August 18, 1981, Meagan Monique Good was raised along with her three siblings mostly by her mom. The precocious tot got her early start in showbiz at the age of four with the help of her mother who served as her agent.

After appearing in countless TV commercials, the photogenic cutie pie started landing bit roles on TV series like Gabriel’s Fire and On Our Own until she made her screen debut in Friday in 1995. A couple of years later, her big break arrived when she got to play Cisely Baptiste in Eve’s Bayou with Samuel L. Jackson, Jurnee Smollett and Debbi Morgan.

Since then, her familiar face has become a staple of television on such shows as Cousin Skeeter, Touched by an Angel, My Wife and Kids and Moesha, to name a few. Meanwhile, in film, she made Roll Bounce and Waist Deep before enjoying a starring role as a romantic lead opposite her childhood friend, Columbus Short, in Stomp the Yard.

In 2008 alone, the versatile thespian appeared in the horror flick, One Missed Call; the Mike Myers comedy, The Love Guru; and the slasher flick, Saw V. And this year promises to keep Meagan just as busy, since she’s slated for three more releases, Sundays in Fort Greene, Sweet Flame and The Unborn, which is already in theaters.   

Here, the striking actress shares her thoughts about everything from the election of Barack Obama to how she has successfully avoided the pitfalls of early fame which so many former child stars seem to fall prey to.   

KW: Thanks so much for the time, Meagan.

MG: Thank you.

KW: Since you’ve been friends with Columbus Short for years, I think I ought to start by asking you the Columbus Short question which is: Are you happy?    

MG: I’m very happy! It’s an important question which I don’t think people ask enough in the midst of the glitz and the glamour and all the other things that go on.

KW: How did you and Columbus meet?

MG: We’ve known each other since we were 10. He lived right across the street from my baby cousin’s. So, we used to play together, and we also went to school together around that age. We actually hadn’t seen each other for several years when we ran into each other when we were like 18 or 19. We became friends again then and we’ve stayed close ever since, and we got to make Stomp the Yard together.

KW: What interested you in making The Unborn?

MG: First of all, when I was a kid, what really got me wanting to act was Halloween 4 and 5. I wanted to be the little girl in those movies so badly. Ever since then, I always wanted to make a scary movie that’s really like a classic thriller. I don’t think we’ve had a great one since Scream 1. So, to me, it seemed like a great opportunity to do everything that I had wanted to do as a little girl.      

KW: But this wasn’t your first horror flick, was it?

MG: No, I also did Venom, One Missed Call and Saw V.

KW: What did you think of the storyline of The Unborn?

MG: I believe in ghosts and spirits, and I believe that they can possess you.

KW: What I found a little strange was the idea of a rabbi performing an exorcism.

MG: Spiritually, if something like that needed to be performed, I don’t think it would matter if you weren’t Catholic. I think it’s about believing in God and that you can be saved and healed. 

KW: Because of the demonic subject-matter and the physical intensity, this looks like it could have been a very emotionally-challenging film to make.

MG: Oh, yeah! Because of the content, I had to do a lot of praying even before I accepted the role. Then, once I got on set, I prayed every single morning before we started shooting. And I’d pray again in the afternoons.

KW: Why so much?

MG: Even though it’s just a movie, you really are opening yourself up to a lot of things spiritually. People still talk about how the little girl in Poltergeist [Heather O’Rourke] passed away at the age of 12 of some mysterious disease and the actress who played the eldest daughter [Dominique Dunne] in the same movie was murdered a few months after the film opened. So, it was intense for me and I pretty much prayed for everyone on set. You definitely have to take it seriously, spiritually.  

KW: I first recall seeing you in a very spiritual film, Eve’s Bayou, a masterpiece directed by Casey Lemmons.

MG: Oh, thank you.

KW: What are you memories of making that movie?

MG: I remember being very nervous, because it was my first leading role as a child. More so than anything I was nervous about having to kiss Samuel L. Jackson, since I was only 14. I also remember being excited and enjoying myself, even in that situation. Although I was young, I prayed while in Louisiana, too, because as you know there’s a lot of voodoo down there and you always need to be covered and protected and aware. Even if it’s just a film, it’s still real life while you’re there shooting it.  

KW: What TV commercials did you do when you were a kid?

MG: Everything from Barbie to AT&T to Pringles to Burger King to Cheerios to J.C. Penney’s to Macys. Everything you could think of commercial-wise, I’ve probably done. 

KW: What were some of the first sitcoms you appeared on?

MG: Doogie Howser and Amen, and from that I graduated to speaking lines.

KW: Is your dad still a police officer?  

MG: Yes, I think he’s retiring this year, but he’s still with the LAPD.

KW: And is your mom still your manager?

MG: No, she stopped managing me when I was a teenager, but she still helps me out a lot. But I try not to have her work for me anymore, because she raised us on her own and pretty much gave up everything so my sister [actress/singer La’Myia Good] and I could have our careers. On top of that, my 36 year-old brother has disabilities, and she’s been caring for him since she was very young. So, I try to make it as easy for her as possible.

KW: What type of disabilities does he have?

MG: I don’t know exactly how it would be classified, but he has some brain damage. He stopped breathing when he was 8, and some medication they gave him left him with a learning disability.

KW: I’m sorry to hear that. I suppose he helped keep you grounded.

MG: Yeah.

KW: What else helped you avoid the pitfalls of early fame which so many former child stars seem to fall prey to?

MG: For one thing, my mom wasn’t a stage-mom. She isn’t very aggressive, and she never tried to force me to do anything I didn’t want to do. She’s just a very laidback person who was very protective of her kids. And she had no interest in taking our money, controlling the situation, or living vicariously through us. She’s really been a great mom who I’ve always had a lot of respect for even as teenagers because she always respected us and treated us like young adults. Some people got on her for being too permissive, but we never rebelled. We never got into drugs and we were the last ones to lose our virginity. We never ran around with the bad boys or hid anything from our parents.       

KW: That’s admirable. The Tasha Smith question: Are you ever afraid?

MG: Oh, I love Tasha. She’s an amazing person. Am I ever afraid? Yes, you have times when you work so hard and put so much into it, and things feel… I don’t want to go so far as to say hopeless… but you’re trying hard not to lose your faith. Moments like that are where I get afraid and I really need to pray and put everything back into perspective. I have to realize it’s not me, it’s God, and I just have to be confident in my ability and focus on the positive regardless of people who say negative things and don’t want me to succeed, or who won’t give me an opportunity. Those are the times when I get a little afraid, because your faith may waver a little bit. But I think now that I’m a little bit older, my mindset is that being afraid is a waste of energy because there are some things that are out of you control that you may just have to accept. So, I put all my energy into making the things I can control go the way I know in my heart they should. My attitude is to keep fighting and try not to be afraid.      

KW: Bookworm Troy Johnson was wondering: What was the last book you read?

MG: The Bible.

KW: “Realtor to the Stars” Jimmy Bayan asks: Where in L.A. do you live?

MG: In Studio City.

KW: Rudy Lewis asks: Who’s at the top of your hero list?

MG: First, Jesus; then, my mom; then Barack.

KW: How do you feel about Obama’s becoming president?

MG: I’m ecstatic! It’s amazing! Gosh, I don’t even know what to say. I’m just happy that Bush is over, and that the way things have been is over. Now the troops can come home and that we can work towards putting ourselves back together. I’m glad for what it represents, and I hope that people don’t make it into a racial thing, because it’s really not about that. It’s about creating unity, and if we needed to use a different colored face to achieve that, so be it. But let’s not make it a racial thing, but a people thing, because we come in all sorts of shapes, sizes and shades. Let’s unify and be happy!   

KW: Speaking of shapes, sizes and shades, you have a very exotic look. What’s your background?

MG: My mother’s mother is Jewish and African, so I guess that would be considered Creole. My mother’s father was Cherokee Indian and something else. My dad’s mother’s Puerto Rican and black, and his father was from Barbados.  

KW: My father was from Barbados?

MG: Oh really?

KW: Yep. While you are obviously very mature and intelligent, I’m still curious about why you didn’t you go to college?

MG: I always knew I wanted to be an actress, and I had the attitude that I would learn more under people like Samuel L. Jackson, Laurence Fishburne or Mike Myers than from someone who had never starred in a movie. I just didn’t think that someone who had never been in a movie could teach me how to act in one.

KW: Do you at all regret not going to college?

MG: I do wish that I had gone to college, just for the simple fact that knowing more than one approach makes you more well-rounded. But I still can’t say knowing what I know now, that I would have done it any differently.

KW: The music maven Heather Covington question: What’s music are you listening to nowadays? 

MG: I’m a late Eighties, early Nineties baby. I will always be listening to Journey, Foreigner, Pat Benatar, Aerosmith and Guns & Roses. I love R&B without a doubt, but I’m a Rock & Roll girl. And I like a little bit of Pop. You can’t forget about Prince and Madonna.   

KW: Is there a question no one ever asks you, that you wish someone would?

MG: Yeah, what would you like to leave behind?

KW: What would you like to leave behind?

MG: Something that’s more than a memory. I’d like to be a part of the new movement, some of which is in film. I’d like to see more different colored faces playing leads in movies and doing art house films. I’d like to be remembered as someone who was on the front line of a movement changing the world and people and how they were perceived. And as someone who used whatever God put her in to offer a positive outlook and to make a positive influence and to change some of the things that are in boxes they shouldn’t be in.    

KW: Well, Meagan, I’ve been very impressed with your work thus far and expect even bigger things from you in the future.

MG: Thank you, I’m looking to follow in Julia Roberts’ and Meryl Streep’s footsteps.

KW: Thanks again for the interview, and best of luck .

MG: Thank you and God bless you! 

To see a trailer for The Unborn, visit: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=75R2A2ET__4

To see Meagan Good in the 50 Cent music video “21 Questions,” visit:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cPycbYWRqEM

by Heather Covington

Copyright 2009. Disilgold. Disilgold@aol.com

www.LiteraryDiva.com

THE JOURNEY: PART I- Inauguration Pre-Celebration: January 20,2009-Martin Luther King National Holiday and Declared National Service Day

 President-Elect Obama, Vice President –Elect Biden and their families arrived on the steps of Lincoln Memorial on Sunday, January 18, 2009 for a brief welcome event. The next day they were celebrated during “The Inauguration Eve Concert” at the Verizon Center in Washington, DC. ABC NEWS and The Disney Chanel were granted carte blanche to cover the historic event.

People wondered who would perform and like a procession, the stars came out one –by-one for the most spectacular event of the year. Brace yourself as the most thorough historian on the net shares “THE JOURNEY!” America’s Boy of Hope, Bruce Springsteen, known for his classic hit, “Born in the U.S.A.,” started the celebration and set the tone for what would be one of the most historical weeks of the millennium next to Oprah launching a girl’s academy in the motherland of Africa. “We come together filled with optimism and hope as a nation and a people…. and on this day we are inspired by the 44th president of the United States of America, Barack Obama,” glorified actor Denzel Washington stated at the steps of our nation’s capital in Washington, D.C. His eyes gleamed with a teary gloss as the little boy who was inspired by America’s Boys and Girls Club, and went on to become one of the country’s most revered African-American male authors since Sidney Poitier, recited portions of Barack Obama’s acceptance speech as the presidential elect in Chicago.

The moment was riveting and powerful as 1.4 million people stood in the cold to listen carefully. For a moment, I thought if a movie were to highlight Barack Obama’s life, Denzel Washington and his wife, Pauletta, as Michelle Obama would be perfect for each role. Martin Luther King Jr. the Third shared the designation of his father’s birthday as National Service Day. Mary J. Blige performed her rendition of “Lean on Me” from the same entitled movie made popular by actor Morgan Freeman. The warm smiles and energy from the crowd warmed the event hosted in frigid teen weather with a unified aura signifying, CHANGE HAS COME!”

Steven Correll and Jamie Foxx reminisced Thomas Johnson’s famous quotes and Thurgood Marshall’s popular quote, “This is your country, Make it Protect it, Pass it On.” I got choked up with tears upon interviewing Camille Yarbrough who told me the same words, “Pass it On!” I promised I would not cry, but maintain my composure as a teacher who would have to face her children with dignity, pride and strength on the actual Inauguration Day, January 20, 2009. People watching the ceremony were reminded of President Barack Obama’s own words with humor from the former In Living Color tv show star turned actor and singing sensation, Jamie Foxx mentioned, “If there is anyone who feels that America is not a place where all things are possible, tonight is your answer.

Bettye LaVette and Bon Jovi made a rare duet appearance to sing my mama and late father’s favorite song, “A Change is Coming,” formerly sung by the late Sam Cooke. The crowd cheered and cheered once more as Tom Hanks appeared on the footsteps of America’s home to reinstate the message of President Abraham Lincoln, our 16th president, and accompanied by the riveting ensemble of a live orchestra. For a moment, Tom Hanks looked like Abraham Lincoln. The message of democracy was loud and clear as his classic statue sat in the middle of the building infrastructure with resounding strength and pride. James Taylor, John Legend, Jennifer Nettles, joined forces with the classic folk song, Shower Me With Love . The song was followed with ample applause by Vice President Joe Biden who beckoned the world to look at the glorious work of American hands representing the majesty, “Our Land”. John Mellancamp brought the house down and got folks up and clapping with a full choir.

 Photos of everyday people graced the screen as “Ain’t that America” resounded in the crowds ears with joy! Queen Latifah reminded everyone of the struggles of Marian Anderson who was once rejected from singing on the opal streets of Washington D.C. It took clearance from Eleanor Roosevelt to give Marian the opportunity to sing in front of over 75,000 Americans. She sang God Bless America, now sung by all students around the country before they start their day paying homage to their country and instilling the meaning of patriotism, a quiet act often evidenced mostly with world devastation, such as the Katrina Hurricane travesty which tested American’s compassion. On this day, there were many families who pre-purchased their tickets for Inauguration Day back in early November 2007 and days before the world found out that Barack Obama had won the election, and with confidence that he would win. Families invited strangers with no place to stay within their homes in Washington.

People from around the world wanted to be a part of history. The freezing cold could not stop America. Josh Groban and Heather Headley, a very talented singer with a big voice with the grace of a younger Gladys Knight sang, My Country Tis of Thee! The ceremony became more enlivened as Will.I.AM and Sheryl Crow sang their rendition of “1 Love” accompanied by the piano accompaniment of Herbie Hancock, a classic musician of all time. Golf great, Tiger Woods, shared his dreams growing up and influence by his father as a man who dedicated his life to the military and his country. Messages from Barack Obama’s own novel, “Dreams of My Father,” clearly were reflected in Tiger Woods own reflections on how his father influenced his life.

Renee’ Fleming sang the most beautiful version of “Never Walk Alone” which I recall my high school music teacher, Dennis Bell, accompanying one of my fashion shows with a full choir who sang that song with the same love and compassion reminding us that the good in history often repeats itself. It’s a classic that I am sure struck a soft spot in all families with veterans in the military at home and abroad waiting to come home. The pre-inauguration event felt like a Hammerstein production and built up more anticipation for the big day. Jack Black and Rosario Dawson shared how former presidents like President Roosevelt stressed saving America’s sacred historical land sites and landscapes for children to visit and enjoy forever. It was incumbent for Garth Brooks to appear with his version of “ Bye, Bye Ms. American Pie”. President Barack Obama bopped his head off beat, but you could tell he knew the words.

As a product of a Kenyan born father and spending ample time as a youth in Honolulu, no one seemed to mind. Barack Obama then stood up on his feet as Garth returned his offbeat version of the Isley Brothers James, “Shout!” and a song called “We Shall Be Free!” It’s fair to say, Garth stole the show. Gotta Love Garth who said, “God bless America, God Bless the World, Love One Another!” Shelly Judd and Forest Whittaker reminded people that many artists from around the world have arrived to celebrate this day. Usher carried on the mission of the event with his rendition of Stevie Wonder’s Classic,” People,” along with Latin Music sensation Shakira and music accompaniment by Stevie Wonder himself.

It was a legendary performance that reminded folks of the Motown Era and a time period that unified music among many cultures. Samuel Jackson reminded America of Abraham’s Emancipation Proclamation and how his message influenced Rosa Parks who recognized that she had gathered the strength of her ancestors and courage to not move off the bus one day upon being asked to move to give up her seat to a white passenger. He went on to discuss Martin Luther King, Jr.’s era where everyday ordinary people came out to support his message. The hate, prejudice, bigotry, lynchings, racism and hate crimes of yesterday seem sheltered from youth’s ears today, but the pre-inaugural event reminded every American why it is so important for youth to know their history and struggle, for they won’t know how to handle tomorrow’s perils of hate toward more people for whatever reason without knowledge of Dr, Martin Luther King Jr.’s message of peace, and many will walk in harms way with trusting arms and become a subject of race related hate crimes for hate will never disappear. Better to understand the world, than be blind inside.

 It was befitting for Bono to write a song in tribute to Dr, Martin Luther King called, “One Man, In the Name of Love,” and one of the biggest international stars to grace the official soundtrack of Barack Obama’s Inaugural Celebration Album. After Bon Jovi’s performance, “THAT MAN!” as McCain had slipped and thus, turned his own supporters away appeared. Barack Obama graced the stage with majestic applause followed by complete silence as tears filled the entire stretch of Washington’s capital. It was an unbelievable site to see the first African-American president don the steps of the capital. It was something like a miracle and a memory to be treasured forever as the Washington Memorial Monument stood tall and proud.

Barack Obama reminisced as far back as his ancestors and grandparents who toiled by foot to fight America’s battles. He mentioned that what gives him the greatest hope of all is “YOU,” the American People because you believe in this country. It is remarkable that just 2 years ago Barack Obama believed in change. It is as remarkable that Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. predicted that There would be an African American president of the United States within 25 years. Today, President Elect Barack Obama vows to take every voice with him as he steps foot into the oval office to help CHANGE AMERICA for the better. It will take more than 1 term, but already I see that the true character of America, a great nation, has indeed come together and will be even brighter tomorrow when he takes his oath.

The pre-inaugural ceremony was adjourned with Bruce Springteen’s edition of “This Land is Made for You and Me!” President Barack Obama, First Lady Michelle Obama, and his daughters Sasha and Malia disappeared to begin the journey and prepare for the official Inauguration Ceremony to be broadcast nationwide on January 20,2009. I never got the name of the unsung hero who guided the crowd to the words of the next to last song with his banjo. Beyonce,’ however, ended the ceremony with her rendition of “America” sending overwhelming waves of pride from the crowd.

 All of the guests of this star-studded event joined Beyonce’ who held every note and mentioned, “America we all won!” A beautiful and humbled statement for a singer looked up to by youth who earned her dream of becoming an icon in history on the shoulders of the Obama’s who were gracious to grant her wish sending a message to young girls everywhere like Malia and Sasha that they can achieve their dreams with hard work and dedication to their craft despite obstacles. The youth were able to relate.

Barack Obama, an official rock star himself, and the First Family shook hands with every guest performer as they have shook millions of hands across America. The pre-inaugural celebration was a success. Disilgold SOUL Magazine declares the week of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Birthday as “BARACKAMERICA WEEK.”

January 21, 2009- Inauguration Day 2009

On January 21, 2009, I woke up bright and early with the mission in mind to become “An Ambassador of Change and Hope” as millions of American’s planned to do on this glorious day. Like my kindergarten students, I would be able to witness President Barack Obama, the first Black president, inaugurated as the 44th President of the United States. I was prepared to find a radio station that syndicated live footage since schools block live streaming feed until viewed for content. This was understandable.

However, my school was able to fill its auditorium with students to witness live coverage for a full day of events that began with a morning entourage of national news broadcasts on Capitol Hill from as early as 5am-7am. By 8am the gated opened for ticket bearing attendees and even those who scalped unused tickets at the last minute, “God bless America.” By 10:30am, we heard the sounds of the San Francisco Boys Chorus and San Francisco Girls Chorus.

Rick Warren, author of a Purpose Driven Life, recited the invocation after Senator Diane Feinstein Called to Order with Welcoming Remarks. And like a sweet songbird, Aretha Franklin sang, “My Country Tis’ of Thee.” Vice President-Elect Biden became the Vice President of the United States as soon as he was sworn into office, and yes his wife fumbled on the Oprah Winfrey Show and falsely stated that her husband was offered Secretary of State or Vice Presidency which was followed by Obama’s reps that indeed, Vice President Biden was solely considered for the vice presidency all along.

Music followed composed by Yo-Yo Ma, Gabriela Montero and Anthony McGill composed by John Williams and Itzhak Perlman. Like the hands of the clock at a ball, Barack Obama recited the Oath of Office sworn in by Supreme Court Justice Roberts who recited the wrong oath humbly corrected by Presidential Elect Barack Obama who by the words of the constitution if stated incorrectly could have been ground to forfeit his presidency later on. The official President Barack Obama did not break a sweat as his wife, a lawyer from Harvard as himself and many presidents smiled.

At 12:05, President Barack Obama delivered his inaugural address to America and around the word sending cheers as he spoke from his native homelands. The words he recited are no sacred and for those who watched on Dr. Elizabeth Alexander, only the 4th poet to recite a poem and 2nd black poet following in the steps of Dr. Maya Angelou, recited HERSTORY.

A benediction followed by the Reverend Dr. Joseph E. Lowery, who marched with Dr. martin Luther King, Jr. as heard just a day before on ABC NEWS proceeding a warm reminiscent message of change by Bronx City Council Woman Diane Foster. He had hoped to remember his speech as he cleverly changed what was a negative cliché into a positive one as the first sign of change. For a moment, it was clear that Barack Obama held his breath in hoping there would be no surprises as with his former pastor, Reverend Jeremiah Wright.

The ceremony ended with The National Anthem performed by “The United States Navy Band “Sea Chanbers” and hours of marching parades up and down Pennsylvania Avenue from the United States Capitol to the White House. I was in a nail salon watching the rest of the parade and getting my nails airbrushed with classic red, white and blue nail art before heading out to 1 of over 10 balls, when President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, surprisingly got out of their motorcade to greet millions of cheering people in the crowd that looked like one big family of unity.

You saw tears strum down White, Black, Latino, Asian faces and people of all nationalities. I closed my eyes as the parade marched on and reminisced over looking at each one of my kindergartner’s faces and letting them know I loved them all. The children got an opportunity of a lifetime to become Barack Obama on this day as each one stood in front of our makeshift podium and shared their speech of “Change for America,” proceeded with I AM BARACK OBAMA posters sealed in time with their own red, white and blue handprints.

I recalled how hard they worked on their “I Am Barack Obama Dolls and letters to Barack Obama which will arrive to the White House by Valentine’s Day 2008. There is much work to do as Barack Husseim Obama stated in his eloquent speech that surpassed the brief 15 minutes of the late Robert F. Kennedy. The weather was 27 degrees.  Edward Kennedy silently suffered a seizure post ceremony and had to be rushed to the hospital, reminding everyone just how precious life is each day and the incumbent responsibility of every America to get ready for THE JOURNEY which will take every hand with unity to help change America.

So much is upon us as we are reminded of the millions of Americans facing cancer like anchor woman Robin Roberts who bravely revealed her bought with the disease and today able to introduce The Neighborhood Ball headlined by artists like Wil. I. AM with his classic, “It’s a New Day,” Shakira, Alicia Keys, Mariah Carey, Mary J. Blige, Jamie Foxx and Nick Cannon as the D.J. It was something like a fairytale when Beyonce’ appeared on stage to serenade President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama who danced to Etta James classic, AT LAST.

The Universal Hip Hopper, Jay Z. got America’s “Lighters Up” with same entitled song, Tomorrow, President Barack Obama takes office and people all around the world can agree with Barack Obama, “I Found a Dream!” ……“ And now it’s time to follow yours. For to lead is to follow and to follow is to lead, and to lead is to follow by example and that example is to live your dreams for the world to see!”- Heather Covington

Official INSIDER Inauguration Guide
(Please Note RSVP Details in Event Listings – Click for Details)

One of the most underated albums of the year is no other than Beyonce’s , I Am Sasha Fierce, Dual cd album where the only competition of this artist is herself. As a long time listener of Beyonce’s catchy hooks and songs that invite any glamour girl who feels good about herself to get out on the dance floor and exude her sensuality without shame or as Beyonce’ does when she becomes her alter-ego, Sasha Fierce, Ihave to admit the entire album is a WINNER by my standards. With effortless  and beautiful music lyrics, well written choruses, music accompaniment and arrangement, this may be Beyonce’s best album to date. 

If I Were a Boy is a remake of Toby Gad and BC Jean whom she gives full credit, but her version adds her own interpretation for a song most urban and R& B music listeners may have enver discovered. inf act, Beyonce’s remake was my first time hearing the song at all and I am an avid music listener. You wonder if the album will sustain this high quality introduction and it actually gets better. As predicted, the next song HALO on CD 1 was produced entitled HALO. Upon wathching the premiere of the video on MYSPACE, I was reminded of my very first love and the innocence lost in music videos today where  women are presented as promiscuous sex sirens in the name of selling more records.

The video stars Michael Ealy best known for his role in The Zora Neale Hurston Story starring Halle Berry and produced by Harpo Productions. He exudes as much sexiness as a GOOD BOY love interest of Beyonce’s character in the video as he does in his recent debut in the movie, 7 Pounds, starring Will Smith. Beyoncen’s natural character and personality lends well to the scenario and I just see a seasoned artist evolving, while capturing the same audience that craves the Sasha Fierce side that catapulted her to major success. Her following songs speak to her music listeners like Broken Hearted Girl written by Kenneth Baby Face Edmunds, Disappear, Ave Maria, Smash Into You, Satellites and That’s Why Your Beautiful. 

CD 1 is definately going to make it into the Hall of Fame as a contemporary album when everyone is through listening to exhausted spins of  songs on the market. The transition to CD 1 for listeners is pleasant and upbeat with dance track anthems like Single Ladies, Radio, DIVA, Ego and Hello where she takes a fourth place position as a writer due to her dependency on the producer, vocalist arranger, mixer, and arrangement specialist which the co-writer often does not get recognition. However, is this the price to pay for developing sound music listernes can enoy, than so be it, but I do see Beyonce’s writing style written over all of the songs as someone who knows writing styles as well as song writer’s styles. 

If the words and lyrics don’t get to you than the music will. And if both win over your musical tastes, I am sure the music videos will make you think twice about letting Beyonce’s dual personality album sit on shelves at stores, and rather get your own personal copy because once word gets out that Beyonce’s album is a WINNER at Disilgold, copies are sure to fly off  shelves. 

See new Beyonce photos behind the makings of her new album at www.disilgold.com.
 JUST IN! My boy Bruce Springsteen wins a Golden Globe over Beyonce! new Disilgold Poll is up! Do you think Beyonce should have one for her song, “Once ina Lifetime!”

Exercise takes mental stimulation to stick to it. I strongly suggest that you get yourself enrolled in a unisex gym. Once you start getting second looks from the guys, that’s how you know you are reaching your physical fitness peak. If the atmosphere doesn’t motivate you, than create a home workout that you are willing to stick with at least 5 times a week for 1 hour a day. Never work out if you are tired. Take a power nap and eat some energizing snack bars to refuell or do some jogging in place to see if you can revamp yor energy level.

You don’t want to torture yourself, but you do want to get consistent. Two weeks is pushing it, but you can at least feel better in two weeks if you get started on your diet regimen now. I strongly recommend Mel B. Totally Fit. It’s a DVD that can help boost your momentum. After all, Me B was 50 pounds heavier before she penned the DVD, so if a mom with a new born can get in top shape so can you. Keep a journal to chart your progress, get yoru favorite music cd to work out and you’ll be on your way.

Email Disilgold@aol.com to ASK HEATHER a question. Visit www.Disilgold.com for photo of Mel B. today, and as seen on Dancing with the Stars.

www.disilgold.com 

Heather Covington: No, authors do not have to be runway fashion models to sell books, btu with social networks promoting hype and trends more than talent these days, it doesn’t hurt to be on top of your game and look and feel your best. Fashion is what’s happening in the literary world, and Literary Divas  Magazine is the first publication to combine the literary with beauty, fitness and fashion on purpose and not by accident! We researched the entire market, and so let’s see how many literary and beauty magazines follow. I will certainly let you know and put them on blast!

Chanel Iman is the latest runway supermodel sporting all of the top spring  designs literary fashionistas will want to take note. Not only will the Rock the Republic white mini-dress turn heads on the streets, but certainly at booksignings where you’llbe sure to sell out copies of your book. The fit  compliments your perfect A-line shape, and if you still have a little bit of that Thanksgiving bulge here is a reason to hit the gym. Don’t get left in the back order pile this spring. Get you a Rock the Republic white mini dress so you’ll look hot like Chanel Iman. 

 It is rare to find a model this naturally thin on the runway, plus with a name of a famous perfume and supermodel she can’t go wrong, so I wanted to bring some fame to a someone virtually only known to the fashion industry. Maybe she’ll write a model guide one day for models who want to break into the industry.   I have no doubt that Chanel Iman is going to excel beyond the stratosphere because she has the height and is a dream come true for designers. I also, recommend  the book, Is Modeling for You by Yvonne Rose which gives emphasis on the business side of modeling. The makeup on Chanel is off the meter. I would recommend Sam Fine’s book, FINE BEAUTY  for technique or FACE FORWARD for make-up  and skin care maintenance and to obtain Chanel’s effortless look. Over all, writers deserve to look beautiful an fresh faced for booksignings. A key to winning over more sales. Readers ten to gravtiate to authors who have that fashion edge. Get your own fashion savvy and style today if you dare.

  For more articles for writers, visit Heather Covington at www.Literarydiva.com.

Coming April 2009- God’s 24 Hour Makeover: The Emergency Repair Contract to Complete Joy

by Heather Covington

www.LiteraryDiva.com  www.Heather-Covington.com  

WWW.DISILGOLD.COM- TOP 5 DAILY LITERARY DISH HEATLIST STORIES- (Janaury 2, 2008)

1. Dr. Ian Smith’s Smith-”The 4 Day Diet”

The day before the release of Dr. Ian Smith’s national release of “The 4 Day Diet,” we got a personal note from the desk of Dr. Ian Smith letting us know all about his new book and it’s now live on Disilgold.com. It seems like “The 4 Day Diet” was the only book flying off shelves today and just in time for fitness craze folks to fulfill their New Year’s Resolution. Now I don’t know about you folks, but I was perfectly “FINE” with Dr. Ian Smith’s Fat Smash Diet book. You can see the results. No complaints. I like hiking, bicycling and real sports. I also, cut back on servings and portions as prescribed by Dr. Ian Smith’s books, but then came those late night munchies. I think Dr. Ian  Smith has an answer to those folks who are following their fitness regimen, but just need more motivation. So, it’s going on the 2nd day and I’m convinced that Dr. Ian Smith is the top expert in diet and nutrition. The Ian  Effect, which I am dubbing for the Disilgold Dictionary of New Phrases and Vocabulary   is on ladies and gents. Go out and get yourself on the right track nd stop admiring those sexy celebs out there like Beyonce, Usher, and LL COOL J amd be that sexy celeb.  Here’s the latest info again, from the Desk of Dr. Ian Smith, America’s hero.  We are going to have to start a Dr. Ian Smith Fan Club and brace yourself, we are going to load some really nice pics for you ladies out there  who want to see more of Dr. Ian Smith . You heard it here first:

http://www.disilgold.com/celebinterviews/driansmith.html

2. Beyonce’s Version of “Proud to Be American

Disilgold.com recently released its official YGA AWARDS WINNERS of 2008. We’re still updating photos, but you can now witness winners in over 250 YGA Award categories. Disilgold.com is busy preparing a formal press release because word has it, top media is going to do us the honors and send it out to their bases. That’s why Disilgold family is right there to support media who has supported Disilgold at newsstands.  Our official YGA AWARDS press release goes out on January 15th, 2009 in homage to my main political leader and inspiration since day one and that is Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. who opened the doors for great presidents to be like Barack Obama. It was befitting for us to pay homage to America’s music sensation, Beyonce’ , who crossed over with international appeal bringing wealth to the music industry, programs and media. We will never forget how Beyonce’ chose Disilgold to pose for a media op first before all other media as soon as she saw a black  woman in media at Disilgold.com making way for what is now one of the top promotional media entities online! We don’t invite hype, gossip or even comment boards directly on our site that harms our celebrated guests, but are still standing. We encourage Beyonce’ to hold her head up high despite the backlash of success. If it weren’t for Beyonce’, many new artists would have never been able to get to where they are now. All of the controversy and negativity attached to Beyonce actually helps other stars, but in 2009, Disilgold.com is recognizing Beyonce’ as a pivotal voice in music. LISTEN to her rendention of a Neil Diamond Classic, PROUD TO BE AMERICAN.  Simply classy and should be sung at the innagural ball. many young girls look up to Beyonce; who carries herself like a lady and should not be condemned for her art form that without would not sell in today’s America. Even Barack Obama won over some Americans for his sex appeal. Let’s be real here. And the men are crazy over Michelle Obama who exudes sex appeal, too so why not have the equally sexy Beyonce’ perform.  It’s like the movie Dream Girls acted out all over again in real life. I won’t stand for this backlash against a beautiful and talented star of today.  Like BARAMERICA, another term Disilgold dubbed, it’s BEYONCEMERICA for young girls who are disappointed that black female  beauty is being rejected. Beyonce’  needs to make albums for the kids and leave the sinister adult world of music listeners who didn’t appreciate a gem. I call them BEYONCESTABBERS!

Listen here first before the single is pulled:

http://www.disilgold.com/awardwinners2008.html 

3. Disilgold SOUL YGA Award Winners Make Headlines

It’s official, YGA AWARD WINNERS 2008 went live on the headline page of www.Disilgold.com. It was amazing to receive the numerous letters of support for featured artists to Disilgold@aol.com. We heard from all of your top celebrities and authors even if they weren’t on the ballot this year. Folks are really supporting other artists. It is a phenom what YOUNITY at Disilgold has done for the African-American Literary Community. People are already heading back to bookstores. It’s a new day!

4. Tony Rose-”Author of New Kids on the Block” elected as NAACP Committee Member

Tony Rose not only penned a breakthrough celebrity biography that acquired so much feeback from media across the board that  book sales soared to the top 10,000 at B& N’s , but we just got exclusive word first that Tony Rose has been named to the NAACP IMAGE AWARD Chair committee for non-fiction works.  The press release is loading here.

http://www.disilgold.com/authorinterviews/tonyrose.html

5. Friday’s Just Got Hotter in New York-A BARRY MASON EXCLUSIVE!

Now, not to toot my own horn, but the world famous Barry Mason, your top voted  Event DeeJAY, gave your Disilgold founder a huge compliment on the Disilgold Myspace guestbook on www.Myspace.com/HeatherCovington. Check out my top space and click on to BARRY MASON for his new Friday Night promo event’s flyer. We are going to have to check out his events where you can celebrate your birthdays. Now that is what i am talking about. Check it out.