BKS1 Radio Network

Artist Review: Alicia Keys

Alicia Keys’ artistic light is so bright it could illuminate a pitch-black room. A true musical prodigy whose multi-dimensional gifts emerged at age five, the beautiful Alicia will soon take modern R&B soul to a whole new level at the tender age of nineteen.

Born aware of her old soul yet living in New York’s inner city amidst the dominance of Biggie and Jay Z, Alicia’s natural talents blossomed into a rare mix of hip-hop flavor and insightful, wise-beyond-her-years songwriting. Coupling this with the singer’s spine-tingling vocal power, positively stirring live performances and expertise as a classically trained pianist, Alicia Keys could be this generation’s Roberta Flack.

Highly sought-after by record labels that held good, old-fashioned bidding wars in her honor, Alicia signed to Arista Records in 1998. There, in the spirit of a genius like D’Angelo or Prince, she continued the process of writing, producing and recording the debut she’d begun penning at age 14.

In late 1999, Alicia followed Clive Davis to his new J Records where she continues to chart her arrival to the music world. Creations now rising out of the studio show signs of both a critical and commercial monster - a deep, melodic, soulful gem of an album that showcases Alicia in all her universal glory. Though most of the album- including the luminous "Fallin'" and the moving "Troubles" - was written and produced by Alicia Keys, the artist collaborates with Jermaine Dupri on "Girlfriend" and with Isaac Hayes on "Rock Wit U" from the Shaft soundtrack. Her debut album, Songs in A Minor, is set for release on J Records in late June.

Born and raised in Manhattan, the stunning, bi-racial Alicia Keys recognizes a number of influences including her ultra-supportive mother who told her "You can quit anything else but you can never give up on your piano lessons." Alicia also sites a teacher at the Professional Performance Arts School in Manhattan who, while she was majoring in Choir, gave her valuable instruction on her voice. "This teacher spent so much time with me, she became the closest thing to vocal training I received," Alicia recalls.

Read more Alicia Keys Bio: www.sing365.com/aliciakeys

Tonight’s Topic: "IT TAKES 2 TO TANGO, BUT WHAT IF.....1 DOESN'T WANT TO DANCE?"

You think all is well, come home from work and your spouse says they want a divorce. How do you handle it? What do you do? What about the kids? What happened to "for better or worse" What do you do if you are the spouse that still is in love like you were the first time you met your better half? It's so easy to fall out of love but to have it leave you isn't so easy.

Tonight the Vocal Booth team tackles the topic of divorce from the person who never saw it coming, also we have in studio the actors and actresses of the independent film "NO SURRENDER" Join us in the chat or call in at 646 233 1302 to share your feeling about divorce or share your story whether good or bad tonight at 10 pm est LIVE IN THE VOCAL BOOTH!

Special Guests: Cast of Independent Film No Surrender

This is a story about a man(Jay) and his wife (Simone)and how even before they got married there were signs of a selfish mentally, but blinded by their love they proceeded to get married and hopes things would change, but as time went on things got worse. Consulting with their family and friends every time a situation occurs didn’t make things any better. Jay best friend is (Terrance aka T) and Simone best friend is her (mother) struggling the first couple of years of marriage they realize they had to make a change and with them having no real example of how a happy marriage looked.

They took it upon themselves to find a church home that would help them replenish there marriage! Finally after hopping from one church to another they found a church they both agree on, now the journey really starts as they are being taught how to love, respect, honor one another like never before.

Check out the movie trailer:

Ciarah Hayes

Kashanie Lagrotta

This is Kashanie's first future film. She hopes the beginning of many more to come. Kashanie was born in Brooklyn NY. However she was raised in Panama City, Panama. Since she can remember she has been in love with the performing arts. She expressed her love by taking part of any and all plays, talent show and dance show cases in school. At home she didn't let the acting bug die, she weirded-out her family by dressing up in different outfits and costumes and playing out different characters. After graduating from high school she could not have made her way back to New York any faster to focus on acting.

She is a recent graduate of the The New School University. Although she is an avid music listener (if you shuffle through her IPod you will find many genres of music as well as music from many countries around the world) and she loves to dance, she doesn't consider herself a singer (the exception being in the intimate privacy of her own apartment). She is probably the only one out of the cast without afore mentioned talent and therefore feels very fortunate to have been cast for the part of "Simone" and to be surrounded by many multi-talented actors. She looks forward to the premiere of "No Surrender" and she asks that all have who come have an open mind and heart when viewing the film.

Takiyah Diamond

Something about that “Shinning Diamond” that has all eyes on her. Her love for theater & music contributes to her captivating reality-check approach leaving audiences on the edge. Takiyah was born in Newark NJ and grew up singing in church. It's no wonder she'd fit right in her latest Role as " The preachers wife" in the film "NO SURRENDER by Jameel Hayes. She was well know amongst her peers as "Most likely to succeed" & "Most Gifted".

The singer/songwriter/actress has shared her talents in plays such as I know Im Somebody by Sheba Jordon, Mama I wanna sing, Greece & More. She is recently know for playing in films such as "You Already Know" by Hykine Johnson, Brick City Boys by Tony James, Notorious and others. Takiyah has performed long side many main stream artist such as Mary J Blige, Jennifer Hudson, even hip hop pioneer Lil Kim. So if you ask anyone who’s “Shinning” in the Garden State, Takiyah T. K. Diamond is surly planting the seeds to her "Rise"!.

Samantha Braham

Samantha Braham is a British/Jamaican entrepreneur, radio personality, and fashion designer. Samantha previously worked for Sirius/XM and local NJ radio stations. Samantha discovered her passion for radio when she was 13 years old and embarked her career on Seton Hall University’s radio station 89.5FM WSOU.

Following high school Samantha attended and successfully graduated from The Institute of Audio Research, an audio engineering program. Samantha joined Sirius/XM Shade 45 in 2007 and launched the financial empowerment segment, Get Money in 50 Seconds.

She is most notable for her appearance on The Wendy Williams show and award winning BET Wrap It Up campaign commercial. Currently Samantha is preparing for law school and building her fashion company, Heavenly Things Boutique ww.heavenlythingsboutique.com, which is based in South Orange, New Jersey. Samantha is also a Communications graduate from St. John's University and licensed real estate agent in New Jersey.

In the independent film, No Surrender, Samantha plays the role as Alicia. The protagonist Alicia is engaged to her long time boyfriend. Alicia is supportive to her sister’s, Simone marriage.

Topic 1: Can you be in love with TWO people at the same time?

Can REAL LOVE  be divided between two people? Have you ever been in this situation where you were caught up between two people emotionally as well as physically and you just didn't know which way to turn. Can this be a slippery slope leading to disastrous ending? How do you handle this situation?

Topic 2: Have You Ever Been A Victim Of Rumors?

Have you ever been the victim of rumors spread about you? Do you combat the rumors head on and fight to make sure the truth is known? or Do you remain quiet, ignore the rumor and hope it goes away?

Let's talk about it!

Special Guest: Actress Erica Scott

Erica N Scott, a young flourishing thespian from New Jersey started her acting career at West Orange High School with the help of her outstanding mentor Mrs. Sandra Vandyke. Now an alumni, Erica has studied at several acting programs such as Act Teen, Luna Stage, and The NJ School of Dramatic Arts.

She has worked with Playwrights Theatre as well as the NJ Incubators on community theatre projects. A big thank you to David and Doni for seeing something in me, this opportunity has truly been a blessing. – www.twitter.com/ActressEricaN

Special Guest:  Singer Earl Evens

Earl Evens, better known as (Early), Born In Peekskill NY, Singer, Songwriter, composer, arranger, music producer, who been writing songs since he was five. Worked with a few artist in the game such as  Styles P, dragon On, Jae Hood, Dj Honda Lou Willaims of the Atlanta Hawks, Jamie fox Kindred, Elton Brand, Rahiim Grant- Grant Money Ent Owner and good friend.

Special Guest: Producer Rahiim Grant

Rahiim started his career working at “Chung King Recording Studios” in New York City, home of the beastie boys, Lauren Hill, LL Cool J, Lenny Kravitz & Run-Dmc. After interning for a few months working behind the mixing boards where the magic happens, he recieved a job as Assistant Engineer and got the opportunity to work with Mario Winans, Bad Boy sessions, Angie Stone, Run Dmc, Tamia, Sum 41.

He also worked in the business side of the music business, scouting talent, doing PR/artist management/A&R Work At Tommyboy Entertainment, and MCA Rawkus Records, home of Mos Def Rapper/Actor, Talib Kweli. He is also working with Peekskill Artist, Pryme- Matthew Johnson, Earl Evens-Early, and Aris Devon,  who is a young singer songwriter, and a  phenomenal keyboard player with a style of pop, R&B and neo-soul.

There are many women today that have put more important things before their love life such as their careers, children, and their success. Some women use these reasons as an excuse for why the right man hasn't come along, but in actuality maybe they have prioritized their lives in such a way that they've missed out on MR. RIGHT. While it's easy to blame men for women's relationship demise it's fair to say that women tend to stand in their own way when finding true love. Many women are attracted to the wrong men, and thus never find what they are looking for usually because they strive to have their cake and eat it too. In other words they want a man that will respect their independence yet play jealous and lay down laws for the relationship also known as "being a man".

They want men that are strong yet controllable, bold yet sensitive, protective yet conservative, "the cake and eat it too". Sometimes women tend to push their men away trying to construct them into their idea of a perfect man. In other cases there are older women late 40's-50's that have been married, separated, or divorced who are or have become so independent that they turn their nose up to any man that isn't their idea of MR. RIGHT as if they have men lining up around the corner. Hell, this may be true, but in all actuality men their age with similar pasts are not looking for the rowdy cougars, but the younger women to fulfill their desires. "Getting Over The Hump", is easier said than done being that it takes more than wanting the right man to keep a strong relationship. It takes women stepping out of their own way and figuring out themselves before trying to find the right man who will compliment their lifestyle instead of trying to attract men temporarily in hopes of keeping them for the long haul.

Not all women play games, but let’s be honest everyone at some point in time plays a game in hopes of "breaking the ice" or getting the others attention. For women it’s about getting a man right where they want him until they realize sooner than later just how tight that leash really was from the beginning. A sweet smile, nice eyes, or slick talk can only go so far with men and many women get wrapped up in their efforts they forget that it's about keeping a man’s mind, once you've got his attention. Sex means more to women than men especially when they realize they've been chucked the deuce. Yet some women find excuses for their inhibitions, and cry case of a broken heart when their "-gina" isn't taken as exclusively as the relationship they think they’re in or hoped for. This topic isn't to go against women, but to expose why getting over the hump to find love feels more like getting over a mole hill, pushing an SUV, without all wheel drive. It's not all their fault, but dammit there are definitely some things women could change before ganging up on men for their behavior/outlook in relationships and women. Yes! We all can bear witness or claim victim to a broken heart or a man that hurt us, and yes in most cases it is their fault for the relationships end (or do we make it that way?), but there must be women out here doing something wrong for our men to behave the way they do or choose to "run away" from commitment.

Either way looking at all aspects of the totem pole there are women standing in their own way, men who stand victim to the doings of women whether that is how some exploit themselves, or game men, women who are innocent to a broken heart, and men that don't know a good woman when they see one. Tonight on OWWHH we will discuss women's views on their career vs. love, female priorities and dating lifestyle, the difficulties with dating at a certain age, being a mother while finding love, competing with younger women, media influences and imagery on the perfect woman, women who stand in their own way, the many ways women can find true love, and more. We are keeping it real and one hundred about our fellow ladies in question and why being single isn't the problem, but finding love after years of relationships could be too little too late for some.

Special Guest:  Motivational Speaker Wil Townsend

Wil Townsend is a sought after motivational speaker, coach and mentor who spreads hope, love and joy with his interactive presentations throughout the U.S.A and Canada.  With his blazing quick wit and amazing stage presence, Wil delivers a high-energy message that enables women, men and youth to live up to their own personal greatness which in turn makes it possible to have healthy, loving relationships.

Wil has interviewed hundreds of men and tells it how it is from a man’s point of view.   He goes into depth about men and women’s needs and desires and also points out the game, the pitfalls and the red flags that women should be on the lookout for.  His powerful message implores women to take back their power and respect by taking the proper steps in setting a strong foundation; which in turn creates positive energy internally and within the relationship.

The Blueprint to the Izm is a guide, a helping hand, an information pack, a book for helping women to take back their power.

Special Guest:  DominicanSoul

AR Garcia / DominicanSoul
Writer / Playwright / Radio Personality / Blogger

WRITER
I have written for various magazines, mens magazines and online  publications.

PLAYWRIGHT
I wrote a Play called "She Hates Coffee" which will premier Off Broadway early 2013 at La Tea theater in NYC. I also have another play in the works to e produced Off Broadway as well later on in the year of 2013

RADIO PERSONALITY
I have an Internet radio show called "LIVE with DOMINICANSOUL" on Bottommusicradio.com each and every Thursday 8:00pm to 10:00pm. The shows is about Life, Love, Sex, and Relationships from a Males perspective.

BLOGGER
I have a Blog that I created about 6 months ago. It's not an average blog where I am chiming in on current events but more so about my thoughts and feelings on life, love, sex, and relationships from my perspective. It can be found at www.thedominicansoul.com

********REMEMBER********

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DO YOU WANT TO BE A MALE PERSPECTIVE? Email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

If you are in the NYC/NJ area send us the following information and someone from our team will contact you! We would love to have you join us in the studio as a male perspective on one of our shows.

-Name
-Address
-Contact Number
-Interest, hobbies
- The reason you would like to join the ladies of O.W.W.H.H. and be a male perspective on the show!

DO YOU HAVE A KNOCK IT OFF? CALL 646 233 1302

Is there something that bothers you and you just want to tell the world to knock it off? If so, then call into the show at 11:59pm ET on any Friday from anywhere and tell us how you are feeling!!!!

Get ready tonight join us live at 11pm to 1am est. On bks1radio.com the Grown Sexy Situation Show. Tonight we discuss "first date do's and don'ts" -" has a first date ever went wrong for you?". Music for the evening provided by DJ Smoov P. Our guests actor "Usman Sharif", comedian Fuquan Johnson, and singer Tracy Cruz. Chat live or call in 646-233-1302 to discuss the topic or to give your shout outs. Join the live experience of bks1radio.com

Special Guest: Actor/Producer Usman Sharif

“On a JOURNEY to the TOP...enjoying every moment along the way!”

To say that Usman Sharif is one of the entertainment industry’s, and in fact the world's rising talents would be an understatement.  With numerous high-profiled feature film dramas and comedies and guest starring sitcom appearances credited to his name and a list of successful businesses he personally owns and in some cases operate, the cliché, “the sky is the limit” truthfully applies to this extraordinary, yet humble man.

Born and raised in Newark, New Jersey, Usman has two sisters and three brothers. Although his parents divorced when he was eight, Usman remained close with his Father whom he credits his strong faith and entrepreneurial spirit. This  lead Usman to eventually major in business administration at Essex County College, graduating in 1994. Usman then went on to Kean University in Union, NJ in pursuit of his Bachelors of Science degree in Business Management.

He launched a number of successful businesses over the next several years yet his inclination and desire to entertain grew in his heart and soul. In 2002, Usman confirmed his feelings of wanting to entertain the masses when one evening while watching a film, he realized he belonged on screen instead of in the audience.  Thus in 2003, Usman decided to begin his journey in pursuing entertainment professionally. He partnered with a friend to produce a documentary about women and their everyday struggles, which did very well in the film festival circuit, winning several awards including The Audience Award in The New York International Film Festival. This eventually relocated Usman to Los Angeles, Ca.  Before his trek out west, Usman joined an acting class given by the well-respected acting teacher Tracey Moore. She then introduced Usman to her husband (at the time), director Maurice Marable, who cast him in his first break – a commercial for HBO’s “Real Time with Bill Maher.”

Usman then landed pivotal supporting roles in the following high-profile feature films; Spike Lee’s  WWII epic “Miracle at St. Anna,” as “Radio man Hughes” along side Derek Luke, Michael Ealy, Laz Alonzo, Omar Benson, and Walton Goggins. “You’re nobody til Somebody Kills You, produced by Spike Lee, “Notorious,” directed by George Tillman Jr., chronicling the life of well-known rap artist Notorious B.I.G., and "3 Can Play That Game", as Alex starring Vivica A. Fox and directed by Samad Davis. Usman also starred in “HUG”, ( 2009 Sundance Film Festival) and landed guest starring roles on HBO’s “The Wire”  and “Tyler Perry's House of Payne” as Firefighter Perkins.

No stranger to the titles Executive Producer and Producer,  Usman Executive produced an award winning documentary entitled "A Pillar of Salt, The Angry Woman Syndrome", and the award winning and contest winning short film "Glimpse" which was the prelude to the award winning feature film "Mooz-Lum" (did not produce) starring Nia Long, Evan Ross, Danny Glover, Dorian Missick and Roger Guenervire Smith. Usman Produced the documentary "Minds of Men" (in which he also starred). Usman is currently overseas in Ghana, West Africa Co-Executive Producing a new television reality show entitled "The Spirited Actor; Africa's Next Big Hollywood Star." He has plans to plant roots in Ghana furthering the "Gollywood" system of entertainment currently running there.

Usman continues to enjoy producing a variety of business opportunities as well. Usman has JUST finished production on "Criminal Behavior", a feature film that was filmed in Atlanta in May 2012 and that he has Executive Produced, Produced and Starred in. "Criminal Behavior" is an film based on dealing with one's past to help create and protect a better future.  Usman is already in pre-production for his next feature film that he's doing with Newark Native Alonzo Herran called "Living With No Regrets", which is a biopic based off Mr. Herran's life. Usman will Produce and have a principle role in this film. Usman currently owns two frozen dessert restaurants, which is part of the huge Rita's Water Ice franchise and a construction company, a real estate investment firm and a property management company. Usman is also the Co-Founder, President and COO of Davis Media Ghana Limited, an overseas entertainment firm. In his spare time, if there is such a thing for him, Usman enjoys  weight training, boxing, football, basketball, softball, Tae Kwon Do (a second degree black belt)  motorcycling and spending as much time with his family as possible.

So as you can see and as Usman is quick to tell you, if you want to watch this young man's meteoric rise to the top...

DON'T BLINK & STAY TUNED!

Special Guest: Comedian/Actor FUQUAN  JOHNSON

Born and raised in New Jersey, Fuquan Johnson focussed in on his career goals while in High School. As a teenager, Fuquan became notorious amongst his peers for cracking jokes in class. In High School, he realized he wanted to do comedy after watching  Eddie Murphy’s “RAW”. “The moment I saw Eddie Murphy doing stand up, a light bulb went off in my head and I knew that I was destined to be a Comedian”. Connecting with his middle school friend, Damien Dante’ Wayans (nephew to the infamous Wayans Brothers), Fuquan expressed his desire to pursue comedy as a career. Damien introduced young Fuquan to his uncle, Damon Wayans.

Upon graduating from High School, Fuquan attended HB Studios for Acting located in Greenwhich Village in New York City where actors such as Oscar Winning Actor Sidney Poitier, Debbie Allen, Al Pacino, and Scott Wolf also got their start. Getting his feet wet within the entertainment industry, he completed work as an Extra for notable TNT  movies such as “Passing Glory” and “Freedom Song”.

In 1999, Damien invited Fuquan to come out to LA to visit. It was there that Fuquan was completely bitten by the entertainment bug. Following his three week visit in LA, Fuquan headed back to New York where he was invited by Damien’s mother to the New York Comedy Club. As he sat back and got tipsy and enjoyed the night with his extended family, the night’s host announced that a new comedian was in the building. This new comedian turned out to be Fuquan. “To my surprise I was tricked on stage after the host called my name to the stage. I was shocked and surprised”, recalls Fuquan. “I went on stage and completely bombed out. I was terrible. I had a heckler that wouldn’t stop, but it didn’t discourage me. The experience motivated me and I haven’t stopped since”. For six months following his debut impromptu appearance, Fuquan participated in several NYC area open mics where he strived to find his voice and rhythm.

In 2004, Fuquan moved to LA where he was hired as an Extra for several episodes of the television ABC sitcom, “My Wife & Kids”. Not waiting for the next opportunity to fall into his lap, Fuquan earned his first comedic dollar at the Family Room Bar in Compton, Los Angeles. “I made about twenty-five bucks but I was ecstatic”, recalls Fuquan. When asked to describe himself, Fuquan states, “I am witty with a hard edge. I think outside the box. When I’m on stage, I talk about my crazy life experiences”.

From 2009-2011, a huge break came when Fuquan toured all of North America as the opening act for Shawn and Marlon Wayans. “I traveled to every state in America and Canada. It was an experience to be remembered”, states Fuquan. Gracing the stage to notorious venues such as Caroline’s in New York, all of the Improvs, Tommy T’s, Pepper Bellies in California, Standup New York, and many more, Fuquan was able to establish himself in the world of Comedy.

On September 14, 2011, Fuquan created a sketch called “This Is So Sad” and uploaded it to Youtube. This hilarious sketch immediately went viral and well over 350,000 views were captured.

At the top of 2012, Fuquan’s relationships were proven to be key when he participated in the  Shades of Laughter Comedy Competition. As one of ten contestants, Fuquan was able to travel and compete all over the states of Washington and Oregon. “This entire experience was priceless”, says Fuquan.

In September of 2012, Fuquan worked as a PA and Pitch Writer on the show, “Second Generation Wayans” which airs on BET.

At the top of 2013, Fuquan is currently touring and doing shows all over the country.

Stating his influences as Eddie Murphy, Richard Pryor, the Wayans Family, Lenny Bruce, and George Collins, Fuquan aspires to be a Staff Writer and Actor on shows such as Saturday Night LIVE, gain a few short films in the bucket, act in blockbuster hits, and headline in sold out venues. In his spare time, Fuquan loves to write, shoot sketches, and play basketball.

TWITTER:                  mybadFuquan

INSTAGRAM:           mybadFuquan

YOUTUBE:                mybadFuquan

FB FAN PAGE:         mybadFuquan

Special Guest: Singer Tracy Cruz

Born in Quezon City on the island of Luzon in the Philippines, Tracy Cruz’s alluring voice is comprised of sounds old and new, resembling Jill Scott’s throaty moans and Sarah Vaughan’s lyrical accentuation, all while still managing to remain distinct. With a vocal range that stretches from unbelievable lows to soprano highs, Tracy pulls from her thriving passion of Filipino ballads, blended with the influence of her former vocal coach, Ledisi.

A chance meeting of her future producer, now husband Allen Ross, in college produced 2 children and 2 full-length albums and an EP. Tracy has collaborated with and performed with the likes of Kanetic Source (former emcee of Ozomatli), Sy Smith, Markde Clive-Lowe, Latoya London, Apl. de Ap of the Black Eyed Peas, Slim of 112, Martin Luther, Jaguar Wright, Zion I, Pep Love, Living Legends, and Crown City Rockers. Tracy has accumulated national recognition with her album "Feel'osophy" including three Muse’s Muse Awards for “Best R&B CD Project of 2008”, “Best Lyrics (female)”, and “Best R&B Single (Female).” Her sophomore album "Universoul Symphony" was on the UK Soul Chart for 14 weeks, Danceteria's Phat 50 Chart (Netherlands) for 12 weeks and DJ Sly's (Bang Radio 103.6 FM) Full Top 30 Chart for 12 weeks.

She was also an official Soultracks.com <http://soultracks.com/> nominee for "Female Vocalist of the Year"  for their Readers' Choice Awards. Tracy is currently #3 on the Soulwalking (UK) Top 20 Chart (Soul tracks of 2011) and #1 on Black Beat Brasil Top 10 Chart (Rio de Janiero). Most recently, Tracy's music video "Love's Galaxy" was aired nationally on MYX TV. You can find out more about Tracy Cruz and her music at www.tracycruz.com <http://www.tracycruz.com/>

Topic: Should you tell all your personal business to a new love interest?

Have ever met someone who you're just totally crazy about and you told them all your personal business and they use it against you? how transparent should you be in a new relationship is there a think of transparency and a budding relationship? With so many people looking for love is it possible to be transparent and not have someone use your deepest most intimate secrets against you for there own selfish wants or needs...is it possible to ooen your heart to a perfect stranger and expect them to do the same?

Let's talk about it!!

Special Guest: Actor James Lyones

James Lyones hails from Chicago, IL. From an early age, he loved the way TV and film affected his life: a great show made him feel good. He always wanted to pass that feeling onto others, so he asked two friends (also in the industry) how to get started. Fortunately they put him on the right path and he began to seek out roles for himself.

An active fire captain, he threw himself into acting after landing his first role on the hit TV series Rescue Me...as a firefighter. This random opportunity led to Lyones' pursuing acting as a full-time career, resulting in roles on other prominent TV series such as 30 Rock, Blue Bloods, The Good Wife, and Law & Order: Criminal Intent.

Lyones is also an Air Force veteran who resides in Newark, NJ. A father of two, he has traveled the world over and says his favorite locales include Mexico, Aruba, Bahamas,Jamaica, St. Lucia, and all things tropic.

Personable and adventurous by nature, Lyones once convinced a pilot to allow him to take the controls during an airline flight across the Dominican Republic while the pilot 'guided' him. He believes in "living every moment," and constantly seeks ways to enhance his acting abilities, such as through classes, workshops, seminars and books.

Lyones is in the process of writing his first screenplay, stage play and a feature film, and portrayed a former NJ mayor in the film, "Living with No Regrets," with Clifton Powell, and lead detective in "730" with Jamal 'Gravy' Woolard

Special Guest: Film Director Jordan Thierry

Jordan Thierry is a Portland, Oregon native and a graduate of the University of Oregon’s School of Journalism and Communication. While at the University of Oregon, he co-directed the Student Multicultural Center, served as President of the National Association of Black Journalists Chapter, and co-founded BRIDGES to Higher Education, a high school-to-college tracking program for high school students of color in Oregon.

He also directed and produced the short documentary Footprints in the Struggle: The Beatrice Cannady Story, as his senior project. This short documentary aired on Oregon Public Broadcasting, and was nominated for a Regional Emmy in the Best Student Short Documentary category by the Northwest Chapter of National Association of Television Arts and Sciences in 2006.

Immediately following his graduation from the University of Oregon, Jordan went on to pursue a Master’s degree in the Mass Communications and Media Studies program at Howard University, where he finished in 2009. During graduate school, Jordan worked as a Program Coordinator at the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation, specifically coordinating the Black Youth Vote! program. After a year of Americorps service as an educator in Newark, New Jersey, Jordan moved on to become a Program Associate at the Funders’ Committee for Civic Participation based in Portland, Oregon, where he currently resides. He is committed to seeking social change through rich dialogue and spirited action.  Follow Jordan on Twitter at @blackdadmovie

Washington, DC - Filmmaker Jordan Thierry will kick off Black History Month with an insightful perspective on the rising dilemma of fatherless Black families when he debuts his introspective documentary, "The Black Fatherhood Project" in February. Community leaders in the Bay Area will host the film's premiere Thursday, Jan 31 atThe Grand Lake Theater in Oakland, CA and a national premiere will held online the February 1, 2013 at BlackFatherhoodProject.com with free viewing.

Special Guest: Comedian Isha Mayfield

Isha is New Jerseys own comedian on the rise.. her sharp tongue and quick wit has landed her in all star comedy clubs like the stress factory in new Brunswick NJ carolines and Gotham in Manhattan, NY opening for well known comedians like the king of new York talent, Marlon Randolph,Michael Colyar, TK Kirkland and so many more.. Stay tuned she's just beginning!

Artist Review: Rihanna

Rihanna, is a Barbadian recording artist and actress. Born in Saint Michael, Barbados, her career began when she met record producer Evan Rogers in late 2003. At age 16, she came to the United States to pursue a recording career and began recording demo tapes under Rogers' guidance, subsequently signing a contract with Def Jam Recordings after auditioning for Jay-Z.

Rihanna's debut studio album, Music of the Sun (2005), peaked at number ten on the Billboard 200 and features the Billboard Hot 100 top five hit single "Pon de Replay". Her second album, A Girl Like Me (2006), peaked at number five in the United States, and produced her first Hot 100 number one single, "SOS". Rihanna's third album, Good Girl Gone Bad (2007), spawned the international hit singles "Umbrella", "Don't Stop the Music", "Take a Bow", and "Disturbia". The album was nominated for nine Grammy Awards, winning Best Rap/Sung Collaboration for "Umbrella". Her fourth album, Rated R (2009), produced the top ten singles "Russian Roulette", "Hard", and "Rude Boy", with the latter achieving the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100. Rihanna's fifth album, Loud (2010), spawned the number one hit singles "Only Girl (In the World)", "What's My Name?", and "S&M". Her sixth album, Talk That Talk (2011), served the worldwide chart topper "We Found Love" and the top five single "Where Have You Been". Rihanna's seventh album, Unapologetic (2012), was preceded by the lead single "Diamonds", which reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100.

Rihanna's work has earned her numerous awards and accolades, including five American Music Awards, eighteen Billboard Music Awards, two BRIT Awards and five Grammy Awards. She has achieved a total of twelve number one singles on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, becoming the youngest solo artist to achieve the feat. Billboard named Rihanna the Digital Songs Artist of the 2000s decade, and ranked her as the seventeenth artist of the same decade. She is the highest-selling digital artist in US history, having sold 58 million singles as a lead artist as of 2012. Furthermore, she has also sold 8.7 million album units in the United States as of November 2012. In the United Kingdom, she has sold 20 million records as of 2012,^[9] of which, she has sold a combined singles sales tally as a lead artist of 11.4 million, being listed as the UK's second biggest selling female singles artist of all time. In June 2011, Forbes reported that Rihanna had earned $29 million between May 2010 and May 2011.^[11] The following year, the magazine ranked her as the fourth most powerful celebrity in 2012 with earnings of $53 million between May 2011 and May 2012. The same year, American magazine Time named Rihanna one of the most influential people in the world. Also in 2012, Billboard placed Rihanna at the top of their 'Top 100 Pop Songs Artists of 1992–2012' list, while she was named Germany's biggest selling digital singles artist of all time, with sales of four million.

Rihanna has sold more than 25 million albums and 60 million digital singles worldwide since the beginning of her career in 2005, which makes her one of the best selling artists of all time. Some of Rihanna's singles have earned their place on the list of best-selling singles worldwide.

Read more Rihanna Bio: www.wikipedia.org/Rihanna

Topic: Unjustly Imprisoned The Story of Brandon C. Jackson

Life can take a sudden change without warning.  In the case of Brandon C. Jackson, a young 21 year old black man, sentenced to 12 years in prison for a crime where by all accounts he was the victim acting in self defense against a group of white men yelling “kill the nigger”.   Tonight we will be joined by Brandon C. Jackson’s mother Gloria Fisher as she shares Brandon’s story, the seemingly cover up and her fight for justice for Brandon.  As in the words of Martin Luther King Jr. “In Justice Anywhere is a Threat to Justice Everywhere”.

We must stand up and be heard.  Everyone needs to be sharing this story and demanding a fair process.  Join us tonight “Live in the Vocal Booth” Who knows your son or daughter could be next.  We cannot be silent. Also joining us tonight will be Actor Antonio Vargas to tell us what he has been up to, new projects and where he is at in life.

Special Guest:  Gloria Fisher

Special Guest: Antonio Vargas

Antonio Juan Fargas was born on August 14, 1946, in New York City, to a Puerto Rican father and a Trinidadian mother.  He and his ten siblings grew up in a housing project on Manhattan's Lower West Side.  Fargas's father was a garbage man who later worked in public relations, and his mother, Fargas told Boston Herald reporter Paul Sullivan, "was a great domestic engineer.... There was always bread on the table, not in abundance, but we always had what we needed."

When Fargas was a sophomore in high school in 1961, he noticed a story in New York's Amsterdam News saying that auditions were being held for an independent film called Cool World.  He got the part. Around the same time, Fargas was a member of a youth group called Harlem Youth Opportunities Limited that offered theater programs to aspiring actors.  After receiving instruction from actor Robert Hooks in Hooks's apartment, which wasn't far from that of Fargas's family, he got a part in an off-Broadway stage production called The Toilet in 1963.

Early in his career, Fargas was known primarily as a stage actor. He made the first of what would become a lifetime's worth of trips to England in 1965 to appear in the play The Amen Corner, and he won positive reviews back in New York two years later when he appeared as Scipio in the original Broadway production of The Great White Hope, a play about the life of boxer Jack Johnson.  Just 20 years old, Fargas convincingly played the part of a 90-year-old witch doctor. Fargas also made notable appearances in a 1968 New York Shakespeare Festival production of Romeo and Juliet and in the 1969 play Ceremonies in Dark Old Men.

Dividing his time between New York and Los Angeles, Fargas began to break into movies. He had parts in some of the popular black-oriented films of the early 1970s, like Shaft (1971), Cleopatra Jones (1973), and Foxy Brown (1974). In 1974 he also played Quickfellow in Conrack, a film made from author Pat Conroy's autobiographical novel about his experiences teaching in an African-American community on one of South Carolina's coastal islands. Fargas also garnered roles in episodes of such hit television series as The Bill Cosby Show, Police Story, Kojak, and Sanford and Son.

Fargas had appeared in the 1972 film Across 110th Street, directed by Barry Shear, and when Shear was signed to direct the pilot episode of the ABC network's Starsky and Hutch in 1975, he cast Fargas in the role of Huggy Bear. The role wasn't initially intended to be an ongoing part of the show, but producers noticed the chemistry that quickly evolved among Fargas and stars David Soul and Paul Michael Glaser. Fargas ended up remaining with the cast through the entire run of Starsky and Hutch, which left primetime airwaves in 1979 but lived on for years in syndication.

Huggy Bear was a bar owner and streetwise police informant who directed tips to police officers Starsky and Hutch. Dressed to the nines in a leather trench coat that was widely imitated during the run of the series, he was often surrounded by beautiful women; his status as a pimp was suggested but never directly stated. Huggy Bear was charismatic, fashionable, a bit lovable, and unfailingly entertaining. Such traits anticipated the rise of rap music's "gangsta" variant, and thus it was no surprise that Fargas was later cast in films such as the Wayans Brothers' I'm Gonna Git You Sucka (1988), even if he took some criticism from activists of the 1970s for perpetuating stereotypes of blacks in the entertainment industry. Fargas was matter-of-fact about his role, telling Mark Grossi of the Providence Journal that "I was a character actor and it was a typical role for a black actor at the time. It was good for me because it helped my career." The role of Huggy Bear was played by rapper Snoop Dogg in a 2004 film based on the series.

The end of Starsky and Hutch barely slowed Fargas's career. He returned to the stage for a time in the 1980s, explaining to the Providence Journal that "I hadn't been on stage for a long time. Your acting muscles atrophy when you don't use them." He had the lead role in a 1985 play called Toussaint, Angel Warrior of Haiti, which traced the life of the 19th-century Haitian independence leader Toussaint L'Ouverture. That year he also appeared in a New York Shakespeare Festival production of Shakespeare's Measure for Measure, and in 1986 he had a role in a Philadelphia production of The Amen Corner, the play that had taken him to England as a teenager.

Fargas continued to act in films, and in the 1990s he kept up a steady schedule of television guest star appearances in such series as The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Martin, Living Single, and The Steve Harvey Show. Married and divorced twice, he moved in with his partner, real estate executive Sandi Reed, in the late 1980s, raising her two children and Fargas's two from a previous marriage. One son, Justin Fargas, became a football star with the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League. The early 1990s offered real challenges for Fargas. He conquered alcohol and tobacco addictions. The 1994 earthquake centered north of Los Angeles trapped him and his wife in different parts of their Northridge, California, home, with each thinking the other had been killed, but Fargas broke down a door and they were reunited.

Traveling to England as often as four times a year, Fargas had the chance to test his survival skills once again in 2002 as a member of the cast of the British reality television show I'm a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here! He also toured in a stage version of the film The Blues Brothers that had been rewritten to include a Huggy Bear role, and he teamed with David Soul in a serious play called The Dead Monkey. His theatrical career rolled on in the U.S. as well as he starred in 2003 in a St. Louis production of the acclaimed The Gospel at Colonus, an African-American adaptation of a drama by ancient Greek author Sophocles. And Huggy Bear remained a household name after three decades.

After starring in a string of blaxploitation movies in the early '70s, such as his role as Link Brown in the movie Foxy Brown and in Across 110th Street: he gained recognition as streetwise informant "Huggy Bear" in the mid-'70s television series Starsky and Hutch. As a nod to his early roles, he had a part in the blaxploitation spoof, I'm Gonna Git You Sucka, as well as another Wayans brothers "hood" parody, Don't Be a Menace. Some notable appearances on British television shows include participating in series 4 of the reality series I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! which began in November 2004 and an appearance on Frank Sidebottom's Proper Telly Show in early 2006. He also appeared in ABC's All My Children in the mid-1980s as the father of Angie Hubbard. He guest starred in the sitcom Living Single, and recently played the part of Toledo in a revival of August Wilson's Ma Rainey's Black Bottom at the Royal Exchange Theatre, Manchester (2006). He has a regular role as 'Doc' on Everybody Hates Chris. Fargas also played the driver in the music video of Backstreet Boys hit "Everybody (Backstreet's Back)". Fargas appeared recently on an episode of Fox's Lie to Me as the father of a murdered firefighter.   He currently lives in Las Vegas.

Argentine band Babasónicos released a song in their 1998 B-sides album Vórtice Marxista called Antonio Fargas. The song's chorus repeats the phrase "Antonio Fargas is Huggy Bear", in Spanish, and is meant to be homage to Antonio.

Films

• The Cool World, 1963.
• Shaft, 1971.
• Across 110th Street, 1972.
• Cleopatra Jones, 1973.
• Foxy Brown, 1974.
• Conrack, 1974.
• I'm Gonna Git You Sucka, 1988.
• The Celluloid Closet (documentary), 1995.

Plays

• The Toilet, 1963.
• The Amen Corner, 1965.
• The Great White Hope, 1967.
• Romeo and Juliet, 1968.
• Ceremonies in Dark Old Men, 1969.
• Measure for Measure, 1985.
• Toussaint, Angel Warrior of Haiti, 1985.
• The Amen Corner, 1986.
• The Dead Monkey, 1998.
• The Blues Brothers, 2000-02.
• The Gospel at Colonus, 2003.

On-line

• "Antonio Fargas as Huggy Bear," Starsky and Hutch, www.starskyandhutchonline.com/antonio_fargas.htm (January 20, 2005).
• Antonio Fargas Online, www.antoniofargas.net (January 20, 2005).

Topic: Verbal abuse: Why does it have to hurt so much?

Have you ever met someone that appeared perfect? Surprised you with little things like flowers, a card, or your favorite candy? This person always made you smile, laugh and made you feel very special, but after awhile the relationship started to change. The beautiful romance started to fade away and what appeared to be a sweet love story is now a horrible nightmare. Are you constantly being blame for everything? Do you constantly try to explain yourself? Are your personal needs no longer important? Do you feel afraid, threaten, or harassed? Are you always sad? Did you know that words can be used to punish someone and that verbal abuse can be used as an attempt to control the actions of another?

Verbal abuse can affect both men and women. Often it is unpredictable and can lead to mental anguish. But, why does verbal abuse hurt so much? Is it true that negative words can cause emotional pain? Break the cycle and join the ladies of O.W.W.H.H Friday night at 11:00 pm est. on Bks1radio.com.

Special Guest: Dedra Tate

Dedra N. Tate, a Howard University graduate, has been a thriving contributor to the entertainment industry for over twenty-five years.  After thirteen years as president and general manager of Queen Latifah’s Flavor Unit Entertainment, Tate stepped into the entrepreneurial arena with her company Unlimited Contacts, Inc.  Under the UCI banner, Tate has successfully leveraged her years of experience and contacts to segue into TV/Film production, event planning, career management, promotion/marketing consulting and public speaking.

Tate started her career in 1984 as advertising sales assistant at MTV Networks, Inc. and in no time progressed to talent relations.  Tate transitioned to the music industry as National Promotion Coordinator for UNI Records followed by executive positions in Radio & Video Promotions at MCA, Motown & BIV 10 Records.

Tate is the Associate Producer of the independent Platinum successes later…Flavor Unit Entertainment partners, Queen Latifah and Sha-Kim, offered Tate the position of president and general manager where she handled the daily operations of three record labels, a management company and a burgeoning television and film production division.  Tate was the Supervising Producer for UPN’s VIBE AWARDS and produced projects for Flavor Unit Television and Films, including "KIDNAPPED," a family comedy developed with Lions Gate Entertainment and “WIFEY’S” a cutting edge, one hour scripted series pilot, produced in conjunction with VH-1 & BET Networks.

Tate is the associate producer of the independent film “Blackout,” with an ensemble cast enhanced by the performances of Jeffrey Wright, Saul Rubinek, Latanya Richardson-Jackson and Melvin Van Peebles.   “Blackout” was written, directed and produced by Tate’s Unlimited Contacts, Inc. client, Jerry Lamothe and was an instant audience hit at the 2007 Tribeca Film Festival and the Urbanworld/VIBE Film Festival.   Tate also co-Produced Lamothe’s latest creative venture, “The Tombs,” a short film starring Nashawn Kearse that chronicles the journey of an African American man processed into NYC’s central booking system.

Tate has now added the moniker of casting director to her credits with her latest independent film “Life, Love, Soul.”   Tate wore multiple hats to bring LLS to fruition including Producer, Casting Director, Music Supervisor and also played a key role in securing private investors to fund the production.   LLS stars Jamie Hector and Chad Coleman from HBO’s “The Wire,” Terri J. Vaughn (“The Steve Harvey Show”/”All of Us”), Tami Roman  (CBS’s “Moonlight”/”Wifey’s) and Ashford & Simpson’s Valerie Simpson, in her acting debut.

Life, Love, Soul secured a limited theatrical release at select AMC Theaters and a DVD distribution agreement with Melee Entertainment.  LLS was the winner of the prestigious “Audience Award” at the 2011 BET Urbanworld Film Festival and was also an HBO Finalist at the 2011 Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival.  The Links, Incorporated and the National Coalition of 100 Black Women also unanimously selected Life, Love, Soul as the opening night red carpet premiere for the Teaneck International Film Festival in November, 2011, with all proceeds benefiting their charitable work in Bergen County, NJ.   Tate is busy working on her latest project titled “ZOO,” serving as the films Associate Producer.

The list of artists Tate has worked with, and helped guide the careers of, reads like a who’s who of the record industry:  Queen Latifah, Boyz II Men, Bobby Brown, Johnny Gill, New Edition, GUY, Shanice, Aaron Hall and The Boys, to name a few.   Tate is currently focused on utilizing her years of knowledge and "unlimited contacts" to guide the careers of burgeoning independent artists and labels.

Tate is a jury member for the International Emmy Awards and serves on the Board of Directors for A Better Bronx For Youth and Support Network, Inc., honored by both organizations for her work in the community.   Tate has received numerous awards and honors, including the prestigious National Urban League "Building Brick Award", Ebony Magazine’s “Outstanding Women In Marketing & Communications,” National Action Network’s "Women of Excellence Award,” 98.7 KISS-FM “Phenomenal Woman” Award and was part of the first group of “40 Under 40 Achievement Award” recipients.

Tate attributes her success to the love, strength and support she gets from her family, each specializing in their own area of expertise for her development.  Business savvy and hard work from her mother Sandra; ambition, comedic style and vivacity from her father Bob, attitude and spirit from her older sister Jeannine, her youthful exuberance from her nephew Robbie and her love for life from her teenage son Jian.

Special Guest: Guyviaud Joseph

Check out the trailer for Thinner Blood

Special Guests: Kay Gee from Naughty By Nature and his new group Elite

Legendary hip hop producer and DJ Kay Gee of Naughty By Nature brings his new group Elite, members Boxie, KO, & Chaz Mack, to discuss their upcoming debut mixtape “WavyFlexinCool”

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DO YOU HAVE A KNOCK IT OFF? CALL 646 233 1302

Is there something that bothers you and you just want to tell the world to knock it off? If so, then call into the show at 11:59pm ET on any Friday from anywhere and tell us how you are feeling!!!!